By Shilpi Madan
05-Jun-2023
There is nothing more appealing than an indulgent spa experiential complete with a hydrating massage that leaves you smelling delicious and divine. The Aroma Essence treatment on the mint new menu at the spa at Sofitel BKC in Mumbai easily succeeded - in balancing my chakras, recalibrating my energy levels, and gifting me gorgeous, non-greasy, satin skin.
A truly luxurious experience from beginning to end, the treatment began with a warm welcome and an energising drink, with a barefoot walk across the black slate (with its slightly uneven lines balancing my chakras effectively) hemming the cascading showstopper of raindrop lights in the Golden drops of Luxury – a feature iconic to the Sofitel Spa as it embodies the luxury of the brand, while giving a subtle nod to the showers in Mumbai during the monsoon.
The walk through to the therapy room stands lined by the stunning metallic artwork in the Tree of Life, stretching its boughs along the walls in an energising spread. As if on cue, the quiet fragrance of the jatamasi (foot of the Himalayan tree) sets the tone for the revitalising experience at the spa.
The power of touch breathed in the much-needed hydration, working the glow into my skin. The delicate foot scrub and massage sloughed off the dead skin off my toes and ankles with a coffee bean scrub, filling my senses with the refreshing allure of the mint cream applied deftly. Followed a relaxing body stretch in the prep for the body massage, easing away the stress from my limbs. The firm scalp massage propped the circulation, jogging my sleepy follicles, with the adroit strokes of the therapist releasing the tension. I could feel the knots in my muscles melt away. Soft dabs of warm oil worked their magic into my scalp through the dedicated movement of her fingertips across my head.
Bringing in the healing touch of essential rosemary oil, tinged with lemon, the medium pressure massage whisked me away to a world of absolute calm. A mix of quick rhythmic strokes, and skilful, deeper fingertip movements worked in complete sync to bring in the bliss. The intensive eye treatment performed on my sockets during the therapy attended to my dark circles and fine lines. It transformed my dreaded-dry skin several notches up – into a quenched, soft complexion. Lift, firm, and tone formed the consistent focus of the invigorating massage, with the warm oils moving in quick succession across my skin.
The therapy left me feeling like a queen, as I wandered into the aromatic rain shower for a slow drift-back to reality. Gentle sips of warm herbal tea sealed the experience for me.
Verdict: Worth the hype
