A yen for Zen

Francisca Antunes from Six Senses Spa talks alternative therapies... Discuss this article

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Bach flower remedies

This is a homeopathic remedy involving the dilution of flowers, to a level that is so dilute the taste or smell of the plant is not apparent. The technique was developed by Englishman Edward Bach during the 1930s, hence its name. The idea is that the solution still contains the ‘energy’ of the flower, which is then transmitted to the user. ‘This treatment can help emotional imbalances in the body, and there are deep calming and soothing properties,’ claims Francisca. ‘The use of Bach flowers can help balance a person’s changing hormone levels, especially when pregnant.’ Bach products are often used orally, or available as creams and oils that can be applied to the skin.
Bach flower remedy costs QR500 for a 60-minute session.

Colonic hydrotherapy

Granted, the idea of this one may seem a little, shall we say, instrusive, but the benefits are said to outweigh the brief discomfort. The idea is to literally flush out waste and toxins that could cause health problems later on with a solution often containing herbs and oils. Despite the people we’ve known who have tried it saying they felt quite rejuvenated afterwards, the therapy has had its critics over the years – some say the body does not need such clensing, while others say it can lead to more health problems and even damage internal organs. This is something Francisca is quick to defend: ‘This is a modern and safe technique allowing the entire body to be clensed. The body is detoxified through this process.’ Whether you feel these effects or not, the treatment will be an experience, to say the least.
Colonic hydrotherapy costs QR380 per 45-minute session.

Crystal therapy

A lot of people can be dubious about the concept of chakras – centres of energy that dot the body and, when dirty, supposedly cause all sorts of problems. But for those that do believe in them, or who think that there’s no harm in getting them cleaned (you know, just in case), treatment is available via the use of crystals. ‘The crystal stone represents solid light on earth,’ Francisca explains. ‘The stones work like a battery or a conductor of energy. Depending on the type of stone, gem or crystal and how it is applied during a treatment it can modify, correct and even alter frequencies of vibration.’ We’re not sure you’ll find enlightenment, but an hour or so in a dark room should at least leave you feeling rested.
Crystal therapy treatment costs QR550 for a 60-minute session.

Ki energy treatments

Originating from South Korea, this treatment uses natural breathing techniques, said to boost ‘ki’ energy (life force energy) and stimulate blood circulation. ‘Ki treatment draws similarities to acupuncture, but uses sound and touch to detoxify the body,’ says Francisca. ‘The results also create a calming effect on the mind and emotions.’ Ki treatments are said to take less than 15 minutes, with the therapist intending to unblock the main energy pathways in the body. ‘Pressure is applied at set points all over the body,’ Francisca reveals. ‘These are the abdomen, arms, legs, back, shoulders and head. Practitioners claim positive effects on the immune, hormonal and cardiovascular systems.’
Ki treatment costs QR900 for a 20-minute session.

Mora-colour therapy

Remember how colours can effect mood or evoke different feelings? For example, red is hot, blue is cold and so on. Well, that’s basically the idea behind this treatment, with coloured light oscillations used to influence physical and emotional states. ‘Different energies within the body respond to different colours,’ claims Francisca. ‘As well as affecting mood, the idea is that the oscillations are actually absorbed by the skin. The converted wave forms can be amplified, and they have the advantage of penetrating the body more deeply than ordinary light waves.’ Think of it as an alternate tanning salon, where instead of a bronze exterior you’ll emerge with heightened wellbeing, and an inner glow instead of an outer one.
Mora-Colour therapy costs QR550 for a 60-minute session.

Reiki

Whereas ki treatments are a South Korean technique for boosting energy, reiki is intended to yield similar results, but hails from Japan. Reiki healers claim to channel positive energy around the body with the use of their hands, the idea being to reduce stress, whilst promoting relaxation and healing. The name originates from two Japanese words – ‘Rei’ refers to higher power, and ‘ki’ means ‘life force energy’. ‘Reiki is based on the idea that an unseen energy flows through us, giving us life,’ explains Francisca. ‘Low energy can result in sickness or stress, and high energy means health and happiness.’ Reiki is administered by the healer placing their hands on various parts of the recipient’s body for around four-five minutes. Treatment for the entire body can last up to 90 minutes, or localised treatments can last around 20 minutes.
Reiki treatment costs QR550 for a 60-minute session.
To book a session, call Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village on 425 6999.