Discomfort is a natural state of mind when you’re staying at Chiva-Som Hua Hin. But of course, this is to be expected from a resort whose entire philosophy is centered on supporting meaningful life change. Spiritual rejuvenation, physical recovery and even emotional healing is possible—provided that you’re willing to work for it. “The best we can do is support you on your path,” my massage therapist explains. As the resort’s traditional Thai medicine practitioner, Chananchida is currently administering a hot herbal compress across my back and body. With each knead and press, a lightness overtakes. My limbs and neck feel virtually weightless, while the tightness around my chest is easing. It is the first time in months that I am able to count the seconds between each breath I take. “Whether you maintain this new routine or not is up to you,” she states. The smile in her voice, however, is evident. “I have a good feeling about you, though.”
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This is one of the many encouragements I received throughout my three nights at Chiva-Som; a momentous excursion that began the second I set foot upon its sprawling compound. Located on the picturesque beaches of Hua Hin, Chiva-Som sets itself apart for its disciplined approach that extends to its guests as well. The use of electronic gadgets are prohibited in the resort’s public spaces, and no outside food is allowed. A bag of salt and vinegar chips I had procured at the airport was confiscated upon check-in, though I am reassured that I will get it back upon check-out.
The one-of-a-kind approach, explained
While that left me feeling slightly bewildered, it was quickly tempered by a consultation with my health and wellness advisor. A prerequisite to every guest’s time at Chiva-Som, it allows for the creation of a schedule that is optimised for each individual to achieve their goals. In my case, my primary aim was to undergo a digital detox as well as a physical one. Long hours at the office, an overpacked schedule as well as inconsistent meal times had manifested in symptoms such as indigestion, muscle aches and more—so any treatments that would help alleviate said afflictions were welcome.
After further discussion with my advisor, we had agreed on a plethora of fixes. A pranayama class would equip me with calming breath work techniques needed to quell bouts of anxiety. The Chiva-Som signature massage, on the other hand, would eradicate the countless number of knots clustered along my shoulders and back. Amidst a comprehensive menu of pampering and aesthetic services—Chiva-Som has a dedicated medi-spa with a dermatologist on hand to perform non-invasive procedures—it was the specialised offerings that called out to me.
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Traditional Thai medicine was a trade I was largely unfamiliar with, though I had experienced it briefly before. Built on the principle that the body comprises four elements, it employs massage, nutritional as well as spiritual practices to help reset and achieve equilibrium. This alongside a holistic gut massage and lifestyle empowerment consultation felt sufficient in addressing most of my concerns. On that note, off to the Health and Wellness Centre I went.
Ready, set, rest
To kick things off, I was given a comprehensive tour. Its building—while appearing compact on the outside—conceals a dizzying array of treatment rooms and newfangled equipment, from float chambers to mani-pedi studios. A few feet away lies a fully kitted-out gym, dance studio, and even a Watsu pool that allows for unencumbered drifting amidst heated waters.
Impressive as it is, it does nothing to detract from the jewel of Chiva-Som: its skilled technicians. Each massage was carefully tailored to suit my liking, with each treatment honing in on a specific concern that I had raised during my consultation. The Signature Massage left me feeling loose and lithe, while the Invigorating version incorporated percussive therapy to bolster my energy levels. The Oriental Scalp Massage, on the other hand, unwound the persistent muscle tightness by my hairline all while hydrating my strands to boot.
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And while my session with traditional Thai medicine practitioner, Chananchida didn’t stray too far from the other massage methods I’ve experienced, it stood out thanks to the incorporation of age-old Thai wisdom. Upon assessing my birth date, she was able to diagnose that my dominant element was wind amongst water, fire and earth. An excess of it—which apparently, I suffer from—results in gas in the stomach, head and other extremities. To disperse it, a warm herbal compress is pressed into specific pressure points and energy lines along my body.
Chananchida also recommended that I squeeze in a Crystal Massage and Quantum Healing if I am able; a ritual encompassing heated basalt crystals that helps harness the fire element. This is one of the many traditional Thai-focused treatments that will be spotlighted each quarter, with Chiva-Som touting activities and experiences that focus on a different element every three months.
This is reflected, too, in its menu. With the fire element being associated with digestion and warmth, nourishing broths and soba noodles proved to be a mainstay at the lunch buffet. This is a singular option amongst the multitude of healthy food choices available at Taste of Siam, Chiva-Som’s beachfront restaurant. Don’t expect your usual resort fare in the vein of carb-laden pastas and fatty meats. Much like its exacting house rules, its grub, too, is precisely portioned and cooked to grant the most optimal health benefits. And while this took some getting used to, I found myself looking forward to meal time by the time the second day rolled around.
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To reflect and reset
I wasn’t sure what to expect from the final item on my agenda: a lifestyle empowerment consultation. As it turns out, it is one-on-one coaching on how to abolish unhealthy patterns from my life as well as gain perspective. A way to make sustainable and consistent changes, if you will, especially for those on short-term stays at Chiva-Som.
Funnily enough, the session—conducted by my ever-patient therapist—felt like the biggest proponent in quieting the noise in my head, further cementing my determination to enact change in my present-day life. And while I won’t be armed with a team of healthcare professionals and thoughtful staff to assist me in Singapore, their counsel is a lingering reminder to push on despite lapses in discipline. Hopefully I’ll be able to bring good news the next time I return.
Find out more about Chiva-Som’s programmes at chivasom.com
