Sue, a 76-year-old former belly dancer known as “Snakey Sue,” has carved out a unique niche for herself: running a snake sanctuary and offering unconventional “snake massages.” Her sanctuary in Harwich, Essex, houses 19 rescued serpents, each with a unique backstory. These range from Lesley, the corn snake, to Boudica, a 12-foot albino python. Sue’s passion for reptiles began in 1992, and over the years, she’s invested over £135,000 in their care. While her advancing age makes handling the larger snakes increasingly challenging, her dedication remains unwavering, fueled by the belief in the therapeutic benefits of her reptilian companions.
Snake massage, as practiced by Sue, involves placing live snakes on a client’s back. The cost can reach up to £200, depending on the size of the snake chosen. While the idea of having snakes slither across one’s body might initially seem alarming, Sue believes it induces a meditative state, focusing the mind on breathing and promoting relaxation. The snakes, she claims, naturally target pressure points, enhancing the therapeutic effect. This unusual practice, though not scientifically proven, has garnered interest and offers a unique approach to wellness, appealing to those seeking alternative therapies and perhaps a touch of adventure.
A first-hand account of a snake massage with Boudica reveals a blend of apprehension and fascination. The sheer weight and size of the python are immediately apparent, requiring several people to transport her. The physical sensation of the snake’s cool, dry scales moving across the skin is distinct from the warmth of traditional massage, resembling the comforting pressure of a weighted blanket. While the initial fear and elevated heart rate might seem counterintuitive to relaxation, the mental challenge of confronting a perceived fear combined with the physical experience creates a unique and potentially therapeutic effect. The massage session ends when Boudica loses interest and decides to explore other surroundings, highlighting the unpredictable nature of working with live animals.
Sue’s journey to becoming “Snakey Sue” is as colorful as her collection of reptiles. Starting her career as a go-go dancer, she transitioned to belly dancing under the stage name Suzanne Patrice, crafting intricate costumes and performing at various events. Her path took an unexpected turn when her partner suggested getting a snake, named Mamba. Sue incorporated Mamba into her dance routine, leading to her rebranding as “Snakey Sue.” Her talent and unique act landed her appearances on television shows, including “Eastenders” and even “Britain’s Got Talent.”
Sue’s snake-related activities extend beyond massage. She offers educational tours of her sanctuary for families, priced at £50 for up to four visitors. Recognizing that her passion may not be universally shared, she also conducts workshops for individuals with ophidiophobia, or fear of snakes. This aspect of her work reflects a desire to educate and desensitize those who might otherwise recoil from these creatures. By combining her love for snakes with an understanding of human psychology, Sue offers a compassionate approach to overcoming fear.
Beyond the massages and sanctuary tours, Sue also creates unique jewelry. Using shed snakeskin, she crafts pendants encased in glass, which she sells at a local shop. This resourceful approach allows her to generate additional income to support her sanctuary and further demonstrates her dedication to her reptilian family. As she gradually retires from the physically demanding aspects of her work, Sue’s legacy as “Snakey Sue” continues through her sanctuary, educational initiatives, and unique artistry. Her story is a testament to the unexpected paths life can take and the profound connections we can forge with the natural world.
