Sensual sensations - snapshots

Better Nutrition, April, 2003 by Ailsa Long

Entering the Metamorphosis Boutique, a spa that recently opened in Richmond, Virginia, with charming Mediterranean-style decor, I was greeted by the ambient glow from henna-painted sconces, whose light illuminated silk wallpaper, raffia curtains, candelabras and faux ancient Grecian colums. In the background, a fountain softly bubbled. A receptionist handed me a hot, steaming cup of black jasmine tea to enjoy with an endless supply of dried mango chips, nuts and fresh fruit.

sight and sound

I'd never been to this spa before, but after a month of hectic activity, I needed to regroup. So I grabbed my inhibitions, my insecurities and my British uptightness and packed them away into a corner of my mind so that, just for today, I could relax and enjoy me.

After signing in, I was escorted--cucumber water in hand--to the Earth Room. In the soft candlelight, with dimmed blue-green lights overhead, a massage therapist gently rubbed frankin-cense body lotion into my thirsty skin, starting at my head and shoulders and slowly meandering to my toes, leaving me with a tingling glow and a sense of peace.

taste and touch

The massage therapist then handed me a fluffy, cream-colored spa gown and soft gel slippers, and led me, flip-flopping, down a passageway past the Earth, Wind and Fire Rooms. I settled contentedly on a small sofa chair, sipping more black jasmine tea and munching on mandarin slices, goat cheese and kiwi. Then it was time for the body wrap.

I entered the Wet Room, where a wax-type paper was draped over a heated bed. I lay my towel-clad body on it and took a deep breath while experiencing the organic, effervescent sensation of exfoliating crushed almonds and minerals being massaged over my skin.

This was followed by a body masque of tangy orange pulp, pumpkin seeds and the rich juices of rose petals. The tingling sensation increased as these Hungarian essences danced a sweet tango across my skin. It felt heavenly. Then the wax paper was wrapped around me, encasing me as I lay surrounded in warmth for 15 minutes--or was it a century?--of pure bliss.

smell

After a brisk, rejuvenating shower, I was led-gown-wrapped, radiating warmth and serenity--back to the seating area where I was welcomed by an aromatherapist.

She took notes on both my personal and medical history in preparation for awakening my fifth, and final, sense.

She wafted aromatic essential oils under my nose, releasing myriad reactions--some revitalized and re-energized me, some repulsed. "Aromatherapy oils also can act as antibacterials, anti-fungals and antibiotics," she said. With my nasal senses ablaze, together we selected my personal aromatherapy blend: ylang-ylang, mandarin and lemon.

This symphony of scents boasts a top note that is an uplifting, fast-dissipating aroma; a mid-note that is a balancing, endochronic, hormonal and neurological aroma; and a counterbalancing base note that serves as a fixative.

All of my senses had been stimulated and reawakened that glorious day, and I left the spa enriched. I had explored a new haven for my body, mind and soul--a well-deserved indulgence that uplifts our spirits, our outlook and ourselves.

reminder to self

Book an appointment next month.