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The Treatment
Ready for a sweet kiss of heaven? It's in the bag. The rising popularity of ancient poultice rituals is a revival of healing in the raw. Poultices - muslin bags filled with a therapeutic blend of lavender, rose, chamomile and jasmine - are dipped in warm macadamia oil and applied with rhythmic strokes. First, the therapist releases my computer-induced kinks by pressing softened aromatic compresses into strategic pressure points. She then massages in a synchronized sequence, soothing stiffness with the bundle's steaming heat.
The Benefits
Virtually unchanged from its beginnings in ancient India, the humble herbal poultice effectively treats pain and inflammation by bringing a medicinal heat to overworked muscles. Steam releases active ingredients and essential oils in the fragrant pouches, and inducessweat to flush toxins, increase blood circulation and calm the nervous system.
The Spa
Perched on a dramatic ridge in the Australian Blue Mountains, Lilianfels is housed in a stunning 19th-century manor. A true destination spa, guests idle for days in little more than a fluffy robe - a living brochure for the blissed out. The Spa's calling card is volcanic thermotherapy, myriad ways to bake, sweat and stew. Friendly, confident staff caters to eccentricities rather than scoffing (the last thing you want in a spa is a hassle).
The Basics
Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort and Spa on Lilianfels Avenue, New South Wales, Australia; 61 (02) 4780 1200; www.lilianfels.com.au; 90 minutes with one therapist, $195; with two therapists, $275.
Si Si Penaloza
Special to The Globe and Mail