November/December 2017 AsiaSpa 91soundscape is played through Devialet’s
Gold Phantom speakers, which are placed at
a measured proximity to the treatment bed.
“Mindfulness is a key aspect that brands
aim to deliver and it is surprising that audio
storytelling has not been explored more
yet. This collaboration with Plateau Spa is a
great opportunity for us all to imagine what
audio storytelling could become, especially
with more evidence about the link between
wellness and sound,” says Julien Bergère,
general manager of Devialet Asia Pacific.
Bergère adds, “This is a first for us,
and perhaps in the world, of harnessing
the power of audio storytelling to explore
undiscovered possibilities in the traditional
spa journey and evolve the concept of
holistic wellness. We believe there is a lot
more to be explored in audio storytelling
and unorthodox sensorial experiences,
to allow people to discover the power of
sound and evoke real emotions that bring
mindfulness and wellness to body and soul.”
The experience is enhanced through
the touch/massage element, choreographed
seamlessly with the sounds, transporting
guests into a deeper meditative/mindful state
than traditional spa massage. Personally, IThe full-body treatment is performed
to a unique soundtrack inspired by hidden
sanctuaries of Hong Kong. Compiled of
genuine recordings made exclusively for this
spa experience, it includes sounds such as
raindrops falling on leaves, the breath-like
sound of wind blowing over a famous ridge,
a temple and a teahouse.
The French company captured and
recorded the sounds, wrote the storyline
and soundscape, working with noted Karma
Studios on the mixing and development. The
found the treatment a unique and powerful
way to experience mindfulness.
Interestingly some of the most impactful
sounds are not heard. Chris Craker, Founder,
Karma Studios explains, “Some sounds are
embodied just outside the range of normal
human hearing and are reputed to enhance
cell repair and stimulate the immune
system. A lot of research is being done in
this area and the results appear to be pretty
conclusive.”
Craker believes that this particular
soundscape intensifies the mindful aspect
due to its base in nature. He says, “Unlike
most spa music tracks, this soundscape
relies heavily on natural sounds, and we
treated these to be constantly evolving and
morphing from one to another. Guests are
in the sounds of nature and one is taken on
a long journey that’s constantly inspiring.”
Additionally, not just any speaker will
do. The Gold Phantom speakers reproduce
frequencies that no other speakers of
domestic size can, thanks to the company’s
unique patented technology. Bergère says,
“Only through our speakers are we able
to reproduce infra bass frequencies below
the human hearing spectrum, to create24096255./THINKSTOCK