Ancient east meets hi-tech: the migun massage experience.

In this issue, we've talked about some spa treatments to relax and rejuvenate your body. Of course, spa treatments can add up quickly and pinch your pocketbook. But there's also a way in Asheville to get massages as often as you want. And get this: they're free.

Before the doors open at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday, a line forms outside the Migun center in south Asheville. Once the doors open, the people sign in and then choose one of the twenty-two massage beds. When their 30-minute session is up, they leave, and never have anyone ask them to buy a bed. They're welcome to come in every day, if they can fit it into their schedule, and benefit from the healing aspects of the beds. The only requirement: bring your own towels.

The manager of Migun of Asheville, Carole Rose, says their goal is to provide a service to help people feel better. Their philosophy, she says, is that since they are providing a service to help others, the Universe will make sure they sell beds to stay in business. Rose flips through pages of testimonials from people who have experienced positive results from regular use of the beds, including lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, relief from back pain and digestive disorders, as well as an increase in circulation and muscle relaxation.

Ann and James Flis opened Migun of Asheville in July 2005 and so far they've sold about 200 beds.

There are two different models, both priced above $3,000. New additions include mats to put on your bed. These come in mini-size and larger sizes to completely cover a mattress.

What's so special?

An orientation is required before people are allowed to use the beds. Migun staff point to a bed that's been opened up to reveal the jade balls that run along a track. They explain that the technology, developed in 1988 by the Migun company in South Korea, utilizes five modalities: chiropractic, acupressure, acupuncture, heat therapy (moxibustion) and massage. The jade balls, heated with far infrared lights, help keep the spine aligned properly. The beds have received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a 510K Class II medical device for use without a prescription to "provide patients with muscle relaxation therapy by delivering heat and soothing massage."

It's important to drink a lot of water throughout the day after using a Migun bed because the process helps release toxins in the body. Rose says the bed also burns a lot of calories, and makes your body feel like it's been jogging for an hour.

The Migun center currently sees between 225 and 250 people a day. That doesn't mean, however, that everyone should use the beds. New users are asked to fill out a medical form before they are issued a membership card. Those with the following conditions are advised not to use the beds:

* Metal Implants

* Pacemakers 

* Osteoporosis

* Surgery within the past six months

* Pregnant

* Phlebitis 

* Under the age of 18

Along with the form, people are asked to note if they are taking medication for high blood pressure or diabetes. The beds can effectively reduce these conditions, and may result in overmedicating.

Want to go?

MIGUN of Asheville 900 Hendersonville Road Asheville, NC 28803 828-274-9722 http://migunofasheville.tripod.com M-F 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Marla Hardee Milling is a guest editor of New Life Journal. Reach her at [e-mail].