Every once in a while, a little detox at the spa restores the body to its full potential, discovers Zoe Chan.

No one is perfect. Fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol and the sun are all damaging temptations. And then there are the frantic schedules, polluted air and the strain of the computer screen. After all that, it's a good idea to seek out nourishment and restoration through detoxification. Or, you can have the spa do it for you.

The Chuan Spa at the Langham Place Hotel, Mongkok (Level 41, 555 Shanghai Street, Mongkok; Tel: 3552 3510) offers an amazing Tao Of Detox treatment in its state-of-the-arts facility inspired by traditional Chinese medicine and design. Book at least a one-hour treatment to get free use of the spa's fitness room, pool and tri-bathing ritual amenities.

Entering the elevator for the 41st floor, I was in desperate need of some detox. As it climbed above the city, I felt I had already escaped. The doors opened, and I stepped through the enchanting moon gate entrance into Chuan Spa where the staff handed me a Five Elements questionnaire. My answers indicated that my Earth element was out of balance, so off to the treatment room I went.

The views from my private treatment room were sweeping, despite the rain and clouds. I lay down on the massage table for a full body exfoliation to stimulate my circulation and remove dead skin. It was energizing, leaving my skin glossy and smooth. Awarm algae wrap followed, and I knew it was the real thing from its seaweed smell. I then drifted off into semi-consciousness and when I awoke my entire body was covered in dark gel and comfortably wrapped in plastic. My skin felt renewed and nourished with natural minerals, and my mind was at ease. Yes, detoxification was underway.

After a rinse off, I returned to the massage table and its heated blanket to receive an acupressure massage to release energy blockages. The massage oil used corresponded to my Earth element. The questionnaire must have been right because its eucalyptus aroma was ideal for my mood. The treatment ended with a Thalgo radiant revival facial to boost oxygen and restore my dehydrated skin. Finally, I retreated to the relaxation room, my body and face doused in lotion, for a Five Elements tea in preparation for my re-entry to the real world.

Leaving Chuan Spa I was a different person - renewed, nourished and detoxed - and, to be honest, I wanted to stay that way. Maybe that's why I opted for a salad at lunch instead of other tempting alternatives.

Recommended as a two and a half hour journey of renewal.