Holiday Time

Breeze Spa has a fascinating new concept called 'mood therapy', whereby guests select a treatment which matches the mood they wish to achieve.

"We have identified five positive human moods according to our marketing research: dreamy, invigorated, serene, rejuvenated, and energized." says Breeze manager, Suchela Jackson. "Furthermore, each mood is paired with certain materials and type of treatment."

'Dreamy' employs hot stones and a snooze-inducing lavender scent to send you into a state of complete and utter tranquillity; perfect for travellers looking to get over jet lag.

'Serene' uses the aromas of sandalwood and geranium essential oils which are massaged into your skin. Using a free flowing, long stroke technique at medium pressure, it sends you well on your way to achieving deep relaxation.

'Rejuvenated' uses an uplifting scent which removes unwanted toxins, relieves stress and leaves you looking and feeling radiant. It's the perfect way to prepare for the day ahead.

'Invigorated' caters to those who prefer a massage that penetrates deep into muscle tissue, working out chronic tension. The oil scent is comprised of peppermint, lemongrass and rosemary, which increase your sense of well-being and leave you feeling energised and refurbished.

'Energized' is a Thai-based massage treatment. An integral part of the Breeze experience is the spa products it uses.

"We create our own oils, scrubs and soaps for our Breeze treatment and retail line," says Mrs. Jackson. "When it comes to facial products, we use Comfort Zone, one of the leading skin care brands from Italy." The product lines also do justice in reflecting the current state of the Breeze brand. The spa is now fun, positive and approachable.

Breeze's spa menu includes massages, mood scrubs, facials, spa packages, and pick-me-ups (short treatments for guests with limited time. For example, quick massages right before zipping off to the airport for a flight). Treatment durations can be anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours. A good choice for a well-rounded treatment would start with a body scrub, followed by a signature massage and then finishing up with a facial. After the body scrub, guests are given ample time for relaxing rain shower.

Before the treatment, I was served a mixture of passion fruit, lemon juice and pineapple juice in a shot glass with brown sugar around the edge of the glass. Also, a refreshing lemongrass scented towel and a glass of water are provided to refresh guests coming in from the Bangkok heat.

After their spa journeys, guests are presented with a cup of hot herbal tea and macaroon cookie (mine was blue!). Each massage is paired with a specific tea. For example, 'Invigorate' is paired with lemongrass and mint, while 'Serene' is paired with vanilla and jasmine.

All treatment rooms are equipped with top-of-the-line treatment beds, sofa, closets, sink, toilet, rain shower, Jacuzzi tub, massaging slippers, soft robes, wood floors in the dry area, tiles in the wet area, and louvered, wooden bathroom blinds. Plus each room has its own name: Air, Rain, Wind, Cloud, and Sky. Meanwhile soft music and romantic candles set the mood for talented, professional therapists to showcase their well-rounded skills.

The therapists operate in a very patient, meticulous and methodical manner ensuring that every step of your spa journey flows seamlessly into the next. Each action appears spontaneous but in reality it has been choreographed to ensure the highest level of quality and satisfaction.

The soft hands of the therapists are simultaneously gentle and strong. Operating in a controlled manner, they produce soothing, nurturing and medicinal touch.

A symphony of wondrous aromas and different textures follow one after another like a fabulous 10-course feast. One of the best things about the entire experience is the anticipation of the next scent and texture and the sensations they will evoke.

Many guests remarked that, during the treatment, they were able to attain a sleep-like state while still remaining aware of the experience.

After every step of the facial is applied, it is gently removed with warm and cool cleansing, cotton cloths - first one side of the face, and then the other.

No part of the treatment is itchy or uncomfortable in any way.

Dried herbs (rose, chamomile, safflower, pandanus, and butterfly pea) are used for the deep cleansing scrubs. Each has different properties, textures and benefits.

The facial treatments have five steps: cleansing, exfoliating, massage, mask, and wash off. Alcohol-free tonic is used for deep cleansing, while the mask is a mixture of mud and nutrition for the skin.

Breeze has seven locations in Thailand and one in Qatar.

Breeze Spa is located at the Amari Watergate Hotel on Phetchaburi Road. To book an experience or for more information, call 0 2653 9000, email watergate@breeze-spa.com or visit www.breeze-spa.com.