For a complete reset, Bushra Hakim began the new year with a self-indulgent day at Rimal Spa, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain.
Sometimes, you just know when it’s time to hit the pause button on life. For me, it was one of those rare moments of selfrealisation after months of juggling work deadlines, settling into a new home and embracing the chaos of newlywed life. I needed a break – a proper one – and what better way to reset than with a spa day? So, when I was invited to experience Rimal Spa at Mövenpick, I was, to say the least, ecstatic.
Walking into Rimal Spa itself felt like stepping away from the daily grind. The soft, earthy tones of the décor, plush seating, purple and gold mosaic tiles, raindrop crystals and warm wooden accents instantly put me at ease. Add to that the subtle aroma of lemongrass wafting through the air, and I could already feel the tension starting to leave my body. At the reception, I was greeted by Yanthie, the Spa Manager, whose calm and friendly demeanour set the tone for the experience ahead. She handed me a consultation form to fill out – detailing preferences, skin sensitivities, concern areas and anything else to tailor my treatments to perfection.
The first stop on my spa journey was the Royal Hammam. My therapist, Manal, welcomed me with a smile and led me to the changing room, where I slipped into a fluffy white robe and slippers provided by the spa. The Hammam room itself was stunning, with its glistening wet bed, steam chamber and shower area – a private oasis that promised an hour of cleansing bliss.
Manal began by rinsing me down with warm water that was adjusted to the temperature of my liking. She then applied Moroccan black soap (or beldi soap) made from olive oil – a slippery, slightly sticky texture that somehow felt luxurious. She guided me to the steam room, where I spent a good 10 minutes basking in the warmth that opened my pores and loosened dead skin.
Once I signalled (using a convenient call button) that I was ready, Manal gently guided me back to the wet bed for a quick wash and an invigorating scrub using a kessa glove. It wasn’t harsh, but it was thorough – she worked her way across every inch of my body, removing layers of dead skin I didn’t even know were there. The visible rolls of exfoliated skin were proof of her expert touch. For an extra layer of cleansing, she reapplied the black soap, scrubbing it in for good measure.
The next phase of the treatment was arguably my favourite: the rhassoul clay application. Rich in minerals and detoxifying properties, the clay felt cool and refreshing on my freshly exfoliated skin. Once it dried and hardened, Manal rinsed it off with warm water before giving my hair a quick wash using shampoo and conditioner. This wasn’t just a shower; it felt like a regal cleansing ritual as if I were a queen being pampered in a palace.
She then escorted me to a separate room to dry off and prepare for the next stage of my spa journey – The Asian Blend Massage, a mix of Thai and Balinese massage techniques. My second therapist, Ika, introduced herself with a warm smile and a reassuring presence. She took the time to ask about my preferred pressure and focus areas. I mentioned the knots in my back and shoulders from long hours of desk work but left the rest in her capable hands. Ika began at my feet and legs, working her way upwards in a rhythmic flow.
Using almond oil (perfect to keep the body warm during the cold months), her strokes alternated between firm kneading and soothing glides. Her pressure was precise – firm enough to tackle the tension without veering into discomfort. When she reached my back and shoulders, she paid extra attention and used a combination of deep tissue techniques and stretching motions that eased away my stiffness. The session ended with a heavenly scalp massage that sent me into a near-meditative state.
Hoping that this would go on forever, I moved on to my final treatment of the day: an express facial from Elemis. Helen, my facialist, had a calming energy that perfectly matched the vibe of the day. She began by double-cleansing my skin with the Superfood AHA Glow Cleansing Butter, massaging it in with soft, circular motions and followed this with the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash – a foamy, gentle cleanser that left my skin feeling squeaky clean.
The warm towels she used to remove each product had a delicate lime essence, adding an aromatic touch to the ritual. Helen then applied the Papaya Enzyme Peel, warning me of a slight tingling sensation that subsided quickly, leaving my skin feeling smooth and refreshed. She followed this with the Rehydrating Ginseng Toner, which cooled and balanced my skin, before layering on the Pro-Collagen Rose Micro Serum, which added hydration and a subtle plumpness.
She continued with the Pro-Collagen Rose Facial Oil to lock in moisture and, just as I was about to drift into a deep sleep, she applied a cooling Peel-Off Face Mask. While waiting for the mask to set – a typically dull part of facials – Helen surprised me by massaging the Japanese Camellia Body Oil Blend into my hands and shoulders. This thoughtful touch elevated the experience, making every moment enjoyable.
Once the mask was removed, the facial was completed with the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, SPF 30, and a Pro-Collagen Neck & Décolleté Cream. She even addressed my concerns about dark circles with an eye cream and finished with a hydrating lip balm. My skin was glowing, replenished from the effects of winter dryness and radiating health.
As I sipped a steaming cup of ginger tea in the relaxation area, I reflected on the sheer indulgence of the day. The Hammam, massage and facial weren’t just luxurious – they were transformative. Taking time for myself reminded me how essential self-care is, not just for the body but also for the mind. Feeling rejuvenated and prepared to take on the new year, I found myself already planning my next visit – perhaps on a Wednesday to enjoy the ladies’ day discount.
For more information or to make a booking, please call Rimal Spa at
Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain on 1746 0000.
@movenpickbahrain