Princess of Pampering: Maika Endo of Kocoon Spa Lounge
Born in Japan and raised in France, Maika Endo first arrived in China in 2000 with an “intuitive conviction” that this was the place to be. After working in marketing (Maika was once the Marketing Manager for the company that now produces Agenda) as well as promotions, the 30-year-old self-described “spa junkie” set up Kocoon Spa in Sanlitun’s Nali Patio with her mother last year, and her quest for perfection took her on a globe trotting expedition to learn age-old techniques from revered masters. We sat down recently with Maika to discuss the ins and outs of running a spa in the capital.
What drew you to the spa industry?
I think I always had a caring personality, and grew up with a strong interest in nutrition and wellness. I come from a family in Japan in which all the men are doctors or surgeons. I grew up playing with essential oils, practicing massages and hand healing, and reading about psychology and personal development. Unfortunately, I lost my stepfather to cancer a few years ago, just as we were just starting to learn more seriously about alternative therapies. My mother and I decided to set up a business together and it was only natural that it would be a spa: a platform for health, wellbeing and emotional support.
What training did you undergo to set up the spa?
I read all the books I could, and then I went to Toronto to learn how to set up and manage a spa. Afterwards I went to Japan to learn Shiatsu from an old Japanese master, then to Thailand, the country of spas, to take part in enriching seminars and workshops. Finally, I went to study aromatherapy with the pioneering figurehead of Institut Phytomedicale in France, Pierre Franchomme. I am still learning, and I feel so lucky to be in this position now, where I can meet professionals from different horizons, learn from them and also share. For example, through Kocoon, I met a tea expert who helped me select the teas, design the menu, and learn the art of tea preparation for the spa.
Any tips on running a business?
It’s very important to know your weaknesses and to work with experts in the field that you aren’t an expert in. I’m very bad in financing and accounting, and I did not have my financial plan checked at the beginning. I thought it should be ok, but figures directly impact the layout and size of space, cash flow, budgeting, marketing strategies and human resources. Some decisions I made are kind of irreversible now, but at least now that I have had some financial advice, I know the plan and where I’m going. The main thing is: Don’t operate a business blindly!
Beijing has a countless number of spas. What makes Kocoon different?
I tried the spas in Beijing, and realized there was a lack of intimacy. We wanted space and daylight, but privacy and coziness; just like someone’s home. If our guest wants jazz during their treatment, we will play jazz, if they want honey in their tea instead of sugar, I’ll get honey. Our aim is to make Kocoon a true urban retreat. Also, you can have your nails done while having a Martini! I make them myself. On Wednesdays, if you have a manicure or pedicure, you can have a free Martini! I especially recommend a fruity one.
What Kocoon service would you recommend?
I would recommend our facials. Our therapists have very good face massage techniques and we use high quality products that are free of parabens. We also offer a soothing European style reflexology. We use the “thumb walk” method on the sole of the feet to work on the organs, and then with long strokes on the legs to help blood circulation. If you prefer a softer massage, this is for you!
As a Spa owner, I expect you have massages and manicures all the time: Is this true?
Not as often as I would like! I am so busy now; I had more facials and massages before owning a Spa. In French we have a saying, “Ce sont les cordonniers qui sont les plus mal chausses,” which means – the shoemakers children are often shoeless!
I do quality control as often as I can, test all products and treatments that we offer, look out for new techniques, and constantly think of ways to improve. When I do the quality control, I should not fall asleep. If I really want to relax, I have to go to another spa!
Do you take care of your skin?
Not as much as I should… the air in Beijing is so cold and dry, my skin becomes sensitive and I can break out easily. Every night I apply Aromatherapy Face Oil from Pevonia, which is rich in Hazelnut Oil, French Rose and Lavender Essential Oils. In Beijing, you can apply oil on your face and after a few hours, everything has soaked into the skin!
Manicure vs Massage: What would you choose?
Ha ha! Do I have to choose? At Kocoon, some of our guests like to have a manicure during their facial massage! I love massages in general, and most of times I have French manicure on my nails.
Kocoon holds many events for its patrons. What future events are in store?
I try to share anything that I may have discovered and find interesting, enriching or helpful. In Mid-January, we will have German holistic practitioner Marianne Niederer come to Kocoon for a second visit. She will be offering private sessions for spiritual development and channeling, Chakra balancing, tarot reading, and workshops so you can learn how to use tarot cards and the pendulum.
Finally, if you were a beauty product, what would the label say?
An innovative product born from the synergy of natural organic ingredients from France and high-technology formulas from Japanese laboratories; this product is rich in lavender to soothe the mind and body, high in sandalwood to nurture and inspire the soul, and contains ginger to enhance qi. It is especially soothing when combined with a warm wine bath.
Kocoon Daily 11am-9.30pm (last appointment). Rm C301, 3/F, North Bldg, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Beijie (west side), Chaoyang District. (5208 6068) www.kocoonspalounge.com 朝阳区三里屯北街西侧81号那里花园北楼3层C301室
