Looking for a moment of relaxation, Fernanda Langhammer headed to The Spa at Address for a full-body treatment.
When was the last time you pampered yourself on a spa day? I have to say that after moving to the Middle East, I learned (education is key) that me-time is not a luxury but an essential habit to have in our day-to-day lives. I used to have this idea that I should go for a massage only if I felt some stiffness or pain – I am glad my ideas around wellness have changed massively. I know it’s part of my job to explore the spas around the island (the perks of being the editor of OHLALA), but even when I am off duty, I try to book a treatment here and there or purchase packages prizing my well-being.
This month, I headed to The Spa at Address, Address Beach Resort Bahrain, to embrace a body scrub and a Balinese massage. A break in my busy schedule to enjoy the benefits of taking some time for myself. No computer, no phone, a liberation from the sense of always being connected – for 90 minutes, no one could reach me. How often do we really disconnect? I believe this is another perk of embracing a pampering session: a positive effect on our mental health.
The spa has six treatment rooms, with one dedicated to couples. The reception gives you a boutique spa vibe, a cosy and private space to embrace serene moments. I was welcomed with a ginger and lemon drink and a cold towel to give me a refreshing start.
Masna, my therapist, led me to the changing area. Tones of beige and brown with golden accents paint the space. The area is also home to the steam room, experience shower and ice station, which is covered in small tiles in earthy tones and a pearly finish for a touch of sophistication.
After leaving my belongings in the locker and slipping into the fluffy robe, Masna asked me to sit in the steam room for at least five minutes before the scrub. The heat and humidity help open pores, soften the skin and improve circulation, making it easier to remove dead cells. The steam also relaxes muscles and soothes nerve endings, enhancing the spa experience.
After stepping out of the steam, I went to the ice fountain that produces ice flakes to cool down the skin on my face – it gave me a great refreshing feeling. I don’t usually like steam and sauna, but this was quite pleasant, with the right amount of vapour being blown into the enclosed area.
Masna was waiting to conduct me to the treatment room. The space was dimly lit and minimally decorated with a frangipani flower placed on top of green leaves, a nice way of adding a touch of nature. One thing that people usually don’t notice is the music, but I do. Some sounds bother me, but at The Spa at Address, the music was pleasant and at the right volume, it put me at ease.
The first step of the treatment was the foot ritual, where I placed my feet in a copper bowl and Masna used a ginger and salt scrub to clean them. After that, I chose the oil that was used in the massage. The options were Longevity (sweet orange, bergamot and patchouli), Performance (ginger, black pepper and frankincense) and Recovery (rose, lavender and ylang-ylang). I opted for Performance as a recommendation from Masna, as I wanted something to focus on my muscles.
We began the session with the Aroma Salt Scrub, a 30-minute therapy that aims to exfoliate the skin to detoxify and replenish. A salt scrub from the Team Dr Joseph brand (a sustainable, high-tech natural skincare option made in Italy), composed of gentle crystals and soft texture, was combined with Masna’s soft pressure for a nice feeling. On top of promoting glowing skin, the therapy also improves circulation. After the scrub, she asked me to take a shower with water only to remove the product while she prepared the room for the massage. My skin felt smooth and refreshed – I loved the feeling.
The Balinese Dreams is a full-body aroma oil massage focussed on relaxation, combining gentle stretching, acupressure and soft strokes to create a feeling of deep restfulness. It can also alleviate muscle tension and pain. In my case, these issues are linked to stress, so the rhythmic movement and peaceful atmosphere were spot on! Masna started the therapy from my legs upwards. She asked if the pressure was to my liking and carried on with a firm yet soothing touch. I could feel her working on my muscles without making me feel sore. It was an enjoyable treatment that left me feeling rested.
After the session, she took me to the relaxation room, where I enjoyed a peppermint tea, which, as per my request, was served with some dates and almonds. The post-treatment reflection is always one of the best moments – when you have a feeling of pure bliss and the affirmation that me-time is essential towards a more balanced lifestyle.
For more information or to make a booking,
please call The Spa at Address on 7749 9753 or
email thespaatbeachresortbah@addresshotels.com
@addressresortb