(shanghai daily)
Updated: 2006-11-21 09:02

St Regis Spa may not be the largest or most spacious hotel spa in Shanghai, but it is its calm and welcoming atmosphere that continues to attracts a steady stream of guests.

The 600-square-meter spa on the hotel's sixth floor is a tranquil oasis that offers a comprehensive range of pampering treatments for the mind, body and soul.

Among the varied body and facial treatments and spa packages, the 80 minute signature La Stone massage (700 yuan/US$89) is the most sought after treatment; it offers a peaceful way in which to return to one's true nature.

The La Stone therapy is one of the fastest growing massage techniques in spas today around the world.

"An authentic La Stone massage instantly brings people a renewed feeling about Mother Earth's energies," said spa Manager Zhang Chi.

She said the treatment involved the application of water-heated basalt stones of varying sizes to key points on the back. While the stones create a sensation of comfort and warmth, a therapist goes to work with a 20-minute leg massage. This is followed by a 30-minute back massage.

"The direct heat relaxes muscles, allowing manipulation of a greater intensity than that of regular massage," Zhang said.

While the massage makes a person feel deeply relaxed, allowing to let go of all stress within the body, the hydrating aloe wrap, in contrast, is a different experience.

There are many types of body wraps as most help to purge the skin of impurities and draw out toxins from the body. They are also great for anyone wanting to tighten the look and texture of their skin.

The hydrating aloe wrap is specifically designed for dry or stressed skin. After showering, I was escorted to the treatment room and lay in the steam bed. The therapist applied aloe gel with essential oils over my body.

I was then covered with a cool gel while steam was released from the treatment bed to enhance the healing properties of the aloe. While the body enjoyed the experience of the steam for 30 minutes, a rose floral water mask was applied on my face.

"Aloe gels have healing agent properties and are full of trace minerals and amino acids that strengthen and repair the skin," Zhang said.

This renewal journey finished with a relaxing aromatherapy massage to nourish the skin. The blend of rich, warm and woody aromas combined with citrus and herbs left the body relaxed and the mind and spirit rejuvenated.

Zhang also recommended the herbal mud wrap (650 yuan/60 min), a therapy that detoxifies, soothes and heals the body with a unique sea mud application. The mud's high-mineral content nourishes, revitalizes and exfoliates leaving the skin soft and smooth with a radiant glow.

St Regis Spa
Address: 6/F, 889 Dongfang Road
Tel: 021-5050-4567