Spa Talk: Chuan Spa

What: All You Can Spa (Three hours of treatments plus access to the Health Club)
Where: The Langham, Xintiandi, Shanghai. B1, 99 Madang Lu, near Taicang Lu. Tel: 2330 2288
Why: You’re in need of a good workout followed by a soothing massage
How much: RMB 888

We office folk are desperately in need of both exercise and relaxation to combat aching necks and atrophying limbs. The Chuan Spa and Health Club allows you to do both in style. After changing in the locker room complete with heated floors, head for the indoor swimming area. A hall of textured marble encases a small lagoon sitting exactly at floor level; it’s more like a temple than a lap pool. After a swim, climb out on the far side and relax with a jet stream of water.

If a land-based workout suits you more than taking a dip, the gym has the newest Technogym equipment. We were taken with the treadmills complete with A/C, TV and even games like Sudoku built in. After your workout, indulge in a Chuan Spa signature massage, tailor-made for you based on the TCM principle of five elements. An exfoliating back scrub, followed by an oil massage relaxes your recently-strained muscles. Top that off with a rejuvenating facial and head massage to relieve tired, aching eyes, and the office never felt so far away.