Disney, fun, family, all resonate with each other and can almost be interchanged for each other now that Disney is so popular in just about every facet of an American life. One thing that doesn’t stand out when you hear a mention of Disney is “spa” or “retreat” or “relaxation” or even “alone time”. Most people think of Mickey or Disney theme parks like Tokyo. I was just as surprised as anyone when I found out Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa catered to such pampering.
As any other spa, arriving early is most recommended and in my book, required because the earlier you arrive for your spa appointment, the more time allowed to settle in and enjoy other amenities. However, unlike any other spa, experiencing Laniwai Spa is a journey in and of itself. Just as Disney has hidden messages and meanings in their work, the spa facilities were made methodically and revealed a story:
Upon commencement of my retreat, I was taken to the center of the spa (called the piko – belly button) where I was given a stone that had motivational words to focus on and bring that emotion or word into existence by experiencing it at the spa; examples include “happiness”, “confidence”, etc. My stone had the word Lokahi – harmony or balance. One side of the stone had it written in Hawaiian while the other reflected it through English. I was instructed to gently toss the stone into the pond where the piko was located. It resembled, to me anyway, how we are reborn once coming out of the spa experience.
After creating this new intention of harmony, the group I was with were given a tour of the spa facilities which ended at the men’s locker where I dressed down into my board shorts and headed out to enjoy the outside hydrotherapy garden – the only one on Oahu – Kula Wai.
The garden is a 5,000-square-foot sequestered retreat from the craziness Disney resorts can create. Current amenities include:
Private vitality baths
Co-ed soaking pools
A reflexology path designed to massage the feet and lower legs
Cold water therapy plunge pool
6 rain-style showers
Heated whirlpool jet spas
A lounge area with a full menu of foods and beverages
My massage was phenomenal don’t get me wrong, however, the hydrotherapy garden is worth its own package honestly. I spent half the day here and had my schedule been free, could’ve stayed all day! Be sure to relax in this area before and after your treatment.
Breaking the tranquility Kula Wai cascaded, an attendant came to announce my appointment was about to begin. I received the Hana Pōhaku (To work with stones) massage. Hot stones on my body, YES! The description alone makes it so tantalizing:
“Carefully placed heated stones rejuvenate and soothe the body and the mind. The combination of gliding heated stones and rhythmic pressure stimulates circulation, melting away tension from tired muscles, all the while restoring balance.”
After yet another experience of tranquility from my massage, I was gently awoken and received a nice warm tea to refresh me. Needless to say, I spent about 2 more hours in the hydrotherapy garden. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa facilities were amazing. I’ll definitely be back with the wife!
For more information on Laniwai Spa at Disney Aulani, visit here.
Disney Aulani on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
92-1185 Ali’inui Dr.
Kapolei, HI 96707
(866) 443-4763
Disclaimer: Wanderlustyle was welcomed as a guest at Disney Aulani to enjoy the amenities. All of our opinions are honest. Mahalo!
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