Healing by water at Amuma Spa

There are times when we simply  need to escape from the stress of everyday living  and lose ourselves among tropical shadows and earthly delights. One such place to do just that is on the island of Mactan, Cebu, at Maribago Bluewater Resort’s Amuma Spa.

The word “spa” is an acronym taken from the Latin phrase solus per aqua, meaning “health by water.” Today the concept also includes fitness, nutrition and natural well-being.    

Your health and well-being are taken very seriously. The aim is to harmonize the body, mind and spirit through a blend of rehabilitation, massages, fitness activities and spa cuisine.

Here’s a peek at some of the signature therapies and treatments one can enjoy for internal balance and external harmony.

• Pikpik Kawayan sa Siki. Bamboo poles are used to apply rhythmic pressure on the foot area. It is a great way to relax after forceful walking, running or exercise. Gentle taps on specific points provide relief and improve circulation in the body.

• Makisig for Men. This treatment is exclusively designed for men. It includes a bath, scrub and skincare treatments using native ingredients such as chocolate tableas, virgin coconut oil, cream and barako coffee beans.

• Amuma Beauty Wrap. This treatment begins with a body scrub, followed by energizing strokes that have a toning effect. The intensive treatment from sea salts is allowed to develop on the skin and body. The body is then covered in a warm, milky mask that leaves a delicate, pleasant fragrance.

• Pampalamig Wrap. This is a quick fix to overexposure to the sun. A cooling mixture of cucumber, mint and banana is gently applied, wrapping the entire body to soothe sunburnt skin discomfort. After an icepack patting, a moisturizing bath of coconut milk, lemongrass oil and flowers are applied to rejuvenate and relax tired muscles.

• Hilot Journey. Uniquely Filipino, hilot is an extensive cultural wellness experience. You will be bathed in a special oil and calamansi blend to exfoliate and stimulate your skin. The body is then wrapped in cool banana leaf after a thorough application of coconut cream, Amuma potion, calamansi and Cebu’s famous mangoes. Attention is also given to the scalp and hair. Warm virgin coconut oil is poured on the hairline to nourish and moisturize the crown. If you want to keep your hair oil-free, a scalp massage is given in place of a hot oil treatment.

• Malakas at Maganda. The ultimate spa experience for couples. Native ingredients and oils are carefully put in therapeutic rituals that enhance relaxation and intimacy. It begins with gentle coco skin exfoliation coupled with a hair and scalp hot oil preparation. The bodies are then wrapped in honey.  Subsequently the couple is cleansed as they immerse themselves in a bath of soothing coconut milk and ylang-ylang scent. A specially prepared meal will be served at the veranda after a rejuvenating oil massage.

Other special features are the different spa party packages such as the bridal shower that can get the bride-to-be and her closest friends to hang out, relax and ease the stress of wedding preparations and jitters. The spa baby shower and birthday parties for teens and little princesses promise a memorable celebration with family and dear friends.

Amuma Spa is a haven where natural energies are restored, inner beauty is enhanced and a sense of well-being is created.