Fire-Monkey-Treatment

The treatment

First comes a relaxing foot bath and massage. Next, a 30-minute chrysanthemum flower and salt body scrub to exfoliate skin (the flower’s scent apparently helps you destress). After a quick shower with a jug of warm water infused with pomelo leaves (said to have rejuvenating properties), I return to a ‘singing bowl’ segment. Here, the therapist gently rings a metal bowl and places it on my abdomen for a few minutes as the vibrations will reportedly stimulate my body’s energy flow.

The rest of the 110-minute-long session is spent on an oriental body massage using a floral-smelling blend of rose, ylang ylang and chamomile oils. The therapist massages specific acupuncture points on the body – especially sore areas like my shoulder blades and lower back – using long, measured strokes with medium pressure to improve blood circulation and boost energy.

The verdict

This was a refreshing change from the aromatherapy massages I usually go for. The ingredients in the scrub and massage calmed and soothed my senses, and my shoulders and back felt less tense after all that vigorous kneading. The best part: feeling well-rested immediately after. $330, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Level 5 Mandarin Oriental Hotel, tel: 6885-3533