Have you ever thought of escaping to a far away island just to break loose from the city grind? Well, it isn’t a farfetched thought anymore. Overlooking one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mumbai – Marine Drive – is where the uber luxurious Mudraa Spa sits. The day spa could not be at a better, more posh location, as it serves the crème de la crème of the city.
Behind the hugely-crafted doors of the day spa is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the noisy city. Spread across 3000 sq. feet of grand space, the spa has an ability to transform a tired mind, body and soul into an energized and peaceful being. I do my rounds and note down every minute detail, seeing why it is the latest toast of the town!
Behind the name
The word ‘Mudraa’ comes from a Sanskrit word that denotes a science of finger postures. It culminates the balance of the body, mind and spirit through these postures. It is researched that various mudras have the power to awaken tiny nerve cells, which usher good health, spirituality and brilliance. The process of using finger postures makes it one of the most simplistic ways to re-energize the mind, body and soul without any medication; the only necessities being a calm mind and a soothing environment.
Owners and wellness and healing experts, V. Makineni and N. Lakra chose to name the spa Mudraa as they felt it was apt for such a serene environment where healing would be an integral part of all the therapies. The spa would also be an ideal getaway for the urban crowd from a fast-paced city life.
Surreal Concept
The owners structured a concept on the ancient principles of Mudras for the spa, where the therapies offered would heal the body, mind and spirit. “Mudraa Spa reflects and restores one’s inner balance by providing a comprehensive range of holistic treatments that are therapeutic and restorative for one’s complete well being. It is a complete and wholesome wellness journey with services like spa, healing and Yoga,” explains Lakra. Some of the healing features include therapies like Chakra Reading & Balancing, Reiki, Meditation, and Mudraa Healing. The spa prescribes to Aanandmay Yoga that aims to heal physical ailments with specific postures. Having structured such an illustrious concept, the owners assert that all Mudraa spas and wellness outlets will have this uniform model.
Makineni says, “We all interact with our surroundings through our five senses, and based on individual sensitivities, this intake is processed by the mind resulting in blockage of energies to various extents. In the present day world, our intake has grown manifold but the skill of correct processing hasn’t, resulting in mental and physical stress, tension, and diseases like depression headaches, migraine, etc. To provide nourishing energies to the five senses, to calm down the impulses of the mind, and to channelize the life forces of the body, Mudraa was conceptualized.”
Dream-like Décor
Inspired by its name, the spa takes its form. Mudraa’s in-house architects have tastefully bought the spa alive with its lavish architecture and interior designing that exudes tranquility and positive energy. The 10 well-spaced rooms are defined and named after Mudras or Hand Postures. The spa reception is invigorating with its soft dim lights and an imposing 16-feet Buddha bust carved out of Basalt stone. Apparently, traditional craftsmen were especially called upon to sculpt the Mudra postures and Lord Buddha’s face for this spa project. The giant sculpture exudes serenity and is intended to create an ambience of relaxation for all guests.
Every design element at the spa was handpicked from Bali, Thailand while other spa supplies and raw materials were sourced locally from Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai. The designers have dabbled in interesting combination of cool and rejuvenating hues. The cool blue floor, natural grey stone, plush golden yellow walls (beige wallpapers with dainty motifs and leaf in gold and black) and brass and copper elements are some of the captivating features. An extensive use of dark teak wood in the interiors gives the space a royal yet natural look. A corridor that leads to the treatment rooms is designed with overhung Persian lamps, sunk-in wall frames with conches, carved murals and other gold coloured design elements.
Soulful Journeys
The spa serves and caters to the choicest clientele of South Mumbai. Hence, just like its luxurious ambience, the services are tailored for its discerning clients. Apart from its plethora of superb services with handcrafted, herbal, organic wraps, scrubs and massages, Mudraa offers eight fabulous facials for men and women. These eight exceptional facials are delivered using a prestigious skin brand called BABOR, Germany. Body products at Mudraa are a mix of highly reputed Indian and International brands. Mudraa Signature Herbal Oils are authentic high quality Indian oils, essential and base oils are imported from Thailand, while scrubs & wraps are herbal handcrafted products.
Staff & Management
Mudraa in Mumbai is supported by a well-qualified and groomed team that consists of a Spa Manager, Spa Trainer, two Guest Coordinators and six therapists. The screening of employees at the spa is based on their background and past work experience, after which they are tested for therapy skills. In addition, language and soft skills also play an important part in the selection process.
In-house trainers impart training to the staff for two months after joining to ensure they’re at par and consistent with Mudraa’s quality and standards. Training includes getting specialized in Mudraa’s Signature treatment and other therapies, spa products, spa operating procedures, guest handling and improving their soft skills. Mudraa’s trainers are certified from world-renowned academies.
A day-dreamer’s verdict
Being an urbanite, it is extremely rare that I find the time and liberty to unwind and release stress. And an island vacation to me is but a dream… but in the midst of all the work load and hassle that surrounds me, I was fortunate to have an opportunity to relax at Mudraa Spa and find exactly what I was looking for in a big city – a space to loosen up and get energized. Spa Mantra congratulates this stunning day spa for bringing the city something it deserved.
Aloha Mumbai!
Lured by the Mudraa’s menu, I choose a unique treatment to a Mumbaikar- a Hawaiin Lomi Lomi treatment. I was keen to know more about such an island service. But before I was taken in to the private ladies’ section of the spa, there were a few customary steps I needed to follow. First, I slipped into comfortable mat flip flops. Next was a consultation with Mr. Gergila, Spa Manager & Trainer at Mudraa Spa on the type of oils I could pick from. I opted for a detox oil, which blended six exotic oils that promoted cellulite reduction, pain relief and boosted the immune system. Post that a quick cleansing of my feet in warm water and I was ready to shed the robe and lie flat for my Hawaiin treat.
A Lomi Lomi massage is based on the Hawaiian tradition of connecting with your true self. What’s unique about this massage is that a therapist works through the body muscles with his/her elbow and forearms intensely to release out toxins and water logging. This, when clubbed with the detox oil, sent me into a state of relaxation and calmness.
After the tranquil service I took a speedy shower and was guided to the wonderfully designed relaxation lounge where I was served a petite cup of herbal tea to replenish and complete a 60mins Hawaiian journey.
Contact: Mudraa Spa, 1st Floor, N.K.M International House,, Babubhai Chinai Road, Marine Drive, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020
Phone:022 6634 6662
Tags: body, depression, headache, healing, Marine Drive, meditation, migraine, Mudraa, mudras, Mumbai, posh, relaxation, soul, spa, therapies, urban, wellness, yoga
