Spas and massages are all fine and relaxing, but if you want to try something that’ll surprise you, Associate Editor Karen Fong road-tests these four local options.
Spas and massages are all fine and relaxing, but if you want to try something that’ll surprise you, Associate Editor Karen Fong road-tests these four local options.
Onsen
Soaking in hot water, Japanese-style has gotten popular in Singapore lately, with a number of spas offering this opportunity to relax and let your skin literally soak in the benefits of mineralised water. In particular, these waters can help with sports injuries, back problems and overall stress.
Try it at Yunomori Onsen, Kallang Wave Mall.
“I find sitting in the hot water very relaxing anyway – if there are health benefits to it, even better!”
Halotherapy
Halotherapy is a treatment using salt rooms to cleanse your respiratory track while you de-stress. Try the Himalayan Salt Inhalation Room at Virgin Active, where comfy day beds, a controlled temperature and high humidity await. It’s a great way to escape the haze when it comes.
Try it at Virgin Active at One Raffles Place or Tanjong Pagar Centre.
“You don’t really feel that different while you’re in there but there’s definitely a sense of being ‘cleansed’ after.”
Shirodhara
This soothing ancient Ayurvedic technique involves a steady stream of oil being poured over the third eye (slightly above and between your eyes on your forehead). The calm, continuous stream is said to improve memory, reduce insomnia and relieve headaches and tension.
Try it at the St Gregory Spa at Parkroyal on Beach Road.
“The dripping of the oil made me a bit apprehensive at first but eventually, I relaxed and fell into a serious deep sleep.”
Floatation
Floating is the newest way to clear your head and get grounded as you float in a pod of Epsom salt water in a private room. Benefits of regular floating are said to include rapid stress relief, improved problemsolving ability and creativity, and mental clarity. It also promotes faster healing.
Try it at Palm Ave Float Club at 20 Waringin Park.
“It’s quite surreal floating by yourself in a pod in total darkness. It takes some getting used to (I only lasted 18 minutes!), but I can see why people would do it regularly.”
