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Rejuvenate the Thai way

EMIRATES PALACE at Abu Dhabi has recently opened a branch of the exclusive Anantara Spa, well known for its holistic approach to wellness. Operated by Bangkok based MSpa International, the spa exudes a serene, hushed ambience.

'Anantara' means 'water without borders' and the spa too literally evokes the flowing, timeless spirit. The interiors are an exotic blend of Moroccan inspired domes and archways interlaced with Thai furnishings and water bodies.

Anantara offers six luxurious signature treatments, all drawn from ancient cultures. The traditional 'Route to Ayutthaya' treatment incorporates a tamarind body blast, tamarind being known for its detoxifying qualities, followed by a facial and a Thai herbal Compress.

The Thai Herbal Compress is a traditional Thai treatment dating back to the Ayutthaya period which was especially designed for war weary soldiers to cure their wounds and soothe their aching muscles.

This compress treatment uses steamed herbal pouches containing different Thai herbs known for their healing and rejuvenating properties, which are ground together, put in a pouch and steamed. The steam then releases the essential oils which, when the hot pouch is applied to the body, is absorbed by the skin.

A glass stairway leads to the treatment rooms. A number of suites are rather grand. This is so one can indulge in a milk or herb bath (separate treatment). The bathroom is large and comes with a power shower and a stone bench.

The 'Route to Ayutthaya' session commences after a shower with a 'Floral Foot Ritual,' where the feet are washed in warm water and rose petals, then given a quick dash of refreshing peppermint spray.

Following this, the actual treatment starts, where the hot pouches are used to massage the body in brisk rolling motions. This is extremely beneficial for stiff muscles, stimulates blood circulation and stretches out connective tissues as well.

Because of the strong properties that the ingredients contain, the poultice is not rubbed over the abdomen, rather, a warm pouch is placed on the navel while the masseuse works on the legs.