When Pune’s latest five-star Westin opened its new spa titled aptly Heavenly Spa, it was a temptation that was difficult to resist. Welcomed by a steaming hot cup of herbal tea – apparently brought in from a remote village in China – it was interesting to note how it infused a kind of mystique to the experience by exposing visitors to age-old precious secrets of the world.

There are several options, which your treatment guide takes you through, that you can choose for the day. There is the hot stone massage therapy that uses heated basalt stones to melt away knots and tension; equally tempting is one of the most revered massage styles in the world; the Thai massage which is performed without oil on a mat on the floor and said to unlock blockages in our urban body systems thus increasing flexibility. The jet lag reliever massage, encompasses a firm full body massage followed by a dip in the sea-salt-infused steaming Jacuzzi. All interesting options to be indulged in if the luxury of time lets you.

If you are in the mood for something unique, exotic even, you can go in for what the masseuse recommended – Westin’s signature Rollerssage Therapy, a massage through semi-precious stones. The use of stones that hold metaphysical and healing properties from around the world makes this treatment on par with royal experiences. Soothed with hot oil you can pick stones from a collection of dazzling hematite, tiger eye, rose quartz or sodalite each having significant healing properties. My choice: stones that increased the balance of love and optimism. Despite their delicate placement on one’s body, not one slips but stays in place, radiating heat to relieve your aching muscles. The smoothness and heat from the beautiful semi-precious stones, gives a euphoric sensation unique only to this treatment. Combine this with a titillating mango full body scrub to exfoliate and pleasure the senses. The feeling generated is one of calm and divine relaxation with also a touch of royal allure.

The Westin Hotel and Resorts, Pune
Tel no: 020/ 67210000
Fax: 020/67210021
Email: sweta.tyagi@westin.com

WHAT A FEELING!
The Spa Alila in Goa incorporates a niche yoga experience in its rejuvenation package

Following the concept of Alila, which means ‘surprise’ in Sanskrit, and to create just that in Spa Alila Goa, the pampering treatment is followed with a unique yoga experience which is custom-designed by Debaloy Mitra, who introduced a wellness package which includes custom designed yoga and meditation along with the treatment, and bath experience which leaves your body completely rejuvenated and reincarnated physically as well as mentally, generally recommended for a minimum of three days.

Equal emphasis is given on pre and post treatments and customised focus on micro muscles, hence the use of various thumb techniques during the treatment by the therapists. They are well trained in anatomical physiology, massage and guest service, ultimately to create a natural, heartfelt and surprisingly unique feeling.

Spa Alila products (Alila Living) are made from a creative blend of ingredients such as indigenous plants, fruits, herbs and spices, combinations that are so fragrant and fresh that they are almost edible – lemongrass and ginger to refresh, coffee and coconut to tone, cucumber and aloe vera to sooth. The signature oils consist of sweet almond and virgin coconut which is full of antioxidants, vitamin D and E.
- ARTI SARIN

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