An Oriental spa (also called an Asian spa) is more than a massage parlor with an Asian theme. Oriental spas use ancient health and wellness practices to attend to the whole being of their guests: body, mind and spirit.
Cultural Roots
Depending on the spa, treatments and philosophies may have their roots in Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Malaysian, Thai or other Eastern cultures. Some Oriental spas, particularly in the United States, offer treatments and services representative of several cultures in one location.
Mysticism
One key commonality among Oriental spas is the presence and practice of mystic belief systems. From décor to food offerings to hands-on services, owners and practitioners believe that every physical component has deeper spiritual meaning.
Length of Visit
Oriental spas are rarely visited simply for one service. Typically, patrons go for several hours to several days. Many Oriental spas have minimum stay requirements, based on the belief and practice that wholeness and balance cannot be achieved in a matter of hours.
Atmosphere
Atmosphere is paramount. It would be extremely rare while visiting an authentic Oriental spa to hear a phone ring in the distance or employees chatting among themselves. Great care is given to traditional values and respect. Architecture and décor at an Oriental spa are purposeful and immediately recognizable as Asian. Depending on the traditions represented, the elements will vary. However, great care is given to lighting, color balance and design features. Feng shui design practices are common. Even flowers are chosen for the spiritual and healing properties represented through color, texture and scent; plants also tend to be potted rather than cut, due to beliefs about the sacredness of living things.
Food and Drink
Most Oriental spas provide meals, since guests stay for extended time periods. Dishes tend to be prepared low in additives, salt and sugar; yet they are quite savory, due to the selection of spices used. Tea is a staple at an Oriental spa---lemongrass, jasmine, ginger, ginseng---chosen, as all else, according to the inherent healing properties of the ingredients and scent.
Core Services
Physical relaxation therapies will typically include massage; shiatsu (Japanese), Ayurvedic (Indian), tui-na (Chinese), Thai massage, and hot stone massage are among the more common varieties, with even more exotic and specialized techniques being offered at many spas. Instead of raised therapy beds, massages are generally given from crisp, white mattresses on the floor. However, massage is only one, small part of the physical experience at an Oriental spa. Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, meditation sessions and various water relaxation therapies are part of most packages, as well as skin treatments with traditional herbs, hot spring baths, and a host of other services---all with a distinctly Asian flair.
Before Your First Visit
Some people have associated Oriental spas with seedy practices, more so in the past. While such establishments certainly still exist, most Oriental spas are legitimate retreats, having well-established Web presences and word-of-mouth reputations. Minimal research should suffice to set guests' minds at ease, as well as enabling them to select the types of services and packages that best suit their needs.
References
- "Fortune Magazine"; Spas Take Off in Asia; Sheridan Prasso; August 2009
- Massage Magazine
