The award-winning Jiva Spa draws on ancient techniques

This healing space offers treatments to heal warriors (+ modern heroes, too)

Last updated: Monday, 11 July 2022 

At the award-winning Jiva Spa, at Taj Cape Town, most treatments begin with the ritual of having your feet washed in a big, brass bowl filled with fragrant, warm water and floating petals. It’s a nurturing experience and signals the beginning of a soothing, heavenly journey that draws on ancient and healing Indian wellness practices.


The Jiva Spa draws on ancient Indian healing and wellness traditions. Image: Jiva Spa

YOU’LL BE TREATED LIKE ROYALTY

The ethos of all Jiva Spas is that “the guest is god”. Every need is considered: the therapist checks where your body needs attention most, and what aromatherapy would work for you during the treatment (for me it was eucalyptus oil beneath the massage table to clear my blocked sinuses).


Treatments begin with the lovely, relaxing ritual of feet washing in warm water. Image: Taj Cape Town

ALIGN YOUR BODY, MIND AND SOUL 

The Indian wellness philosophies that underpin treatments at Jiva Spa focus not only on aligning the body, but mind and soul, and you with the natural world, too. For instance, only natural materials come in contact with the body at all Jiva Spas across the world, from the organic cotton on which your body rests, to the oven-baked pottery cups you drink tea out of.


Every part of the experience at Jiva Spa draws on ancient Indian tradition. Image: Jiva Spa

CHOOSE FROM AN UNIQUE TREATMENT MENU

There are many treatments on offer, like the two-hour Vishrama treatment with hot compresses of Indian herbs and a massage that realigns the body’s muscles. Should you want something more focused to relieve your body after a day in the office, for example, try the incredibly soothing hand or head massages that are not only shorter, but affordable too.


The hot compresses filled with healing herbs used in the Vishrama treatment. Image: Jiva Spa

BOOK FOR THE SOMA COUPLE’S MASSAGE

If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, consider the two-hour Soma couple’s massage. It’s a luxurious, Indian aromatherapy massage in a romantic, candlelit room, followed by a deeply relaxing bath in rose petals, with a bottle of ice-cold sparkling wine on the side. It’s the ideal experience to revive romance and connection.


The Soma couple’s treatment allows you to be pampered together. Image: Jiva Spa

YOU DON’T NEED TO STAY TO SPA

Taj Cape Town wants everyone to enjoy its facilities, not only overnighting guests; anyone can access the Jiva Spa. It’s a peaceful space in neutrals with wood and gold accents, soft candles and gentle music, infused with aromatherapy scents.

It offers the full range of treatments, including massages, facials, pedicures and manicures, as well as unique Indian techniques, such as the traditional Pehlwan Malish, a deep massage that has been bringing relief to Indian wrestlers for centuries. Should you want to stay, however, the hotel is centrally located and very luxurious.


Stay over at the sumptuous Taj Cape Town; its central location means you’ll have easy access to the city’s top galleries and shops. Image: Jiva Spa

WHEN + WHERE TO GO

Jiva Spa is open: Monday to Sundays, 8am - 8pm
Find it: 1 Wale Street | Corner St George’s Mall | City Centre | Cape Town
Price: From R474. The spa regularly runs excellent specials that offer really good value.
Contact Jiva Spa on: 021 819 2000 | @jivaspact | Facebook | Website

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WHAT ELSE YOU CAN DO IN THE CITY  

Palm House Boutique Hotel has luxury spa specials.

Explore Cape Town with 7+ Things To Do This Week(end).

Looking for things to do in and around the city? Here’s what’s new.

There are also plenty of ideas you can add to your bucketlist.

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