www.womanthismonth.com June 2017 showcase 41 It had been a day hunched over my keyboard, so a chance to be treated to the Ritz-Carlton’s spa was welcome respite. I was lucky to be entrusted to the very capable hands of Gigi, who has been with the hotel for 18 years, and is a legend of sorts in her realm. While I sipped on fragrant ginger tea and munched on some almonds, she told me that she has a degree in massage therapy and another in mass communication, besides acquiring other internationally recognised certifications to master her craft. Combined with her natural gift of bringing people absolute relaxation, it’s little wonder that her clients range from patrons of the spa to top VIPs and royalty. Based on a consultation form I’d filled out, Gigi suggested I receive a combination of the Thai Sport and Herbal Poultice massage. My complaining of fatigue was probably her clue. When she claimed I would have a new body by the time she was done with me, I was sceptical. Massages leave me sore and tired more often than not. Once in the Royal massage room, I proceeded to lay prostrate on the wide, four-poster wooden bed, as instructed. Gigi started by using her fingers to apply firm, but relaxing, pressure on the soles of my feet, calves and thighs. Behnaz Sanjana thought she’d have to travel to Thailand for an authentic Thai massage, little knowing that the real deal is available right on Bahrain’s shores. RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN FROM TIRED TO TERRIFIC Then, an energising blend of peppermint, eucalyptus and rosemary oils was applied all over my body with firm, yet soothing strokes. When she reached my back, Gigi found it bunched up with tension. Strategically applied pressure and deft pulling made my muscles and vertebrae crack and pop. I felt my body start to loosen up, still aware of my surroundings, but rapidly letting go of all subconscious inhibitions. Next I felt something hot and comforting pressing down on my back – the herbal poultice. Apparently, the herbs have anti-oxidant, detoxifying properties and help the body to relax. My muscles fully concurred with this tidbit of information, all their stiffness just melting away. The soft-spoken, nimble masseuse went on to use the pads of her feet, elbows, knees and palms to stretch and bend my body in ways I’d never imagined possible, releasing all shreds of stress hiding anywhere. I must mention here that this was done slowly and tactfully, and did not cause any discomfort. Her dexterous pressing and tugging of my torso, limbs, nape and head, with the intermittent warmth of the poultice, tempted me to slip into Zen-like oblivion. Gigi’s skillful actions had, in her words, opened up my body and its energy centres. True to her word, I not only felt relaxed, but also sprightlier than I’ve felt in a long time. Yes, Gigi is probably one of the most skilled spa therapists on the island, but what I most appreciated about her was her warm persona that can put the most wound-up of us at ease. Just by touch, she was able to tune in to what my body required most, and what was amiss with it, fairly accurately. I thought my posture and back seemed to have benefited the most, until I saw my skin in the mirror. It looked as if it had a base of foundation on, but in reality, it was the glow from Gigi’s touch. This petite powerhouse of experience and skill is truly a gem at the Ritz-Carlton’s uber luxurious spa for anyone who wants to treat themselves or a loved one to ultimate bliss. Call 17 580-000.
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