Spa reviews
The Friday team dips into the holistic world of India’s ancient alternative medicine, by trying a selection of Ayurvedic-influenced spa treatments...
We try Ayurvedic spa treatments.
ShiroabhyangaAyurvedicMassage
at The OberoiSpa, Business Bay, Dubai
Cost: Dh350 for 45 minutes
The experience: “Would you like ginger tea or lemongrass with honey?” asked my friendly therapist, Hazel Rynjah. I forced open my eyes, finding it hard to wake up from my deep sleep, my body totally relaxed. I had just finished my Shiroabhyanga Ayurvedic treatment and I couldn’t understand where the time had gone.
It had all started when Hazel greeted me at reception and took me to a private treatment room, where I changed into a robe. My feet were soaked in warm water full of bath salts. The atmosphere of the spa room was serene and beautiful – the lights were dim and the sounds of Asian fusion music filled the room.
After laying face-down on the massage bed, Hazel applied a warm Ayurveda Vatha oil using long, rhythmic strokes, gently massaging my back, shoulders and neck for 20 minutes. The oil used in this therapy balances all three doshas (different Ayurvedic body types), eases back pain and relieves stress. Hazel then massaged my legs, feet and each toe with the same medium pressure (my chosen preference).
The treatment neared its end all too quickly with an application of warm aromatic towels on my back. Finally I was turned over and oil was dripped on to my head while I was given a scalp, forehead, face, neck and shoulder massage.
The process nourishes the five senses by focusing on the marma points (vital energy points) and Hazel’s finger tips even moved gently over my eyelids too. She missed nothing! Afterwards I felt rejuvenated and totally calm.
To book: Call 04 444 1444 or visit www.oberoihotels.com/hotelsin-dubai/spa-fitness.aspx.