In order to completely relax, choosing the perfect spa treatment is imperative to a much-needed respite from the city bustle. FACT's David Tapley went to experience the Sense Signature Massage at Rosewood Abu Dhabi and find out what 6o-minutes of pure indulgence entails…

While 2020 has inevitably been a challenging year, the re-opening of Abu Dhabi's spa and wellness centres provide a glimmer of hope along with a return to normalcy. It's no lie that we literally jumped at the chance to visit the Sense Spa at Rosewood Abu Dhabi for some much-needed relaxation and pampering following months of being cooped up indoors.

The spa provides visitors not only a sense of sanctuary of tranquillity, but an array of nurturing treatments that includes hammam, facials, massages, and signature offerings that integrate local healing traditions.

Despite rigid health and safety protocols meaning the whirlpool, steam room, sauna, and relaxation lounge remain closed for the foreseeable future, we're still able to fully embrace the luxurious spa with the 60-minute Sense Signature Massage. 

As our friendly therapist, advises, this particular massage is tailor-made for each guest depending on his or her health and relaxation needs. The massage begins with a relaxing foot scrub to soften the skin and prepare you for the massage, which, to our delight, uses the 'Rosewood Stick' – a bamboo stick – and distinctive technique to relieve pain, improve circulation, alleviate backache and boost concentration levels (basically, everything we needed!). The therapeutic blend of massage techniques undertaken by Sense Spa and its professional practitioners uses smooth, heated rosewood sticks throughout the massage to increase the effectiveness of the experience. The spas signature oils, infused with custom-blended Arabian botanicals of frankincense and Oud, instantly relax your muscles and help to promote overall health and wellbeing.

Admittedly, it takes some time to acclimatise to 'the new normal' in terms of spa etiquette, where therapists wear gloves and face shields at all times and disposable plastic sheeting is placed upon the massage tables for each guest. The abundance of plastic is necessary, although it does take some adjustment before you become accustomed to what is a necessity during the current pandemic.

The Sense Signature Massage comes highly recommended and uses innovative techniques to cater to individual needs, something that those looking for a greater state of wellbeing will appreciate. We're left with soft and supple skin and a sense of relaxation, much needed after recent months. 

As part of Sense, A Rosewood Spa's drive to promote health and awareness, the Spa has announced its Movember Offer, running until 15 December, with special rates for various services for men, ranging from massage therapy to skin treatment. The offer includes the stress-relieving Deep Tissue Massage, available for AED 350, in addition to Gentlemen Facials, available for AED 400; Sense Spa's treatment protocol that is specifically designed to meet the skincare needs of men. 

Sense, A Rosewood Spa's treatment journeys are back for the season, taking guests to a state of wellbeing with transformative experiences that include healthy meals, energizing smoothies and beverages made from fresh seasonal produce.

GO: Email abudhabi.sensespa@rosewoodhotels.com or call (0)2 813 5537 for reservations and more information.