Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe 40, Winter 2020-21

a spa experience
Samai Lodge
Holistic Living
Santa Elena, Ecuador
S
ubmerged in one of the last humid tropical forest areas of
the Ecuadorian coast, we found a true paradise away from
the noise and daily stress. Surrounded by mountains, with a
spectacular view, located at 300 meters above sea level and great
biodiversity of fauna and flora, it is easy to reconnect with oneself.
The retreat cabins are built using organic materials, blending
them with their surroundings. Samai offers a wide range of unique
services, including shamanic healing, sacred retreat workshops and
spiritual readings, chakra balancing, yoga and meditation, a range
of massages and body treatments, and hand and foot reflexology.
Plant medicine ceremonies like ayahuasca and a fermented tobacco
plant infusion are conducted with a certified shaman bringing 40
years of experience.
Sunset is an impressive spectacle at Samai Lodge, watch from
the pool deck or enjoy the Jacuzzi as the sun sets into the Pacific,
accompanied by the symphony of the jungle. A 15-minute morning
walk down the mountain is an ideal sunrise activity before breakfast.
Hiking in the jungle surrounding Samai, you may catch a glimpse of
a ‘sajino’ (wild pig) and hear the howler monkeys that live close by,
the contrasting flora and fauna comprises a unique ecosystem in
the middle of the dry forest, characteristic of the territory.
The Samai spa facilities include a steam room, a swimming pool
with ocean views and a forest Jacuzzi. Enjoy the signature massage
experience which brings together a range of techniques including
sound healing and aromatherapy in addition to a pressure point
massage aligning the ten major energy channels to release blocked
energy and increase vitality. Tight muscles are awakened and
loosened, while organic products leave the skin glowing.
Take part in an ancestral shamanic healing, after a brief introductory
speech in a candlelit room, an egg will be moved slowly over the
whole body, once cracked into a glass, a diagnosis of the body’s
physical state and condition. Via this ancestral reading, each
individual receives a different experience using elements of glass,
stones, various essential oils and even fire. This Andean and
Amazonian healing technique gives a sense of renewal to the body
and mind, instilling energy and vitality.
www.samailodge.com
By Margarita Cardoso and Alessandro Bo
Associated Editors
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www.spawellnessmexico.com