Shenzhen might be the “most livable” city in all of China, according to the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and its Chinese Cities Livability Development Index. That’s thanks to verdant forests and some of the cleanest air in the nation, with smog cut in half since 2014 according to official monitors.
But even here, life can feel toxic.
Diesel smoke from the port, dust from near-constant construction or simply the crowded commute and the stresses of the office invade our shoulders, back and sleep. We can fall back on TCM treatments to cover up the effects, but to truly restore the glow of health, a massage can do wonders to soothe the body and expel those toxins.
The Mayo Clinic and traditional Chinese medicine point to dozens of benefits from a well-performed massage. And perhaps no one does it better than the expert therapists of Chuan Spa at The Langham, Shenzhen.
Blending Western science with Eastern principles, the hotel group’s TCM doctor devised a massage treatment of incredible balance and precision.
A quick survey indicates which element you’re lacking – on our visit, it was fire – which decides which aroma therapeutic oil is applied, in long, rhythmic motions that soothe away all stress and pain. The setting is exquisite, from the dark, modern Contemplation Room to the nourishing rose-lit Himalayan Salt Sauna to the elegantly appointed massage rooms themselves.
Behind the expert technique and touch as gentle as silk is a heart focused on harmony. The staff train with a six-year veteran of The Langham, Shenzhen to understand both the power of touch but also the emotion they bring to it.
“Any negative emotion — that’s carried to the guest,” the spa manager tells us. “So it’s important for that harmonious feeling to start with the staff.” By quickly talking through anything that may be troubling them, and with access to a poolside yoga space, the women on staff cultivate a kindness and magnanimity that fills the spa like a rich perfume.
Ninety minutes under their merciful touch is a blessing, not to be missed. Whether traveling through Shenzhen or living in the city, Chuan Spa at The Langham, Shenzhen is an oasis of calm in the frenetic city. If your body cries out for restoration, heed the call and visit this corner of Futian for a touch of transcendent calm.
Open daily, 12-11.30pm. Chuan Spa, 5/F, The Langham, Shenzhen, 7888 Shennan Dadao, 福田区 深南大道7888号. (755-8828 8093)
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