Will you try out Galgorm's new AI massage treatment?
I was excited to test out Galgorm Resort's innovative new Augmented Massage treatment which blends two of my favourite things – tech and music.
As Irish Daily Star's technology writer, and occasional music contributor, the opportunity to try out Europe's first 'Symphony of Touch' massage experience sounded too good to miss.
The North's leading luxury hotel land spa - located just half an hour's drive from Belfast in Ballymena - has taken a bold step with its pioneering motion-to-sound treatment bed which is already in huge demand due to its unique nature - a futuristic fusion of AI technology and wellness.
The Augmented Massage takes place on a high-tech massage table that features built-in computer-controlled sensors which analyse the position and rhythm of your masseuse in real time. The movements and gestures are transformed into a dynamic soundscape that enhances your treatment.
The calming zen-like music and sounds match your therapist's movements and help you relax through an array of immersive speakers integrated into the treatment table. I felt like I was floating in a Japanese garden as gentle oriental musical notes and melodies splashed over me.
The treatment is designed to heighten your sensory awareness, so you reach a deep state of mindfulness and tranquillity. Adding to the magical serenity were two hidden speakers close to where you lay your head - once I closed my eyes it sounded as if I was surrounded by water plopping gently into a pool.
My therapist explained afterwards that because the Augmented Massage Table responds to each massage differently, based on the pressure applied, the movement, your body form and positioning, it is not untrue to say that each lucky guest enjoys a completely unique sonic experience and treatment.
I'm used to reviewing smartphones, headphones and gaming headsets that promise immersive digital experiences - but Galgorm's Symphony of Touch takes the immersive into a completely different ball park, one with both physical and mental healing powers. Human touch merges with cutting-edge biofeedback technology and delivers a thoroughly restorative experience.
Due to the high popularity of the Augmented Massage, my travelling companion was unable to book a slot to try it for herself, but her disappointment didn't last long thanks to a classic 60-minute Galgorm massage that she described as absolutely lovely.
Elsewhere at the large thermal spa, state-of-the-art facials at Galgorm's Skin Clinic combine light and cryotherapy (which treats the skin with sub-zero temperatures), while sessions in the aufguss, a Celtic sauna, see the sauna master whirl around heated towels infused with essential oils. And a range of Elemis treatments are given in Moroccan-inspired treatment rooms.
As an overnight guest at the resort, you enjoy free access to the Thermal Village's walled gardens, where you will find most of the resort's facilities, such as saunas, salt caves and steam rooms inside wooden burrows. Infinity pools, hydrotherapy pools and hot tubs line the river banks. And the main pool has a pebble floor to massage pressure points on your feet.
We were blessed with great weather and indulged in as much of the fun as we could. As well as lots of couples casually wandering around in brown robes, a number of larger groups of females suggested this is also a popular spot for hens' weekends.
Each area of the hotel and spa has its own vibe and character. Traditional-tweed-dressed concierges, 19th century decor and antique furniture combine in the old school and rather grand lobby. The Thermal Village is luxurious but laid back, while the Conservatory, where breakfast is served, is a bright and airy space adorned with elegant furnishings. We enjoyed a splendid late lunch here – in hindsight, perhaps a little too late, given our 7.30pm dinner reservation.
Options for evening meals include Gilles Grill, which has a steak-dominated gastro-pub menu, or the Italian-styled Fratelli where we dined before indulging in after-dinner drinks at McKendry's Lounge, where a live Irish band plays every evening.
The resort also includes free-to-use tennis courts and a two-floor gym, while available for extra fees are horse riding, bike rental, salmon fishing, falconry demonstrations and golf.
For more information or to book the Symphony of Touch treatment, which costs £115 per person, or to book one of Galgorm Resort's 125 bedrooms including suites, deluxe, and superior rooms visit www.galgorm.com
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