The Spa Supplement

The stresses and strains of daily life can play havoc with our minds and bodies from time to time, so it is important to take time out of our hectic schedules to indulge in a little TLC. We have rounded up a few of our favourite spa treatments from Shanghai and further afield to help you relax and recuperate.
Autumn Pampering @ Yuan Spa, Hyatt on the Bund
Yuan Spa is offering guests a pampering package featuring a 30-minute Yuan Scrub plus a 60-minute Balinese massage. Let your entire body experience the benefits of the signature Yuan Scrub, which utilises oriental lingzhi and shitake extracts to promote cell regeneration, improve immunity and increase circulation. Then enjoy a pampering Balinese massage that will jump-start the metabolism, encouraging it to rid the body of toxins by its special technique, which is precisely what all hard-working, hard-playing bodies need after the sweltering heat.
Available throughout September and October, priced at RMB 980 for a 30-minute Yuan Scrub followed by a 60- minute Balinese Massage.
 
Spread over 3,000 square metres of Hyatt on the Bund lower lobby, Yuan Spa is dedicated to all aspects of health and wellbeing. Inspiration for Yuan Spa derived from the flow and natural beauty of a river (yuan translates as ‘source of water’ in Chinese), coupled with the simple serenity of ancient Chinese bathing rituals. There is, quite literally, ‘water, water everywhere’ to saturate the senses. Combining traditional Chinese wellness and beauty philosophies with European aromatherapy and skincare treatments, Yuan Spa utilises natural and local ingredients well recognised for enhancing natural beauty, wellbeing and longevity.
 
Yuan Spa. Hyatt on the Bund. 199 Huangpu Lu, near Wuchang Lu. Tel: 6393 1234 ext.6527. Web: shanghai.bund.hyatt.com
Deluxe Anti- Aging Treatment @ The Ritz- Carlton Spa, The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong
The Ritz-Carlton Spa is located on the hotel’s 55th floor and features ten treatment rooms in total, including nine multifunction treatment rooms and a Harmony Suite, where two guests may relax and enjoy treatments together. Positioned within the heart of this magnificent tower, the Spa is an opulent haven of escapism and relaxation. The Ritz-Carlton Spa effortlessly combines the essence of ancient and modern Chinese, Indian, European and Balinese spa cultures and uses luxury Spa products that harness the best of nature's essential oils, botanicals and marine supplements. Each and every treatment is a totally personalised experience and the ultimate in luxury. 
Designed by world-renowned Richard Farnell, The Ritz- Carlton Spa combines striking, modern lines and Art Deco detailing, with high-quality finishes in the spa and relaxation areas. Each treatment room has its own unique layout and continues the dramatic combination of angles and unique shapes that are consistent with the style and design in other areas of the hotel. Floor-to-ceiling windows in each treatment room offer guests unparalleled views of Shanghai, which can also be enjoyed from the treatment room’s shower stalls, as well as from the VIP bath in the Harmony Suite. Take time to enjoy the crystal steam room, rock sauna or ice fountain prior to your treatment to unwind and soothe aching muscles, or wash away the stresses of city life in the refreshing experience shower.
In July 2015, The Ritz-Carlton Spa exclusively launched unique deluxe anti-aging treatments by Valmont. For 30 years, Valmont has been helping women and men master the visible signs of aging. Heir to traditional Swiss medicine, it draws from the unspoiled natural resources of Switzerland and the latest cellular cosmetic research findings to formulate utmost anti-aging skin care products featuring visible and long-lasting efficacy. An anti-aging expert for 30 years, Valmont never stops innovating to preserve the beauty capital and health of women. The Ritz-Carlton Spa selected a series of exquisite treatments, which include four anti-aging facial treatments and one slimming body treatment to represent complete care, personalisation and the ultimate in luxury.
Valmont Peaks of Firmness: 90 minutes or 120 minutes
With the passage of time, the bumps and curves on your face will tend to become deeper and your facial contours more pronounced. Although wrinkles and loss of firmness are unavoidable, their appearance and intensity can be visibly reduced. To delay or prevent these most visible signs of aging, Valmont demonstrates all its expertise in the Peaks of Firmness treatment, a resolutely anti-wrinkle and firming treatment. Intensive cellular lifting treatment and a lifting massage are ideal for a visibly firmer and tighter face. Or add a collagen facial mask for an extra 30 minutes, which allows your skin to reach the heights it deserves!
 
Valmont Peaks of Purity: 60 minutes
Combination to oily skin types require particular attention. Purifying oily spots without drying the already lipidic areas while continuing to treat the signs of aging – the Peaks of Purity treatment is more than just a simple skin cleansing. It targets specific areas on the face, which are unbalanced. It gently re-balances, cleanses and purifies the skin, an unprecedented refreshing and mattifying experience. For a healthy and pure foundation, the emphasis is first placed on thorough cleansing then a massage that is ingenuously carried out with Renewing Pack will eliminate any shine or imperfection. Your skin will then regain harmony, thus displaying a fresh matte and glowing complexion.
 
Valmont Discovery Treatment: 45 minutes
The effects of stress, pollution and the high demands of modern life progressively mark the skin. One day after another, the complexion becomes dull and lacklustre. It loses its freshness because the cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients. Valmont offers your skin genuine rejuvenation, inspired by the amazing force of eternal snows. Thanks to renewed energy, the fight against cutaneous aging takes on a whole new meaning. The original and symbolic treatment provides your skin with the vigour and energy required for it to look beautiful, a genuine rebirth that will make you look ravishing.
 
Valmont Eye Treatment: 25 minutes
Touch your eye contour with your finger and you will feel how different the skin in that area feels compared to the rest of the face. The eye contour is an extremely fragile area, which is why it ages prematurely. In addition to wrinkles, accumulated toxins result in dark circles and swelling. To treat the part of the face, which can reveal our age or lifestyle, Valmont offers a unique treatment perfectly adapted to this highly delicate area. Products applied following exceptionally lifting and draining gestures stimulate the synthesis of new collagen fibres. With each treatment, the dermis is re-plumped and the skin regains its density. The treatment brings instantly visible lifting results, to women’s great satisfaction.
 
Valmont Peaks of Slimness: 60 minutes
A true remodelling of the silhouette, this professional treatment focuses on the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous tissue to offer tangible results from the very first session. It combines a unique motion with an original technique, working in the direction of the muscular fibres to render the body toned and slender. For 60 minutes, kneading, friction and smoothening pressures provide deep action in each area. And Valmont’s signature is, of course, present. The famous butterfly motion is now used on the body! This treatment will charm with its innovative approach and instant results.
 
Enjoyment of our treatment experiences is not limited to women. The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA also offers an exquisite selection of treatments designed to help address men’s specific treatment needs and common areas of concern including 90-minute Stress Buster; 60-minute Men’s Purifying Facial, Shoulder and Scalp Massage; 60-minute Muscle Relaxer Massage; and 40-minute Muscle Reviver.
About The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong. The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai. Tel: 2020 1818. Web: www.ritzcarlton.com

Balinese Healing Ritual @ The Spa At Mandarin Oriental, Sanya

Indulge yourself in The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Sanya with newly launched programme, Balinese Healing Ritual, specially designed by its experienced Balinese therapist, Omink Aryathi. Inspired from Ayurveda, an Indian holistic medical system, this revitalising ritual combines Balinese traditions and Hainanese local culture perfectly, to lead you to reach a relaxed state both of body and mind.
 
This three and a half hour programme starts with coconut body scrub, which aims to revive tired skin, followed by an organic herbal body wrap and hair treatment with a scalp massage using natural oil extracted from resort-grown Hibiscus leaves, beneficial for hair nourishing and growth. The highlight of this programme is the deep Bali massage with coconut oil to revitalise skin, relax muscle tissues and boost circulation. At last a soft foot massage completes the whole journey. You could also spend a relaxing time with herbal tea and dry fruit in the serenity of the spa garden.
Balinese Healing Ritual starts from RMB 2,688, subject to 15% service charge.
 
The all-encompassing 3,200 square metres Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Sanya, offers a comprehensive menu of rejuvenating experiences to soothe, restore and revitalise body and soul in beautifully appointed surroundings. On entering the Spa, the elevated, ‘floating’ reception area provides a unique arrival experience for guests.
Eighteen luxurious treatment suites include eight single spa suites each equipped with steam shower, oversized outdoor bathtub and rain shower. In addition, there are eight couples’ suites and two spacious VIP villas offering the very best in heat and water experiences. Connected to the VIP Villas is the Secret Garden designed to encourage relaxation, featuring al fresco treatment areas and a private bathing house with waterfalls and whirlpool.
 
A qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor provides personal consultations and a therapeutic menu of indigenous Chinese therapies such as acupressure, acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping and traditional bone setting. 
 
Other wellness facilities available at the resort include a fitness centre, guided Yoga and Tai Chi classes, and a Spa Boutique with an exclusive range of spa and wellbeing products.
 
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Sanya. 12 Yuhai Lu, Sanya. Tel: (898) 8820 9999. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.mandarinoriental.com/sanya

Dragon Phoenix @ The Spa At Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai
Shanghai is recommending Dragon Phoenix, a signature wellness ritual for couples. Autumn is the healing season, making it an ideal time for treatments at The Spa, which is a haven of tranquillity in China’s fast-paced cosmopolitan metropolis.
 
Dragon Phoenix adapts traditional Chinese healing wisdom to the changing season. Represented by red and gold, the mythical creatures, Dragon and Phoenix are often used to characterise the Emperor and Empress, and they symbolise the power of cosmic energy and marital harmony blessed with good luck and prosperity.
The Spa’s Dragon Phoenix treatment begins with a welcoming foot ritual and relaxing bath filled with aromatic gold osmanthus and red hawthorn. This is followed by a guasha-inspired couple’s massage using a custom-designed tool made from carnelian gemstone, which is applied to specific energy points to achieve balance and enhance the body’s ability to heal itself. Guasha is a traditional Chinese therapy of skin scraping that relieves pain and stimulates healing.
 
The two-hour Dragon Phoenix treatment is priced at RMB 3,080 per couple on weekdays, and RMB 3,500 on weekends. Prices are subject to 15% service charge. Covering an area of 2,415 square metres, The Spa has 13 exclusive singles, couples and VIP Spa Suites, each with their own private en suite, dressing room and steam shower. For added indulgence, four suites feature a private vitality pool overlooking the garden. The VIP Suite provides a perfect setting for spa parties where up to eight friends or family members can be hosted.
In addition, The Spa features a dedicated Manicure Lounge, Pedicure Lounge and Reflexology Lounge. Internationally acclaimed professional skincare brands are used in special body and facial treatments, including Clarins, Aromatherapy Associates, Amala Organic Skin Care, and vegan nail care brand, Spa Ritual.
 
A spectacular 25-metre indoor Swimming Pool with Vitality Pool and Children’s Pool is available to guests and residents around the clock. The Swimming Pool opens out onto a Pool Deck where guests can relax and savour delicious spa cuisine. Spa patrons can also enjoy the men’s and women’s thermal bathing facilities, which feature Sauna, Crystal Steam Room, Ice Fountain, Tepidarium Loungers and Aromatic and Colour Therapy Experience Showers.
 
The Spa At Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai. 11 Pudong Nan Lu, near Yincheng Lu. Tel: 2082 9868. Email: [email protected]
A Sensory Experience @ Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund
Located in Shanghai’s iconic Bund district, the spa is close to both historic landmarks and the new cultural and commercial centres of the cosmopolitan city. Spanning over 1,300 square metres over three floors within the urban resort, the award-winning spa features 11 exquisitely appointed treatment rooms including two Imperial Rooms with a Rainmist facility or Thai massage area, four double deluxe rooms and five single rooms. The name of each room is inspired by the 24 Chinese solar terms. For a rejuvenating wellness experience, the spa is complemented by a beauty salon, nail bar and Banyan Tree Gallery.
 
Embracing the local culture and traditional Chinese healing philosophy, Banyan Tree Spa Shanghai On the Bund’s design concept is themed on the five elements, which are translated into unique colours and inspirations.
The spa showcases a contemporary design combining sleek lines with traditional materials. Warm lighting, an inviting reception area that exudes elegance with a clear glass panel embedded with grey criss-cross textured patterns, a beige sofa and silk floral-motif throw cushions are just a few of the comforting touches.
 
A spa stairway leads down to treatment rooms with sunlight streaming in from a skylight overhead. The walkway of treatment rooms is framed on one side by a two-storey wall of vivid green plants, which embraces nature, with a contrasting dark wooden wall opposite that features symmetrical vertical metallic strips.
 
Treatment rooms draw reference from the five elements of gold, wood, water, fire and earth in their design. The themed rooms feature clean horizontal lines across the ceiling and crystal-blue lighting; gold-themed rooms include classic matte gold accents; fire-themed rooms showcase vibrant red hues; and wood and earth rooms feature soothing neutral tones.
The destination-inspired Banyan Indulgences features holistic signature treatments for total renewal. The 150-minute signature package, Banyan Hot Stones, is a harmonising treatment where heated stones are soothingly massaged over the body along with the use of warm clarity oil to exert warmth and pressure on energy points for smoother flow of “qi” and the discharge of toxins. The treatment concludes with a Rose Ginseng Body Scrub, Chrysanthemum Body Conditioner and Rose Bath to leave the skin nourished and soft.
 
Inspired by the ancient Yin and Yang concept, the 120-minute Chinese Traditions features a selection of classic Chinese therapies. The Yin For Her - Sweet Serenade package reveals glowing skin with a unique blend in the Soya Mint Body Scrub, which works to deeply cleanse and moisturise while the Oriental Massage and Oriental Head Massage improve blood circulation. The Yang For Him - Renewed Vigour package highlights a Tropical Lush Body Scrub, which exfoliates dead skin cells, an Herbal Mud Body Wrap to moisturise and a choice of Body Massages to alleviate sore muscles.
 
The spa also presents a selection of popular therapies reflecting the five elements – gold for purifying, wood for renewal, water for relaxing, fire for revitaliser and earth for balance. Five elements oils are created for each specific treatment. Guests may discover the healing powers of Chinese herbs and indigenous ingredients in body scrubs, which harness the benefits of Pu’er tealeaves, pearl, chrysanthemum and ginseng.
 
For spa enthusiasts who are looking for a complete top to toe renewal, Banyan Day is a full day of pampering and indulgence. On top of a luxurious spa treatment which includes a massage, body scrub, bath, facial, and a hand and foot treatment, a healthy spa lunch with a choice of Chinese, Japanese and Western menus is also offered.
 
Banyan Tree Spa. Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund. 19 Haiping Lu, near Gongping Lu. Tel: 2509 1188. Email: [email protected]. Web: banyantreespa.com
Jade Journey @ Chi, The Spa At Pudong Shangri-La, East Shanghai
CHI, The Spa at Pudong Shangri-La, East Shanghai, is pleased to present ‘Jade Journey’. Launched in August 2007, the ‘Jade Journey’ incorporates the Chinese philosophy of releasing blockages in meridian points throughout the body to bring about harmony and balance with the energetic properties of the jade stone.
 
A semi-precious stone, jade is much prized in China for its attributes and for its distinctive beauty. It is also representative of good luck, prosperity and protection. Symbolising purity and serenity, jade is appreciated for its ability to balance the yin and yang, and for removing accumulated toxins from stress, to enable natural healing and holistic nourishment.
 
The Jade Journey begins with a special Jade Foot Bath and Tea Bath Ritual, followed by a massage incorporating traditional Chinese massage techniques. Focusing on the meridian channels of points to release blocked chi energy, the traditional Guasha technique is gently and soothingly applied, using the jade stone. The Guasha technique has been used since the Yuan Dynasty, as a means to cure common
ailments, with the ‘scraping movement’.
CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, embraces a holistic approach to physical and spiritual wellbeing. Inspired by traditional Asian healing philosophies, CHI spa treatments are based upon the principles of restoring balance and harmony to mind and body. The intuitive touch of qualified CHI therapists and the restorative powers of fragrant oils, aromatic herbs and spices today really do invite luxurious, indulgent surrender.
 
CHI, The Spa. Pudong Shangri-La, East Shanghai. 33 Fucheng Lu, near Yincheng Dong Lu. Tel: 5877 1503. Email: [email protected]
Honeymoon Intimate Package @ The Spa, Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is heating things up with its new Lessons Of Love Package, inviting newlyweds and couples to build a deeper connection on their most romantic holiday yet. Available now through mid-April, 2016, this three-night stay includes intimate spa treatments, a private dining experience, limousine airport transfers, dedicated butler service, daily breakfast and luxury accommodations for two.
 
The intimate journey begins at The Spa, where couples will receive guided instruction on delivering a warming Lovers Body Scrub and scalp massage, teaching hands-on technique that can be practiced at home for years to come. Next, the pair will share a deeply relaxing aromatherapy fusion bath, followed by a couples’ massage by an expertly trained Phulay Bay spa therapist.
The love story continues as couples are treated to a private dining experience at the resort’s Sri Trang restaurant, featuring once-in-a-lifetime views of the striking Andaman Sea and its surrounding exotic islands. Following the candlelit dinner, lovers can retire to their villa for a complimentary toast to love, or a soak in a fragrant scented rose petal-filled bath that will fan the flames of romance long past the warmth of the setting sun.
 
“As the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve property in the world, we’ve made it our mission to provide once-in-alifetime experiences that guests will treasure and carry with them for the rest of their lives,” says Carlos Tarrero, General Manager of Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. “Lessons of Love is more than a romantic getaway package. Under the guidance of our expertly trained staff, couples will learn massage therapy techniques and create memories they will be able to share with one another for years to come.”
In addition to the included spa, dining and romance amenities, newlyweds will find respite in the natural beauty of Krabi cocooning them at Phulay Bay. Days can be spent together sharing moments swimming, snorkelling, taking part in baking classes, Thai dancing, yoga or on adventure dates exploring the surrounding virgin rainforests, ethereal beaches, clear waterfalls and more.
 
Lessons Of Love Package:
•Three night luxurious accommodation at Phulay Bay
•One hour Lessons of Love experience at The Spa for two
•Two hour Spa Ritual for two
•Intimate Dining Beyond experience for two at Sri Trang by the Sea
•Daily breakfast for two at Jampoon Restaurant
•24-hour dedicated butler service
•Limousine transfers to and from Krabi Airport
•Daily shuttle boat trip to Hong Island
•Complimentary Wi-Fi and mini-bar
•Valid through April 16, 2016 (Blackout dates: December 21, 2015 – January 10, 2016)
•Rates begin at THB 20,800 per night, exclusive 18% surcharge and local government taxes
 
The Spa. Phulay Bay A Ritz Carlton Reserve. Krabi. Thailand. Tel: +66 (075) 628 111. Web: www.ritzcarltonreserve.com
Indigenous Spa Treatment @ The Royal Begonia Spa by Abel Touch, The Royal Begonia, Sanya
Spread over 1,500 square meters, overlooking the garden fountain, the spa features engaging Spanish-influenced architecture and exquisite Mediterranean details and includes 21 treatment rooms, comprising 16 deluxe single rooms, including eight VIP rooms, two deluxe twin rooms, and three deluxe suites. A separate luxury foot massage lounge and a steam room further indicate their unrivalled attention to wellbeing.
 
To enhance the experience, each treatment room is infused with guests’ choice of scents and music, and fruit and snacks are provided.
Haitang Coconut Spa Treatment
• Price: RMB 888 for 90mins +15%
• Tropical Coconut Body Scrub & Full Body Massage with Coconut Oil
• Selected natural coconut powder, integrated with milk to thoroughly remove pore dirt and relax your body
• Welcome drink of a local Hainan coconut, served in its shell upon guest’s arrival
 
The Royal Begonia Spa by Abel Touch. The Royal Begonia, Sanya, Haitang Bay, Sanya. Tel: (898) 3888 3261. Web: www.starwoodhotels.com
Extravaganza @ Sho Spa, MGM Grand Sanya
Beyond the exhilaration of decadent dining and entertaining nightlife of MGM, Grand Sanya awaits an extraordinary haven of water, music, light and energy, aptly named Sho. This unique spa concept was specially created to enchant the soul and invoke a state of rejuvenation and wellbeing.
 
The name, Sho, means enjoyment of the senses. Infused with the vitality and harmony of rushing water, Sho embodies the spirit of renewed energy, pure escape, and relaxing entertainment. The spectacular interior centres on a core bathing circuit surrounded by twenty well-appointed treatment rooms. Sho’s staff of trained professionals will lead you through the experience, unveiling a continuous cycle of surprise and delight.

In anticipation of Spa aficionados as well as those new to the spa experience, Sho features a compelling yet clearly defined menu of services, including the signature Sho Stopper treatments. Each incredible experience on the menu is created to refresh, relax, rejuvenate or reenergize – all are conceived to be transcendent.
 
Signature Treatments:
Vitality pool: Rejuvenation And DeepSleeping 
The MGM vitality pool covers 721m2. It features a vitality pool, a hamman treatment room, an aroma relax lounge and a sunbathing deck. This unique spa concept was especially forged to enchant the soul and invoke a state of rejuvenation and wellbeing. Apart from our tailored treatment rooms, Sho Spa features the largest and only vitality pool in Yalong Bay, Sanya. The pool has been infused with natural elements as the rush of a soothing waterfall and surroundings, a truly harmonious experience, embodying the spirit of renewed energy, a pure escape and relaxing moments.
Hammam Treatment: Recovery And Refreshment
Next to the vitality pool, we have an authentic Hammam treatment room. Hammam is an ancient treatment from Turkey, which uses a combination of alternating hot & cold and wet & dry treatments to release any mental tension and rejuvenate your body. First, we use freshly prepared mint water to scrub dead cells from your skin. This not only polishes your body, but also calms and restores your skin. We then use a special
technique to massage your shoulders to release muscle tension and finally, apply an essential body lotion to make you refreshed from head to toe.
 
Salt Sauna: Open Capillaries And Improve Blood And Lymphatic Circulation
The infrared salt sauna room in Sho Spa applies salt blocks from a crystal salt mine which is 600 meters beneath the Himalayan Mountains. The crystal salt releases negative ions into the atmosphere when heated and has a similar effect to an ionizer. These negative ions will neutralise any positively charged toxins or infections they come into contact with. The infrared heat source will open up capillaries and improve blood and lymphatic circulation in eliminating toxins from the body. The negatively ionized atmosphere promotes a great sense of well-being and improved mental clarity. 
 
Sho Spa. MGM Grand Sanya. Yalong Bay, Sanya. Tel: (0898) 8863 9999 ext. 6305. Web: www.mgmgrandsanya.com
Biologique Recherche Facial Treatment @ The Peninsula Spa, The Peninsula Shanghai
The 60-minute Visolastine Silk Hydration Treatment is a luxurious hydrating and balancing ritual featuring a perfect combination of hydrating and bioenergy massages. The treatment is proven to benefit the tone of the skin and immediately gives a silken and luminous complexion. An extended 110-minute ritual is enhanced by the state-of-the-art Remodelling Face machine, which provides subtle doses of electrotherapy to further complement the skincare treatment.
Visolastine Silk Hydration Treatment has a choice of 60 minutes or one hour 50 minutes, which are priced at RMB 1,580 and RMB 2,280 (with remodelling face machine) respectively. Prices are subject to a 15% service charge.
 
The Peninsula Spa. The Peninsula Shanghai, 32 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, near Beijing Dong Lu. Tel: 2327 6599. Web: www.peninsula.com