Grooming Fix: Deep-tissue massage at MGM Macau's Six Senses spa is a 'manly' experience

I wanted my next spa experience to be masculine, more macho, more ... deep than previous ones, so I decided a deep tissue massage was what I needed. Yes, the music would still be new age and the lighting soft and forgiving, but the massage would be manly.

Well, the 60-minute deep tissue massage at MGM Macau's Six Senses Spa was certainly that.

Along with thoroughly kneaded, knot-free muscles, I came away from Six Senses wondering just where these often diminutive masseuses get their strength and stamina from.

The full-body, oil-based massage (a 90-minute version is also available for masochists) was systematic and came without the sensual bells and whistles that so often accompany spa treatments. It started on the back and shoulders, moved down to the buttocks and the legs and finished, on that side, with the feet. After flipping over the process was repeated, ending with a head massage, which was my favourite part.

There were times when I thought the masseuse was actually trying to hurt me, going over the most painful spots again and again. Waves of knot-busting pain coursed through my body and conjured those irrational thoughts. She was in fact the epitome of professionalism, continually asking if the pressure was OK, and even pulling my disposable underwear back up to a more modest position. I wasn't sure I would be able to look her in the eye afterwards.