MOVING WATER BY THE SEA
Meandering slowly down a cobblestone path with waterfalls, snug next to an ivy-lined stream flowing into a Koi pond, I cross over the charming bridge leading to Shui Spa. My wound-up body sighs with relief. I know I will meet the relaxed part of myself here…
Shui means moving water, so all of the treatments are designed with an aspect of water, “…even using seashells for the Shui Spa massage, and in facials, too,” noted my host. The ‘hip’ quotient is high here, yet the place still remains accessible to everyone who returns again and again. All of the soothing, beautiful spa services are open to the public, as well as to guests of Crowne Pointe Inn and The Brass Key. Year-round you’ll enjoy both local and international visitors, all seeking the pampering and outstanding service at Shui Spa.
As we move through the reception area, past a lovely display of the spa’s exclusively Ayurvedic product line Sundari, we head downstream. At the head of the stairs, we face the warm Mineral Therapy Soaking Tub, with a shimmering, opalescent fountain as its backdrop. Candles surround the water and flute music plays softly in the background. Around to the right is the Relaxation Lounge, where green iced tea, water and eye-soothing cucumber slices are plentiful. The staff at Shui definitely have the details covered! Each area you enter, has a particular vibe, another subtle variation on the relaxation theme. After a day of shopping or people-watching on Commercial Street, Shui Spa is a safe and soothing haven in which to unwind for a few hours, on your own or with friends.
Three treatment rooms and a couples room beckon upstairs; Shui offers everything from Warm Stone Massage to Reiki, Chakra Balancing to Mani/Pedicures, Facials, Waxing, Scrubs (Chardonnay Body Scrub, anyone?) and Wraps (try a Deep Sea Detoxifying Wrap). All of the practitioners at Shui come highly praised, and one of the most gifted massage therapists/energy healers I have ever experienced resides here. Sounds of the ocean whooshed in the background while warmed cowry shells smoothed my face. I emerged energetically a new person, grateful for the subtleties of Shui Spa’s magic.
You can enjoy a delicious Shui Spa Healthy Lunch before or after your treatment, right inside the spa! (Chef Amy makes the best spa lunches; she also creates culinary magic for the historic Crowne Pointe Inn.) So, spoon on some sea salt scrub and enjoy the eucalyptus steam room or sauna. Read a magazine in the lounge; venture out onto the lovely courtyard and bliss out to the sound of running water from a fountain centerpiece of Meditation Man in lotus position. Relax, and indulge yourself in lavishing attention!
Every product here is good enough to eat! The organic product lines are luscious – Sundari, based on essential oils and herbs from India (sundari.com), Osea, with sea rim and algae (oseaskin.com), and Olavie olavie.com), based on Chardonnay grapes. Included in every Chardonnay treatment is a glass of wine by Truro Vineyards. The chocolate neck warmer by Bubalina is fun. Or take home a spa basket with heavenly candles and other scented delights.
In warmer weather, there is nothing like receiving a massage in the open air, so take advantage of the outdoor treatment room with skylight. This fall, a glass of wine and a book, or the close companionship of a dear friend is the perfect accompaniment to the crisp autumn air. Lie down in a teak deck chaise and contemplate your universe. Listen to water, plan your wedding or Ladies’ Day (5-8 women, each with two treatments apiece, wine with lunch and a goody bag included!) and enjoy the Zen ambience.
Shui is doing its part to go green, lightening their carbon footprint without compromising comfort or delight. Light bulbs are transformed to compact fluorescents; towel usage is vastly reduced, thereby conserving water, the lifeblood of Shui. Incorporating elemental ingredients in their signature treatments, using cranberries, sea salt, beach plums, Atlantic ocean algae, and sea shells whenever possible all create a conscious, local experience.
Voted Best Day Spa 2007 by Cape Cod Life, Shui Spa is a popular destination seven days-a-week, year-round for guests staying at Crowne Pointe Inn, as well as people from all over the U.S. and Europe. Beginning in late October, you can enjoy a Cape Escape package or other special spa packages for two to combine your spa treatment with all the luxuries of Crowne Pointe’s Inn and fine dining. Provincetown’s abundance of art galleries, miles of beaches, restaurants and entertainment are at your doorstep, and an afternoon or evening at Shui is the perfect balance for all your activities. - cha
By Cheryl Kain, Fall 2008
Visit www.shuispa.com or call 508-487-3583 for an appointment or more information.
Cheryl Kain writes about alternative healing, music food, travel and pop culture for regional and national magazines.
She is an accomplished singer/teacher and coaches voice privately. cherylkain.com
