IMMUNITY BOOSTERS

We've got face masks galore, are fervently washing hands, popping vitamin C and trying anything and everything to stay out of Sars' way. Now we can boost our bodies further at the Ellespa in Repulse Bay.

People need strengthened immune systems in spring because the change of weather makes them more vulnerable to colds, says Elleke Haggerty, the spa's managing director. Health experts are also advocating keeping immune systems strong as a way to protect against current health risks. Com-bining Eucalyptus Radiata with a relaxing massage is an ideal way to give the body a head start.

The 50-minute back and scalp Immunity Booster treatment starts with an invigorating scrub down to slough off dead cells, and has at its core an essential-oil massage using an infection-busting blend of French lavender, tea tree and three types of eucalyptus. Known for their anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, the oils strengthen the immune system and help the body fight colds, 'flu, minor infections and respiratory disorders. You have only to concentrate on relaxing while someone else does the hard graft, so it works wonders on the soul too. The head massage at the end, incorporating pink hair and scalp mud to soothe, nourish and protect one's locks, will turn even the most stressed-out client into putty under the masseuse's hands.

Tips: try to avoid appointments after the treatment unless you don't mind attending meetings with pink mud in your hair. Although the spa has a shower room, the longer you keep the mud in the more beneficial it will be.

Value for money: $500 for 50 minutes. It is cheaper than many massages because the limbs are omitted but, curiously, it feels like a full-body treatment.

Verdict: lord knows we all need a bit of TLC, and if this treat-ment keeps the bugs at bay too, so much the better.