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REST AND RELAXATION
My anxiety has been bad recently and my bridesmaids want to organise a spa trip to help me relax. I’m nervous as I’ve never visited one before, do you have any tips? Whether it’s your first time in the spa or your 100th, we can all struggle to switch off our minds and get out of our heads from time to time. Here are my top tips on how to stay grounded and confident in the moment: Celebrate your body – If body confidence is your weak point, instead of judging yourself for the negative thoughts you have, pivot your mind to recognising the role that your body plays in your overall wellbeing. As you look at yourself, appreciate every part of you (even the bits you sometimes don’t love) and celebrate all that it does for you. It’s important to remind yourself that you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. If, when at the spa, you prefer to wear a more covered swimming costume over a bikini, then do! Whatever you choose, wear it with confidence for your beautiful body. Finding a treatment that works for you – Spas are more accommodating than ever before, with each offering menus that can often be tailored to your needs. If you’re nervous, perhaps build some
initial confidence with a facial treatment, and on your next trip, you might surprise yourself and want to book in for a whole-body massage! Switching off during a treatment – One of my favourite ways to switch off is by reciting a mantra and sticking to it. If you’re still struggling to switch off, move your focus to the sounds around you. Listen to what you can hear, maybe it’s the birds chirping outside or the calming music. Ensure you’re well-rested – When we’re tired, the mind will usually work overtime, and it’s harder to calm our thoughts down. So, the night before coming to the spa, it’s important to get a good night’s sleep. Try switching off your phone before you get into bed, and instead have a relaxing bath or read your favourite book. If you wake up and still aren’t feeling as well-rested as you’d like, try doing a quick meditation. Plan your trip with people who empower you – While going to the spa alone can be just what you need, often spending the day with the people who empower can allow you to enjoy it that bit more. This quality time with someone else can boost both of your confidence and bring you to a state of mutual relaxation. Penny Weston www.moddershalloaks.com
DELECTABLE DELIGHTS Most of our guests have dietary requirements. How can we cater for everyone? A grazing table is a great way to cater for everyone as it can be split into different sections to cater for various dietary requirements. Most grazing tables we create at Cranberry & Thyme have vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian and meat sections all on one table, with fresh fruit and raw vegetables, olives and dips to accommodate all needs without people feeling left out or having to bring their own food. For those with specific allergies, ask your supplier to create a separate platter just for them. Libbi Coldicott www.cranberryandthyme.com 55
