Tue 20 Oct 2009
Posted by Meg under Attractions
It’s been a month now since I enjoyed an awa and cacao lomi wrap at the new Kapalua Spa in Maui, but if I close my eyes and meditate, I can still smell the soothing chocolate aroma that covered my body that morning.
Awa plant
The treatment began with an awa ceremony. Pat, my therapist, explained that Hawaiians use awa, a plant that grows on the islands, as a way to relax at the end of a long day, or they may drink it together with others and then air and resolve conflicts. The light intoxicant takes confrontation out of these kinds of exchanges. Pat explained how he can share an awa drink with anyone, then they each speak honestly to one another with complete respect, and put any issues behind them. What a nice idea.
Pat first presented me with a bowl of awa to drink. It didn’t have much taste to it, just a slight grainy texture. I immediately felt myself start to unwind. I then presented a bowl to Pat, and then the treatment began.
I’d never had a wrap before and had no idea what I was getting myself into, but I was told that this was the signature treatment of the new Kapalua Spa — a truly Hawaiian experience — and that’s what I wanted. Hawaiians could teach the rest of America a thing or two about how to relax.
Instead of regular massage oil, this treatment incorporates a mixture of various natural substances, primarily awa and cacao, but Pat also said there was some sandalwood and other ingredients as well. It smelled like warm chocolate. He massaged the solution into my skin, all over my body. The grainy texture made it feel like I was getting my back scratched as well — one of the most pleasant sensations in the world, amplified by the incredible massage. I was instantly relaxed, and for the duration of my treatment, I lingered at the edge of consciousness.
Awa and Cacao Lomi Wrap
Once the awa and cacao mixture was thoroughly massaged into my whole body, Pat began the wrap portion of the treatment. He draped a series of warm blankets and towels over me until I was in a very thick cocoon. He massaged my neck and scalp while the wrap worked its own magic, and I’m pretty sure that time stood still and the rest of the world ceased to exist for those few minutes. Next, Pat unwrapped me and exited the room so I could rinse off and get back under clean sheets for more massage — the pampering just went on and on. When my treatment was done, I couldn’t remember what stress felt like.
Enjoying the view from the Kapalua Spa lap pool. Photo by Johnny Jet (www.johnnyjet.com)
After my massage, I hung around the spa to enjoy the beautiful ocean-themed facilities. I was in no condition to walk back to my room, anyhow. After some time in the hot tub, I swam for a while in the gorgeous lap pool before reluctantly hanging up my robe and leaving. A person could easily spend a whole day at the Kapalua Spa, without a moment of Hawaiian vacation wasted. Start with a to-die-for breakfast smoothie at the spa’s juice bar, then head down to the brand new, state-of-the-art gym. You’ll find every kind of cardio and weightlifting equipment you can imagine, and trainers there to help you make the most of your workout. It’s the perfect way to get your juices flowing and prepare your body for the relaxation to come with your spa treatment. Clean off with signature Kapalua bath and body products in the spa showers, and then hang out in the hot tub until your therapist comes to get you for your treatment.
The Kapalua Spa is a truly unique, authentic Hawaiian experience. You’re not cooped up in some windowless room getting the same kind of massage you can get at your neighborhood spa. Kapalua is all Hawaii, all the way — and Hawaiians know a thing or two about how to feel good. Try one of Kapalua Spa’s traditional Hawaiian treatments next time you’re in Maui — and ask for Pat.
