Spa treatments are commonly inspired by nature. Fernanda Langhammer headed to Alara Spa at Andaz Doha to try the Elemental Alara Journey for a sensorial experience.
Continuing my pursuit of spa treatments in Qatar, this time I headed to Alara Spa at the newly opened Andaz Doha in the vibrant West Bay. Before I move to the spa experience itself, I need to mention how beautiful the hotel lobby is. It is decorated with locally inspired designs and lively contemporary art, creating a stunning vibe. The mix of Arabic textiles, modern shapes and carpets gives this unique space a creative tone – it feels like an open art gallery, inviting you to find inspiration in every corner.
A few steps inside the hotel and you reach Alara Spa. The same liveliness is spotted there, but in a toned-down way – plush armchairs painted in light plum and red contrast with the white-tiled floors, while beige walls with paintings complement the décor. I sat to fill out my consultation form while sipping a hibiscus, ginger and cinnamon drink.
My therapist, Jonalyn, met me at the reception and took me to the changing area, where I left my belongings and changed into a fluffy robe – the red slippers with the Andaz logo caught my attention, no boring plain white ones at Alara – an edgy touch.
Before we started with the pampering session, Jonalyn explained that the 120-minute Elemental Alara Journey is a transformative ritual that reconnects body and mind through harmony and balance. It works with the four elements: Earth, Water, Air and Fire. Each of them plays an essential role in delivering relaxation and rejuvenation – precisely what I wanted to achieve in this spa day. The first step towards it was a 10-minute steam session. This practice is recommended to relax muscles, making them more pliable for a deeper massage, and open pores, allowing the products to penetrate more effectively. After the stipulated time, Jonalyn came to take me to the treatment room.
The space was dimly lit, painted in soft purple and earthy tones and smelled beautifully. The music was at the right volume and I could already feel the sense of tranquillity invade every cell of my body. It’s probably a memory effect; after trying so many treatments, my mind already knows that this kind of scenario will take me on a soothing journey. I love that my brain was already taking me to a state I’d been longing for.
The first step in this elemental therapy was Earth. Jonalyn asked me to lie down on a plastic-covered massage bed for mud from the Dead Sea, infused with jojoba and avocado oils and papaya extract, to be applied to my entire body. This kind of mud is known for its high mineral content, including magnesium, calcium and potassium. It is used for deep cleansing as the mud draws out toxins, helping to purify the skin. She then wrapped me in plastic, placed a blanket over me and left me there for about 25 minutes while the liquid mixture did its magic. It was such a cosy moment; it felt like a whole-body hug.
Time was up, so I went to the in-room shower to wash off the dried mud. I could feel my skin smoother and ready for the next phase of the treatment. I was asked to lie on my tummy. The hole in the headrest allowed me to inhale an aromatic vapour infused with lemongrass oil (the Air part) to awaken my senses. This ritual was followed by warm compresses and wave sounds (Water), which my therapist recreated by placing a cloth on my head and rhythmically moving her arms and hands over it. I was a bit sceptical when she said the movements would represent water; however, whatever she did did indeed transport me to the shores of a paradisiacal beach – I could hear the waves touching the sand – it was incredible.
I was then curious about the Fire part and she told me that hot stones would represent this element to restore my inner energy. I am a big fan of hot stone massage; it’s the best way to really help relieve my stubborn knots.
Using rose oil, Jonalyn started the massage on my back and immediately noticed she was dealing with severe, deep knots in the upper area. She worked with different movements, applying more pressure to specific points and sliding the hot stones with precision. She used her hands and forearms to perform movements that helped loosen the muscles. She was not in a rush and worked every bit with patience, using her skills. She then moved to my arms and legs. I thought my problems were just on my back, but nope! Jonalyn found tension throughout my body, which makes sense because everything is connected. I am glad she knows anatomy (she is also a nurse) and worked all the key points to promote an overall detangling operation. At the end, I felt lighter and tension-free, with a sense of renewal. From the treatment room, I moved to the relaxation space, where I drank some jasmine tea and reflected on the fantastic treatment I had received. I really appreciate it when the therapist understands my main concerns and goals and works towards delivering a tailor-made experience. When filling out the consultation form, it asked for the type of pressure I preferred, but after so many massages (yes, that’s part of my job), I believe the pressure should vary – some body parts need a stronger touch, while others need a lighter stroke. At Alara Spa, they clearly understand this, and I highly recommend a visit if you are looking for an innovative experience that meets your pampering needs.
For more information or to make a booking, please call
Alara Spa at Andaz Doha on 4452 4026 or WhatsApp 5180 3173.
@alaraspadoha
@andaz_doha