Touch of the orient

Heavenly Jing Luo foot treatment is available across all of Langham Place's Chuan Spas internationally.

The real magic is in the massage, which weaves ancient Chinese techniques of tui (push), na (pull and drag), an (rhythmic pressure), pai (tap), ca (rub), zhen (vibrate), bo (vertical pressure) and dian xue (acupressure).

At the Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Peace Hotel, it is like stepping back to 1920's Shanghai,when the city was the "Paris of the East". Here, there is the unique jade facial therapy.

According to spa director, Chen Ruwei, the facial takes advantage of the alleged protective power of quality jade to slow down the process of aging. It is believed the subtle "warmth" of jade improves circulation, rejuvenates cells, improves skin elasticity and restores luminosity.

To gild the lily, there is a body and facial package offering traditional Chinese massage with the Peace hotel's signature jade facial.

In the capital city, the St. Regis Beijing uses Ayurveda at its Iridium Spa. In Sanskrit, ayurveda refers to a traditional medical system in India that is more than 5,000 years old. Ayur means life and veda means knowledge. The hotel says Ayurveda can balance the body without any side effects.

Guests start with a hot footbath infused with powdered herbs while the therapist softly chants to help them relax. Next comes a massage with oils and powders. After treatment, there is a bath with more herbal powders to replace the usual shower gel and shampoo.

Those who prefer Thai massage head to the Serenity Spa at the Regent Beijing, which involves acupressure and gentle yoga-style stretching techniques. With prolonged pressure on the body's meridians, the massage can increase the body's flexibility and energy flow.

In all, Asian treatments are now widely practiced in spas and wellness centers, and the best place to enjoy them all? Head for an international hotel near you.