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How Hanoi Healed Me

Bespoke health, wellness and beauty practices allow Vietnam’s capital to be a haven of rejuvenation and self-improvement.

Maya Cabuang

2024-07-20T08:25:39.081Z

Hanoi may not be for everyone. But, on certain aspects, it will try to be.

As a Filipina who's had the privilege of calling it my home for a few years, this is one of the things I’ve come to discover and it is quite evident in the city’s offerings of health, wellness and beauty.

According to a report by Hanoi Times, Vietnam as a whole began focusing on the health and wellness market segment in 2021. A number of public organizations took note of how important this is especially since the world was rattled by a pandemic. In response, Vietnam made a genuine push to be a place of rejuvenation, tapping its idyllic setting and relatively slow pace of life to create a setting conducive to healing.

The beauty industry is also a lucrative market recognized by its leaders. According to Vietnam Briefing, the sector is seeing a surge in consumers that have become more interested in personal care making cosmetics a serious player in the country’s economy.

But health, beauty and wellness are matters of personal interest. What may work for one cannot always work for another. So, the businesses in this sector learned the value of being flexible. They understood that in order to serve effectively, they needed to take the time to know who they’re serving and how they can stretch what they have to accommodate that person’s needs.

I was one of those in need when I stayed in Hanoi. And a number of businesses in this city, had me feeling better after getting to know me.

[Image from Poem Spa's facebook.](https://www.facebook.com/poemspa/)

Elly Tran and Poem Spa

31 P. Van Bao, Lieu Giai, Ba Dình, Hanoi

Poem Spa is a breath of fresh air in a world where luxury often comes with a hefty price tag.

This esteemed spa has made it their mission to provide top-notch services at a reasonable price. At this establishment, they believe that everyone deserves to indulge in the finest treatments considerate of their budget. Payment plans and modes are negotiable and customized per the client’s preferences.

They've also implemented a "100% satisfaction guaranteed" policy, ensuring that every client leaves their doors feeling happy and content. And if for any reason you're not completely satisfied, they'll work with you until you are.

Elly Tran is the ultimate Glow-Up Guru who is at the heart of this. She and Poem Spa are experts in all aspects of skincare and haircare, helping clients achieve a beautifully radiant glow from the inside out. She is the city’s shining star who embodies the essence of artistic expression. Being a master painter herself, her eyes, a canvas of inspiration, gaze upon the world with a keen sense of beauty and vision. And it's no wonder, as her hands—skilled and masterful—bring forth breathtaking works.

A key aspect of her style is that she does not change people's facial features, but enhances and accentuates what's already there. With each stroke and each delicate touch, she produces a finished product that evokes emotions resonating deeply with those who experience it.

Her clients are known to fly into Hanoi each year just to see her. Tran's expert touch is evident in every detail. Her work is not just a reflection of her creativity, but also a testament to the power of art to inspire and uplift.

Tran’s journey to creating a serene haven began with a simple yet profound idea: everyone deserves to feel beautiful. Growing up, she was fascinated by the transformative power of beauty and wellness, and as she entered adulthood, she knew she had to find a way to share that magic with others.

After years of research, planning, and hard work, she finally brought her vision to life. Poem Spa is more than just a place to get a massage or facial - it's an experience designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.

Its first floor is the hair salon where a team of expert stylists are ready to transform your look. Whether you have a specific style in mind or are looking for a fresh new direction, the talented team is here to guide you every step of the way. With a consultation, stylists will work to understand your vision and preferences. They'll take into account your skin tone, facial features, and personality to recommend the perfect color and style to enhance your natural beauty. From subtle enhancements to bold new looks, the team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results.

In the hair salon, you'll find top-notch equipment, quality supplies, real hair extensions, and a wide range of products from trustworthy brands both mainstream and all-natural. The stylists are skilled in the latest techniques and trends, ensuring that you'll leave feeling confident and radiant. Whether you're short on time, have mobility issues, or simply prefer the comfort of your own home, Poem Spa also has a mobile hair team to meet the client’s needs in the comfort of their homes or hotel rooms. With a range of services from cuts and colors to styling and treatments, they've got it covered. Poem Spa’s hair team also adheres to flexible scheduling and is eager to accommodate even the most demanding schedules.

On the second floor, the magic continues. This is where a team of award-winning cosmeticians make miracles happen to transform and beautify. Before any procedures are done, the team takes the time to have a comprehensive and comfortable chat with each client to understand their needs and desires.

They don't rush into implementing every request; instead, they take the time to guide you through every step of the way, ensuring that you're making informed decisions about your skin and face. No hard selling occurs as everything flows smoothly and comfortably. Poem Spa’s cutting-edge technology and expertise allow them to tackle a range of concerns, from melanoma to wrinkles, migraines to double chins.

The fractional lasers are capable of clearing up melanoma, while Botox can banish migraines and wrinkles, leaving you with a smoother, more youthful complexion and demeanor. Fillers are used to bring back the youthful look of your early 20s, contouring your face and giving you a radiant glow. And for those who struggle with double chins or jawlines, the expert team can mold them to more accentuated angles, giving you a more defined silhouette.

But it's not just about the procedures themselves; it's about the attention to detail and the care that goes into every step. The team of expert cosmeticians will work with you to find the perfect eyebrow shape and lip tint that will last for many years to come. And the best part? All of these procedures are generally pain-free and can be completed in under an hour. The Poem Spa team is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and trust throughout the entire process, with multiple hands gently and masterfully working together to ensure that you feel relaxed and cared for.

The 3rd floor and above is a haven of relaxation dedicated to soothing every ache, alleviating tension, and rejuvenating the body, leaving you feeling loose, light, and happy.

Upon entering the upper floors, guests are greeted with a warm welcome, a soothing drink, and a seamless transition to the serene atmosphere that awaits. As you ascend to the 3rd floor and above, the sounds of the outside world fade away, replaced by the soothing melodies of nature and the gentle hum of side chatter.

The pièce de résistance is, of course, the massage therapy rooms. Each one is carefully designed to provide a unique and intimate experience, with trained therapists skilled in a range of techniques to cater to every need. From Swedish massage to deep tissue, sports massage to hot stone therapy, there's a treatment tailored to melt away even the most stubborn knots. But reflexology is just the beginning.

The 3rd floor and above also features an array of luxurious scrubs and treatments designed to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. From exfoliating sugar scrubs to rich body butters and hydrating masks, each treatment is carefully crafted to leave your skin feeling silky smooth, and radiant.

[Image from the website of STAR Kickboxing and Fitness](https://www.starkickboxingandfitness.com/)

STAR Kickboxing and Fitness, Tay Ho

72 Đ. Xuân Diệu, Tứ Liên, Tây Hồ, Hanoi

Venture beyond the traditional tourist paths in Hanoi and immerse yourself in a unique and empowering experience at STAR Kickboxing and Fitness.

Founded by passionate martial arts masters Phú Ngọc Mai and Gemma Dunne, STAR is not your ordinary gym – it’s a passionate community dedicated to sharing the transformative power of martial arts with individuals from all walks of life.

Picture this: you’re traveling through Hanoi and stumble upon STAR Kickboxing and Fitness, where a team of skilled and accomplished martial artists awaits to guide you through invigorating training sessions and practical self-defense classes. Unlike many fitness facilities, STAR’s personalized approach ensures that each session is tailored to your individual goals and abilities, making every class a rewarding and empowering experience. The facilities are also top-notch, with all the equipment you could ever need to train at your best, and everyone on staff takes great care to keep the center clean and well-maintained.

For travelers seeking a well-rounded experience in Hanoi, STAR offers a short-term program for tourists, specifically designed to fit into your busy itinerary. They also offer online live trainings as well as home service sessions to maximize clients’ schedules. From dynamic kickboxing workouts, yoga, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, to engaging self-defense techniques, this program is the perfect way to stay active and connected during your stay in the city.

And let’s not forget about the little ones. STAR Kickboxing and Fitness also offer specialized children’s training sessions, providing a safe and supportive environment for kids to develop confidence, discipline, and physical fitness. With experienced instructors who cater to each child’s unique needs, kids can thrive in this fun and engaging martial arts program. Whether you're interested in traditional martial arts, general fitness, or modern self-defense techniques, there's a class here for you.

The customer service is equally impressive, with staff members always available to answer questions and provide support. Everyone I've interacted with has been friendly and supportive, and I love the close-knit community vibe that this center fosters. I feel welcomed and safe.

At STAR Kickboxing and Fitness, the experience goes beyond just training. With their stellar online communication and personalized recommendations for exploring Hanoi, the team at STAR is dedicated to ensuring that your time in the city is not just memorable but truly striking. Trainings ensure moves that are not only effective in self-defense situations but are also crowd-pleasers when performed in a demonstration.

So, whether you’re a seasoned martial artist looking to enhance your skills or a curious traveler seeking a new adventure, STAR Kickboxing and Fitness is the place to be.

[Image from the Facebook page of Tropicana Nail Lab](https://www.facebook.com/tropicananaillab/)

Tropicana Nail Lab, Tay Ho

37D Ng.31 Đ. Xuân Diệu, Quảng An, Tây Hồ, Hanoi

As someone who has explored numerous nail spas, I must confess that Tropicana Nails has left an indelible mark on my beauty experiences. The process of scheduling an appointment in advance, primarily through Facebook, may seem like a minor inconvenience. However, the moment you step into this haven of relaxation, you realize that every effort is worth it.

Upon entering Tropicana Nails, I was immediately captivated by the cozy lounge chairs, the soothing aroma that filled the air, and the refreshing tropical beverages that greeted me. The cool, rejuvenating ambiance was further enhanced by the gentle instrumental music that played in the background, creating a tranquil atmosphere that instantly melted away stress.

The extensive menu at Tropicana Nails showcased their dedication to providing comprehensive care for both nails and skin, focusing on the delicate areas of our hands and feet. What truly sets this nail spa apart, however, is the extraordinary skill of its nail technicians. Their ability to bring my vision to life through intricate nail designs, simply by interpreting my verbal descriptions, left me in awe.

In a refreshing departure from the traditional nail salon experience, Tropicana Nails is revolutionizing the way we approach nail art. Gone are the days of feeling pressured to have a specific design in mind before sitting down at the salon chair. At Tropicana Nails, it's perfectly okay to say "I don't know what I want" and that's exactly what makes it so brilliant.

The innovative approach has been gaining popularity among beauty enthusiasts, who are eager to relinquish the pressure of making decisions and instead, let the expert nail technicians take the reins. With a simple "I'm open to suggestions" or "Surprise me!" the talented technicians at Tropicana Nails will work their magic to create a one-of-a-kind design that perfectly matches your style and preferences.

By not having any preconceived notions, clients can trust completely and let the team do what they do best – create stunning, custom designs that exceed their expectations. The results are nothing short of amazing. From bold, neon-colored stripes to intricate, hand-painted florals, each design is a masterclass in creativity and attention to detail. Whether you're looking for a bold statement or a subtle, elegant touch, Tropicana Nails' team of experts will work tirelessly to ensure that your nails are not only gorgeous but also tailored to your style.

I'll never forget the moment I walked into Tropicana Nails, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety about my upcoming nail appointment. As I sat down in the chair, I was greeted by warm and welcoming smiles. I confessed I had no idea what design I wanted – not a single concept or idea had crossed my mind.

Their response was music to my ears: "That's perfectly okay! We love it when our clients come in with an open mind. Let us take care of you and create something truly special." I was hesitant at first, but their reassurance put me at ease. They took the time to get to know me, asking about my style, preferences, and my favorite colors.

As we chatted, I relaxed and let go of my need for control. The next thing I knew, they were whisking away to a station, where they began to work their magic. The result was a breathtaking design that perfectly captured my essence – a stunning combination of bold colors and delicate details that I never could have imagined on my own.

The experience was transformative. For the first time in my life, I felt completely comfortable surrendering control and letting someone else take the reins. It’s a good thing they did because after all was said and done, they nailed it—pun intended.

[Image from the Facebook page of Euro Nail](https://www.facebook.com/euronail51xuandieu/)

Euro Nail Style, Syrena Mall, Tay Ho

51 Đ. Xuân Diệu, Quảng An, Tây Hồ, Hanoi

Eye lash extensions are a work of art and some businesses make this quite obvious. An example is Euro Nail Style.

As you step into their tranquil salon, you'll be enveloped by a sense of calm and tranquility, the perfect atmosphere to indulge in the transformative power of eyelash extensions. Their team of skilled artisans, each with their unique style and flair, will guide you through a customized consultation, carefully crafting a bespoke look that reflects your personality, skin tone, and personal style.

But, it's not just about the style – it's about the artistry that goes into creating each lash. Euro Nail Style's expert technicians use only the finest materials, carefully selected to ensure a seamless blend of comfort, durability, and aesthetics. Every lash is meticulously crafted to create a natural-looking, effortless effect that leaves you feeling like the best version of yourself. And it's not just about the lashes themselves – it's about the experience.

From the gentle, soothing touch of their skilled technicians to the soothing ambiance of their salon, every moment is designed to melt away stress and anxiety, leaving you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the world

[Image of Raphaele Vallauri-Martin, taken from her website](https://raphaelevallaurimartin.com/)

Emotional Freedom Technique with Raphaele Vallauri-Martin

Online and Face-to-Face in the greater Hanoi area

As I sit here, reflecting on my journey to emotional freedom, I am overwhelmed with gratitude.

It's hard to believe that just a few years ago, I was trapped in a cycle of pain and fear. But then, I discovered, in Hanoi, the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and my life was forever changed.

I remember the days when anxiety consumed me. I would wake up in the middle of the night, my heart racing, my mind racing with worst-case scenarios. I felt like I was drowning in a sea of fear and uncertainty. I tried every therapy, every medication, every self-help book, but nothing seemed to work.

And then, one day, I stumbled upon EFT through sessions with therapist Raphaele Vallauri-Martin. I was skeptical at first, but something about it resonated with me.

Maybe it was the simplicity of the technique or the promise of releasing emotional blockages. Whatever it was, I decided to give it a try. Vallauri-Martin explained what EFT was about and what to expect. She then provided me with the framework of the steps.

To work on releasing emotions such as anxiety, fear, or past trauma, start by identifying the issue you'd like to address. Next, set an intention to release those emotions and allow yourself to feel a sense of calm and serenity. Once you've set your intention, begin tapping on specific points on your body, starting with the karate chop point on the side of your hand. Move your fingers to the eyebrow point, just above the eyebrow, and then to the side of the eye, under the eyebrow, and finally to the under-eye point. Continue tapping in this sequence, moving from the nose point to the chin point, and finally to the under-arm point. Remember to breathe deeply and focus on your emotions as you tap, allowing yourself to release any tension or stress. Repeat this process several times until you feel a shift in your emotions, and notice how your body and mind respond to the release of these emotions.

I remember the first time I tapped on the points. It felt silly, but I was desperate for relief. As I tapped, I felt a strange sensation in my body. It was like a weight was lifting off my shoulders. Suddenly, my anxiety began to dissipate, and I felt a sense of calm wash over me.

Over the next few weeks, I continued to practice EFT regularly with her. There was EFT for daily use and EFT for the emergency points within the day. And something miraculous happened. My anxiety began to fade away, replaced by a sense of peace and calm. I started to feel like myself again: confident, capable, and free.

Today, I am a completely different person. I am no longer controlled by anxiety and fear. Instead, I am empowered by my ability to tap into my emotions and healthily release them. EFT has given me the gift of freedom—freedom from anxiety, freedom from fear, and freedom to live the life I truly desire.

As I continued to use EFT, I realized that the power was not just in the technique itself, but in the emotions that were released. By tapping on specific points, I was able to access and release deep-seated emotions that had been holding me back for years.

This is a recurring theme of my stay in Hanoi: specificity. Each treatment I received worked because it connected with a specific need. And this happens because as I spent my years trying to get to know the city, it also tried to get to know me.

Again, Hanoi is not for everyone but it will try to be for you if you give it a chance.