Sapphire Day Spa is honored to be the only spa on Vancouver Island offering traditional Ayurvedic treatments and consultations. Ayurveda, which literally means "the science of life," is a natural healing system developed in India. This mind-body science is older than the Pyramids and the oldest surviving complete medical system in the world. It is a comprehensive system of medicine that places equal emphasis on the body, mind, and spirit and strives to restore the innate harmony of the individual. It is based on the principles of the elements and the three "doshas" which exist in the body. Each individual has their unique constitution called prakruti and a current state (which indicates balance or imbalance) called virkruti. It is natural for the body to go in and out of balance and in fact is normal and healthy. However, prolonged imbalances are the starting point of the development of disease and conditions. It is at this point that you may not "feel like yourself" yet there is no recognizable aliment. The Doshas: There is much to be said about the doshas and we are providing a beginner introduction so that you can begin to familiarize yourself with the principles. Vata: air and space energy, governs large intestines Pitta: fire and water, governs stomach/small intestine Kapha: earth and water energy, governs chest and upper stomach Two-Therapist Abhyanga Massage Our Swedana Herbal Steam Treatment Room Shirodhara Treatment        Shirodhara is a purifying and rejuvinating therapy designed to assist with mental exhaustion, relieve stress and imbalances in the central nervous system.  It is an ancient therapy originating in India over 5,000 years ago. Warm oils are poured in a continous rhythmic flow onto the forehead and  run through the scalp and into the hair. Traditionally, it is used to calm the nerves, harmonize Vata energy, release stored emotions and purify the mind.  This is achieved as the brow is associated with the fundamental endocrine glands, which organize and regulate all hormonal secretions.  Hormonal secretions are responsible for control of digestion, breath and elimination  and they are also responsible for moods and emotional stress. Most people will commonly notice the following shirodhara treatments: reduction in stress, reduction in excessive thinking, calmness of emotions, improved sleep, alleviation of mental anguish and the release of negative emotions. We offer a collection of these treatments and are happy to discuss which treatment best suits you. Ayurvedic Treatments & Services  Ayurvedic Health Consultations In a consultation you will learn: · Your unique energetic constitution                 · Your optimal diet · Your current imbalances                               · Stress relief and lifestyle practices · Your optimal exercise program                      · Herbal nutritional supplements The consultation consists of: · Exploring your physical, mental, and emotional health both historically and currently · Bringing awareness to the habits that have been unconscious until now · Diagnostic tools such as the tongue, pulse, eye, fingernails and face are used 1 hr. $75 Pinda Swedana treatment Quiet the mind to the aroma of the heated herb filled sachets. This signature treatment begins with circular massage using the warm sachets. You will experience the effect of their warmth removing blockages from the body, relieving aching muscles and restoring balance. A personalized massage is performed with a light application of organic seed oil, while the warm sachets are placed on targeted areas for relief.  Absolutely remarkable. 90 min. $155 Abhyanga Massage, Herbal Steam & Exfoliation This popular treatment begins with an Abhyanga massage and is then followed by a relaxing session in our cedar steam chest which is infused with herbs especially customized for you.  After the steam, a chickpea flour exfoliation scrub is the perfect finishing touch to leave you feeling relaxed, soft and brand new! 75 min. $125 Abhyanga Massage A head to toe warm oil massage that is performed with long, fluid strokes. This treatment has been used for over 5000 years to refresh, balance and detoxify the body. One Therapist                 Two Therapists, Exquisite! 60 min. $85                    60 min. $165 Shirodhara and Abhyanga Massage Treatment This splendid treatment includes two therapists in a synchronized Abhyanga massage. The shirodhara is the perfect complement to this treatment as warm oil pours continuously onto the forehead, the scalp and feet are massaged in tandem. This is a deeply relaxing treatment and revitalizes the central nervous system, activates and regulates the brain, relieves mental tension and leaves you with a heavenly, calm state of mind. 90 min. $195 We also offer this treatment with one therapist 60 min. $150 Swedana Herbal Steam Treatment Our staff all agree that this treatment is a wonderfully pure experience. Relax in our steam chamber while it fills with steam infused with a collection herbs designed for you. The treatment is effective in aiding in detoxification, increasing circulation and deeply relaxing.  30 min. $30 Saffron & Warm Milk Shirodhara* Saffron has been revered as one of the most precious and sublime medicines and foods in the world. Enjoy this rejuvenating treatment that is helpful for mental exhaustion, skin conditions, memory loss and weary minds. 30 min. $65 Rose Water Shirodhara* Rose has always been a flower representing beauty. When used in this treatment it pacifies the heat in the blood and thus keeps imbalances in the skin from erupting. There are some specific ailments that are helped by rose shirodhara. It is recommended for those with inflamed eyes, dizziness, certain headaches, nervousness, grief and dullness of the skin. 30 min. $65 As a perfect complement to this treatment, add a rose facial to improved acne eruptions, facial psoriasis and roascea. 60 min. $75 Lotus Petal Shirodhara* It is said that the lotus petals are reflective of the essential energy of the heart. This exotic treatment is best for balancing emotions, clarifying the skin and the mind. 30 min. $65 *These treatments are great in combination with massage and herbal steams (swedana) providing you with lasting changes and improved health. Speak with us about customizing a treatment plan especially for you.   Read more in Lifestyle Consultations ^ Back to the Top ^