Trying Out Barre3

One of my 2014 goals is to be more fit. Nope, I don't want to lose any more weight! I've been curious with barre3 for the longest time, so last weekend I finally signed up for the Monthly Unlimited classes. I did this an hour before my second underarm diode laser treatment at SKIN Laser & Dermatology Center. Talk about hitting two birds with one stone, since both of the places I went to are just located inside The Spa Wellness in Shangri-La East Wing. I just love being here since the place smells so good all the time - like peppermint!

barre3 Studio inside The Spa Wellness, Shangri-La Mall

barre3 is the revolutionary workout that delivers the benefits of Pilates, Yoga, and ballet barre in one powerful 60-min class. Leveraged on the strength and sexy lines of Pilates, the wisdom and alignment technique of yoga, and the grace and efficiency of the ballet barre, it provides the ultimate head-to-toe workout designed to lengthen and lift the whole body. Because of this three-fold foundation, students experience their bodies transforming into one with the length of a dancer and the strength of an athlete.

barre3 is equally challenging to beginners and fitness buffs alike, appealing universally to men and women between 25- 35 years old who are up to the barre3 challenge.

The studio set-up has 3 corners of the wall with ballet barres which is essential in the work out together with yoga mats, yoga straps, dumbbells, and fit balls. The cork flooring that is both soft and sturdy protects the spine and joints during positions.

Benefits of barre3:

• Builds longer, leaner muscles and a strong core.
• Energizes and increases stamina.
• Develops muscle balance leading to a well-proportioned body with less risk for injury.
• Increases flexibility and creates a natural flow to the body.
• Motivating group environment builds connections and community, both important in making exercise a regular part of life.
• Connects mind, body and breath and relieves stress.

With Teacher Patty and my classmates at barre3 Shangri-La

barre3 has three class types that has different difficulty levels – advanced, foundations and open-level classes. Since it was my first time to try out this type of exercise, I went to the open-level class with Teacher Patty. She was friendly, encouraging, and yet her moves were also challenging but with a more zen approach. I was "first day of school" scared before the session. We used the ballet barre for support for certain poses, dumbells to tone the arms some more, and the fit ball for the legs and back. My legs shook involuntarily during some poses (like the plank), and I know I need more practice. I felt great afterwards, and got sore muscles on my body (most particularly my legs and abdominal muscles), but it's all good, since I know I worked it!

Just yesterday, I went back to class again for the second time! This time, I went to barre3 in Trinoma instead (which is just 10 minutes away from my office). My teacher this time was Karen; her style was more upbeat and fast-paced. I found myself to be less shaky today, hope it's a good thing! Also, the teaching style really varies. Yesterday's workout had minimal (or no) planking, thank God. Haha. My muscles were still achy from Saturday's lesson when I went to class yesterday, but I'm glad I went anyway. I feel much better now and I think my body is getting used to all the stretching. Seriously, barre is addictive. I hope to learn more about my body and find out where my strong points are. I also hope I'll be able to maintain this drive, and achieve a more fit and toned body. Gotta make the most out of my monthly unlimited sessions!

Class rates:

• First-timer trial (3 classes in 2 weeks)      P1,500 
• Single Class                                            P700 
• 10 Classes (valid for 2 months)                P5,500 
• 30 Classes (valid for 6 months)                P15,000 
• 1 on 1 Class (Private)                              P2,000 
• Exclusive Class (minimum 2 students)      P1,500/ person 
• Monthly Unlimited                                   P5,500 
• *Quarterly Membership                            P14,000
• *Semi-annual Membership                        P30,000
• *Annual Membership                                P50,000

*Memberships come with privileged access and perks at barre3 as well at The Spa, SKIN Dermatology & Laser Center.

Visit http://www.barre3.com.ph/ and Like barre3philippines on Facebook for the class schedules and more information.

Have you tried barre3? If you currently are, let's be classmates! :)

Love,

Helen

The Spa Wellness Shangri-La Launch + Aromatherapy Massage

I so wish I could call The Spa Wellness my second home. Every time I step into their branch in Shangri-La East Wing, I am immediately transported into a secret garden of tranquility amidst the bustling business district of Mandaluyong City. I've already been here late last year for my Total Indulgence treatment, and now I am back again to witness its grand launch.

Each branch of The Spa Wellness has a unique theme, and their branch in Shangri-La East Wing houses the luxe and modern interpretation of the “Secret Garden”.

Upon stepping into The Spa Wellness, you'll be led by a distinct fragrance coupled with modern, earth-toned interiors. Then and there, you're no longer in the city - given the luxurious and tranquil ambiance The Spa Wellness provides.

Now on its 18th year, the company is no longer to be called a spa institution only. The Spa Wellness is a wellness haven offering luxury relaxation (The Spa) for a tranquil spirit, fitness (barre3) for a strong body, and beauty (SKIN dermatology & Laser Center) for radiance.

The Spa in Shangri-La East Wing is the second branch that carries all three house brands of The Spa Wellness.

While waiting for the program to start, the guests help themselves so light, sweet snacks and some tea.

When in The Spa Wellness, ginger tea is a must try!

The early birds, Donna & I

We went on a tour to see what The Spa Wellness has in store for us. Come and join me!

First stop: the barre3 studio.

The Spa Wellness has included its revolutionary exercise barre3 studio in its Shangri-la East Wing branch. With a capacity of 19 people, the barre3 studio allows guests to enjoy one powerful workout which combines the grace of the ballet barre, the wisdom of yoga, and the strength of Pilates. The barre3 studio in Shangri-la East Wing maintains the same quality, look, and feel as in other barre3 studios. barre3 is said to improve balance, increase flexibility, and enhance strength.

Next stop (and probably my favorite part of The Spa Wellness): The Spa.

Massages, body treatments, and facials and more can be enjoyed by guests at the comfort of private rooms.

The Spa in Shangri-la East Wing has premiere suites, which are the most luxurious among all types of accommodations, with facilities (jacuzzi, shower, and steam) inside your own private room.

Guests can also enjoy the Spa reflexology, which is a combination of 3 Asian techniques (Japanese Shiatsu, Thai Massage, and Chinese Reflexology), offered in select The Spa Wellness centers.

This room is perfect for sparties, don't you agree? The clean, modern, and earthly-toned interiors add to the distinct relaxing ambiance of The Spa.

Last stop: SKIN Dermatology and Laser Center.

Only in SKIN Dermatology and Laser Center can you find state-of-the-art dermatology machines, highly-trained skin doctors accredited by the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) who conduct consultations and administer procedures, and the luxury treatment to complete the total package.

Treatment Room

The interiors of the rooms in SKIN have a lively and light feel, and the guests can relax with a cup or two of the famous ginger tea as they wait for their appointment with their dermatologist in the plush lounge area.

After the tour, we had the chance to try out one of The Spa Welness' services. My pick was the Aromatherapy Massage, since I was nursing an achy back for two days. (How timely this treatment was!)

Aromatherapy blends elevate the classic Swedish massage into an experience that renews the spirit. Seek Balance, Energy, or Serenity. 60 mins.

Suite/Villa (60/90 minutes): Regular P1800/P2700, Member P1600/P2400

Trivia: If you see a flower on the suite's entrance, it means the room is occupied.

Each suite of The Spa has everything you need for the complete pampering experience.

Hair gel, talc, cotton buds, body lotion

Hair dryer

Shower caps, toothbrush and toothpaste, disposable underwear, hand soap

I was led to Suite 1, which was a couples room.

It was more spacious (with 2 beds) compared to the previous suite I've been to. Bath towels, bath robes, and boxer shorts are also provided.

Rainfall shower and steam room

Jacuzzi

Each guest is given a good 30 minutes to use the facilities in the room. Naturally, enjoyed a luxurious bubble bath at the jacuzzi. This was the perfect pre-massage treat, as the warm water soothed and prepped my muscles for the treatment ahead.

 Complete the experience with a cup of ginger tea!

The technique used was the Swedish massage, a classic full body massage that works predominantly on the muscles, soft tissues, and joints, utilizing rhythmic strokes. The aromatherapy experience was enhanced with the lavender-orange oil my therapist, Mary Jeane, applied on my skin during the massage. It didn't help that my therapist was a pro with 14 years of experience at The Spa, so I was in total bliss. I told her that my back (near my nape) was sore and aching, so she concentrated the massage to where my tense muscles are. After the massage, my back felt a bit better. Would you believe that the next day, the pain was totally gone. It's amazing how a good massage can help the body recover from stress.

Every visit to The Spa merits a "so happy and relaxed" shot! Thank you for the super pampering experience, The Spa! ♥

Like The Spa on Facebook, and follow them on Twitter and Instagram @TheSpa1996 for more information.

The Spa Wellness Shangri-La Plaza

L6 Leisure Haven, East Wing. 656.7878 / 656.6868

Visit www.thespa.com.ph for more details.

Love,

Helen