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29 March 2024

Let volcanic energy melt away your stress

(SUPPLIED)

Published
By Aimee Greaves

I n the basement of the Hyatt Regency Kathmandu lies the Club Oasis, a large spa next to the gym that's perfect to relieve those aches and pains of a gruelling workout.

Many aspects of this hotel are very Zen and relaxing, from the replica temple structures in the lobby surrounded by bench seating to the emphasis on water features and large gardens at the back, which are perfect places to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing, and the spa is no different.

The four treatment rooms surround a central atrium and with two sets of doors between you and the rest of the spa, all noise is kept out. In keeping with the country I was in, I opted for the Himalayan Hot Stone Massage – Ancient Energy Unveiled. Sucked in by the promise of having my energy balanced and restored thanks to the volcanic stones that have been carved, I lied back and waited for the therapist to get to work.

After a gentle massage to begin, she let the stones cool slightly before turning them in her hands and continuing to ease the aches in my back. After a few rounds, she then rubbed the stones directly on my back and arms, placing emphasis on the spine before letting them rest in the palms of my hands.

The process continued with other stones carefully placed down my spine and left there while the therapist moved on to my legs.

After turning over, the treatment concluded with a gentle head massage, allowing the strains of the flight to Nepal melt away. I was completely relaxed to the point of falling asleep and I would have dropped off a few times had it not been for the couple of stones that were a little too hot.

The hour passed very quickly and I would have been quite happy staying for longer had it not been for the dinner reservation. My therapist was attentive, checking the pressure and temperature of the stones at intervals.

The only down side was that once the massage had finished I was left covered in oil and had to ask for a hot towel to wipe it off so as not to get it all over my clothes.

All treatments at Club Oasis come with complementary use of the jacuzzi and sauna located in the respective changing rooms, so it's easy to while away a few hours here. Prices are also cheaper than in Dubai so splashing out on a holiday treat will not break the bank.

 

- The Himalayan Hot Stone Massage cost about $44 (Dh161), plus 13 per cent VAT and 10 per cent service charge. Visit www.kathmandu.regency. hyatt.com for more information

 

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