"We want to make people feel good from the inside-out," says Maika Endo, general manager and founder of the boutique spa and lounge, Kocoon.

A natural beauty herself, the French Japanese owner established the spa as "a platform for health and wellness". All of Kocoon's treatments revolve around a holistic approach to beauty that aims to release the goddess (or god) within.

In addition to offering the latest nail art techniques, organic beauty products, massage, skincare, and hair removal treatments; the spa also operates as a retreat lounge that serves an array of delightful elixirs including fair-trade Shangrila Coffee from Yunnan, Japanese teas, and "Spatinis" (fruit flavored Martinis included with special treatments).

"It's important to take time to relax," says Endo, who oversees a staff of 10 experienced and highly detailed spa and nail technicians.

Make an appointment for organic waxing services (60-350 yuan), body care (380-580 yuan) or massage (198-565 yuan) in a private suite and you're offered a choice of ambient music selections; or enjoy the latest issue of European or Asian fashion magazines after hand and foot treatments (50-580 yuan).

At the end of September the spa will welcome expert workshop leader, Marianne Niederer, the founder of "In Touch", a Shanghai-based consultation company for psychic development.

Using meditation techniques, chakra balancing methods, and psychic readings, Niederer focuses on communication and self-development therapies for teenagers, adults, and couples, to help each individual explore different ways of expressing their emotions.

Niederer will host an interactive demonstration and open talk for people to learn more about In Touch treatments (charkra clearing/balancing/pendulum readings) at Kocoon on Sept 21.

"The mind and body are connected," Endo says, "so we plan to do more workshops like this in the future."

Room 301, 3/F, North Building, Nali Garden, 81 Sanlitun Beijie, Chaoyang district. 朝陽區三里屯北街81號

spaculturechina@gmail.com or by calling 5208-6068

(China Daily September 9, 2009)