Too much of anything never does anyone good. That's why in the midst of all your calculations and negotiations, you need to find relaxing moments to rejuvenate your soul and senses. And what can help bring you closer to a balanced state than the practice of Ayurveda, the essence of whose philosophy is the principle of balance through nutrition, lifestyle and massage, including the well-known Shirodhara therapy.

In Jakarta , one spa dedicates itself to following the Ayurveda way. Simply named Spa Ayurveda, this relaxing haven is located in the calm and green Menteng area. Calming tranquility is instantly felt when one enters the place. Simple, natural decorations in pale, soothing colors is the theme maintained throughout the spa. Floating flower petals and candles enhance the whole atmosphere.

Presently, Spa Ayurveda has Four treatment rooms. Two of them are devoted to the spa's signature massage therapies, while the other two are used to provide facials, as well as salon services such as waxing and threading. Although currently a small, self contained operation, the spa owners have plans for expansion, including the incorporation of a special area to be utilized as a yoga studio.

The massage rooms are essentially Asian in décor, with wooden canopy beds decorated with flowers and traditional fabric. The detail rich bed is balanced by the light coloring of the walls, thus creating a feeling of comfort and spaciousness. In addition to the four rooms, there is a central, salon-like area where head and foot massages are provided, as well as salon services for nails and hair, making the spa a one stop destination for all one's beauty needs.

Before receiving any treatment from the spa, first-timers must go through a simple consultation session to determine which dosha they belong to. This is an essential part of Shirodara therapy. Dosha is a body constitution one inherits at birth. The doshas are divided into Kapha (earth / water), Vata (air / space) and Pitta (fire). Mr Effendi, the communications officer of Spa Ayurveda explains that each dosha requires different treatments to maximize its beneficial effects. For example, each dosha has its own special massage oil and if the wrong oil is used to treat a person, it might evaporate too quickly or will not be absorbed by the body at all.

The Spa Ayurveda massage therapy stays true to the authentic Abhayangam technique which differs in style from the Indonesian massage offered at the majority of spas in Jakarta . The traditional Indonesian massage uses long strokes, applying pressure and a slightly pinching technique. The Abhayangam , focuses more on the application of the oil and requires two therapists to perform a synchronized massage, one on each side of the body, thus increasing the balancing and healing effect of the oil. After the massage, a rejuvenating herbal steam bath is recommended which simultaneously maximizes the absorption of the oil and eliminates toxins from the system.

The massage oils used in Spa Ayurveda play a very important role in the treatments. Each oil is made from a combination of as many as 40 – 50 different herbs, blended together for the most beneficial effects. Even the lulur treatment, the traditional body scrub exfoliating treatment is preceded by an oil massage. The Shirodhara therapy too, starts with a full-body oil massage which is followed by the ceremonial procedure of dripping oil onto the spot on the forehead which is considered the ‘third eye', for an extended period of time. This allows the oil to penetrate deep into the nervous system, providing an exceptionally relaxing experience.

Most of Spa Ayurveda's guests are expatriates and Menteng Residents who are usually the embassy's officials. It can be said that the Spa Ayurveda is quite a charming, well-kept secret. However, everyone needs balance in their lives and it's about time that they get a taste of the special Ayurvedic method. Besides, getting to know your dosha is, admittedly, quite a fun experience.