Zen’d Out

Skin Deep –The Body Spa (eskindeep.com) in Huntington Beach, California, recently unveiled a series of unique water treatments called the Zen Water Experience. Spa owner Deborah Woods and her husband designed a 1,500-square-foot cave-like sanctuary where clients experience a guided tour through several rooms that offer various water therapies.
     Rooms are adorned with bamboo, orchids and intricately textured walls. Inspired by Japanese onsen ritual, this five-stage treatment (45 min/$45) encourages clients to physically, emotionally and spiritually submerge themselves in the healing properties of water. “It’s an opportunity to allow the brain to slow down and focus on the breath,” Woods says.
     Before the journey begins, clients place their street shoes in a basket. It’s located in an area inspired by a Japanese genkan, a traditional entryway that symbolizes the separation of work from home. After changing into sarongs, a zen guide leads clients into the rain shower room, where they embark on a series of 18 showerheads specially designed to promote water and energy conservation. “I wanted to recreate the experience of warm rain as if you were standing in the middle of a tropical rainforest,” Woods says.

   Next, clients enter a steam room. Sitting on a teak bench or chair, they apply a detoxifying body scrub. After steaming and rinsing the mud, clients enter a gently circulating, mineral-rich bath. Finally, to help them transition back into the day, guests head into a quiet room, where they spend 10 minutes resting on Thai massage tables.
 

Photo courtesy Skin Deep - The Body Spa

     While the treatment promotes inner-reflection and solitude, the Zen Water Experience can also accommodate couples and groups. One of the showerheads in the rain shower room is made to rinse two at a time, and the steam room can fit up to eight people. Woods also recently completed a 600-square-foot zen garden, which can also be rented out for private parties and events.
     The spa offers several Zen Water Experience promotions. Clients who book additional treatments during the same visit can use the facility for a discounted rate. The spa also offers monthly singles and couples memberships. Woods has even found a way to accommodate the less inhibited. “Wednesday is ‘nudie day,’ and the feedback I’ve gotten on that is phenomenal,” she says.