Dragonfly Hongfeng

What: Aroma Oil & Oriental Foot Massage (120 minutes)

Where: Dragonfly Hongfeng. 386 Hongfeng Lu. Tel: 3872 6996. Web: www.dragonfly.net.cn

Why: Let Shanghai’s massage institution right all your wrongs

How Much: RMB 448

Ubiquitous throughout Shanghai, Dragonfly’s numerous urban retreats are a clear sign of the brand’s popularity amongst the city’s denizens. Last spring the company took a more family-friendly approach when it opened its flagship location in the heart of Pudong’s expat hub – Jinqiao. Spread over three floors, the venue adds a kid’s corner and other family accessible facilities, but maintains the cosy ambiance for which the chain is known.

New to this location, upon entering the retreat guests are led to a relaxation room. Surrounded by mood lighting and water features, a glass of hot tea assists a quick transition from the bustle of city life to the serenity of a spa experience. Properly mentally prepared, you are escorted to the private room, tastefully decorated in a pan-Asian theme, to begin your journey.

After a swift change into provided attire, the Aroma Oil Massage, one of Dragonfly’s five core services, marks the first hour of bliss. Using pleasant smelling lavender oil, the masseuse’s expert hands quickly seek out your aches and pains, and banish them with practiced technique. To a soundtrack of peaceful ambient music, this energy restoration treatment cultivates a sense of overall well-being.

Following the full body treatment, it’d be a crime not to give the same amount of attention to your feet. The second hour – the Oriental Foot Massage – begins by plunging your tootsies into a bin of perfectly-heated water. Stress, worries and pretty much anything else on your mind immediately evaporate as the therapist improves circulation and organ function by hitting all the right spots.

At its completion, the massage is followed by a final relaxing moment in the in-room rain shower. Thoroughly unwound and both spiritually and physically clean, you’ll feel a tad bit guilty putting your socks and shoes on before bidding farewell to your Dragonfly experience.