By Tom Williams
Asian cultures believe there is an invisible energy, which, flows, surrounds and passes through everything between heaven and earth. At Marriott’s Marco Beach Resort, there is an extremely gifted artisan practicing an art form and a method of channeling energy to which, he has devoted his life.
Otavio Vieira was born in Brazil and began studying the Martial Arts at the age of 12. He soon became fascinated with the eastern approach to life and began studying massage and Oriental Physiology. As a young man, he lived with monks of the Ananda Marga Society and studied with a Buddhist Monk and Doctor of Oriental medicine. After graduating with honors from the university in Rio de Janeiro, Otavio was a professor of psychology for 18 years.
Even before immigrating to the United States and Marco Island, Otavio understood there was more to life than the acquisition of material wealth. For Otavio, touch is a powerful thing, and massage therapy is not only a technique, but also an art form in which the flow of energy through the human body can be enhanced. Performing the art of massage for Otavio is the sharing of life and a tradition of healing that began centuries ago.
The Spa at Marriott’s Marco Beach Resort readily accepts the Asian and Balinese philosophy of channeling positive energy. According to Marriott Spa director Kellie Carriker, “Time out for one’s self is essential to refocus personal energy and enable a rejuvenation process that is necessary for perpetual health.
“The Balinese Spa at the Marriott on Marco Beach is quite simply an ultimate getaway and a personal retreat. The entire spa stimulates all the senses and transports our guests into the realm of Balinese healing. From the first appealing scents of aromatherapy, to the pleasing atmosphere of greenery, wicker, and smooth bamboo, our spa truly captures the exotic influences of the island of Bali.”
Before Otavio guides his guests to a richly scented and candle lit treatment room, he defines the Balinese Spa experience.
“This time is for you,” he explains. “Not for anyone else. Only here, can you heal yourself and become what you truly are. When we are away from the spa, we become contaminated by a constant influx of stress and contradiction. This confusion misdirects the flow of energy throughout the body. Using the shiatsu method, (Japanese for pressure point and accurate touch) we release the blockages of positive energy and rejuvenate the soul. I use my hands.” Otavio expounds. “But I work with my heart.”
To returning patrons of the Spa at Marriott’s Marco Beach Resort, an experience with a truly gifted artisan or therapist is the norm and not the exception.