Snake Massage Therapy

A client in an Israeli health spa enjoys her latest "snake massage" by six non-venomous snakes. Here, large reptiles are good for deep tissue massage while their smaller counterparts ideal for delicate areas such as face. For 70 U.S. dollars, the spa will treat clients to snakes in what it says a relaxing massage curing aching muscles and joints.

It's a massage that is sure to make most people's skin crawl, but one woman has got herself in a twist with her latest massage technique. Ara Barak claims her pet snakes make the ideal masseurs as their slithering causes a massage sensation when placed on a person's skin. Ms Barak said she discovered her pet's 'therapeutic value' after noticing her friends became more relaxed after holding them.

'Some people said that holding the snakes made them feel better, relaxed,' she said. 'One old lady said it was soothing, like a cold compress.' The owner of Israel's Barak's Snake Spa said her pets are able to give massage as their slithering causes a rubbing sensation on the body. Ms Barak had relied on exhibiting her scaly friends to make money, but found there is more cash rolling in from people wanting a massage - reptile therapy style. The larger snakes are used for deep massage while the smaller creatures are used to give a lighter touch - all for a mere £30.

And those with a slight reluctance to have a snake massage will be pleased to know the reptiles are all non-venamous. But if the thought of reptiles is too much, Ms Barak also offers a rodent-style massage where mouse and rats are placed on the bottom of people's feet instead.