Signature massages are a great way to get the real feel of a spa. Fernanda Langhammer tried Quan Spa’s Blissful Dream, a treatment that focusses on meditation and relaxation.
I don’t know if you share the same feeling as I do, but sometimes all you need to keep going is a spa session that not only delivers a good massage but also gives you a sense of recharging your batteries. Something that touches you deeper than just fixing your back knots. Also, being located at an address on your way home, let’s say, is a big plus. I believe that Quan Spa at JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha combines unique therapies and the practicality we all look for.
Quan Spa is one of those places that, by just stepping in, you feel that something good is going to happen to you there, that good gut feeling. Maybe it’s the wall covered in plaques with our Ohlala Spa & Wellness Awards received over the years that gives this air of confidence, a credibility that helps me to relax, knowing that I will be in great hands. But it could also be Tyla, the spa receptionist’s, beautiful smile or the décor that transports you to a haven of tranquillity and wellness.
The dark wood, in contrast with light beige accents, grey walls, beautiful panels featuring floral motifs and indirect lighting, creates a vibe of understated luxury. I was invited to sit in a semi-private area to answer Tyla’s questions regarding my health and treatment expectations. She served me a Summer Refresher drink made with rosemary (from the JW garden), lemon and honey – indeed a refreshing elixir that helped me settle into the calming environment. I also chose which oil I would like to use in my massage, I picked chamomile for its soothing properties and pleasant smell.
I was then introduced to Elvira, my therapist, who took me to my treatment room. On the way, we passed by an eye-catching installation inside a wooden structure with white pebbles and singing bowls that looked like a garden of peace, inspiring. We then reached the VIP room called Topaz. To my surprise, there was a beautiful arrangement made with flower petals and leaves on one of the beds, welcoming OHLALA to this insightful experience. What a great start! If I had a sense of confidence and relaxation before, happiness joined the pool of feelings.
Elvira started by explaining the steps of this 90-minute signature therapy. Blissful Dream involves a foot ritual, smudging and a breathing ceremony, followed by a massage that works with long, firm, flowing movements and therapeutic techniques, ending with a singing bowl practice to reduce stress and calm the mind.
After the foot cleanse with salt and soap, we began the therapy with the smudging ritual, which involves burning medicinal plants to purify, cleanse negative energy and promote healing, balance and spiritual connection. The herb was sage mixed with frankincense resin and Elvira asked me to breathe in the smoke, repeating words of affirmation while keeping my eyes closed. She also asked me to pick a gem to hold while experiencing this mindful process. I chose the blue lace agate, which promotes emotional balance and fosters inner peace. It is also a stone for communication, supporting harmonious expression. I suppose I could improve my communication skills and express my feelings more effectively.
After the purification rite, we moved to the bed to start with the body massage. Elvira’s touch was precise but gentle, as per my request. She worked out my back knots and then applied pressure to the marma points, specific vital points on the body where muscles, veins, ligaments, bones and joints meet. Working on these areas is believed to clear energy blockages, improve blood circulation and restore physical and emotional balance. It felt as if she removed a ton of weight from my body, and I felt lighter and at ease.
But the therapy didn’t end there. Elvira then rhythmically played the singing bowl around my entire body. The vibrations and resonant sounds are known to promote benefits such as improved sleep, lower blood pressure and increased concentration. The sound waves are believed to connect with the body’s energy and also influence brainwaves and the nervous system. I wouldn’t mind having my sleep improved, to be honest. I do struggle with it from time to time. I noticed that I felt a state of complete relaxation afterwards. When she told me that the treatment was finished, I didn’t want to move. I was too comfortable and had achieved deep tranquillity.
I got back into my everyday clothes and sat thinking about this incredible journey. I really appreciated that it combines the essence of different healing traditions in such a harmonious way. I felt renewed and grateful and I highly recommend it for those, like me, in need of a full reset.
For more information or to make a booking, please call Quan Spa at JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha on 5045 9437.
@quanspadoha
@jwdoha