Enter the tree-lined pathway and feel as though you are transported to a magical place of tranquility and inner bliss – reminiscent of the centuries-old vineyards in the south of France. All of the Mandala’s lush 2.5 hectares on a hilltop (with a breathtaking view of Boracay’s waters, to boot) have been converted into a tropical day spa whose architecture blends Filipino influence (capiz doors, woven bamboo floors) with elegant Italian bathroom fixtures. The reception area is made of warm wood and cogon, and you can smell aromatic fragrances of lavender, citrus and peppermint in the air. Pink, white and yellow flowers float gently on crystal bowls that adorn the Balinese-inspired therapy pavilions. I was presented with a bright orange sarong and pair of slippers as my outfit of comfort while at the spa.
Mandala is the Sanskrit word for "circle" or "whole," symbolizing the holistic nature of the experience. It also reflects the personal lifestyle and philosophy of Mandala owner Karen Reina (the resident watsu therapist and the only licensed one in the country today) and Dieter Schrottmann, whose company Health for the New Age pioneered in educating blind masseurs way back in 1987. Both believe that life is to be enjoyed, not endured. Dieter says, "The true essence of a spa is to explore the inner self. When this is achieved, healing of the inner self takes place." "Mandala Spa is about making a difference in a person’s life, if only to plant a seed that will eventually lead to a better quality of life," Karen joins.
Dieter continues, "This the kind of massage we want to introduce. We can design a massage like a painting or a musical composition. What people need now is a kind of pampering of the entire being."
While Dieter was exposed to shiatsu in Japan, Karen learned watsu and other healing arts in Harbin Spa, California – a world center for mind-body therapies – in 1999.
All of the Mandala Spa therapists or nurses have had extensive months of training conducted by Mo-Ching Yip – the in-house, American-licensed massage teacher and spa consultant who is currently in India pursuing further yoga studies.
My most memorable water shiatsu or watsu experience took place in the warm outdoor pool surrounded by the tropical rainforest and melodious birds. "Watsu is a form of zen shiatsu practiced in a heated pool. Since its introduction 15 years ago in California, watsu has taken the spa world by storm," Karen enthused.
The cool breeze blew gently as I submerged in the water. Imagine yourself floating in body-temperature water with eyes closed. You are aware of a gently supportive presence that follows and facilitates your own body’s tendencies to movement or stillness. Noticing your breath moving with your body, you sink, into deeper and deeper levels of awareness and begin to dream. Water is to the body as dreams are to the soul. It is a transformative, shape-shifting, vital element that is responsible for the life of this planet. The Taoists and the ancients of all cultures knew this. They lived in a dialogue with water which links physical, emotional and mysterious worlds. As Karen held me in her arms and attached floaters to my ankles, she twirled me gently in the water – creating a sensation of flying freely with no bounds of space or time. Gentle rocking movements, relaxing stretches and breathing allowed me to rehash past experiences and memories of childhood. The water seemed to penetrate through me like an agent of cleansing as I released past hurts and pains into the water. I later learned that watsu is a profound therapy, allowing the deepest states of relaxation and meditation at times even returning us to the memories of the womb. Regression often occurs wherein wounds from the past can be effortlessly processed. It was detoxifying, exhillarating and so serene.
The offerings here are specially designed by Mandala Spa, with much emphasis placed on the natural and nourishing aspects of the experience. Western bodywork is blended with caring service; beauty concoctions are derived from Asia’s rich heritage.
I also had the privilege to have a special "exhale" session with Mo Ching Yip. This is a deep-tissue massage that releases tension in the body that one doesn’t normally have access to. Based on the reading she did of my body, Yip worked on releasing tension in the neuromuscular junctions, while re-balancing the circular spiral of energies called chakras which was deeply relaxing. Next session was composed of yoga classes with Mo Ching. Yoga is a basic health system that opens up blocked energy channels. Assuming certain postures stimulates endocrinal glands – causing fresh blood to be supplied to all body parts. Yoga restores peace of mind and helps the body cope with stress through stretches, breathing techniques and various exercises as it allows better circulation and inner peace.
One may choose from a variety of luxurious and relaxing massages, scrubs and body wraps that exfoliate and tone the skin, facials and hair treatments. My favorite is the Mandala Signature massage and all natural facial using ingredients such as fresh cucumber, papaya,aloe vera and tea tree oil. After the ingredients are massaged gently into the face, an ultraviolet facial system is then utilized to close the pores of the face. Premier packages are the Princess Treatment for the women and Gentleman’s Package for the men that include an invigorating floral bath. These treatments are done by a personal therapist in the comfort of a private villa (there are four to choose from). Surely, you will leave Mandala Spa with a smile in your heart.