Inspired by Ancient Healing Practices: The Spa at Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique – Full Service

FROM THE SPA MENU

The descriptions of these spa services evoke an automatic “aaaah” as you read them… 

SOLAR REVERIE – 120 min

• This is a sensory experience inspired by Nembithía, the sun god of the Chorotega culture, who represents the vital energy of the Sun as a source of life, its strength to illuminate, heal, and provide inner clarity. In the Chorotega worldview, plants are not just part of nature; they are considered living beings with their own spirit, guardians of wisdom, and allies in the healing processes. The energetic cleansing with herbs is an act of respect and communion: permission is requested from the plant, its essence is honored, and its healing power is channeled to the recipient. The experience begins with an energetic cleansing using the sacred plants native to the region, followed by a solar meditation that opens the heart to golden light, releasing dense emotions and creating a sacred space for inner rebirth. The ritual culminates with an energetic massage, where the therapist’s hands flow harmoniously like a dance between the sun, the wind, and the sea, using oils from medicinal plants to release tensions, harmonize energy centers, and reconnect with your inner light, achieving harmony and balance.

EMBER ESSENCE – 120 min

• Inspired by the sacred energy of the volcanic stones of our region and the ancestral traditions of the Chorotegas, who honored fire as a guide, symbolizing purification, renewal, and purpose. The experience begins with an energetic cleansing using sacred sage smoke, an ancestral plant known for its purifying and healing power. This is followed by a massage enveloped in the warm heat of volcanic stones that gently penetrate the skin and muscles, while the wise hands of the therapist guide each movement with presence, creating a harmonious rhythm between body and soul—like a warm embrace from Mother Earth. The aromatic blend of herbal oils infused with native plants releases deep tensions, activates the flow of vital energy, and harmonizes the senses, leading you to a state of balance, calm, and inner renewal. The ritual culminates with harmonization using the Heart Seed of the Sea, whose energy connects us with the wisdom of the ocean and with self-love, intuition, and protection. Placing it over the heart seals the inner journey with gratitude, clarity, and purpose.

MOON´S EMBRACE – 120 min

• They say that when the Moon touches the Earth, it does so through the flowing water, the flowers that awaken in the darkness, and the hands that know how to heal. Ninguitamalí, the Chorotega god of the moon, lady of the night, rivers, and dreaming plants, descends silently to sing to the Earth and awaken its medicinal power. The ritual begins with an energetic purification using sacred sage and herb smoke, followed by a guided meditation that invites inner silence and the embrace of the moon. Next, the ancestral power of volcanic mud and native plants is applied warm to the back, abdomen, and soles of the feet. Rich in living minerals, it extracts physical and energetic impurities, reduces inflammation, detoxifies, and deeply grounds the body.
• Integrating a fluid and energetic massage honors the elements of water in the rivers, the ebb and flow of the sea, and the whisper of the wind. Each movement in the massage is a prayer, each touch a connection to the wisdom of nature in this land, using aromatic oils from flowers and herbs. The energy of lunar stones enhances this journey of relaxation, releasing tensions, unlocking emotions, and balancing subtle energy.
• To seal this healing journey, a warm, aromatic ceremonial cacao drink infused with spices and petals is offered, just as the Chorotegas did as a celebration offering.

CHAKRA BALANCE THERAPY – 100min

• This restorative therapy aligns and balances the body’s seven chakras using gentle honey candle massage and healing gemstones. Each stone promotes energy flow and releases blockages, restoring harmony to your body, mind, and spirit. The treatment leaves you feeling spiritually aligned, balanced, and rejuvenated.

 TIBETAN SOUND BATHING – 100min

• This meditative practice uses the resonant vibrations of Tibetan singing bowls to balance energy and promote relaxation. The soothing tones align the chakras, relieve stress, and induce deep meditation, leaving you grounded and rejuvenated with a peaceful sense of inner harmony.

THE PRODUCTS USED

The ingredients and products used in the treatments honor local resources, including sugarcane, yellow corn, and bee honey, including unique Melipona honey. They also utilize volcanic mud and local clays to detoxify and rejuvenate the skin. The spa’s wellness approach embraces ancestral herbs and semi-precious stones for energetic balance, along with seeds from local trees that carry rich cultural legends.

Beyond these signature treatments, the Spa says it is committed to sustainability through eco-conscious practices such as energy-efficient systems, on-site beehives providing raw honey for therapies, and clean beauty standards ensuring non-toxic, ethically sourced products.