Vanessa Ko tries MTM’s new stress-busting shiatsu treatment

In the middle of busy Causeway Bay, you will find SPA by MTM discreetly located near offices, traffic and shopping, where it has stood for exactly four years this month. Walking into the lobby feels like an escape from the urban bustle just outside. In this sense, it is appropriate that the spa has introduced a new Japanese Genki Thermotherapy treatment ($1,500), in celebration of its anniversary, which caters to Hong Kong people’s stressed-out lifestyles and need for unwinding.

The lobby has touches of nature and smells amazing, but the overall theme is modern and white, using funky metal sculptures and mesh window blinds as décor. This award-winning design concept, matching the uncluttered furnishings of the treatment rooms, reflects the spa's identity as a high-tech Japanese company. But creature comforts are still given utmost attention – towels and robes are warm, lights are dim, music is tranquil.

Many know MTM as a brand that specialises in custom-blended skincare products, and the spa adheres to this notion of personalised products and services. During your first visit, there is a quick survey-style consultation to best determine the focus of your treatment – this is when you let the therapist know if you need help with specific muscle pain or if you are just looking for relaxation. Next is the smell test, when customers choose one of three kinds of incense (white orchid, lavender or sandalwood) that will scent the treatment room. Finally, a machine provides a close-up look at your skin, which determines the kinds of massage oils that will be used, if required.

The new 90-minute treatment uses Japanese genki massage and herbal acupoint thermotherapy. This means it is a deep-tissue, slow shiatsu massage. Customers who are unacquainted with this level of pressure might find the massage painful, but the therapist will adjust the pressure accordingly. Points all along the body receive a firm knead that lasts for a few seconds each. The massage, along with some joint stretching, works wonders against fatigue and stress.

The other aspect of the treatment, herbal acupoint thermotherapy, involves placing hot herb pouches on the abdomen and shoulders. The pouches, filled with four kinds of Chinese herbs, help improve circulation, and will have you feeling warm for the rest of the day. It is also designed to help ease muscle and joint pain, as well as abdominal discomfort. Stress apparently wreaks havoc on your digestive system, so the tummy gets massaged as well.

After the treatment, an impressive tray of homemade refreshments is brought into the room, consisting of warm red bean soup and an apple and carrot drink. You can take your sweet time too, because the room is yours for another 30 minutes. A full range of MTM products lines the counter for use. It’s a luxurious way to leave a spa treatment – relaxed, refreshed and unrushed.

SPA by MTM, Shop A, Ground Floor, 3 Yun Ping Road, Causeway Bay. Tel: 2923 7888