New Shibui spa offers oasis

When guests walk through the doors at the new Shibui spa, they walk into an oasis of calm.

“We’ve come a long way,” said owner Zoe Willitts. “The idea for Shibui was born on a walk through a walnut grove and matured at our own experiences at world class spas.”

What began years ago with one woman giving massages in a garage has grown into a state-of-the art spa and thriving business. The old Shibui sits a short walk from the impressive new building.

Living its motto, “the art of simplicity,” Shibui’s architecture is Asian inspired. The interior of the 5,300-square-foot facility is furnished in the colors of nature from its original artwork to its beautiful wood and tile craftsmanship. In the center of the building, a giant Buddha sits in a pond which is surrounded by treatment rooms. The soothing sounds of the waterfall can be heard throughout the building.

Shibui offers a variety of skin and body treatments from their Salt Glow with Massage to a European Deep-Cleansing Facial. Also, the spa has a manicure and pedicure room. Shibui invites guests to begin their experience early by changing into a robe in the women’s or men’s locker room, then relaxing in the hot thermal soaking tub, or sitting in the waiting room with a cup of tea before their treatment.

“Shibui is energized by a passion for the healing art of body work and skin therapy,” said Willits.

Massage Therapist Diane Flowers says a real diversity of people enjoy visiting Shibui for “a break from life.”

“It’s a very simple beauty — it’s not a salon,” said Flowers, adding that everyone from local cowboys to tourists from big cities feels comfortable in the new spa. Flowers says clients who have visited spas around the world compliment Shibui on being a “first-rate facility.”

Manager Susan Arends said both locals and visitors have been enjoying the new Shibui since it opened in mid-May.

“We’ve been very busy,” said Arends. She points out that Shibui is “only the beginning.”

Zoe and husband Bill Willitts have more plans for their Five Pines development in keeping with the theme of well-being for mind, body and spirit.

Construction has begun on 24 cottages behind Shibui that will make it a destination spa.

The cottages will line a man-made river and the area will include walking paths, allowing visitors to stroll to the spa, neighboring Sisters Movie House, the planned restaurant, conference center and other new developments.

Shibui is located at 720 Buckaroo Trail behind Sisters Athletic Club.