Sandy Supposes....

Bhutan Where I Found Bliss In A Bath

Day 13 Neyphu Valley, Paro, Bhutan

         

         Sigh. Groan. I am feeling extremely relaxed, mellow, languid. My muscles seem to have melted, dissolved into nothingness. I hear my breathing, steady and deep. It is difficult to form cohesive thought and type on my tablet's teeny tiny keys. I believe I am blissful. Where do I begin?

         Ah, yes, my fellow bloggers and I are nestled in at the Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary. We were welcomed with open arms and smiles before we were escorted to the site of the butter lamps and encouraged to light one. Okay.... this was a novel greeting.Oh, this spa hotel oozes tranquility with its spacious, open-concept rooms infused with natural light. A nearby mountain supplies a stunning view. Almost immediately this shangri-la's serenity embraces you and you understand its philosophy. "Connect to yourself and all that surrounds you; body, mind and spirit."

         Wellness treatments are offered here in the heart of The Kingdom of Happiness, a nickname belying the Buddhist mindful way of life. To that end, I consult with a resident healer who recommends several treatments for what ails me. Because of my accidents and orthopedic issues, I always deal with pain. I am open to try anything that may offer a reprieve.

         First, I stretch with some yoga out on the sun-kissed terrace. I am cautioned to move mindfully and connect with my body. Feel every pull, pinch, contraction. Yep, I feel the tension all right.

         Next, I opt for my first ever massage. Ah, damn, the pampered overly-paid pro athletes are onto something.I may have purred. Ouch, my kinks didn't stand a chance.

         Wanting to partake of some fresh air and meander a bit, I joined a group tour of the Sanctuary garden where I learned the benefits of herbs. Later,in the evening I will sample a few of them at the Tea Bar.

         

         I decided the idea of hot oil compression might alleviate some of my discomfort so I submitted to having my legs swathed for about ten minutes. This is meant to increase blood flow which in turn should reduce pain and speed healing. I did like the smell of the herbs.

          For my final indulgence, I chose to soak in an herbal infused hot stone bath. Now this is an experience! The tub is formed from oak and the river water in it is heated by red hot stones laced with artemisia ( wormwood ) leaves. To increase the heat all I had to do was ring a brass bell. This indicated I wanted more hot rocks. The attendant explained I should relax and soak for at least thirty minutes. As if! Of course, I could withstand this. Oh, a pot of tea kept me company. When the attendant awoke me she grinned knowingly. That is the best bathing experience I have ever felt. I expressed reluctance to leave. I climbed out on wobbly legs that had forgotten how to support me. They had also given up their usual complaints. Alas, no carry out service was offered, so I stumbled away.

         We were a mellow, muted group when we met for our delicious farm garden to table meal. I feared I could not possibly lift a fork to my mouth, let alone speak of my glorious day. My misgivings were groundless. My appetite demanded to be appeased and my tongue longed to let loose since it had meditated in silence all day.