Shanghai Daily news

Modern lifestyle can be hectic at the best of times, which means we often struggle to find time to relax. Yet it is essential to do this in order to maintain a healthy mind and body.
InterContinental Pudong's newly opened 600-square-meter I-Spa can offer you everything you could dream of in order to achieve the ultimate state of relaxation.
To anyone stuck in an office like me - with a stiff neck, stiff back, stiff muscles and tight skin, a few hours at the I-Spa really is the best way to relieve tension and stress and leaves you feeling refreshed, revitalized and with an overall sense of well-being.
My senses awakened from the moment I stepped into the treatment room.
As I lay my aching body down, the aroma of oils piqued my nose and the soothing music transported me to a realm of peace and tranquility.
The signature Asian Rejuvenation package, which is designed to refresh and rejuvenate the entire body, starts with a hot cleansing shower which is then followed by a full body scrub.
This body exfoliation uses powdered almonds, soy beans and rice grains to gently strip dead skin cells from the body, and nourish and moisturize the newly exposed skin. The gentle massage strokes used during the treatment help to detoxify the body and warm the muscles, providing immense relaxation.
After another hot, cleansing shower, I was ready for the second section - a body wrap.
A mixture of cooling honey, warming ginger and almond oil was spread all over my body and I was then wrapped up "mummy style." After 60 minutes, I was showered and a totally new me emerged. My skin was smooth, soft and moist - it was like magic.
The spa experience was completed with an invigorating deep pressure traditional Chinese massage.
This ancient massage style uses no oil, focusing instead on revitalizing the body through stimulating pressure points over the entire body. Under the expert fingers of the therapist, my body felt de-stressed and energized. The effect of this massage is to stimulate blood and energy flow through the body and relax and soothe stressed muscles.
The philosophy at I-Spa, as I-Spa consultant Victor Rinaldi described, is to offer the best of eastern philosophy and western techniques. Traditional Chinese massage and foot reflexology combined with their natural range of skin care and aromatherapy products, create a relaxing, holistic experience.
The spa uses spa products from Jurlique, which are imported from Australia, for all aromatherapy treatments, facials and body treatments. I-Spa also uses high quality, locally sourced products for traditional Chinese treatments and I-Spa signature treatments.
Opening hours: 10am-11pm
Address: Level 4, 777 Zhangyang Road
Tel: 5835-6666 ext 3434
Reservations are highly recommended.