Experience Serenity with Four-Handed Massage at Surya Wellness Spa

At the Proper Hotel in Santa Monica, guests are discovering a unique way to unwind through a four-handed massage at the newly opened Surya Wellness Spa. This luxurious experience, rooted in ancient Ayurvedic practices, promises to provide relaxation and rejuvenation through synchronized techniques and herbal oils.

Upon entering the spa, visitors are welcomed by an inviting aroma reminiscent of a well-stocked kitchen, blending earthy notes with subtle spices. This sensory experience sets the tone for what lies ahead. The spa’s design, conceived by renowned designer Kelly Wearstler, complements the serene atmosphere, making it a popular destination for wellness enthusiasts, including celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and the Kardashians.

Martha Soffer, the owner of Surya, is acclaimed for her expertise in modern Ayurveda, integrating 10,000-year-old principles into contemporary wellness practices. The spa’s offerings, especially the Panchakarma series, can extend from three days to 28 days, featuring a combination of massages, cleanses, and yoga. However, for many, the entry point is the signature Abhyanga service, a 60-minute four-handed massage priced at $350.

As a novice massage therapist, I approached the Abhyanga with curiosity, eager to experience the fusion of relaxation and ancient healing. The massage therapists emphasized comfort, suggesting I remain nude under a small towel to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. This approach aims to facilitate better lymphatic techniques and allow the warm herbal oils, steeped overnight in large jars, to perform their magic.

Once settled on the cushioned platform, I felt the warmth of the heated tiles beneath me. The calming ritual began with warm towels enveloping my feet and a gentle positioning of my hair. Essential oils were introduced, creating an inviting atmosphere that coaxed my nervous system into relaxation. As the therapists synchronized their movements, I surrendered to the experience, allowing myself to be enveloped by the soothing sensations of the warm oils.

The choice of oils—blending pitta and kapha—was intentional, aimed at enhancing transformation and stability within my body. As the therapists worked in harmony, their hands glided over my skin, fostering a sense of calm that resonated deeply within. This four-handed approach amplified the therapeutic effects, allowing me to experience a profound sense of release.

The experience felt transformative, as I noticed my body responding to the rhythmic flow of the massage. The combination of gentle pressure and synchronized movements across my entire body created a unique sensation, reminiscent of a purring cat. I found myself drifting into a state of tranquility, where my usual distractions faded away, and my body felt lighter.

As the session drew to a close, the therapists gently signaled the end of my time, encouraging me to linger in the warmth of the experience. The oily imprint left on the sheets served as a reminder of the soothing touch that had enveloped me. Rising from the table, I felt a sense of grace and fluidity in my movements, as though my body had been reawakened.

Surya Wellness Spa offers more than just a massage; it provides a pathway to healing through the art of touch and attention. In a world where distractions abound, this four-handed massage stands out as a testament to the power of human connection and the healing properties of mindful practice.

With such offerings, Surya is redefining the wellness experience in Santa Monica, inviting individuals to embrace the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda in a modern sanctuary.