While a relaxing spa treatment and a day at the circus may seem like two completely different experiences, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is out to prove the two can be successfully combined to create something luxurious. The Southern Florida city is the winter home of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, so to play off of its whimsical spirit, the Ritz-Carlton property has developed the Aerial Silk Massage.

This new massage offers a modern take on the traditional Ashiatsu (foot pressure) technique. Normally the therapist would ‘walk’ on the guest’s back and use bars on the ceiling for balance. During the Aerial Silk Massage, instead of bars, therapists will hold onto circus silks like those used by performers under the big top, making this a one-of-a-kind service.

"The Aerial Silk Massage combines the art and healing properties of Ashiatsu with a truly engaging experience of mind and body for a treatment that helps not only aches and pains, but also the guest's energy or 'chi'," said Veljko Savic, Spa Director, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota. "This treatment may seem unconventional to a casual spa guest, but the use of body weight and gravity of the therapist make the Aerial Silk Massage the best way to get a true, deep tissue treatment and body realignment."

Ashiatsu massage is a great option for those with back pain, stress, spinal or posture issues, and is a popular choice of athletes due to the ability to apply more pressure on muscles that can be more difficult to work with the hands. Before receiving the Aerial Silk Massage, guests can pick from different therapeutic oils like lavender, eucalyptus or Florida orange and one of four music categories: water, nature, ambient and multicultural to make the experience that much more relaxing.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., with spa services available 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. by appointment.