While a normal reaction to being h approached by wielders of huge knives is to run far away, there t are some who would pay to be t pummelled by knives. Well, lightly pummelled. An ancient therapy involving meat cleavers as massage tools is a hit over in Taiwan.
Whilst this is not the first time we've heard of the strange practice, the trend appears to have resurfaced, and has also been found in other places like Malaysia. Dating back around 2,500 years, the method known as "dao liao', or "knife therapy, has been found to have historical origins in China.
By now you must be interested to know how it works. Once the tools are sharp, the masseuse uses a stick to loosen up blood vessels and improve the circulation of the client before moving onto the massage. Sharpened cleavers are pressed in rhythmic motions with nothing but a thin piece of cloth between patient and the blades.
But rest assured, the knives are specially made so that they are safe to use on patients. Clients seem hesitant at first, but are often pleasantly surprised. Wow!
