Sanctuary for the soul

Being pampered at Kiriya Spa of the new hotel Lit Bangkok is like being transported on a relaxing journey across the four regions of Thailand.

As the name suggests, Kiriya embraces the traditional grace of Thai culture. Massage strokes are inspired by the performing arts of each region while fresh herbs and spices are used in accordance with their remedial properties. 

“For those seeking release of tension, the Nora dance from the South brings slower movement with strength in the rhythmic step. This is followed by a massage technique adapted from ‘Hooloo Vahi’ – literally water flow - a traditional southern Thailand performance art focused on stimulating circulation and reawakening your senses,” says spa manager Sirirat Phisitbuntoon

The treatments inspired by the North’s dance forms are designed for a sense of deep relaxation with slow and gentle massage strokes that are also perfect for the insomniac. Honey, ylang ylang, turmeric and lemongrass are pressed into service to bring a healing glow to the entire body.

The Calm Massage (70 minutes for Bt2,500) is ideal for anyone wanting to relax. Inspired by the rolling hills of Thailand’s green Northern valleys, the long calming strokes enhance circulation while the fragrance of fresh pine, olive and neroli oil and the sound of wind chimes and small bells help to summon tranquillity.

In place of the usual white cotton for the Thai herbal compress, the Aka Compress (50 minutes for Bt1,800) uses mor hom, the traditional indigo coloured cotton, which provides superior heat absorption while remaining soft and supple. As a wrap for healing herbs, it creates a whole body compress to heat-treat muscular aches and pains, alleviate tension and stimulate circulation. 

Kiriya also brings your body back to peak condition with treatments inspired by the fun and energetic dance forms of the Northeast. Choose the Bamboo Massage (70 minutes for Bt2,500) and to the evanescent rhythms of Isaan country music, a therapist combines elegant hand gestures with a rolling pressure applied via freshly cut bamboo that makes your skin feel like it’s dancing.

“Our 7 Grains Scrub combines a rice body scrub with seven different grains including jasmine and brown rice, job’s tears and milk, fresh cream and honey to smooth and soften the skin,” says Sirirat. 

Thai traditional massage (70 minutes for Bt2,000) is highlighted in Central serenity and uses point pressure to stimulate the nerve meridians and stretching techniques to relieve muscle tension. 

Tired from shopping? Then the Stress Relief Foot Massage (60 minutes for Bt1,200) is ideal. This three-stage treatment begins with herbal foot cleansing and gradually moves on to healing reflexology to bring the body back to its natural balance point and energy flow. It concludes with a warm foot wrap made of tamarind pulp and palm sugar to soften dry and hard skin. 

Coconut and seashells bring to mind the balmy tropical climate of the South. The Hot Seashell Massage (70 minutes for Bt2,500) is suggested for tense and tight muscles. To the soothing sound of waves, a therapist employs a hot seashell compress to roll away muscle tension. Adapted from the gestures of Hooloo Vahi, she uses her hands, arms and elbows on pressure points, stimulating circulation as well as reawaken the senses. 

Just make your way 150 metres down Kasemsan Soi 1 – opposite the National Stadium – and slow down your life with a rejuvenating tour you won’t forget. 

 

 

RUB IT OUT

Kiriya Spa at Lit Bangkok 

Hotel is open daily from |10 to 10. Call (02) 612 3456 |or visit www.LitBangkok.com.