Prana
Spa & Villas - Seminyak

The
Prana Spa & Villas is a complete haven of relaxation and therapy
including specially designated areas fro both ladies and gentlemen.
Prana Spa & Villas, Asia’s first Mogul inspired Spa
complex will open in Seminyak, Bali on September 26th 2003. Conceived
by visionary Australian artist and entrepreneur Jim Elliott, the
multi-million dollar Prana is a real departure in both philosophy
and design from the usual Asian Zen-type spa.
Prana represents the most extravagant spa concept yet attempted
in Asia and, as the first of its kind, is pioneering a totally
new type of spa experience.
In a response to what he sees as the clinical, regime like atmosphere
of many of Asia’s spas Jim Elliott decided to challenge
the concept of what a spa could be.
“ I believe going to a spa should be both a mind and body
altering experience. We are creating an event that appeals to
all of the senses and envelops you from the moment you walk through
the door. So in a way it is part theatre and part therapy. We
combine this sensual experience with a full-range of professional
spa and wellness
treatments “, said Jim Elliott.

Following
the lines of classical Mogul architecture, the inspiration for
Prana comes from the sumptuous palaces built by the Mogul rulers
in the 16th century; while the spectacular interiors are based
on the lavish furnishings, textiles, mosaics, paintings and carvings
found in the great palaces of India’s Maharaja’s.
The design team, lead by renowned New Zealand sculptor Stephen
Hall, traveled to Rajasthan to hand-pick many of the furnishings
including: beautiful carpets, lanterns, carved wooden doors and
Indian silk paintings. Over 120 local artists and craftsmen have
been engaged to replicate the intricate details and facets of
a Mogul palace.
The Sanskrit word Prana translates to ‘vital force’
and everything about The Prana has been designed to provide guests
with a gentle, restorative experience tailor-made to their individual
requirements and needs. The 1,300 sq m Prana Spa will incorporate
a full variety of spa features including: 24 massage rooms (single
and double) 1 hot and 2 cold plunges, 4 rainbaths , 2 sauna rooms
and 3 steam rooms, as well as separate areas for reflexology and
beauty treatments.
In addition to Ayurveda treatments deigned to restore the body’s
balance and equilibrium, Prana offers a range of complementary
programs including: Pilates, reflexology, yoga, personal training,
aqua fitness, meditation and beauty treatments.

Prana
will also offer guests the opportunity to create their own personal
retreat program suited to their needs and requirements. Alternatively
they can select from a range of pre-packaged retreats that combine
spa wellness with nutritious diet programs for optimum health.
California based Richard Rosen and Karen Biancardi, both recognized
experts in the wellness field, lead the spa team at Prana, and
have been conducting an intensive staff training program for six
months. Prior to joining Prana, both Richard and Karen were consultants
at Chiva Som Spa retreat in Thailand, recognized as one of the
best spa’s in the world.
Prana will employ over 90 spa therapists trained to international
standards in their particular field, be it massage, reflexology
or Ayurveda treatments and on-going training will ensure guests
enjoy standards of professionalism only found at a handful of
top spas in Asia.
Other features of Prana include a lush, central courtyard garden
filled with palms and bougainvilleas, a restaurant offering organic
Ayurveda and Indian food options, and a smart bar serving rejuvenating
juices and tonics.
The Prana is part of The Villas Group Bali, the pioneer in private
villa development on the island. The group manages over 50 luxury
Balinese style 1, 2, and 3 bedroom villas each with its own private
swimming pool.