Relaxation is unfortunately a luxury for me these days. With a to-do list as long as SZR and more responsibilities than diamonds in the Dubai gold souks, I often forget to take out time for myself. That’s why I headed to Jiva Spa at the Taj Exotica Resort and Spa on Palm Jumeirah to spend a few hours by myself, for myself. I opted for the spa indulgence package, Svashakti, consisting of 180 minutes of connection to the mind, body, and soul. Here’s what happened.
Yoga
Yoga tip: Do this pose, known as the Thunderbolt, after eating to aid in digestion.
The Svashakti package starts with one hour of beginner Ashtanga yoga. At the start of the 60-minute session, the instructor briefly explained this type of yoga practice involves eight moral principles including Prāṇāyāma, the art of breath control. During the treatment, I was guided through a series of yoga poses and taught how each pose affects both my mental and physical well-being. I stretched, contorted, and flexed my way to my moment of zen.
Scalp Massage
Getting a whiff of the scalp massage oil. My senses were instantly relaxed.
After my yoga session ended, I was guided to my spa room. The bed was adorned with red rose petals and the room illuminated with candles. I sat down in a chair nearby the treatment bed and had my feet washed in fragrantly scented water. My therapist then began the scalp massage ritual known as Champi.
The oil used contained for the scalp massage contains Jatamansi, known to aid and support in strengthening the hair follicle and encourage hair growth, as well as Brahmi Amla, which helps to reduce hair fall. Both ingredients sounded fabulous to me because my hair can always use a boost.
I double-shampooed my hair post-treatment and as you can imagine, skipped the conditioner.
You know that feeling of utter bliss when you first bite into a piece of cheesecake? That’s the exact same feeling I had throughout the entire scalp massage. It was relaxing, luxurious, and deliciously sweet. I have a new appreciation for head rubs and finally, understand why my dog is always nudging my hand to give him some love.
Full Body Massage
Last but not least, was an indulgent 60-minute Pavithri full body massage. The first thing I noticed was the bed was gently heated. When I slipped into the sheets, I instantly felt cocooned in warmth and comfort.
Relaxed and ready to head back into the grind.
The body massage oil contained GCC-based ingredients skin-soothing Frankincense and nourishing Palmarosa. The therapist used long relaxing strokes to rid my body of toxins. I’m fairly certain I dozed off a few times. The treatment ended with a delicate face massage using the Palmarosa oil mixed with Jasmine. Any remaining stress in my body melted away and I found myself happily resting on cloud nine.
Post Svashakti treat.
Overall, it was a wonderful experience and if I could, I would start every day with Jiva Spa’s Svashakti treatment. Highly recommend it for anyone who needs to escape life for a few wonderful hours.
Book your next spa day at Jiva Spa, Taj Exotica Resort and Spa at +971 4 275 4444.