This Parañaque spa is home to Southeast Asia's first Wave Dream meditation chamber

A massage can help you relax, but spending an entire day dedicated to self-care is a whole other level, especially if you've been dealing with a lot of stress lately.

According to registered guidance counselor Carol Angeline Macawile, those who practice regular self-care sessions help one "develop a more positive outlook and disposition," and affect not only our physical health, but also our mental well-being.

Self-care also means "taking steps to ensure that your well-being is preserved, so that you can optimally function in your daily life," according to registered psychologist Raphael Inocencio.

If you're looking for a self-care escape in Metro Manila, The Retreat Spa at Okada Manila is one destination worth adding to your list.

For six consecutive years, The Retreat Spa has earned a five-star rating from the Forbes Travel Guide. It was also recognized with the "Wellness Menu of the Year" award by the Asia Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition in both 2024 and 2025.

So, what sets this Parañaque spa apart from other wellness boutiques?

For one, The Retreat Spa, spanning 3,000 sq.m., houses Southeast Asia's first Wave Dream meditation chamber. This chromotherapy treatment room features reclining lounge chairs with LED light projections and a water basin that simulates the calming rhythm of ocean waves.

According to Healthline, chromotherapy, also known as color therapy, is based on using a spectrum of light to help improve physical and mental health.

For instance, a 2016 study showed that exposure to blue light has a "beneficial effect on working memory performance" and general mood. 

Per a VeryWell Mind article reviewed by psychiatrist Steven Gans, MD, other spectrums of light used in chromotherapy are red (to energize), green (to relax and ease stress), yellow (to enhance mood), and orange (to stimulate appetite and happiness).

Apart from the meditation chamber, guests can enjoy an exclusive outdoor pool, gender-separated relaxation rooms with steam and sauna facilities, jacuzzis with water jets, aqua therapy treatments, and private shower booths.

These facilities are free to use all day for guests who have massage bookings at The Retreat Spa.

One of the highlights on the spa's menu is Duyan, a Filipino-inspired deep-tissue massage rooted in hilot, a traditional local healing practice. Warmed banana leaves infused with virgin coconut oil help therapists identify tension points.

After each treatment, guests are served a soothing selection of warm tea, fruits, nuts, and other wholesome snacks, depending on the availability on your visit.

Rates for the Duyan massage start at P4,500 for 60 minutes, P6,000 for 90 minutes, and P7,500 for 120 minutes.

The Retreat Spa is located at Entertainment City, New Seaside Dr, Parañaque City.

 

 

 

 

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—MGP, GMA Integrated News