A heavenly escape at the Suntra Spa

Extensive product offering

Opening its doors mid-2009, the 15 on Orange Hotel is home to the Suntra Spa, a nature-themed sanctuary from the noise lurking just outside in the CBD. The spa has an extensive individual product offering as well as a substantial package range for various occasions. I was to try the aptly named Taster package and it definitely left me longing for more.

Woes of a nine to five

Working online at a desk from nine to five, you're bound to feel your back beginning to experience the woes of being seated for roughly seven to eight hours - especially if you're like me and tend to slump to the lower regions of your chair come 2pm. The 30-minute upper-body massage was absolutely heavenly to say the least. Choosing a medium pressure to enjoy the soothing touch of Chantelle, my masseuse, while also working out those nasty knots, I could literally feel the stress my back endures on a daily basis run out of my body through my fingertips.

Ancient art revived

Using a derivative of the ancient technique of cupping, developed today as the Bellabaci massage, Chantelle used silicone, vacuum cups that are meant to drain excess fluids and toxins, loosen adhesions, lift the connective tissue and bring blood flow to stagnant muscles and skin. While at first this method felt odd, it too can be very soothing. With a historical presence in China, the Middle East, Greece and Russia, cupping is making a comeback. Unlike cupping, though, the Bellabaci massage won't leave you with large lovebite-like marks.

In my newly acquired Zen-like state I turned over for my facial. With my face treatment in progress, I was treated to a scalp and foot massage and struggled to keep myself awake. Never actually having experienced one before, the facial was extremely refreshing.

Rejuvenated mind, body

Staff at the Suntra Spa are warm and friendly, only adding to the pleasurable experience of revitalising one's mind and body. The highly professional Chantelle, who's had plenty of experience over the years in the wellness industry, provided me with some handy tips to keep my skin healthy and youthful.

Either way, spoil yourself or have someone spoil you at the Suntra Spa - it is a truly heavenly escape.

For more on the Suntra Spa, go to www.suntra.co.za.