If you hate falling asleep during massages—we’ve found one for you

It’s a rojak; the best kind. The most important Asian massage techniques have been condensed into a new treatment at Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Hotel Singapore.

It all started when Carlos Calvo, Assistant Vice President, Spa (Training) of Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts embarked on a mission to study the various massage techniques from wellness gurus around Asia. What resulted was the ability to sieve the best from each school of thought and combine everything into one power-packed treatment: the Signature Asian Blend Massage.

(Related: Tatler Checks Into… The Themed Family Suites At Shangri-La, Singapore)

The Welcome

Chi, The Spa is a sanctuary within Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore—a lush sanctuary in itself too, with 15 acres of beautiful gardens, not too far away from town. Tucked in a cosy corner right next to the waterfall, the spa has nine treatment rooms in total, including three rooms for couples.

Upon stepping in, I feel relaxed—there’s something about the décor that eases one in immediately. During the pre-consultation, I choose my favourite aroma oil from a range of Zents, and for those who might be sensitive to fragrances, you will appreciate that there is an unscented option too.

The Treatment

The Signature Asian Blend Massage aims to awaken energy channels and soothe sore, achy parts—making this ideal for business travellers who are jet-lagged and readying themselves for a busy day ahead. The best part is: the exact same treatment can be found in every Chi, The Spa around the world, making it easy for frequent travellers and Shangri-La fans to be able to get exactly what they want, everywhere they go.

(Related: Why It’s Time To Revisit Shangri-La Boracay, A Sustainable Luxury Resort In The Philippines

Tatler Asia

The Technique

This felt like a degustation of Asia’s massage techniques, which is quite unlike any other massage I’ve ever had. The massage went from Thai acupressure and stretching to Balinese and Malaysian deep strokes, then Chinese tui na kneading and Indian Ayurvedic techniques, each move delivered deftly by my therapist, one after another. As they were executed with mid- to firm pressure, the massage was invigorating.

My therapist begins at my feet and moves upwards towards my back and my head. Then she reverses and finally ends back at my feet. I’m glad that she is also intuitive—and happy to go the extra mile to knead my shoulder kinks out. This isn’t one of those massages to drift away. 

Tatler Asia

Hours later

My shoulders are sorted out, my body feels invigorated. This time around, I was to take on the day (and lunch!), which is a huge difference from other massages where I end up in zen-state. 

Of course, a rojak-style treatment calls for a meal at the hotel’s The Lobby Lounge which has an extensive menu featuring local signatures mains and drinks. My post-massage meal is a silky bowl of fish soup, accompanied by a hot glass of teh tarik, enjoyed alongside the vertical garden wall by Australian landscape designer Charlie Albone. Just absolute bliss. 

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