Forbes Travel Guide recently released a list of the 30 Most Luxurious Spas in the World. One of the 5-star spas to make that list is Sense, a Rosewood Spa at Mayakoba, today’s Spa Spotlight.
The breathtaking Rosewood Mayakoba resort is a luxury retreat sitting on a mile of white-sand beach on the Riviera Maya in Mexico just north of Playa del Carmen. The resort covers several small islands surrounded by a mangrove jungle at the heart of the ecological enclave of Mayakoba. The beach sits on Caribbean blue water and borders the second largest coral reef in the world.
Built alongside serene lagoons and the Caribbean Sea, the Rosewood’s 136 suites and villas are crafted from indigenous materials and offer panoramic views of the surrounding natural habitat.
“Guests enjoy spacious interiors outfitted with contemporary furnishings, the finest modern design and airy outdoor terraces complete with private plunge pools”
Activities and amenities at the resort include three pools, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a golf course, and two tennis courts. There are shopping and fine and casual dining options, and guests also have access to lectures on Mayan culture, history and the Yucatán ecosystem.
Sense Spa is a secluded retreat within a retreat. Guests cross a bridge, called “Puente del Balneario,” to reach the private island where the 17,000 square foot spa is located. The spa’s interior spaces open to gentle breezes and the stunning natural jungle environment. Sense Spa features 12 treatment rooms and eight Island Suites , as well as therapeutic plunge pools, steam grottos, saunas, experiential showers, a meditation platform, and a relaxation deck.
The spa menu features therapeutic treatments using ingredients made from indigenous plants such as aloe and agave cactus. The treatments include Sense Journeys, “Designed to unite energies with the splendor of the surrounding natural environment,” and to bring guests to a state of well-being and relaxation.
Among these is the “Kuxtal” Sensory Garden Ritual:
“Named after the Mayan word for life “Kuxtal”, this unique experience pays homage to the ancient beliefs of the Mayan Shamans who recognized their direct connection with all living forms. The journey begins with a sensorial awakening ritual where a fusion of aromas, sounds & taste blend with the beauty of nature to awake each one of the five senses.
“Inside the garden guests are encouraged to embrace the cycle of life and discover their spontaneous connection with one of the plants to use its healing significance to design a customized journey centered on the four levels of wellness: physical, emotional, spiritual or mindfulness. Reliant on the guest intuitive choice, the journey may be focused on physical healing work, meditation experiences or energetic balance sessions.”
Also notable is the “Marry Oneself Journey,” which the spa debuted in March 2018. This is a unique three–to-four night personal retreat focusing on self-love.
“Inspired by ancient Mayan traditions, guests re-engage with their inner selves amongst the lush, pristine backdrop of the Riviera Maya. The personalized luxury experience includes a series of guided rituals led by Rosewood Mayakoba’s resident Shaman and spa experiences, culminating with a ceremony of self-commitment.”
The experience includes a consultation with the Shaman, a customized itinerary, and spiritual lessons “incorporating the four elements of the universe – earth, air, fire and water – with daily guided activities focusing on self-love, health, and enlightenment based around ancient pre-Hispanic rituals.”
Guests are also treated to an array of skincare and body treatments, including a holistic ritual to purify, calm and stimulate the body. These incorporate a line of exquisite body care products
The Marry Oneself Journey culminates with a wedding ceremony where the guest will “re-commit to themselves.
“The celebration, led by the Shaman, will celebrate one’s personal vows and promise of a lifetime of happiness, self-compassion, and self-love.”
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