Pulse November 2017 | Page 45

isPa’s gloBal PrEsENcE MEaNs we are a culmination of people and cultures from all over the world. this influence allows spas in the U.S. to study treatments from India and spas in India to learn from European traditions. our amazing global reach brings us together in a unique and inspiring way. one way is the ability to incorporate traditions and treatments from different parts of the world onto spa menus. Whether unique to one area, or spread the world over, these spa treatments take care to pay respect to ancient traditions while still utilizing modern aesthetics and technology. the various treatments below differ from one another in name and procedure, but their purpose remains the same—to provide truly unique, signature spa experiences for guests around the g lobe. sense of Place cheva BaNyaN trEE rEsorts aNd sPas n tHailaNd Banyan Tree takes a holistic approach to physical and spiritual well-being, providing a Sanctuary for the Senses. Drawing on Asian traditions that date back centuries, these intimate retreats blend romance and serenity with exotic sensuality. Their health and beauty remedies combine the use of aromatic oils, herbs and spices with ancient healing powers. Under the intuitive touch of the therapists, simple sensory pleasures are reawakened, completing the experience that defines Banyan Tree Spa. “We noticed that guests prefer to try time-honored spa traditions based on wellness wisdom passed down from genera- tions,” says Kingkarn Olarngarnjanin, executive director of Banyan Tree Spa & Gallery Thailand. “Guests place great faith in our tropical garden spa concept with its Asian therapies, which focuses on a non-clinical and holistic approach.” The “Sense of Place Cheva” package, a 15-minute treatment that works your tired muscles, is inspired by the Thai word meaning “living.” Cheva creates harmony of the body, mind and spirit to enhance well-being. Clients are said to “escape into bliss” as they soak in the natural goodness of coconut oil and herbs, leaving your skin purified and renewed. “Guests are more concerned on nurturing wellness from within, and adopting a healthier lifestyle from inside out,” Olarngarnjanin adds. “They place more attention on what they eat and are also open to healthy traveling with keen interest in digital detox, minimizing waste, eating clean and being more physically active.” This high-touch, low-tech approach celebrates the human touch and the use of natural herbs and spices. The Sense of Place treat- ments offer guests an authentic flavor of the destination with a local twist on time-honored remedies and indigenous ingredients. tribal dreaming gWiNgaNNa lifEstylE rEtrEat the sense of Place cheva treatment at Banyan is inspired by the thai word meaning “living.” n australia The Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat is high on a plateau set on over 200 hectares of native Australian bushland. The setting provides ocean and valley views, which help guests begin to slow down and reconnect with nature from the moment they arrive. The retreat is surrounded by native wildlife, birds, plants and trees, and creates an oasis of calm and encourages guests to relax. Tribal Dreaming, a popular treatment at Gwinganna, is a two- and-a-half-hour ritual that includes a fusion of massage styles, the use of Australian clays and didgeridoo (an Australian wind instrument) healing. November 2017 ■ PULSE 43