Celebrity Life

There are several things that we can never seem to get enough of -- time, energy and sleep come to mind immediately -- but we'd have to add spa treatments to the list. Nothing gives you absolute bliss quite like a visit to the spa does, surrendering yourself completely to a couple hours of relaxation and walking away restored and revived. So when boutique wellness retreat Elu Spa opened its doors in Central, we were the first to sign up and test out what this little sanctuary in Central could do for our mind, body and soul.

The Treatment: Signature Indulgence Treatment
Duration: 120 minutes
Price: HK$3,000

Products

[caption id="attachment_162900" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Take your pick from Aromatherapy Associates essential oils.[/caption]

The Signature Indulgence Treatment is split into two halves, beginning with a full body massage followed by the spa’s acclaimed gemstone facial. To select the body oil, I was presented with a blind test whereby I chose a light and earthy scent for the treatment; I later found out it was a therapeutic blend of vetiver, chamomile and ylang ylang by Aromatherapy Associates. As for the facial, the skincare brand of choice is Éminence. The organic skincare brand’s entire range is all-natural and free of parabens, animal by-products, colourants and fragrances which is gentle enough for even my hypersensitive and easily irritable skin.

Service

The moment you arrive, you’ll need a quick moment to readjust to the peaceful aura of the space, a stark contract from the outside world. I was greeted by tan attentive staff member who escorted me to a seating area where I changed into my comfy slippers and filled out the usual forms while snacking on blueberries and sipping on lemongrass tea. Before long, I was guided to a sun room where I enjoyed a foot bath and scrub to kick off the treatment.

Environment

[caption id="attachment_162899" align="alignnone" width="5233"] Private rooms come with bathtubs for a relaxing soak.[/caption]

It’s clear why Elu used nature as its inspiration for the design of the spa. After all, it's intended to be an oasis for us urbanites. The minimalistic surrounding opens up the spaces, while the use of dark wood and lush greenery creates a calming effect to take you to a new state of relaxation. The private rooms are fitted with massage tables and a bathtub -- if you should choose to take a relaxing soak pre-treatment -- and are decorated with plants, wicker baskets and soft candlelight.

Experience

[caption id="attachment_162898" align="alignnone" width="960"] Jaedstone masks used at elu. spa[/caption]

Getting comfortable didn’t take long as I was well prepared for a well-deserved pampering. It all began with a body massage that used a combination of Swedish and neuromuscular techniques to knead out my knots. I’m guilty of not stretching after workouts, so I suffer from tightness around my shoulders and back. I was pleasantly surprised that the massage was a lot less painful than what I had anticipated, and I even comfortable enough to fall asleep for a little while.

Next up was the much talked-about gemstone facial mask. The masks are made of semi-precious gems like rose quartz, jade, amethyst, quartz and black obsidian, each crystal possessing its own healing properties. Almost like a chainmail mask (except infinitely more luxurious), a cold rose quartz mask was blanketed on my face above the treatment essence that was earlier applied.

The cooling effects of the stones assist with lymphatic drainage, reduce water retention and product absorption. What amazed me most was the comfort that came from the weight of the mask, touching on pressure points I've never paid attention to. After the soak was done, the therapist used stone rollers to further massage the potent serum deep into my skin. By then, the holistic spa session had to come to a close and it was time to step back into harsh reality.

The post Spa Review: A Head-to-Toe Pampering at Elu Spa appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Fight burnout with yoga, spas, exercise and more with a quick getaway at these retreats.

The post Find tranquility at these wellness retreats in Southeast Asia appeared first on The Peak Magazine.

Fight burnout with yoga, spas, exercise and more with a quick getaway at these retreats.

For more stories like this, visit www.thepeakmagazine.com.sg.

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Join the club if you’re in need of an escape — from the stresses of work, the hustle and bustle of city life and sometimes even reality, if only for an hour and a half. So when one of the most luxurious hotel spas in Hong Kong launched a Wellness Escape package, we decided to book ourselves in and retreated all the way to Wan Chai.

Wellness Escape

The Treatment: Blue Diamond Brightening Facial

Spa Cuisine: Black Rice & Quinoa Wrap

Duration: 2 hours (including lunch)

[caption id="attachment_147549" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Omorovicza Facebook[/caption]

Products:

The brightening facial features Hungary’s luxury skincare brand Omorovicza, which is powered by the country’s mineral-rich thermal water to refresh, renew and refine the skin. It’s exclusive to the Plateau Spa in Hong Kong and the facial makes use of the extensive skincare range with a total of eight products in the treatment. Some examples of the products used include a Reviving eye cream, which immediately reduced puffiness and was absorbed into my skin as if I had been dehydrated for weeks on end. It also helped to minimise the dark circles underneath my eyes. A wonderful smelling neroli and rose-scented mist, named the Queen of Hungary, was spritzed on the skin with incredibly refreshing after effects. Another product used to moisturise and give my skin an instant upwards boost was the Rose lifting serum. Similar to botox, it’s designed to relax facial muscles to inhibit the development of fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes.

Service:

On arrival, I felt like I had stepped out of Hong Kong and into some far-flung resort spa. An invigorating yet calming scent wafted through the air as I’m asked which treatment and which dish I would like to enjoy. I’m advised that my spa cuisine will be prepared and ready for me as soon as my treatment ends, which was music to my ears given that the time it ended would indeed be lunch. I was invited to rest in the reception area, which overlooks a water garden and tree-lined courtyard, to fill out the rest of my consultation form. Setting the scene for the treatment to come, I’ve already started to shake off the stresses of the city and before long, I’m whisked away into the treatment room. The service at Plateau is swift and I’m greeted softly and warmly by all members of staff throughout the treatment — even whilst I take my lunch outside in the courtyard after.

[gallery ids="147550,147548,147547,147551"]

Environment:

The spa feels like an elegant resort and utterly different from the business hotel it’s situated in. This is intentional of course, since it is Hong Kong’s first and only spa that offers accommodation with ten guest rooms. Effortlessly tranquil and timeless, the spa design is sleekly furnished with pale wood furnishings warmed up by the mahogany-coloured granite. They all include infinity-edge whirlpool soaking tubs, some with their own private terraces too, for that extra touch of luxury. Beside the spa is an expansive garden space which leads to the 50-metre heated outdoor pool and sauna. But for those that want to get active before they relax, the 24-hour fitness studio, 400-metre jogging path, golf driving range, tennis and squash courts should do the trick.

[caption id="attachment_147546" align="alignnone" width="945"] A head massage during the brightening facial[/caption]

Experience:

There were a number of steps in this facial treatment that intended to firm up, brighten and restore my skin’s ‘fitness’, and it all started with a good cleansing. My therapist was nimble and removed my makeup gently with a moor cream cleanser before she used a buffer to exfoliate the skin. This was amped up with a warm steam treatment to remove dead skin cells and other impurities more effectively. Thereafter it goes a little deeper. At first, it’s with a mud mask that feels cool on my skin as it clears my congested pores. All the while she’s working her massage magic at the top of my head and around my temples as if to untangle some knots in my brain. Next up, it’s the extractions. And if you’re an extraction facial regular, you’ll know that it can get a little painful — what with all that squeezing and pushing around the face to expel any blemishes. Luckily, my therapist utilised a drainage massage technique which was much less painful. Though in more sensitive areas around the nose, it can’t be helped. The final application was three-fold; hydrating, lifting and regulating the skin’s condition which helped to awaken my lacklustre skin.

As the facial comes to a close, I’m offered warm tea and fresh fruits in the room. I’m also told that I can take my time to continue relaxing or clean up, but as my stomach growled for lunch, I remembered that I put in my order for the spa cuisine and head straight to the courtyard. The food is pleasant and gently seasoned, which I assumed was because they had my health interests at heart. However, it did begin to get a little too warm in the courtyard, and although the serene surroundings seemed perfect for lunch, the humidity of summer said otherwise. Upon my departure, I was saddened that my retreat ended so quickly and as I take the lift back down to the hotel lobby, I catch a glimpse of my glowing skin and vow to make a return, and escape, very soon.

The post Spa Review: A Wellness Escape to Grand Hyatt’s Plateau Spa appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

As we all know, life in Hong Kong can be a little hectic. The daily grind, cramped commutes and hours spent hunching over technology can combine to become the main cause of not only emotional stress, but also physical tension. Needless to say, massages are a must if you want to truly relax and revitalise your tired body. Enter one such massage that focuses on the soothing art of aromatherapy at The Spa at Base Camp, located inside Kerry Hotel.

The Treatment: Relaxing Aromatherapy Massage

Pressure: Light–Medium

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Products:

Organic, sustainable and hand-harvested ingredients form the base of all Zents products, including the oils used in this massage. Born from the need to heal, Zents has been mindfully formulated for those with scent sensitivities, resulting in aromas that are gentle yet stimulating. Prior to my treatment, I was invited to choose my preferred aroma, so that they could soothe my soul and shoulders with a scent that fits my exact need. Here, four scents are offered; warming Mandarin (with ginger and cardamon), energising Oolong (with lavender and lime), sensual Ore, (with orris, ylang ylang and spicy clove), and the oil of choice for my massage: calming Sun, a blend of vanilla, sandalwood and amber.

[caption id="attachment_208117" align="alignnone" width="1480"] The relaxing aromatherapy massage at The Spa features Zents, a brand that uses organic ingredients and luxurious formulations.[/caption]

Service:

My own personal frustration with massages has always been the amount of pressure used for all that rubbing and kneading of my body. Most times, it’s simply too painful; other times, it’s even reduced me to tears. I’m sure I’m just the wimp in these situations, but it sure is comforting to know that I can select the amount of pressure I prefer prior to my treatment, and that’s exactly what The Spa at Base Camp offered me. I simply ticked the two boxes that indicated a light to medium pressure and my massage therapist did the rest. What’s more, I could even cross out the areas that are too sensitive to touch, or where there are any injuries; reducing any risk of painful or even awkward massage moments.

[gallery ids="145018,145021,145024"]

Environment:

The spa’s back-to-basics theme has been set to feel like an escape from the bustling city. And it certainly feels that way, but only after you get past the reception area (where I filled out my consultation form) which sits next to the gym pumping loud, motivating music. Thereafter, it is indeed relaxing with a design concept made up of natural materials. Dark wood, bamboo and stone are used across the walls and décor of the three private ensuite treatment rooms and VIP couples suite. Base Camp facilities are open to club members and hotel guests, which include the gym, sauna, jacuzzi, steam room and outdoor swimming pool. The showers provide full sets of toiletries, towels and bathroom amenities that feature Zents products, too.

[gallery ids="145026,145028"]

Experience:

The massage began on my front, where I took deep breaths to take in the aromatherapy oil that I had chosen. Filled with warm base notes and a lingering zest of summer sun, I became calm and most importantly, relaxed. My body naturally began to sink into the bed as she worked my body using Swedish massage techniques that aim to reduce muscle tension and increase circulation. Working diligently from my back, arms, legs, feet and hands, I was blown away by how my massage therapist loosened it all up. It may not have been a deep tissue massage that I went for, but I could definitely feel that some (if not most) knots were released during the process. The almost hypnotic experience seemed to end all too soon as I came to my senses and headed off to shower in the modern and airy changing rooms.

After the treatment, I headed straight to the spacious outdoor terrace which leads to the infinity pool and lounge areas. There's an impressive view of the harbour and considering the perfect weather Hong Kong was having that day -- it would have been a crime not to lounge a little and enjoy it fully. It didn’t take long until I was feeling fully rejuvenated and ready to tackle my next challenge: The challenge of booking in my next spa appointment at Base Camp.

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Cleanse, exfoliate, tone, moisturise and apply sunscreen. Most of us have our daily skin care regimen down to a T (for T zone), but there are times when you just need a bit of extra help from the professionals. That’s why we headed to the Intercontinental’s I-Spa to inject a little life back into our dull, post-winter skin and here’s what we found.

The Treatment: Youth Intensive Facial

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Products

If you’re going to trust any kind of skin care product, go with a brand that's backed by science and research. At I-Spa, they’ve opted for Parisian brand Sothys, which was founded over 70 years ago by medical biologist Dr. Hotz. These days, scientists collaborate with universities and laboratories to formulate products that combine technology and well-being -- one of which has resulted in the Youth Intensive Treatment at I-Spa. The facial includes a total of six products from this line for exfoliation, lifting and dermo-filling. Here, core ingredients such as saffron, sophora, and peptides claim to help slow down the ageing process while stimulating skin cell regeneration. The products felt light on the skin and held a delicate scent, nothing too overpowering. I was asked to allow the product to fully absorb into the skin even after the treatment was complete, and I was pleasantly surprised by how dewy and refreshed my face felt for the rest of the day.

[caption id="attachment_142687" align="alignnone" width="720"] The Youth Intensive Treatment (and line of Youth creams) by Sothys claim it can turn back the clock on your skin.[/caption]

Service

One of the things that can be a little bothersome, even before you set foot in the treatment room, are the forms you need to fill in. At I-Spa, this consisted of a very short consultation form and instead, the therapist spent more time with me to ask about my current skincare routine and possible sensitive areas. She also gave a detailed explanation about the treatment products, procedure and expected results. It was good to know that not only was I was in safe, knowledgable hands, but that the treatment procedure was geared towards my preferences and skin condition. The execution of the double serum face massage was also incredibly effective with firm yet relaxing massage movements throughout.

[caption id="attachment_142686" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Infinity spa pools offers a striking view of Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour for further relaxation with all spa experiences.[/caption]

Environment

The spa décor is pared back and simple, with a marble design that looks refined but slightly dated. However, I forgot this as soon as I entered the dimly-lit rooms, which are spacious and feel calming just the same. Each private spa suite comes with its own sauna, steam shower, whirlpool bathtub and massage facilities to enable a full-on luxury spa experience. For further wellness, the gym is open 24 hours and a large outdoor swimming pool offers a terrace, while the infinity spa pools show off a stunning view overlooking Victoria Harbour.

[caption id="attachment_142683" align="alignnone" width="1417"] There are 7 steps in the Youth Intensive Treatment which includes cleansing, exfoliation, toning, face massage, youth modelling, mask and finishing.[/caption]

Experience

I entered the private spa suite after sipping a warm cup of mint tea, so it felt like the perfect temperature as I disrobed, though I was maybe a tiny bit too warm as I slipped under the cashmere blanket. But as my body temperature dropped during the treatment, I was extremely grateful for it in the end.

After cleansing of the face and neck was complete, a two-step exfoliation process ensued with light pinching movements, which is said to better prepare the skin for absorption. Warm mitts were used in removing lotions and pastes, which not only felt great but also ensured the skin was completely clean. The facial then moved on to toning, before a simultaneously relaxing and invigorating face massage was performed. My therapist’s movements were firm yet thoughtful, as she lifted and contoured the skin around key areas such as the forehead, around eyes and lips, and the neck and décolletage. More youth modelling followed, along with a short massage on the neck and nape, too.

During the face mask elements of the treatment, my therapist kindly explained when she was going to cover my face or would gently tap to indicate her next movements. Experience, I’m sure, told her that some may feel sensitive when certain areas (especially around the eyes) are treated. I rested assured as I was in competent hands, and I drifted off naturally during a scalp massage. It was only when the finishing touches, with serum and moisturiser, were applied that I finally awoke and thanked her for skilled application.

Feeling fresh-faced, I returned to the the real world and was immediately complemented for my glowing skin. "That’ll be the facial", I told them, but when I think back to my experience, it most definitely was more than that. The Youth Intensive Treatment at I-Spa, with optional quick nap, is the “facial workout” that your face needs as much as your body requires the gym.

The post Spa Review: The Youth Intensive Treatment at InterContinental’s I-Spa appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

The treatment: Breathe & Detox Treatment

Duration: 90 Minutes

Products

One thing that makes The Mandarin Spa so special is that its products are exclusive to Mandarin Oriental. All the bathroom amenities, as well as the spa products, are by Flourish, the brand designed for MO properties around the globe. For this particular treatment, a blind test was conducted so that I could select the scent I felt was more soothing without the influence of botanical names. I chose the lemon and lemongrass, a blend of essential oils combining healing powers, which stimulate movement of the lymphatic system, detoxification and the reduction of water retention.

Service

Upon arrival, I’m welcomed by warm hellos and a hot cup of jasmine tea. Slippers are brought for me to change into, and the attentive receptionist introduces me to the therapist that will be looking after me for the afternoon. She gives me a brief introduction of the facilities and the treatment I’m about to try before we head down to the 23rd floor, where all the treatment rooms are located. Once in the luxurious spa suite, more tea (except this time lavender), detox juice and ice water awaits. I thought nothing at the time, but it turns out that following the treatment you desperately need to rehydrate -- how thoughtful!

Environment

There’s something very tranquil about The Mandarin Spa. Keeping in style with the hotel, its interiors and décor honour the Oriental heritage it's built upon with Chinese accents visible throughout. The wellness centre is spread over three floors spanning 2,100 square meters, and it boasts a Chinese herbal steam room, jacuzzi, tepidarium (warm Roman bath), indoor swimming pool, 24-hour fitness centre, tea lounge, sauna and nine treatment rooms that include two spa suites with private vitality pools. Guests are invited to arrive 45 minutes before their scheduled appointment to luxuriate in these facilities offered to them. The Mandarin Salon is also part of this little oasis on the 24th floor.

Experience

Part I: Halotheraphy & Infrared Sauna

The treatment begins with a 30-minute relaxation period in the spa suite. I'm invited to enjoy the halotherapy, a treatment which involves breathing in salty air to mimic the conditions of a salt cave, where the sodium is said to improve respiratory and skin conditions, and infrared sauna to enhance my metabolism. Sitting nude in a little wooden and glass box might feel rather odd at first, but after the first few minutes I ease in and start to enjoy a good sweat. Relaxing it may be, but perhaps some sort of audio would have made the experience slightly less awkward. Before I know it, the 30 minutes are up as the timer inside the box indicates. Next I'm off to the steam and shower room to refresh and wash away the sweat and salt buildup.

Part II: Lymphatic Massage

With the sound and vibrations of a singing bowl and a deep inhale of my selected essential oil blend, my treatment begins. As I lie face down, the therapist works her way from my neck and shoulders down to my feet. It’s time to turn over: Unlike other lymphatic massages that I’ve experienced before, the therapist explains to me the importance of massaging the abdominal area and that this will be her concentration. I’m not usually a fan of tummy massages, as I’ve always worried about pressure on my organs. But her technical knowledge and technique so far reassure me and I allow her to locate the pressure points on my torso and the rest of my body. Aligned with my breathing, she presses in on my exhales -- with every breath relieving tension in the tummy area and promoting lymphatic drainage -- a strange, unfamiliar feeling that was surprisingly comforting.

Moving on, using a traditional gua sha tool, she applies pressure on points of my neck, chin and temples, then scrapes across my cheekbones, jaw and forehead to stimulate circulation and drain facial toxins. I’m in disbelief as I hear the sound of the singing bowl once again, ending my treatment -- how had 60 minutes gone by so quickly? The saying that time flies when you’re having fun (or in this case, being pampered from head to toe) comes to mind. I’m reminded to drink plenty of fluids for the rest of the day to flush out all the impurities before the therapist politely retreats to allow me some privacy to fully revive and dress.

The intimate relaxation room is made available for those who wish to linger for just a while longer while they mentally prepare to be thrown back into reality. Knowing myself to be a sloth, I peel myself off the recliner and make my way out before being sucked in for the rest of the day.

Takeaways from the experience? One, abdominal massages aren’t as scary as I thought. Two, drinking copious amounts of water beforehand really reaps better results. And lastly, The Mandarin Spa is one of the city’s best wellness retreats to melt away stress -- even if it is just for 90 minutes.

The post Spa Review: The Mandarin Spa’s Breathe & Detox Treatment appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.