Article from Free Malaysia Today

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PETALING JAYA: And that’s it: in the blink of an eye, the end of the year is upon us.

If you haven’t noticed the passing of time, it’s safe to assume that you’ve been too busy. But it is understandable: work and family commitments can pile up, filling up your calendar all too easily.

But even with such a hectic schedule, prioritizing self-care should never be placed on the backburner.

Whether it’s squeezing in a workout at the gym, taking a walk in a scenic park, enjoying a delicious meal at your favourite restaurant or simply going for a massage, these things can do wonders in boosting your mood and lifting your spirit.

The Urban Retreat Spa is one place to start your mission of self-indulgence. The establishment comes under the umbrella of the Urban Retreat Group, along its other brands, Urban Retreat Onsen Spa and Uroot Spa.

At The Curve’s outlet, you can look forward to enjoying different types of massages – aromatherapy, deep tissue, sports, pregnancy and lymphatic detox.

During a recent visit, FMT Lifestyle gave the lymphatic detox massage a try.

According to Joanne Yap, 27, a marketing executive at the Urban Retreat Group, this massage improves one’s blood circulation. A magnetic fork, used during the session to gently stimulate one’s lymphatic system and promote natural drainage.

For the unfamiliar, the lymphatic system is a group of vessels, tissues and organs which protects a person from infection and maintains a healthy balance of fluids throughout the body.

Describing the lymphatic detox massage as one of their more popular massages, Yap, added that it is available for both men and women. Customers have the option of a 90- or 120-minute session.

The experience

The Urban Retreat Spa is one place to start your mission of self-indulgence. The establishment comes under the umbrella of the Urban Retreat Group, along its other brands, Urban Retreat Onsen Spa and Uroot Spa.

So, what was the experience like? Prior to the massage, customers are required to fill in a consultation form with details such as health history and pressure preferences (firm, medium or light). Then, it’s time for a lovely foot wash, a delightful way to start winding down.

Now, the pampering session begins! The ambiance of the rooms is warm, cosy and there is soothing music in the air – absolute bliss!

Warm oil is used for the massage. There is also a heated blanket on the bed, and it is easy to feel like one is tucked in a comfortable cocoon.

The therapist is attentive and regularly checks in throughout the massage if one is comfortable. It’s these little touches that make it a memorable session, especially for those who have not experienced a massage with a magnetic fork before.

And if you’re someone who is constantly on the go, being still for 90 or 120 minutes may seem long, but after a while, you may not even realise time passing by – and you may just find yourself wishing that the session would last a bit longer!

After the massage, the therapist wipes you down with a warm towel. Then you are served warm water and hot ginger tea – a perfect ending to such a blissful experience.

Upon leaving the spa, one can’t help but feel lighter – both in body and mind. And perhaps musing that just like its name, a retreat is still possible in urban cities. So, go ahead, treat yourself and enjoy one – you deserve it!