Not many spa reviews contain the word constipation, but that's an inevitable word choice for the So Detox treatment at So Spa, Sofitel So Bangkok.
Located on 11th floor of Sofitel So Bangkok on Sathon Road, So Spa's decorative style has been heavily inspired by the mystical Himmapan Forest. The shiny black ambience is both sophisticated and homely, resembling a living room of a luxurious home. The seven treatment rooms are also named after the mythical ponds of the Himmapan Forest.
The treatment menu looks like a restaurant menu, divided into appetisers, main course, desserts and à la carte. Appetisers are quick fixes that don't take more than 30 minutes. Main course ranges from 60 to 90 minutes. Desserts are finishing touches like manicure, pedicure and waxing. À la carte menu means its three signature treatments — two international signature treatments, and one local creation.
Treatments here are very personalised. Guests are spoilt for choice, as they can pick not only their oil, but also music and tea. The choices of music include classical, natural sounds and ethnic ambience.
Detox treatments are nothing new, but the definition of detox at most spas is to stimulate the lymph system to flush toxins out. Massages in general would do that — wake up sleepy systems and tell them to get back to work. So Spa's treatment, however, means holistic colon cleansing using Chinese acupressure.
Constipation is a common problem, and many people resort to herbal teas and laxatives to get some relief. Naphatsakan Wongphan, wellness guru of Sofitel So Bangkok, said that a holistic approach is more preferable.
"So Detox treatment has been designed to help relieve digestive problems and constipation naturally, using acupressure and kneading techniques. We also use Detox Oil to help remove toxins from the body through the skin," said Naphatsakan.
This treatment comes with a warning. It does get uncomfortable at times. The deep pressure is not intolerable, but Naphatsakan said there were some guests who did not want to finish the treatment because of the discomfort. The majority, however, found it just mildly uncomfortable, with the results worth the mild and temporary pain.
So Detox starts off as a regular spa treatment, with a body wrap and a warm oil massage. The 30-minute body wrap indulges the skin with turmeric cream, which feels refreshingly cool. Turmeric can help stimulate blood circulation and has antioxidant properties, which are great for detoxification.
The 45-minute warm oil massage uses Detox Oil, formulated with mangosteen. The same oil is used in the 45-minute belly massage. During the belly massage, the therapist pushes six to eight points around the belly button, one at a time. You can feel a rush of warm sensation as the therapist releases the pressure — a sign that it does really stimulate blood flow.
After the massage, a warm pack is placed on the tummy to relieve discomfort, while the scalp gets the pampering. Despite the firm pressure, no bruises are left on the tummy. Once the treatment is done, feel free to roll around in the comfortable spa bed, which feels more like a hotel bed, thanks to the My Bed concept. The bed sheets and duvet blankets are the same as those used in the hotel's guest rooms.
The loveliest surprise would be the post-treatment treat. Known for its chocolate heaven Chocolab, the spa treats its guests to mini chocolates. You can enjoy it with Masala Black Tea or Rose Tea, while gazing out at the lush greenery of Lumpini Park right across the road.
According to the therapist, some guests can feel their bowel movements improve within that day, while some notice it after a few days. Some also note that their stomach feels firmer or flatter. This treatment, however, is not recommended for pregnant women, people with chronic intestinal problems, and those who have undergone an operation in the tummy area.
So Detox is 4,200 baht net per person and is available throughout this October. Naphatsakan said the spa is planning to offer the belly massage as an off-menu choice even after the promotion runs out, thanks to the great feedback from guests.
So Spa opens from 10am to 10pm daily.
For more information, call 02-624-0000.
Double treatment room.
So Spa's lobby is inspired by the Himmapan Forest.
