The Chi Spa Experience

CEBU, Philippines - Stress is one of the modern world's worst enemies. Pressure from over-whelming expectations, traffic, deadlines and not enough time to meet our obligations combine to send heart rates racing on a daily basis.

On the invitation of Mildred Amon, Director of Communications of Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa, I recently spent a relaxing weekend at  Edsa Shangri-La Manila, located at the heart of Ortigas Center  were I had the opportunity to experience the latest spa treatment at  its wellness center called CHI.

Drawing inspiration from the origin of the Shangri-La legend, CHI has  an extensive treatment menu of over 30 specialized body massage and facial therapies, as well as an exclusively created product range that is based on the Chinese philosophy of the five elements of water, metal, wood, fire and earth working in balance with the yin and yang energy within the body.

CHI recently launched the "Secrets of the Sea" ,the newest and only treatment in the country that uses finely ground golden South Sea pearls as a body scrub and wrap, followed with a healing Philippine Hilot Massage.

The pearl powder is mixed with pure argan oil, known for its healing and cosmetic properties. Argan oil has extremely high levels of Vitamin E and a high concentrate of fatty acids that can moisturize and heal the skin, as well as protect against premature aging.

The pearls are freshly harvested from the Jewelmer saltwater farms in Palawan and are specially selected for their healing benefits. South Sea pearls are considered the ultimate luxury in cultured pearls. Produced by the Pinctada maxima oyster, this particular pearl is the largest of its kind.

The application of ground pearls or pearl powder as a healing or aesthetic treatment is not new. The imperial household and nobility in China have used it for over 3,000 years. Today, ground pearls continue to be prized for their beauty benefits. They are a natural source of calcium and contain 18 amino acids  that help the skin turn lustrous and luminous.

A natural exfoliator, ground pearls smooth and brighten the skin, enhance skin elasticity and promote cell renewal. The south Sea pearl has an antioxidant enzyme that quickly and thoroughly removes skin discoloration and nourishes the skin .Other wellness benefits of freshly ground pearls include improving circulation, healing ad protection from environmental radicals.

The CHI at Edsa Shangri-La Manila is truly a special place where natural energies are restored, inner beauty is enhanced and a sense of well-being is created. (FREEMAN)