The spa is made entirely from a mixture of clay-like mud and rice husk, straw and other local materials, featuring nine circular domed buildings spread over 1,386 square metres.

The domes - which appear to be floating on water - are designed with openings low to the outside to facilitate the flow of refreshing breeze and energy into the buildings. Openings at the top of each building provide natural ventilation. The complex includes four treatment rooms with private outdoor jacuzzi, two steam rooms, a meditation cave, relaxation and reception areas.

Many of the ingredients used in the treatments are grown in the resort's compound. These include rice, coconut, avocado, papaya, lime, aloe vera, cucumber, pandanus leaf, lemongrass, ginger, etc, etc.

The initial concept of Earth Spa was inspired by traditional construction methods used in the rural villages of northern Thailand where building interiors remain at a comfortable temperature even in summer.

The spa has also helped raise ecological awareness among the local masses which has also resulted in some of them adopting similar building techniques for their own homes.
www.bangkokpost.com July 06

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