The treatment began with a body scrub on a spa bed. Vibrating frequencies of Tibetan singing bowls placed upon the body signalled the start whilst funnelling the energy of metal within. The remineralising properties of the in-house-made paste singlehandedly cleansed all trace of dead skin as it infused the wood element in my body. I was then motioned to rinse and take a warm, 15-minute dip in a detoxifying Himalayan and essential oil bath to further relax the muscles.

While I soaked away the tautness, Shanvelorie prepared the highlight of the session—the Gharieni MLX Quartz bed—for my massage. Interesting fact: the unique bed of fine alpha-quartz sand is inspired by the healing ancient Greek ‘psammotherapy’, using a therapeutic heated sand bed to melt away aches and soreness. Shanvelorie helped me up and soon I was familiar with the rolling sensations of quartz stones. It was heated to a comfortable temperature, with a fabric separating skin from direct contact. With expert motions, she carefully but firmly moulded the quartz beneath my body to support every curve and cranny before the myofascial release massage commenced. 

Prior to the session, my preference for a medium pressure massage was noted, as was focus points for the shoulders and head. Shanvelorie worked from my feet up, kneading and rolling away tension and soreness until the areas had relaxed, using the Aromatheraphy Associates De-Stress Mind body and oil. Now and then, she would gently enquire if the pressure was alright, taking time to unravel the tightness at my back until I dozed off in a cloud of sensorial pleasure. The warmth of the sand accelerated the rejuvenating process, melting away pressures and aches trapped within muscles and wbones. This was, by the way, the fire element at work. My body experienced a snug relaxation, and I wished I could stay in that cocoon. But alas, the Tibetan singing bowls gently marked the end of my session.

See also: Why You Need to Join Mandarin Oriental KL’s Fitness & Wellness Centre Now

The experience concluded with a cold platter of fresh fruits, intended to boost antioxidants and restore hydration. It felt like tension had magically lifted from my shoulders and lower back, and my head was peacefully clear. Back at work, my colleagues commented that my facial muscles were less tense—a surprise given that there were no facial massages involved. My sensitivity to cold vanished the next couple of days (improved blood circulation!) and at my next yoga class, it was easier to tackle challenging poses.

If you’re looking for a stimulating reset combined with therapeutic healing, this one will have you rolling in perpetual bliss for days.

Exclusively available at The Spa, Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur. For more information or to place reservations, call The Spa at 03-2179 8772 or email mokul-spa@mohg.com.