LONG before stress, the most widespread modern ailment, sparked a new interest in spa therapy, people from all over the world had been “taking the waters,” a practice which reached its heyday in 19th century Europe. Some say the name was even taken from the town of Spa located near Liege in Belgium. The concept of Spa, however, originated in Roman times. Roman baths featuring a combination of steaming, cleaning and massage appeared wherever the Romans made conquests. Citizens and weary legionnaires went to the baths for leisurely purposes as well as for health hence “Sanus Per Aquam,” SPA literally meaning health through water.
The current global demand for health spas is consumer-driven. The combination of stress-related diseases and the media’s constant focus on the power of beauty and youth is driving men and women from all walks of life into relaxation therapies and alternative medicine to enable them to face the pressures of their daily lives. An increasing number of people are also traveling to luxurious spa resorts looking for rejuvenating treatments and lifestyle consultants. However, a new concept of spa, addresses the needs of city dwellers who cannot afford to take time off
because of family and work commitments. This ultimate ‘urban retreat’ is now available in Riyadh. Luthan (www.luthanspa.com) which literally means “The Refuge,” is the most exclusive spa in the Kingdom:
“It is within Luthan’s personalized cocoon that we provide all guests whom we’d rather refer to as ‘informed seekers of wellness’ with an experience that cannot be replicated anywhere in the Kingdom. Following on the original principles of ‘ Sanus Per Aquam’ is what makes Luthan truly unique. When the complimentary processes of holistic and alternative medicines are combined, a new culture of wellness is born. Luthan is at the helm of this transformation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” explains Lorraine Coutinho, the Executive Director of Luthan Health Spa.
Nothing has been spared to make Luthan the most luxurious urban retreat. Its treatments, products and therapists reflect the five continents with its Moroccan hammam, Indian, Javanese, Balinese, Thai and Japanese therapies to name but a few. Three innovative alternative therapies, Ayurveda, aqua healing and aromatherapy, are offered for the first time in the Kingdom. Ayurvedic therapies have been exceptionally successful with guests. Ayurveda, a science that originated 5000 years ago in India, uses nature’s resources to create the perfect balance between mind and body. It is considered by many the best alternative medicine to allopathy. Pizhichil is a popular rejuvenation treatment during which lukewarm herbal oils are applied all over the body in a special rhythm by two therapists. This massage protects from illness and builds up one’s immunity for a healthy life. Aqua healing simulates the womb, allowing one to feel relaxed and de-stressed while unwinding in warm water.
Luthan also offers a unique Roman style escape, nestled in the aqua area of the spa. The Herbal Sanarium, a chamber specially designed for women, is kept heated at a gentle 45-50 C, to maintain the perfect balance between heat and aroma. Resting in heated alcoves, one can unwind while inhaling the fragrance of fresh herbs. Salt Inhalation is also a soothing therapy which revives ones senses with the aroma of sea salts laced with menthol and eucalyptus, a combination that helps cleanse the respiratory systems affected by arid weather conditions. “Salt Inhalation is an ideal therapy for residents of Riyadh and the Kingdom. We encourage our guests to simply lie back and relax in ergonomically designed, thermal recliners that relax the muscles of the spine, shoulder blades and the neck. Regular salt inhalation is known to alleviate symptoms triggered by asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis and colds” explains Lorraine Coutinho.
There is also an elegant steam room, the cisternae, which provides the supreme relaxation. With its 60 degrees Celsius and 100 percent humidity, the cisternae humid heat has a vasodilator effect on the body which stimulates the blood circulation and relaxes the muscles. The steam is blended with essential oils that help rid the mind of negative emotions such as anger, fear and hate.
Besides Spa Day Packages, women will soon benefit from Spa breaks thanks to Luthan’s Boutique Hotel which will be launched along with its exclusive restaurants in a few months. The luxurious rooms and suites decorated by the Saudi designer Azza Deghaither, are an extension of the spa. Guests can have their treatments carried out in their private suite and can even extend their day with a weekend stay at the first boutique hotel in the Kingdom.
“Boutique hotels are by definition small, luxurious, intimate and personal. They offer the discriminating user something different: Sophistication without the crowded areas of larger more impersonal settings. Emphasizing style, service and personality, they distinguish themselves from larger chains or branded hotels by providing an exceptional level of accommodation thereby creating a charming refuge or “luthan” where one feels completely at home,” says Coutinho.
Staying at the Luthan Boutique Hotel provides guests with the complete spa experience, a holistic experience, where the whole environment is geared toward mind, body fitness, healthy diet, relaxation and treatments. This atmosphere is conducive to help women make lifestyle changes: “An in-depth analysis of a guest’s day to day living habits such as diet, sleep and exercise helps us create an individualized profile for each person. Whenever necessary, we work in tandem with the guest’s personal physician to recommend the correct treatment package, thus ensuring a total Luthanian experience,” concludes Coutinho.