Wellness Magazine Autumn/Winter 2018

Wellness goodspaguide.co.uk | Autumn/Winter 2018

10

Making the most of your spa time

Ways to be well at work

OPINION

WHY DO YOU SPA?

TREATMENTS

GOOD VIBRATIONS

Why we love a sound bath

Warm and

cosy Treatments for autumn and winter

PAGE BADGE

ANTI-AGEING RANGE IN FRANCE *

LIFTING EFFECT with a soft touch

FIRMER SKIN

100 %**

* IQVIA - Pharmatrend - Eye contouring products and facial anti-ageing care products for women in French pharmacies - MAT March 2018 - in value. ** Clinical study, 84 days, % of satisfaction, 42 women.

www.thegoodspaguide.co.uk

AUTUMN/WINTER 2017

| B

reinvents anti-ageing With its Resveratrol[Lift] Face Lifting Soft Cream, Caudalie becomes the leader in anti-ageing.

A global success thanks to a major discovery.

Grapevine Resveratrol ANTI-WRINKLE + FIRMING

Hyaluronic Acid PLUMPING + MOISTURISING Patent n°PCT/IB2015/054257 (filed by Caudalie and Harvard University)

Resveratrol [LIFT] combines grapevine Resveratrol with a complex of micro Hyaluronic Acids. This synergistic duo works wonders by increasing the skin’s production of hyaluronic acid. Naturally present in skin tissue, hyaluronic acid maintains skin hydration and plumps fine lines and wrinkles.

TESTED AND APPROVED(3) FIRMER SKIN

100 % LIFTED SKIN

93 % REDENSIFIED SKIN

88 %

Visit www.caudalie.com to discover more about the Resveratrol[Lift] collection.

(3) Clinical study, 84 days, % of satisfaction, 42 women.

Wellness goodspaguide.co.uk | Autumn/Winter 2018

10

Making the most of your spa time

Ways to be well at work

TREATMENTS

GOOD VIBRATIONS

Why we love a sound bath

OPINION

WHY DO YOU SPA?

Warm and

cosy

Autumn/Winter 2018 | issue 9

CONTENTS

Treatments for autumn and winter

Cover: Spa goers enjoy sunset in the new rooftop pool at Ragdale Hall Spa

Editorial Editor-at-large

Daphne Metland (Sybaritic Spy)

THE

CO SY I S S U E

Warm up with candles, healing treatments and delicious food

Editor

Caitlin Dalton (Summer Spy) Deputy Editor

U P F RO N T/AT BAC K

Spa news

04

Your letters

12

Spa reads

33

Soul food

54

George Goldberg

Spa listings

60

Design

The debate

76

Lucy Etherington (Savant Spy) Contributing Editor

Jo Gardner (Stylish Spy) Contributors

Shelley Hazlewood (Scarlet Spy) Anna Ramsay (Supreme Spy) Researcher

Michelle State-Tomlinson

Published by Good Spa Guide Rouen House Rouen Road Norwich, NR1 1RB +44 (0)1603 692296 info@goodspaguide.co.uk goodspaguide.co.uk

Follow Good Spa Guide online Good Spa Guide @GoodSpaGuide @GoodSpaGuide The Good Spa Guide For advertising enquiries email: advertising@goodspaguide.co.uk

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WELLBEING

Come home closer Spa-ing with cancer Sleep well Sound and colour Wellness at work

30 34 38 46 56

12

B E AU T Y

The treatment bible Tried & tested: candles Layer up

20 27 40

38

S PA S

New UK openings Switzerland Zanzibar Portugal

08 14 42 50

42

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CONTENTS

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SPA TRENDS

SPAtrends

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK New international spa openings to admire

BEST FOR… ADULTS (ONLY)

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL GEORGE V

BEST FOR… VINOPHILES

ROYAL CHAMPAGNE HOTEL & SPA

PARIS

FRANCE

In July, the Four Seasons Hotel George V unveiled its decadent new spa in the heart of Paris. Just off the historic Champs-Elysees, Le Spa – designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon and Jeff Leatham – offers 720 square metres of space dedicated to wellness and beauty with a brand new 17-metre indoor pool, vitality pool, fitness centre and hair salon. Treatments include signature experiences alongside a range of exclusive Swiss Perfection therapies.

Set in the Champagne region with exclusive access to local wine and Champagne producers, a historic 19th Century post house has been transformed into a luxury hotel with a destination spa and wellness centre. There are two swimming pools, a hammam, yoga studio and Biologique Recherché treatments. Each of the hotel's 49 rooms has spectacular views of the Champagne Valley, while twostar Michelin chef Jean-Denis Rieubland crafts local cuisine.

fourseasons.com

royalchampagne.com

BEST FOR… NATURE-LOVERS

BEST FOR… LUXE-SEEKERS

FAIRMONT MALDIVES

OSPREY SPA

Set on Shaviyani Atoll in the North Maldives, the all-villa Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi has launched its Willow Stream Spa. The 2,000 square metre wellness area includes sea-view relaxation rooms, a 50-metre serenity pool, and meditation and yoga sessions overlooking the ocean. Treatments connect with local culture through traditional Ayurveda.

Osprey Hotel opened its brand new £1 million spa this June with three floors of thermal facilities, six treatment rooms and a dedicated couple’s suite with a swing. Book a thermal suite featuring a rasul chamber or a dry flotation bed, or Voya treatment.

There are also two relaxation rooms – one light, one dark – and a dedicated grooming area.

fairmont-maldives.com

ospreyspa.ie

MALDIVES

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

IRELAND

SPA TRENDS

'Guests can also enjoy the private beach stretching along the Cretan Sea.'

BEST FOR… ADVENTURERS

BEST FOR… STAR GAZERS

NANA PRINCESS

SIX SENSES KRABEY ISLAND

Located on the eastern coast of Crete, Nana Princess opened this summer with a Royal Wellness Club. The resort’s signature treatment is the Spa System; specialising in four different pathways, the experience uses a unique system of baths, colours, steams and fragrances designed to either relax, excite, purify or tone the body.

In addition to the pools and whirlpools that accompany many of the hotel suites, guests can also enjoy the private beach stretching along the Cretan Sea.

Set to open December 2018, the latest Six Senses offering is on a naturally landscaped 30-acre private island. Dine or spa in your private pool villa or try water activities and island hopping. The Six Senses Spa and Wellness centre offers traditional Cambodian healing treatments, Khmer medicine with locally grown herbs, and an Alchemy bar to blend your own scrubs. An astral observatory is planned with stargazing experts on hand.

CRETE

nanaprincess.gr

CAMBODIA

sixsenses.com

SPA ON THE

OCEAN WAVE

Richard Branson's new cruise ship, Scarlet Lady, will make her debut with Caribbean cruises in 2020. The first of three ships in the Virgin Voyages line, the 2,700-passenger vessel will feature a rejuvenating experience called Vitamin Sea featuring a spin studio, yoga and cardio training; a serenity zone with a wellbeing pool; and a spa called Redemption, inspired by an underwater cave. Here, spa-goers will find a hydrotherapy pool, mud room, salt room, cold plunge pools and treatment rooms.

In the Dry Dock, guests will find a dedicated blowdry bar and a Stubble & Groom barbershop with male pedicures. As well as several restaurants, a music studio and a nightclub, the ship will also be plastic-free with no single-use plastic items on board – plastic straws, water bottles, food packaging and takeaway coffee cups will all be banned. When it comes to green cruising, the tide, it seems might finally be turning. virginvoyages.com

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SPA TRENDS

SPAtrends

NEW PRODUCTS

HEALTHY GLOW

GLAD TIDINGS

Elemental Herbology has created a new 45-minute treatment using their Coconut Shell Cream Body Scrub. Combining aromatherapy with deep exfoliation, the full-body scrub promises to be an invigorating holistic experience, giving deep moisturisation while buffing and polishing dead skin cells. Where do we sign up?

Reign supreme in your gift-giving with Temple Spa’s Truffle Deluxe Body Radiance Collection. The new Christmas gift collection includes a 150ml Trufflelicious shower crème and 50ml Body Truffle cream. Your friends will love you for it… that’s if you can bare to hand it over. templespa.com

elementalherbology.com

PORTABLE LUXURY

THE BEE’S KNEES

RIGHT ON TIME

French skincare brand Caudalie now have a range of mini travel products featuring their emblematic scent. The product range – with notes of white rose, citrus and watermelon – include a travel-size shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner, as well as a botanical soap enriched with avocado butter.

Bali Balm has a range of Vegan lip balms made from a bee-friendly blend of vitaminrich oils to moisturise and heal lips. Along with the packaging being fully recyclable, a contribution from each sale will support families affected by Mount Agung volcano’s activity in Bali.

Elemis’s new Peptide 24/7 skincare range targets skin cell renewal and repair for specific times of the day. The three products – Peptide4 Night Recovery Cream Oil, Thousand Flower Facial Mask, and Eye Recovery Cream – aim to support the skin’s own internal clock.

uk.caudalie.com

balibalm.com

elemis.com

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

SPA TRENDS

GOING UP BREAK-UP BREAKS Going through a breakup? A large number of retreats are now offering emotional healing therapies, stress management and/or life coaching services for guests dealing with the emotional and physical effects of heartbreak.

ARCHITECTURAL WELLNESS

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY SPAS Dementia affects so many of us, it makes sense for spas to be aware. Lifehouse Spa & Hotel in Essex is the first Dementia Friendly spa in the UK. Their collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Society means they host Dementia Friend Information Sessions for the entire Lifehouse staff, empowering them to support guests with dementia, from doing small things to help

to being able to adapt treatments. It was the brainchild of Spa Director Danielle Alen who was shocked by the way staff treated her father at a well-known coffee chain. “A spa should be able to welcome those living with dementia,” she says. Lifehouse also offer Wellness for Cancer treatments and have a team of health and wellness experts. lifehouse.co.uk

“A spa should be able to welcome those living with dementia.”

This is a growing trend where spa-goers hunt out spaces that are structurally beautiful as well as comfortable and functional. Sustainability forms a large part of this with spa-goers making a beeline for ‘living’ buildings, with greenery that grows on both the inside and out.

SKIP-GEN HOLIDAYS A different take on multi-generational breaks, skip-gen holidays see grandparents take their grandchildren away, leaving the parents at home.

GOING DOWN DIGITAL RETOX

HOLISTIC HEALTH CLUBS Gone are the days when all you needed to qualify as a health club was a gym, maybe a sweaty squash court and a microwaved jacket potato in the cafe. Five Bubble spa Moddershall Oaks in Staffordshire is leading the way by rebranding the traditional 'leisure centre' with their new £1.5 million 360 wellness centre, MADE. The building, surrounded by countryside, contains four workout zones: the Boutique Fitness Gym, an Outdoor Training Terrace for bootcamps and sunrise yoga, the MADE Cycling Cave with LED lights and hi-tech performance bikes and a Functional Studio for a range of fitness classes. There are two treatment rooms offering sports recovery, hypnotherapy, nutritional consultation and GP referals, too.

The Cafe at MADE has a positive attitude to eating healthily rather than dieting. The aim is to encourage clients to rewire their relationship with food, with a menu that steers clear of refined sugar and artificial ingredients.

The MADE philosophy is more about nourishing the body with mineral-rich foods while still feeling indulgent. We love that, among the rainbow salads, smoothie bowls and healthy sandwiches there's a toast menu. moddershalloaks.com

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Despite the benefits of digital detox, more and more spas are relying on technological advances to widen the range of treatments they offer. Technology is increasingly at the forefront of everything, from losing weight to getting rid of fine lines.

PLOGGING While we love this new concept from the Swedes, which combines jogging with picking up litter, we can’t help but wonder how much exercise we would actually get – not to mention how much our backs would ache after all that bending down.

DNA TESTING More and more spas are offering DNA analysis and consultations, with guests able to find out the role their genes play in their overall wellbeing. Imagine heading to a spa only to find out that early menopause is in the post? No thank you.

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SPA NEWS

SixUK openings You don’t need to go abroad to find a fantastic spa – with these new openings, you’ve got all you need right on your doorstep. Stylish Spy tells us what’s in store this season.

Above: Netherwood Hotel & Spa

THE SPA AT LOW WOOD BAY Lake Windermere

This summer saw the opening of The Spa at Low Wood Bay, a popular 18th century working farm-cum-resort hotel on Lake Windermere. Part of a multi-million pound investment by English Lakes Hotels, The Spa is located on the former site of the stables and old dairy, but is a world away from farming.

Both the indoor and outdoor areas have been designed to take advantage of the lake and mountain views, with some imaginative features – Coconut Steam anyone? There’s also the Dry Salt Room, a Herbal Lounge (settle into into a swing seat and inhale the warm, scented air), a hydropool called The View, where submerged loungers allow you to lie back in bubbly water, and a relaxation space called The Greenhouse: order a flavoured water from the SpaTender, read a book or just watch watersports on the lake.

As you would expect, the outdoor area makes the most of the views – relax in the

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

Fellside Infinity Pool or stargaze from the bubbly comfort of the outdoor hot tub.

There’s a Finnish sauna out there, too.

For treatments, The Spa at Low Wood Bay has created its own range of products called Berry & Birch – try a massage, scrub, facial or mani/pedi, alongside a menu of ESPA treatments, including those for men and mums-to-be.

And not forgetting the food: spa days include lunch at Low Wood Bay’s new restaurant, Blue Smoke on the Bay, with

'Most facials will feature some form of facial massage, often extending to your neck and shoulders' dishes cooked on a woodfired grill. You can also order healthy salads or indulgent afternoon teas – the choice is yours. englishlakes.co.uk/low-wood-bay

LODORE FALLS Derwentwater

Staying in the beautiful Lake District for our next new opening, the four-star Lodore Falls Hotel opens The Falls Spa this autumn. A new spa building has been created across the river from the hotel, with 11 new luxury spa bedrooms and five treatment rooms.

Rooms have Scandi-inspired décor, large living areas, luxury bathrooms and outdoor spaces – those on the ground floor have small private gardens; those on upper floors have large terraces with river views. You’ll find a complimentary bottle of Prosecco in the fridge, as well as fresh milk and shiny green apples.

The Falls Spa also includes a new Asian restaurant called Mizu, serving Japanese, Thai and Malaysian-inspired dishes (grab a spot on the riverside terrace and listen to the river run past). A Champagne and deli bar complete the dining options.

As well as five treatment rooms, there's a rasul large enough to accommodate four people at a time and a thermal suite

SPA NEWS

containing a laconium, aroma steam room, herbal sauna, salt steam room, ice fountain, drench showers and heated relaxation loungers.

The spa’s pièce de résistance is a 16-metre outdoor hydrotherapy pool offering spectacular views across the Derwentwater and Catbells mountain ranges.

There’s also a glass-fronted Finnish sauna to get hot under the collar in; cool down under the open-air ice bucket afterwards – don’t worry about screaming, only the mountains will hear you. lakedistricthotels.net/ladorefalls

NETHERWOOD HOTEL & SPA Cumbria

Hotels in the Lake District really seem to be pulling out the stops when it comes to spa-ing this season; this is the third – and last – of our new openings in the area.

The biggest difference at Netherwood Spa is the product house they have chosen to partner with: Spanish brand Germaine de Capuccini specialise in anti-ageing using the latest technology combined with ethically-sourced plants.

Access to Netherwood Spa’s Thermal Journey will cost spa-goers £20 for three hours, just enough time to get around the traditional sauna, aroma steam room (with seasonally rotating aromas), salt inhalation room, monsoon shower, ice fountain and hot tubs, of which there are three, each stylishly sunken into the ground and surrounded by chocolate brown rattan loungers with bright orange cushions.

Talking of design, Netherwood Spa has opted for earthy tones with a touch of style – think emerald green mosaic tiles with copper finish – while thermal rooms are a good size, accommodating around six people at a time.

Before leaving, guests can enjoy a mani/pedi in the double nail bar, where they can be served a glass

1: Lodore Falls 2 & 3: The Spa at Low Wood Bay 4: Netherwood Hotel & Spa

1

3

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5: Netherwood Hotel & Spa 6 & 7: Elements Boutique Spa 8: St Michaels Resort

of Prosecco, or relax in The Snug with its soothing grey and cream hues, soft beanbags, candles and light refreshments. netherwood-hotel.co.uk

ELEMENTS BOUTIQUE SPA Somerset

Part of the Windmill Retreat Estate – and part funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development – the Elements Boutique Spa is sure to win brownie points for its green credentials.

The day spa is housed in a brand new single-storey wooden wonder with steel

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

grey window frames and bi-fold doors.

It’s both stylish and eye-catching, and a lovely addition to the countryside known as the Somerset Levels. On a clear day you can see Barrow Mump in the distance, an historic site overlooking Southlake Moor.

The spa itself is spacious and light – dip into the square plunge pool and marvel at the countryside views through the huge glass windows. If it’s a sunny day, ask a spa attendant to fling open the doors so that you can breathe in the fresh air while wallowing away in warm water.

Spa guests will also find a sauna, steam room, experience showers and spacious relaxation suite here.

The well-thought-out menu at Elements Boutique Spa includes treatments by Aromatherapy Associates, Made for Life Organics and Nailberry. Book in for a facial (Essential Rose Facial, Age Repair Facial or a Deep Cleanse), a massage (Intensive Muscle Release or Hot Stone), a scrub by Aromatherapy Associates or a wellbeing treatment by Made for Life, where therapists are trained in cancer care.

And why not finish the day with a pop of Nailberry colour?

Elements Boutique Spa is offering three spa packages, each including full use of the thermal facilities, robe and slippers, a manicure or pedicure and refreshments.

NEWS

9

10 11

Choose between a half-day with a 60-minute treatment, a full-day with a 90-minute treatment followed by lunch or a Sundown Session between 4pm and 8pm with a 45-minute treatment and a glass of Champagne or a mocktail. Guests wishing to stay overnight can book a five-star luxury lodge, run by the spa. elementsboutiquespa.co.uk

ST MICHAELS RESORT

9 & 10: The Langley 11: Elements Boutique Spa 12: St Michaels Resort

Falmouth

Set on a beautiful sweeping blue flag beach, Cornwall's St Michaels Resort opened its brand new spa in August.

As well as the largest hydro pool in the South West (with 21 purpose-made stations to bubble away every ache and pain), the spa has a Champagne Nail Bar, Herbal Finnish Sauna, and a menu containing 60 treatments – spa guests will be spoilt for choice. There's also a well thought-out spa garden with a red cedar hot tub offering sea views and a Finnish barrel sauna. Admire the scenery from the outdoor wooden hot tub and you'll understand why the hotel's slogan is 'feel good again' (just looking at the website made us feel relaxed).

The property's health club, which opened in 2017, has a 17-metre pool, sauna, steam room, modern gym and fitness studio with over 100 instructor-led classes a week.

The property itself complements its beach setting with a pale blue tongue and groove exterior with plenty of floor-to-ceiling glass for showing off the enviable setting; inside you'll find natural wood and seaside hues.

Dining options include a 2 AA rosette restaurant, Brasserie on the Bay, where you can tuck into pretty dishes showcasing the best Cornish ingredients while looking out at the hotel's sub-tropical gardens, and the Garden Kitchen, serving healthy, wholesome food and coldpressed juices. There's also a lounge bar for signature cocktails. After a day in the spa and a delectable dinner, read a book by the open fire before slipping between linen sheets in your airy room. stmichaelshotel.co.uk

'Bubble all your troubles away in the outdoor wooden hot tub and you'll see why the hotel's slogan is 'feel good again'.'

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THE LANGLEY Buckinghamshire

The Langley isn’t just offering up a brand spanking new spa, but a new five-star boutique hotel with spa just 40-minutes from London.

Part of The Luxury collection, the former country estate of the third Duke of Marlborough will be transformed into a fivestar boutique retreat in the Buckinghamshire countryside, with parkland and gardens.

As well as 41 rooms and suites – a large proportion set in the old Brew House – The Langley will also offer a ‘collection of exclusive dining experiences', including a signature restaurant with an acclaimed chef at the helm (tell us more... ) and an intimate bar serving the finest cognac and cigars.

As for the spa, guests can expect to walk into a creamy, gold-tinted haven with a spacious reception area, earthy-toned treatment rooms and a Beauty Room for manis/pedis.

Treatments range from the run-of-the-mill to the more unusual (cryotherapy anyone?).

While The Langley is remaining tight-lipped about its facilities they are rumoured to include a women’s only thermal area, dip pools and VIP suites for relaxation pre- and post-treatment.

In partnership with Matt Roberts, personal trainer to the stars, the gym at The Langley will be technologically advanced.

Here, Matt will run personal training sessions, private classes, health diagnostics and goalsetting for guests wishing to get fit. With some training taking place in the glorious grounds, sessions are sure to be as resultsdriven as they are enjoyable. WM thelangley.com

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YOUR LETTERS

#DearSpaSpies

The Spa Spies

Tweet us at @GoodSpaGuide or email: editorial@goodspaguide.co.uk

Scarlet Spy Likes: Beautiful interiors, luxurious swimming pools, being pampered, long massages, quality food.

Dislikes: Noisy echoes, overlooked facilities, thin walls in treatment rooms, cramped spa layout.

Stylish Spy Likes: Minimalist lines, organic products, facial massages, tranquillity, interesting peoplewatching.

Dislikes: Discarded towels on loungers, steam rooms that aren't steamy, mobile phones.

Savant Spy

Worried about spa etiquette, what to take with you, or if you will have to undress? The Good Spa Guide’s team of Spa Spies answer some of your most asked questions.

What do I wear at lunch?

At a destination spa or dedicated day spa you can lunch en robe. You may wish to change to a dry costume and tidy your hair, but otherwise go forth and lunch as Mother Spa intended – in your robe and flip-flops or slippers.

Hotel spas may expect you to get dressed if lunch is served in a public restaurant. Some have a separate lunch area or terrace where spa guests can dine in robes. Check out the individual spa reviews on goodspaguide.co.uk, we make a point of telling you if you can dine in your robe.

If you fancy an extra treatment, you could risk it and wait until the day – some spas will have a board letting you know of special offers or available treatments.

But if you know what you want, book it as soon as possible: good therapists get snapped up quickly.

Do I have to get naked for a treatment?

What you wear is up to you. If you’re not bothered, wear as little as possible. Your therapist will keep most of your body covered, and just unveil the area she is working on. If you are having an oily massage or scrub, wear pants or bikini bottoms that you don’t mind getting covered in product, or ask for disposable knickers.

If you are uncomfortable getting undressed, book a head and shoulder massage and simply lower your bra straps.

Some facials have massage as part of the treatment while your mask sets, so if you don’t want your body to be touched, then say. You can have a head or hand massage, or just lie back and relax. You can also ask for a female therapist when you book.

Likes: Bold design, sublime views, Ayurvedic treatments, delicious nutrition, sustainable facilities, warm and genuine customer service.

Dislikes: Jacuzzis, flakey saunas, snoggers, hoggers and gossips, who often clog up pools so you can’t do laps. However, likes earwigging conversations in saunas...

12 | Wellness |

Do I need to book extra treatments before I go?

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

Do spas cater for wheelchair users?

An increasing number of spas are making sure they offer easy access. If a spa says that it has disabled access, then as a minimum it needs to have a low-level bell at the entrance for assisted entry, a disabled WC (one that can actually fit a wheelchair beside the loo so you can move from chair to loo: we have seen some that don’t!), and treatment rooms at ground-floor level. Newbuild spas need to comply with DDA regulations which make sure that their buildings are disability-friendly. The very best easy access spas will have hydraulic treatment beds, pool hoists, ramps and lifts between floors as well as specially trained therapists. Call the spa beforehand and make sure they can accommodate your specific needs.

Check your spa has an easy access icon on the goodspaguide.co.uk directory listing.

YOUR TWEETS / LETTERS

I pack everything but the kitchen sink. Can you edit my spa bag?

The absolute essentials are swimming costume and hairbrush. The rest depends on the quality of the spa, how long you are spending there, and whether you are trying the gym or a class. Our Spa Spies always take two costumes, so you can change into your dry one after a swim. Most spas supply robes and towels, plus a locker to store your clothing and mobile phones. Some will charge for flipflops, so check on the spa website beforehand. Most spas will also have shower essentials like shower gel and shampoo. If you want to try a class take your gym clothes as well.

Spas with our Five Bubble rating and above will make your day as easy as possible. Many will have body and hand creams and the very best will supply cleansers and moisturisers as well.

Is it safe to spa when pregnant?

Mums-to-be are well catered for at spas these days, with lovely and safe treatments aimed at making you comfortable and relaxed. The general rules are to avoid Jacuzzis, saunas or steam rooms because of the risk of overheating. Any treatments that put pressure on your stomach should also be avoided. Many spas won’t let you have a treatment until after your first trimester. If you have just found out and already booked your spa day, many will be happy to let you push the day forward – you can make up an excuse if you don’t want to announce it to your spa-buddies just yet.

Can I take my teenager to a spa?

If they’re over 18, they are adults and can do what they like (scary, we know).

Many spas accept over 16s.

If you are booking a motherdaughter spa day, check with the spa on their policy with teenage visitors.

The goodspaguide.co.uk carries a gaming icon for teenage-friendly spas in their directory listings and a useful feature on Spas for Teenagers. goodspaguide.co.uk

How can I spa during the menopause?

During this phase of life, looking after your health, de-stressing and taking care of your skin is essential.

Thankfully, more spas are open to conversations about menopause, and some now offer specially designed treatments or menopause breaks. Even those who don’t should accommodate you. Bear in mind spas are hot, so your hot sweats could be triggered. For some, that feels okay – rather a spa where everyone is flushed instead of a business meeting! If yours are severe, head for a spa with outdoor facilities, ice rooms, ice buckets or plunge pools – and make sure you stay hydrated.

Ask your therapist to turn up the aircon or open a window. See our feature Is It Hot in Here…? How to Spa with Menopause on goodspaguide.co.uk.

How can I be sure the spa will cater to my dietary requirements?

Many spas nowadays have Free From menus – you can often find out on their websites. Some spas ask about allergies and intolerances as a matter of routine when you book.

Read a review of your spa on the goodspaguide.co.uk directory listing: we have Food Fact sections that will state what the spa offers diet-wise. To be sure, let spa know at the time of your booking. They will then have time to make sure there is something good for you to eat.

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TRAVEL

NATURAL HIGH Sybaritic Spy visits Switzerland’s Grand Resort Bad Ragaz and, like Heidi, lets the mountain-fresh air and local food soothe her soul.

First impressions

is ‘textile free’ – it wasn’t long before we discovered that this means sans clothes; we did the very British thing and stayed in the pool area where our ‘textiles’ could remain politely intact.

The Hotel Quellenhof Thermal Spa, meanwhile, has a large pool containing wonderfully warm thermal water and massage jets, as well as a sauna and steam room. Down one level is another textile free sauna and steam area and a delightful ‘spa walk’ built to look like a gorge with huge slabs of local granite; guests walk along a river bed of pebbles and through waterfalls. Here, too, is a separate children’s spa area with three pools: get your little ones to try the 'mermaid swimming lessons' before enjoying a massage, manicure or pedicure.

What’s on offer

'I also tried a full body massage, with a wonderful orange oil, and a stimulating water crystal experience ... '

When author Johanna Spyri stayed in the village of Bad Ragaz in 1881 she wrote a story about a little girl named Heidi and her grandfather. In it, the mountain air and simple lifestyle cured Heidi’s wheelchairbound friend. After a few hours here, you can see why: the air is pure, the mountains spectacular and the food grown locally in the valleys.

Despite its natural setting, The Bad Ragaz Grand Resort is by no means small, with three hotels, 11 pools and seven restaurants, as well as a well-regarded medical health centre. We stayed at the Quellenhof Hotel and Spa Suites where rooms have their own sauna, steam/shower room and large balcony affording mountain views – perfect for early morning yoga sessions (or yodelling, should you wish).

There are two main spa areas in the resort: the public Tamina Therma and the Hotel Quellenhof Thermal Spa. The water for both is sourced from the local Tamina Springs where natural warm spring waters, heated to 36.5 degrees and accumulating natural minerals along the way, have bubbled up here since 1242. Rumour has it that the waters act like ‘liquid botox’ on the skin – after three days of vigilant testing, I can’t say my wrinkles disappeared, but my skin certainly looked smoother.

The public Tamina Therma has several pools with waters at varying temperatures, from a chilly 17 degrees (for the brave) to a very hot 36 degrees (for the very brave).

There’s also a sauna and steam area which

14 | Wellness |

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

Tell us about your treatment(s)

With the early morning sun peeping above the mountains, and the valley still draped in velvety darkness, I was the only guest at the Tamina Therma Spa when I walked in for my Haki Flow treatment.

My therapist, Patrizia, led me into the bright white area filled with water and began by asking me to take a quick dip in the cold pool. At 17 degrees, this was

a huge shock to the system and I was soon wide awake. In the warmer pool afterwards (heated to 32 degrees), Patrizia tethered my ankles to the edge of the pool to anchor my body in preparation for some stretching; while a floatation device under my knees enabled me to lie back in the water. Patrizia gently moved me around, stretching my limbs and my spine to realign them. The effect was soporific, and some people do, indeed, fall asleep.

Nearly drifting off – but not quite snoring – I remember thinking that this must be how a baby feels in the uterus: warm, safe and gently floating. I was surprised when Patrizia took my hand and placed it on the edge of the pool, signalling the end of the treatment.

Patrizia then led me to a bed to relax on for 10 minutes before showing me some stretching exercises to do at home.

My neck and shoulders felt relaxed, while my back felt longer and stronger.

I also tried a full body massage, with a wonderful orange oil, and a stimulating water crystal experience which consisted of a scrub using sea salt and mountain crystals, followed by a foam massage with mountain herb soap, washed off with thermal water. Just as I was completely relaxed, my therapist advanced with a bowl of crushed ice which she rubbed all over my body. I gasped at first, but then my circulation went into overdrive and my skin began to glow.

Food facts

You can tuck into traditional Swiss cuisine in the Swiss Kitchen where rosti with

TRAVEL

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TRAVEL

bacon and eggs and local beer hit the spot.

We also ate outdoors at Restaurant Olives which offers a healthy ‘Cuisine Équilibrée’, perfect for spa goers.

At the other extreme is the Michelin starred IGNIV restaurant, where dinner is served with a side of theatre. Our waiter explained that IGNIV is a local dialect word for nest and – like a bird bringing treats for its young – we could choose how many courses we wanted. The team would then select a range of sharing plates to try.

We chose three courses, each small, perfectly formed portions of carefully balanced flavours and textures. Our starter of leeks with creamy potatoes was even served in a hollowed-out hen’s egg. Our duck pate with chocolate and plums was

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a triumph as was the IGNIV version of chicken nuggets, moist chicken in crispy batter served on a small cake stand with a glass dome on top filled with smoke – KFC eat your heart out!

The finale was an invitation to the ‘sweetie bar’ where you collect a goody bag of homemade sweets, from fruity jellies to chocolate truffles or nutty chocolate slabs: lecker, as they say in German.

Who do you think would like it?

Anyone wishing to breathe in pure mountain air: The Bad Ragaz Grand Resort has been voted Switzerland’s Best Wellness Hotel time and time again.

Wine lovers: The area is known for its vineyards, with several good varieties

produced here.

Would-be mermaids: The children's spa offers mermaid swimming lessons for your budding swimmers.

Don’t miss

The train journey from Zurich to Bad Ragaz: Sit upstairs on the double decker train and take in the wonderful views of the lakes and mountains.

The sculptures: The impressive collection is eclectic, and provides the perfect excuse for a walk around the grounds and the village. WM Prices at Bad Ragaz start at £275 per night, based on two sharing. resortragaz.ch

AUTUMN/WINTER 2018

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www.thegoodspaguide.co.uk 20 | Wellness | MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

SPRING 2016

| 20

TREATMENTS

seasonal spa-ing rom cold winds and viruses to dry skin and low moods, it can be hard to stay healthy (and happy) during the colder months. With the help of some poets and songwriters, we’ve found some treatments and thermal experiences to ease common winter ailments.

F

"All the leaves are brown and the sky is grey" The Mamas and the Papas Winter can be a dark and dreary time for some, with very little natural sunlight making us feel a bit ‘meh’.

Some even suffer from winter blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), as it is medically known, making the winter months long and challenging. But there is something you can do to chase those blues away.

Mindfulness is a philosophy based on the Buddhist idea of being awake, with the existential belief that the present moment is the only reality. The basic aim of mindfulness is to develop an awareness and non-judgemental acceptance of the present

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moment, to live now rather than worry about the past or future. Regular mindful meditation can help reduce depression and anxiety. If you can’t get to a mindfulness class, or don’t know how to go about it, download the Headspace app and try it in your own time.

Meditation, the personal practice of self-induced quiet contemplation, is another way of introducing positive change to blood pressure levels by promoting calm. Many spas now offer meditation sessions that you can sign up for; once you’ve done a few classes, you can try it at home, in the park or anywhere where you can find a quiet space.

Yoga is another ancient concept that can encourage calm and positivity in stressed, muddled minds. Deep breathing is combined with intense movements and stretches, and sometimes meditation, to bring physical strength and emotional calm. Yoga is a Sanskrit word essentially meaning ‘union’, which describes its holistic approach to bringing strength to mind and body. A beginners’ class should introduce you to the basic theory of yoga, guiding you gently through some positions and circular breathing techniques.

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TREATMENTS

'...a scrub is a whole-body exfoliation treatment using salts, sugars or ground rice or seeds which are massaged into, or brushed over, the body.'

"I’ve got you under my skin" Frank Sinatra Flaky, dry, itchy and chapped skin are common complaints during the winter months, when wind, rain and snow sap the moisture out of your pores. Scrubbing with abrasive products might seem like the wrong thing to do, but scrubs help remove dead skin cells, revealing shiny new layers beneath.

Also known as a body polish, a scrub is a whole-body exfoliation treatment using salts, sugars, ground rice or seeds which are massaged into, or brushed over, the body. The scrub is showered off at stages throughout; the treatment usually ends with the application of a rich moisturiser.

Mud and spas have a long history – ancient bathers would lather themselves with mineral-rich muds or clays, letting them harden in the sun before rinsing off in the springs or rivers. The best known are Dead Sea Mud and mineral clay from the Atlas Mountains used in Moroccan rasuls, but these days spas are getting more creative with the slimy stuff. Muds used in modern spas usually contain minerals, essential oils and other goodies, such as actives or algae. The mud can be applied like a mask or massaged into the face, body or scalp, sometimes applying a wrap or using steam from a steam room to intensify the mud’s beneficial properties.

Gommage is a more unusual treatment that uses a mixture of clay, oils and herbs to exfoliate the skin. Smoothed over your body in long, stroking movements, the gommage cream, gel or paste is then allowed to dry for a few minutes like a face mask. Your therapist will remove it with a gentle rubbing motion; as it rolls up and off your skin, it takes the skin’s outermost dead skin cells with it. The word gommage comes from the French verb ‘to erase’.

“I cannot go to school today,” said little Peggy Ann McKay I have the measles and the mumps A gash, a rash and purple bumps Shel Silverstein Feeling a little under the weather? With all the viruses hanging around during the autumn and winter months, it’s not surprising. A visit to a steam room can be a good way of warding off a cold or catching it in its tracks. The moist, warm air penetrates the lungs and clears out toxins, while scents such as eucalyptus or salt can clear the sinuses. Smaller steam rooms are

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usually tiled with seating running around the edge of the room. Steam rooms are normally heated to around 45 degrees celsius but it can feel more intense because of the moisture in the air. Look for a hose or tap in the room and use it to run cold water on your feet and ankles to cool down – or do five-minute bursts, leaving for a minute or two before returning.

Reflexology may seem like an odd suggestion if you are coming down with a cold, but this alternative therapy works on the principle that certain points on your feet (and hands) correspond to all the organs, glands, tissues and muscles in the rest of your body. By applying informed pressure to these points, practitioners claim to be able to treat and heal medical conditions such as migraines or breathing difficulties. Tell your therapist you feel washed out and on the verge of a cold; they will concentrate their energies on your toes, which are thought to link to your frontal sinus, cerebrum and nose.

Salt therapy, also known as halotherapy (halo being the Greek word for salt), can also help if you are feeling under the weather. You can experience this natural treatment in a salt room or salt cave where steam is infused with salt and essential oils.

At some spas, you may even find yourself swimming in a salt-water pool which is gentler on your skin than a chlorineregulated pool, and won’t sting your eyes.

'Gommage is a treatment that uses a mixture of clay, oils and herbs to exfoliate the skin.'

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TREATMENTS

"O thou whose face hath felt the Winter’s wind" Keats Winter can be hard on your face, with high winds sucking the moisture out of your skin and causing redness and chapping. Why not try a nourishing or hydrating facial?

Great for dry skin, but also recommended if your skin is temporarily dehydrated. A nourishing or hydrating facial should boost the moisture in your skin making it feel soft, smooth and glowing.

Your therapist may perform a double cleanse to rid your skin of unwanted detrius before applying a heavier mask that sets – clay-based masks tend to work in this way. Your therapist may then end the facial by applying a richer serum, eye cream or moisturiser than usual; night creams tend to be thicker and, depending on your skin, your therapist may apply a layer to give your skin a real boost of moisture.

"The North wind doth blow and we shall have snow…"

Unknown If you’re finding it hard to stay warm during the colder months, you’re probably not alone. A hot herb poultice could be just what the doctor ordered. A tightly-packed mixture of herbs covered with muslin, poultices are heated and then pressed and rolled onto your skin to warm-up your muscles in preparation for a massage. This is a deeply relaxing and unusual treatment that smells soothing and feels very comforting, particularly when padded onto the soles of your feet and the palms of your hands.

Also known as thermotherapy, hot stone massages are a great way to warm up, too.

These use heated basalt stones that are laid or rolled onto parts of your skin to relax the muscles and lull you into a sleepy state. This treatment is also great for relaxing tired or aching muscles.

Or why not try a lava shell massage?

Tiger clam shells from the Philippines are filled with a sachet of minerals and activated – or heated – using a saline solution. The hot shells are then used for massage, generating heat for an hour or more after activation. The shells have two

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edges: the rounder edge where the shells join is used for general massage strokes; the sharper edge is used to penetrate muscles. Oils are sometimes used to help the shells glide across the skin.

If you’re after something a little bit different, a banya might be your answer to warming up. A Russian bath house – which traditionally encompasses a steam room, a washing room and entrance room – is heated to 90 degrees; special felt hats are worn to protect the head from such intense heat.

If you are having a banya bathing ritual, you’ll enter the very hot steam room, lay down and your ‘banschik’, bath attendant, will lightly whip you with ‘banny venik’ (bunches of twigs), often eucalyptus, birch or oak, dipped in water. If all that doesn’t warm you up, we don’t know what will.

"The dog and I have put on weight My knee is shot.

Her paws not great Long walks we did.

We loved to roam But now we both hobble home" Pam Ayers Whether it’s too much dog walking in the cold air or the usual aches and pains returning after months of respite, winter can play havoc with our bodies. If

you’ve done too much walking, jogging or just feel stiff, a sports massage can ease calf muscles or combat knots in your shoulders. Designed to release tension, prevent or treat injury or enhance sporting performance, your therapist will work deeper into the muscles to achieve results.

It’s not for the faint-hearted.

If your pain is localised, try a round of acupuncture and see if it helps. A form of Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture uses small, thin needles to encourage the nervous system to release endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller. The result is increased blood flow which may help alleviate short-term pain. If you have ever fancied acupuncture but are worried about the needles, ask your acupuncturist to show you the needles they use – they are as thin as a strand of cotton and seeing them should put your mind at ease.

If neither of these sound appealing, try Tai Chi, a gentle form of exercise which can help ease the pain associated with arthritis.

Deliberate, flowing movements are used to create and hold shapes. Once in position, focused, rhythmic breathing brings on a meditative state, encouraging your mind to overcome the pain. Training the body to avoid slouching through better posture and spinal alignment can also reduce stress on the spine, alleviating back pain. Tai Chi is safe for everybody to practice, making it a good choice for young and old.

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TREATMENTS

"I know I should take better care of my health But when I'm down, vegetables don't help... " Art Brut Comfort eating? Putting on weight? We all do it – as soon as the mercury drops we drop our guard, ditching the salads for bangers and mash or hearty stews with crunchy bread. And don’t even get us started on the amount we eat over the Christmas period.

Why not try a different kind of wrap, a spa treatment designed to slim and tone the body, hydrate or firm the skin, relax and soothe the muscles, or draw out toxins?

Whether you’re looking to shape, bake or sweat, wraps come in many guises but are generally designed to nourish, cocoon, warm, cleanse and rid the body of excess water and toxins For something even more results-driven, try a lymphatic drainage massage.

A therapeutic massage treatment that uses gentle pulsing motions to encourage the flow of lymph, a clear fluid that carries white blood cells around your body. Your therapist will work her way up from your feet to your face, using very light pressure, as well as long, gentle strokes and soft pumping movements.

Technology can also bring results when it comes to losing the inches. Try Ionithermie, a treatment using mild electric currents to stimulate the nerves in your body. Using pen-like instruments, your

therapist will apply short bursts of current which, granted, tingle a little but it’s said to reduce cellulite and tighten up the muscles in problem areas.

"The Ugly Sisters, jewels and all, Departed for the Palace Ball" Roald Dahl It isn’t all doom and gloom in winter: Christmas is a fabulous excuse to get dressed up and party the night away. And if Cinderella is going to the ball, she will need to look her finest.

A diamond facial won’t just leave you feeling like a million dollars, it will lighten, brighten and smooth your skin, too, creating a fantastic base for make-up that will stay put for as long as you stay on the dance floor. The precious stones aren’t just incorporated into the facial for the luxury factor either, they contain trace elements that, when applied topically, can stimulate cell renewal and fight free radicals. Try it after a long flight – you won’t be disappointed.

Diamond facials generally consist of a cleanse, scrub containing pink quartz and a face massage. The treatment ends with a moisturiser containing tiny particles of diamond.

And if you want to go all out, try a 23-Carat Gold Facial and Body Ceremony which uses the Sultane de Saba’s Gold range to combine a facial with a massage.

Using a cleanser, face scrub, face mask, elixir serum, face cream and body scrub

'A diamond facial won’t just leave you feeling like a million dollars, it will lighten, brighten and smooth your skin, too...'

26 | Wellness |

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

– all containing 23-carat gold – you’ll leave the treatment room glowing from headto-toe.

Talking of toes, if you are planning on wearing open-toe heels, you might want to consider a pedicure. Feet often get neglected during the winter months as they are stuffed into socks and shoes for most of the day. Your beautician will give your toes a good scrub and then get to work on shaping the nail in preparation for a colourful polish.

While you’re in the salon, ask for a manicure, too and get your nails looking in tip-top shape – perfect for holding a glass of Champagne. There are many different types of manicure, from the classic French polish to long-lasting gel manicures, and from paraffin manicures designed to soften the skin to Japanese manicures using intricately decorated artificial nails. Ask for a shade that matches your outfit and you’ll be the belle of the ball. WM

Photo: © Galgorm Resort and Spa

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On reflection Light, breathe in and relax...

The Spa Spies try out a range of winter candles.

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PRODUCTS

COMFORT ZONE TRANQUILLITY CANDLE 280 g | £36.95 comfortzone.it

KEY INGREDIENTS: Sweet orange and cedarwood.

scent (close your eyes and imagine George Clooney has popped over for a cuppa).

VERDICT: The rich and alluring scent

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: The Comfort Zone Tranquillity Candle comes in a sage-coloured

makes me feel like I’m being wrapped in

ceramic pot with a label which you can

cashmere. A cosy candle for the colder

remove. The candle itself is made of creamy

months or a classy gift for your suave special

wax and has just one wick, making it look very

someone. Both the scent and packaging

simple and chic.

would appeal to both sexes. This is one of

DOES IT WORK? Once lit, the smell is strong enough to infuse the air without being overpowering. After 10 minutes or more, I struggled to detect anything particular in the

the more expensive candles we reviewed but, with 55 hours of burn time – and the fact that it’s from Comfort Zone – it's worth every penny.

notes. There is orange, but it smells warm and musky rather than citrusy. It reminded me of a really good cologne, warm and sensuous rather than your typical aromatherapy spa

'A cosy candle for the colder months or a classy gift for your suave special someone.'

ELEMENTAL HERBOLOGY EARTH BALANCE CANDLE 200g | £38 elementalherbology.com

KEY INGREDIENTS: Orange, bergamot, lemon and lime, geranium, ginger, cedarwood and patchouli.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: The Elemental Herbology Earth Candle comes in a stylish black box with gold patterns and white writing on it. The colours add an element of glamour, while the patterns are creative and feminine. The candle itself is white and housed in clear glass with writing and floral patterns in black.

WHAT'S IT LIKE? This candle is all about giving a sense of balance to you and your home. The first aroma is strong but not overpowering with citrus high notes and spicy middle tones. Half an hour is enough burn time to fill a room. The scent did make me feel calm and wasn’t too heavy or sedating.

DOES IT WORK? The wick burns evenly which some expensive candles don’t, meaning it should last several weeks if burnt for 30 minutes at a time (the burn time is quoted as 45 hours). The only thing I wish it had was a lid, so it doesn’t collect dust between uses.

VERDICT: The scent is calming and transports you to a treatment room. I would buy it again and give it as a present, too. I also feel like £38 is a fair price for a spa brand candle.

' The first scent is strong but not overpowering with citrus high notes and spicy middle tones. ' 28 | Wellness |

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

PRODUCTS

TEMPLE SPA SIESTA FOREVER CANDLE 200g | £26 templespa.com

KEY INGREDIENTS: Lavender, petitgrain, geranium, frankincense,

down, burning this for half an hour should help you switch off.

chamomile, myrrh, black pepper, dill and patchouli.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: The Temple

DOES IT WORK? The candle burns evenly with the wick staying up and very little flicker (the sign

Spa Siesta Forever Candle comes in a

of a good wick). Despite burning it

simple yet chic black square box. Open

frequently, I’ve barely made a dent

it up to reveal a weighty glass jar with a

(Temple Spa suggest it should burn

shiny chrome lid; take this off and let the

for 45 hours). At £26 I’d say this

calming scent envelop you.

is a bargain for a natural smelling,

WHAT'S IT LIKE? Once lit, the soothing scent of the candle quickly fills the room. The smell is complex, relaxing – and very reminiscent of a spa. If you’re always on the go and struggle to wind

calming candle.

VERDICT: Spa heaven in a candle – light it and a world of calm and tranquility awaits. I’d definitely buy it again.

THALGO INDOCÉANE RELAXING CANDLE 140g | £21.50 thalgo.co.uk

KEY INGREDIENTS: Coriander, cardamom, incense, patchouli.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: Minimalist outer packaging gives way to a bright red candle which immediately reminds me of Christmas; one smell and I’m picking up the warming, spicy cardamom and the heady incense – it is instantly comforting.

WHAT'S IT LIKE? Once lit, the scent envelops the room slowly, filling the air with an exotic aroma which is instantly relaxing, and perfect for this time of year. There’s very little flicker, too.

DOES IT WORK? This is a really good value product that burns slowly and evenly while filling your room with warming aromas. If you have trouble sleeping, burn this while you’re in a warm bath and you’re sure to sleep like a baby.

VERDICT: The Thalgo Indocéane Relaxing Candle definitely does what the name suggests: relaxes. It’s perfect for burning on a cold winter’s night while reading a book and, at just £21.50, would make a fantastic Christmas present. It's certainly on my wish list.

'It’s perfect for burning on a cold winter’s night...' goodspaguide.co.uk

'Spa heaven in a candle – light it and a world of calm and tranquility awaits. '

ESPA ENERGISING AROMATIC CANDLE 200g | £26 espaskincare.com

KEY INGREDIENTS: Peppermint, eucalyptus, lime, rosemary.

'If you like fresh, subtle candles, this is a good choice.'

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: The ESPA Energising Aromatic candle comes in a stylish bronze and white box with distinctive silver writing. The candle itself is encased in thick plain glass with the words ESPA embossed on the front in white.

Underneath the candle is a round cork mat to place it on – a practical idea that protects surfaces from dripping wax.

WHAT'S IT LIKE? The fragrance is strong and citrussy on first smell but – once lit – is much more subtle with fresh, light notes that are extremely pleasant. The packaging suggests the candle should revitalise, enliven and awaken the senses while burning for 40 hours.

DOES IT WORK? I lit it before getting into a bubble bath; like the scent, the effect is very subtle – perfect if you don't want to feel too sleepy afterwards. With its fresh, light smell, the ESPA Energising Aromatic Candle would be good to use during the day, too.

VERDICT: This is a classy candle that will look lovely in your home. The scent isn't too overpowering, it's good value-formoney and it has a long burn time.

What's not to like?

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COME HOME... closer

Come home

closer

At this time of year, when the evenings start to draw in, the focus is on relationships. Here’s our guide to how to get cosy with your loved ones without tearing your hair out.

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

COME HOME... closer

HU MEAN G LIKE YO U IT, M SAVO INDFULL Y U WARM R THE TH AN CONT D ACT

n a world where social media ‘likes’ replace genuine contact with friends, isn’t it about time we reached out to the people we care about? Of course, there are risks to getting closer – we may carry old hurts and resentments that are too easily triggered. But with loneliness becoming the new health epidemic, there are even greater risks to keeping others at arm’s length. We need to remind ourselves how important it is to get closer.

I

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

It’s interesting how much our unreal expectations can spoil our time with other people. It could be that we believe the photoshopped lives our friends post online; perhaps you have a fantasy that every other family is doing a Bing Crosby around the piano with rosy-cheeked happy children; or that other people’s husbands remembered Valentines and booked the restaurant/ bought roses without having to be asked.

Take a moment to think about that – doesn’t it seem a little unreal, or even worse, fake? I don’t know about you, but if my family started to behave like perfect versions of themselves, I’d worry they’d been abducted by aliens.

Sometimes, you need to remind yourself what you love about these people. See their flaws (and your own) as rather touchingly amusing rather than disastrous signs of failure. Perhaps you can learn to chuckle at yourself and them – fondly rather than meanly. It’s not easy being human and imperfect; and that basic, shared understanding is as good a place as any to start.

“When the myth fails, human love begins,” wrote Anais Nin.

WHAT DO YOU ALWAYS DO IN RELATIONSHIPS?

You may already know what your patterns are. You go for the same types, with the same outcomes. You end up playing the same role in family or group situations, even though you may have grown and changed in everyday life.

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Studies have found that your style of relating is laid down in the first few months of your life. Three main relational or Attachment Patterns have been identified by clinical psychologists. They are: Secure Attachment: “I feel happy in myself and respect that my partner is a separate individual.”

Avoidant: “If anyone gets too close, I get hurt or rejected so I pull away.”

Anxious: “I fear being betrayed so I get clingy, and sometimes paranoid and resentful.”

When stressed, we often ping back to early childhood experiences, and can feel very young, vulnerable and overwhelmed, especially in situations where there is potential conflict.

The good news is that, thanks to our brain’s ‘plasticity’, we can create totally new patterns and relate in healthier ways.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

The bottom line is that you can only be responsible for your own actions and feelings in any relationship: what the other person does (or doesn’t) do is up to them.

Notice when your reaction to something someone says is slightly out of proportion;

'Positive touch is the secret to every successful relationship.' when the emotion feels overwhelming, and whether it's anger or tears. This is usually a sign that you are not responding to the hereand-now but triggering back to the past. If you can spot this happening, take a deep breath, assess the reality of the situation then choose to react differently.

COMMUNICATE

As any couples or family therapist will tell you, communication is key to a healthy relationship. No-one is a mind reader: you have to say how you feel. Make sure you own your feelings rather than playing the victim. Try beginning with, “This is how I feel when…” Not, “You make me feel…”. Then

give them space to respond. Be prepared to hear that you made a mistake, and own that, too – it could relate back to your pattern and help you see how this situation is different.

Be vulnerable Instead of playing the victim, admit you are vulnerable. We all are, we’re just afraid to show it. Take a risk and say what you really feel; scary, yes, but brave, and essential for intimacy and trust.

“We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known.” Brené Brown, The Power of Vulnerability.

Learn to listen At the heart of communication is an ability to listen and reflect on what you have heard.

To really listen, put aside your own thoughts and feelings, and try to enter that other person’s world. Try mirroring their body language, think of all the things they’ve been through and see the situation from their point of view. Then tell them what you heard to show them you understand.

“If you can pay attention to somebody, without being carried away by your thoughts, that’s an expression of love,” says Haemin Sunim, author of Things You Can Only See When You Slow Down.

Touch Having a massage at a spa reminds us of how amazing, and rare, it is to be touched.

Touch is powerful. Positive touch releases oxytocin, the hormone responsible for bonding between mother and child, and lowers our heart rate and cortisol levels.

Babies need to be touched in order to thrive.

It is our first experience of love and we are sensitive to its communication – both positive and negative. Positive touch is the secret to every successful relationship.

Being touched with kindness, respect and compassion calms us down and makes us happy: think about how we crave a hug when we feel sad. A good hug is invited or offered, not demanded or forced. Hug like you mean it; mindfully savour the warmth and contact with another body and think compassionate, loving thoughts. WM

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RELAX WITH A

BOOK What the Spa Spies are reading.

THE FOUR TENDENCIES Gretchen Rubin £9.99 tworoadsbooks.com

What’s holding you back in life, in relationships, from losing weight, living your dreams? You, of course. But why? To explain why we act, or don’t act, and why some of us need deadlines while others kick against them, Gretchen Rubin outlines four personality types: Upholder, Obliger, Questioner and Rebel. Rubin (Upholder) is famed in Oprah and TED talk circles as

SELF-CARE FOR THE REAL WORLD

Nadia Narain and Katia Narain Phillips £16.99 penguin.co.uk Filled with ideas and advice on how to practise self-care, this is like having a wise and wonderful friend to hand. Read and try a new idea each day to get into the habit of making time for you.

Meditations, yoga and breathing exercises are interspersed with healthy recipes and wise words. It’s written by two sisters – yoga teacher Nadia and chef Katia, both walking adverts for their own healthy philosophy.

goodspaguide.co.uk

NOTES ON A NERVOUS PLANET Matt Haig £12.99, cannongate.co.uk

Matt Haig writes simply, honestly and humorously about huge things – we have pressed copies of Reasons to Stay Alive into the hands of anyone struggling with depression or anxiety. This, his new book, is one for the overwhelmed. Why is life stressing us out?

Haig takes a bracing look at our relationship with the world, technology and ourselves, and offers hope by showing us how to ‘unplug’ and reconnect to others, make changes where we can (and manage our anxiety where we can’t), to be open-minded and openhearted – and still remain friends with our smartphones.

Quote this: “Happiness is not good for the economy. We are encouraged, continually, to be a little bit dissatisfied with ourselves.”

Top fact: A supermarket is the most common place to have a panic attack.

Top Tip: “Do not compare yourself to other people.”

Read it… on a digital detox. author of The Happiness Project. To find out where you fall, read the outlined traits rather than taking the slightly annoying quiz (said the Rebel). Useful for taking a good, honest look at yourself and making the most of what you have.

Quote this: “Insight about our Tendency allows us to create the situations in which we’ll thrive.”

Top Fact: 41 percent of American’s surveyed by Rubin were Obligers. The smallest group were Rebels.

Top Tip: Obligers make great workers and partners, but don’t exploit them … they may suddenly rebel.

Read it… on a health retreat, so you can stick to your new lifestyle.

It’s endorsed by the likes of Kate Moss and Reese Witherspoon (but don’t let that put you off). We think it would make a lovely gift for a friend who has been going through a tough time – it may even be a life-saver.

Quote this: “Putting care and love into yourself will allow you to be more open to receiving love from others, and you will find you have more to give. It’s like a circle and it starts with you.”

Top fact: In 40 days you can break a negative habit; in 90 days you can establish a new habit; in 120 days you will ingrain that new habit; in 1,000 days you will master the new habit.

Top tip: Massage is a necessity, not a luxury.

Read it… when spa-ing with your best friend: share the love.

AND BREATHE

Rebecca Dennis £14.99 orionbooks.co.uk I was a little sceptical about this book as it’s about breathing – and we all do it, right? But a few pages in, I began to breathe consciously, deeply into my diaphragm as instructed, and felt powerfully calm and grounded.

The practise of deep breathing stimulates our parasympathetic nervous system, which soothes and deactivates our ‘fight or flight’ mode. This seemingly ordinary thing we do can be used intentionally to help with insomnia, anxiety, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, asthma and even IBS. There are various breathing exercises throughout to help you connect with, accept and manage, emotions during difficult times – from a tricky meeting to sudden trauma. Keep it handy.

Quote this: “Breath is our medicine, a powerful tool that we all too often take for granted.”

Top Fact: We inhale and exhale around 20,000 times a day.

Top Tip: Emotion is energy-in-motion. It’s not good or bad. Rather than engaging with it, breathe deeply into it, and by becoming the observer, you will be able to detach from it.

Read it… on a much-needed solo spa day.

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WELLNESS

CAN I SPA WITH CANCER? More and more spas have soothing treatments delivered by cancer care-trained therapists; but you still may still have some concerns.

Savant Spy addresses some of them before your spa day.

I

f you have or are in recovery from cancer, you may want nothing more than a relaxing day at a spa. But when your body has been through so much already, you may feel naturally protective of it. It may feel very vulnerable to put yourself in someone else’s hands, or even to be seen if you have scars, hair-loss or other side-effects from chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

There is so much to carefully consider and think about, we would always recommend that you discuss the issues with your oncologist, the spa itself and perhaps your close friends before you go.

Thankfully, spas are now taking cancer very seriously: a few years ago, someone recovering from cancer may well have been refused a treatment at a spa. But in a short space of time the landscape has changed, and for the better. Now you can even get some complementary treatments on the NHS. The Royal Marsden Hospital offers massage and reflexology to patients undergoing cancer treatments. And UCL Macmillan Cancer Centre uses aromatherapy, gentle massage, reflexology and Reiki.

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New training courses (see box) on cancer care mean that many spas have specialist therapists. So what treatments can you have at a spa if you are being treated for, or recovering from, cancer?

Can I have a massage?

Perhaps you have heard someone say that stimulating massages could ‘push the cancer cells around the body’.

This was once a common fear, and the reason so many spas refused to offer treatments to those with cancer.

But experts say there is no evidence for this (see 'What to avoid' opposite for exceptions).

Breast Cancer Care (breastcancercare.org) say: “It’s safe to have a massage, even if you are currently having treatment such as chemotherapy.” Indeed, some hospitals now offer a course of massage as part of their radiotherapy package.

Are there benefits?

One of the key benefits to aiding recovery is that a good massage can relieve stress and help you to relax.

The Cancer Research website states that “gentle forms of massage, such as aromatherapy, affect your nerve endings. This could release chemicals called

WELLNESS

endorphins which can reduce pain.” They add: “One of the main reasons people with cancer use massage is because it helps them feel good. It is a way they feel they can help themselves.”

The other positive benefit is the power of touch. Touch is vital to human connectivity and wellbeing. When touched, we release oxytocin, the hormone responsible for bonding and wellbeing: if you have experienced lots of clinical treatments, operations and tests, you may not have experienced positive, caring touch for a very long time. It can feel wonderful and very emotional. If you feel like crying, go ahead – lots of people do. Cancer care therapists are trained for this to happen, and to respond with empathy and compassion.

But will it hurt?

If your skin is very painful to touch, then perhaps it is wise to wait. However, specialist treatments and trained therapists will work around this, and even try to help. Cancer trained therapists will be aware that chemotherapy and radiotherapy can leave the skin extremely sensitive, and to avoid areas directly over tumours or affected lymph nodes.

'The key word to look for in any massage is 'gentle'..."

Perhaps you don’t think you will feel comfortable lying down on a treatment bed. You can discuss this with your therapist, as many treatments take this into account and use cushions, pillows or a hydrotherm mattress to support you.

But if in doubt, wait until you are ready.

The key word to look for in any massage is ‘gentle’: most oncologists recommend avoiding deep tissue massage, simply because it’s painful. Made for Life Cancer Touch Therapy treatments include

goodspaguide.co.uk

Which products can I trust?

Catch the Breath, Soothe and Nurture and Hand on Heart. They use Tui Na Chinese massage which is light and soothing and works with the body’s energies to induce a state of deep relaxation.

What to avoid

Always check with your oncologist but avoid massage on any area of your body where you are having radiotherapy, where your skin is broken or bruised, or where lymph nodes have been removed or are affected. You should also avoid general massage therapy to your arms and legs if they are swollen due to lymphoedema: if they are, you could see a lymphoedema specialists for a Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) massage. Similarly, avoid any rough and rigorous massages, scrubs or treatments, not least because your skin will be more sensitive than usual.

The traditional line with heat treatments (such as saunas and steam rooms) is that they should be avoided; but again, this is a discussion worth having with your oncologist if you are unsure.

What about facials and beauty treatments?

If your skin is flaky or sore after treatment, a nourishing, gentle facial may help your skin recover as well as remind you to enjoy life’s luxuries. Make sure the products are natural and organic and that the facial is delivered by a cancer caretrained therapist. They will also be trained to talk compassionately about your hair-loss, scars or any other side effects.

If your nails are flaking after chemo, avoid nail varnish and opt instead for a hand or foot massage. Varnishes offered in manicure and pedicures for clients whose nails are okay are free from chemical nasties to avoid an unpleasant reaction.

There is some discussion as to whether chemicals used in beauty products are harmful, particularly those in popular brands of nail varnish. Breast Cancer UK has launched a campaign that lists beauty products containing harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates and synthetic musk – check out #DitchTheJunk on Twitter. Generally, it is wise to choose pure and organic products until we know more.

Some product ranges have been designed for people recovering from cancer: Made for Life products are certified organic and smell divine. Well-known brands such as Aromatherapy Associates, Germaine de Capuccini and ESPA are now working with experts to develop products and treatments.

Defiant Beauty was launched by Jennifer Young who founded the ‘Beauty Despite Cancer’ foundation (beautydespitecancer. co.uk). Jennifer is an associate member of the Royal Society of Medicine with a BSc (Hons) in Biology, and is an experienced micro-biologist. The products do not contain any oestrogenic substances or any essential oils that are thought to have the potential to interfere with treatments, and are formulated to soothe chemotherapy and radiation-damaged skin. There are oils for itchy skin, damaged nails,

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WELLNESS

skin affected by chemotherapy and healing balms for lips, hands, and feet.

The products also feel luxurious.

Do you feel ready?

Think about what you want to achieve from your spa trip: is it just relaxation and a chance to unwind or do you want to spend some time thinking about your health? Perhaps you simply want to spend time with a close friend? Or maybe it’s time to try a massage, a facial or a beauty treatment to boost your self-esteem?

Think things through before you book and pick the right spa for your needs.

Before you go…

Talk to your oncologist, cancer care nurse or family doctor: Check if there is anything they recommend avoiding, and make sure you have all the latest information about your treatment plan.

Check your spa has cancer trained therapists: Good Spa Guide lists spas with cancer care therapists. All spas listed on the site that have cancer care trained

'Think about what you want to achieve from your spa trip: is it just relaxation and a chance to unwind...' therapists and offer specialist treatments are marked with a heart symbol on their directory listing. Find out more at goodspaguide.co.uk Contact the spa in advance: Ask your spa what they need from you: some require a letter from your GP, others may have a medical questionnaire online to download and fill out. Once at the spa, talk to the therapist before you have your treatment and run through everything you want them to be aware of. Trained therapists should have a good understanding of your type of cancer and the side-effects of your particular cancer treatment. Some may even have some advice on how to alleviate some of your particular symptoms.

Who trains the therapists?

Julie Bach, Executive Director of Wellness for Cancer, is one of the major trailblazers in cancer-focused spa and beauty training.

Wellness for Cancer is a charity that provides training for spas all over the world. They work alongside doctors, oncologists and cancer-care specialists to develop safe treatments that can help minimise the effects on the skin and body, as well as provide emotional and mental relief. Therapists are trained how to respect the lymphatic system and be aware of things like node removal.

Amanda Winwood, MD of Made for Life organic skincare developed The Made for Life foundation specifically to support those with, or recovering from, cancer. They now run accredited Cancer Touch Therapy courses developed with NHS oncologists and Macmillan at over 20 UK spas, including Aqua Sana. Amanda says therapists are trained to be aware of things like loss of confidence, scars, wigs, how to position someone who has had a double mastectomy… which may be good to know if you are feeling worried or vulnerable about how the therapists will respond to you.

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

Find out more: macmillan.org has a section on complementary therapies that can be used alongside standard medical treatments and a complementary therapy finder tool. Goodspaguide.co.uk lists cancer care therapists on its website.

All spas listed on the site that have cancer care trained therapists and offer specialist treatments are marked with a heart symbol on the directory listing, making it easy for you to identify which spas can help.

Go shopping: madeforlifeorganics.com beautydespitecancer.co.uk notanotherbunchofflowers.com WM

WHERE CAN I SPA WITH CANCER? Grayshott Spa (Surrey) has medically trained staff and offers cancer support and recovery packages; but you don't have to go to a medical spa to enjoy a treatment. Therapists at Lifehouse Spa & Hotel (Essex) have been trained by the NHS Christie Trust to adapt spa treatments for anyone recovering from cancer, stress or bereavement.

The Spa at Bedford Lodge (Suffolk) and The Mere (Cheshire) have also completed Wellness for Cancer training, while all five Aqua Sana spas have cancer care trained therapists.

Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa (Cumbria) has just launched Cancer Touch Therapies with Made for Life, as has Fairmont St Andrews (Fife). You can have Jennifer Young treatments at Whittlebury Hall (Northamptonshire), Hoar Cross Hall (Staffordshire), Ragdale Hall (Leicestershire), Weaver’s House (Suffolk) and Rudding Park (Yorkshire), as well as many of the Bannatyne Spas.

Visit goodspaguide.co.uk to find a spa near you.

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WELLNESS

Silent

NIGHT Did you get eight hours sleep every night this week? If you did, you’re one of the lucky one third of the population. For the rest of us, a decent night’s sleep is but a dream. But what can we do about it?

And, more importantly, should we care?

M

ost articles on sleep list the terrible ailments that will befall those who fall short of the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended eight hours. Since stress is one of the major causes of sleep deprivation, we don’t want hypochondria to keep you awake at night, too.

Let’s just say that sleep is extremely important to our wellbeing, and we should be making it as much (if not more) of a priority as going to the gym or eating well.

If you go through periods of sleep loss – trauma, being a parent or studying around the clock, there are countless reasons – it's all part of life’s cycle. But it’s important to regain a healthy sleep pattern as soon as you can.

Before we give you some tips on getting a good night's sleep, let’s look at some of the amazing things that happen when you close your eyes.

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

WELLNESS

There are two stages of sleep

REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and NREM (non-REM) and both are important. NREM is deep sleep where cellular repair and longterm memory filing takes place; REM is the land of dreams.

To sleep perchance to dream…

For centuries, we humans have been trying to work out why we dream. Are dreams, prophecies, messages from another realm, symbolic expressions of our deep unconscious processes or just a load of nonsense? Recent neuroscientific research has thrown light onto this dark corner of our minds, scanning our brains when we are in REM sleep, and studying what happens when we do and don’t dream.

Matthew Walker, in his eye-opening book Why We Sleep, is convinced that dreaming has a therapeutic purpose. Thanks to sleep’s mollifying neurochemicals such as noradrenalin, we can process memories while turning the volume down on the accompanying emotion, before filing them tidily away in our autobiographical narrative. This is how we can tell our life stories at dinner parties without weeping or screaming. In trauma, the emotional overwhelm attached to the memory has not been processed so remains the same pitch, leading to nightmares, sleep disturbances and waking flashbacks.

against students pulling all-nighters to cram for exams. Our dreams, Walker says are a ‘creative incubator’ from which Paul McCartney famously plucked the song Yesterday, Mary Shelley met Frankenstein and Dmitri Mendeleev tidied up his famous periodic table.

Check your chronotype

Apparently, whether you are a morning lark (early to bed, early to rise) or night owl (late to bed, late to rise) is down to your DNA: this means change won't be easy.

For our ancestors, having both chrono (time) types in tribes meant someone was always on watch.

Interestingly, studies have shown that when we sleep in a new location – say a hotel room – we sleep lighter on one half of our brain the first night, which just shows how our stone-age survival instincts are still operating. Today, we live in a world that favours larks, so owls need to accept their pattern and find flexible or shift work.

'Try stepping away from technology 1-2 hours before bed.'

Dreaming is good for puzzle solving and creativity

You’ve heard the cliché that if you have a problem, it is always wise to ‘sleep on it’.

Scientific research has established that dreaming resets our social compass, our ability to read people’s expressions and aids problem solving – all good arguments

goodspaguide.co.uk

Have a routine

to a good night’s sleep. Have your window open, even in winter: your duvet will keep you snug. Your face, hands and feet are great at ventilating excess heat to keep the core body temperature low, which is why we often feel the need to free our limbs from the duvet at night. Another tip is to splash your face with water before bed as water helps dissipate heat from your face.

Instead of a glass of wine or cup of tea, have a bath

A warm bath two hours before bed stimulates the temperature drop that signals to your body it’s time to sleep. Alcohol is a sedative, but sedation is not sleep. Worse, it fragments your sleep with periods of wakefulness, so it is not restorative (you won’t know this, because alcohol also impairs memory function). Alcohol is also one of the most powerful suppressors of REM. The other enemy of sleep, caffeine, not only blocks sleep signals, it continues to do so five to seven hours after our last cup of tea.

Turn out the light

Walker says if you can do one thing to improve your sleep, make it ‘going to bed and waking up at the same time every day’.

If that sounds like a faff, just believe us when we say that sleep is that important.

Also, make room for eight-and-a-half hours’ sleep, to give you extra time to drop off and wake up. We need three 90-minute sleep cycles to receive the full benefit. People who tell you they can survive on four hours are either lying or will pay for it with one of the many horrible health consequences that we’re not going to talk about here…

The suprachiasmatic nucleus, which controls our internal body clock (circadian rhythm) sits just behind our eye and is super-sensitive to the light and dark signals of day and night. Our sleep used to be dictated by the setting sun, the fading light triggering the sleep-hormone melatonin, which would slowly set about shutting everything down. Studies have shown that blue light from LED devices can supress the release of melatonin, so try stepping away from technology one to two hours before bed. Read an enjoyable book or listen to music instead.

Sleep with the window open

Bedtime Reading

Fresh air and a well-ventilated room (approximately 16-18 degrees) are essential

Why We Sleep: The New Science of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker. WM

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BEAUTY

LAYER UP:

Winter Skincare

As we pile on more clothes to protect against the elements, should we also think about layering up our skin products? Scarlet Spy tantalisingly reveals all.

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

BEAUTY

s if winter wasn’t hard enough – getting out of bed in the dark is never easy – our skin suffers, too.

Cold winds and harsh conditions can chap, cause redness and suck the moisture out: not a good look for party season. Luckily, adopting a new winter skincare routine is as easy as counting from one to ten.

A

1

GENTLY DOES IT

Swap your usual cleanser for a gentler brand to ensure you don’t strip your skin of its natural oils. We love Dermalogica’s UltraCalming cleanser (250ml, £32). dermalogica.co.uk

2

RUB A DUB SCRUB

Use an enzyme-based exfoliator twice a week – these are less harsh than traditional face scrubs but do the same job. As skin cells repair themselves during the night, it's best to exfoliate in the evening. We love Elemis’ Dynamic Resurfacing Pads (60 for £39). elemis.com

3

SPRITZ AWAY

Top up moisture levels with a hydrating spritz like Linda Meredith’s Hydrating Mist (50ml, £29). Keep it handy in your bag and use it whenever your skin feels dry.

a fighting chance. If you don’t already use a serum, now is a good time to introduce one into your routine. Try Temple Spa’s Be Strong Serum (30ml, £40). templespa.com

BE WISER

7

Older skin may need a little more help – try Caudalie’s Premier Cru the Serum (30ml, £90). uk.caudalie.com

8

LAYER CAKE

9

MASK MAGIC

Resist the temptation to slather on one super-rich moisturiser, choosing instead to apply layers of lighter products. While a thicker cream will form a protective barrier, it may clog the skin and cause breakouts.

A mask, like the Vitage Hydrating Mask (75ml, £22), will rid your skin of day’s detrius while injecting a boost of moisture. vitage.co.uk

10

TOO HOT TO HANDLE

It isn’t only products that affect us: constant central heating will make your gas bills eyewateringly high as well as drying out your skin.

Keep hydrated. Avoid long hot showers and baths, too – these can dissolve the protective barrier in the skin causing dryness.

lindameredith.com

4

OIL DO THAT

Add oil to your skincare routine or put a few drops into your night cream. We love the Germaine De Cappuccini Multi Regenerating Rose Hip Oil (30ml, £39.50). germaine-de-capuccini.co.uk

5

SAY YES TO SPF

6

PILE IT ON

The sun can still be quite strong in the winter months, particularly in the glare of white snow (ever wondered why you burn so easily on the ski slopes?). Ensure you apply sun cream every day after moisturising.

You need a hat, scarf and gloves in winter; your skin needs as many layers if it is going to have

goodspaguide.co.uk

YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST Louise Thomas-Minns, Celebrity Skin Health Therapist “There is no question that the cold air wreaks havoc with our skin. Environmental changes start to disrupt the skin’s delicate lipid barrier and allows water to escape. It can also lead to increased sensitivity and even spotty outbreaks.” uandyourskin.co.uk Linda Meredith, facialist to the stars “There are three ingredients in skincare products: humectants, emollients and occlusives. Humectants draw moisture from the environment into our skin, emollients soften the skin and occlusives remain on the surface. It’s important to use all three in this order to make them work during winter.” lindameredith.com

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TRAVEL

Tantalising

TANZANIA Stylish Spy heads to the African island of Zanzibar, off mainland Tanzania, to try out the opulent Bazara Resort & Spa.

S

et on its own stretch of private beach – think pure white sand, pearly pink shells and a vibrant turquoise sea – the allvilla Bazara Resort & Spa is five-star, all-inclusive and multi award-winning.

Just one hour here and you know you’ve arrived somewhere special.

The family-owned property – positioned on Bwejuu Paje Beach, about an hour’s drive from Zanzibar airport – is designed like a Sultan’s Palace. Individual, low-level white buildings feature Swahili arches, hand-carved décor and heavy wooden doors of Arabian townhouses. Inside, you’ll find pale walls, antique pieces, brass lanterns and large plants. There are gold touches everywhere, too, from the cushions to the curtains and the bath taps to the plant stands. It’s exotic and stylish – yet instantly calming.

We loved walking around the little pathways between the villas, inhaling the smell of fresh flowers and spotting butterflies so pretty they put ours to shame.

Come evening, the whole place sparkles with fairy-lights wrapped around palm trees.

What’s on offer

The ornate white, gold and dark wood palette continues into the resort’s 30 individual villas (14 one-bed, 15 two-bed and one presidential). Our Ocean View villa has an open-plan bedroom/lounge with king-sized bed draped in a mosquito net (and secured by a gold bow), cushioned day bed and large flat-screen. There’s a kitchenette with fridge containing local beer and soft drinks (included in your stay), a huge

bathroom with freestanding tub, a walk-in shower and toiletries from the resort’s own spa. Outside on the large terrace, you’ll find a double day bed on which to relax and, tucked away around the corner, the jewel in the accommodation's crown: your own private plunge pool. Grab a cold drink, slide into the pool and look out to sea – life doesn’t get much better.

From here you can pad barefoot straight to the beach (about 10 steps ought to do it). Remember your villa number and look out for your pre-reserved lounger, complete with table and shade. Stroll along the sand (we often had the entire beach to ourselves), take a swim in the warm sea or order a drink from a waiter. Fancy a coconut? Just say the word and a pristinely-dressed gentleman will shimmy up a tree, lob one off, take off the top and pop a straw in. It’s worth it just for the show.

'While sipping a cocktail in the bar later that evening, my fellow travellers remarked on my new-found radiance.'

You can swim leisurely lengths in the resort’s 25-metre outdoor pool before resting on one of four comfy day beds positioned at the end. Order snacks from the restaurant (the iced coffee is divine) or simply relax in the afternoon sun.

Four restaurants cater for your breakfast, lunch and dinner needs; order a pre-dinner cocktail or sparkling wine at the Dhahabu

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

Bar and listen to the sound of cicadas – a really civilised way to begin your evening.

If all this relaxing has you feeling restless, morning and early evening yoga is included in your stay; the resort will also organise trips to Zanzibar town, local schools (a real highlight) or spice farms (Zanzibar is known as the ‘spice island’), as well as snorkelling, surfing or diving excursions, and sunset cruises through the mangroves.

Here with your family? Take them to the kids’ club and head to the Frangipani Spa, a long white building with the same hypnotic décor as the hotel. There’s another outdoor pool here – this one with underwater music – as well as six treatment rooms, a dark relaxation room and a yoga studio.

Tell us about your treatment

Booked in for a Frangipani Signature Massage (75 minutes), my Balinese therapist, Eva, met me at the spa reception and led me to a cosy treatment room where she asked me to lie face down on a warm bed. Using a citrusy body butter from Thailand, Eva put a good amount on my back and performed an assured, rigorous massage, climbing on the bed at times to work out some extremely stubborn knots.

At one point it felt like there were four hands at work.

I turned over and Eva repeated the same massage on my front, paying attention to my legs, stomach, arms and head, before ending the treatment with a facial massage. My entire body felt soft and supple for a couple of days afterwards.

Eva was also my therapist for my second treatment, a facial using Thann products.

The treatment began with a green tea

ZANZIBAR

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cleanser followed by a light toner and a scrub, which Eva washed off with hot mitts.

Eva then used a light cream to massage my face before adding a mask. While this hardened, she massaged my hands and arms using the same citrusy body butter.

Wiping the mask off, Eva applied a rich face cream before combing my fringe back into place (a nice touch) and leading me to the relaxation room to drink a spicy ginger tea.

While sipping a cocktail in the bar later that evening, my fellow travellers remarked on my new-found radiance.

Food facts

Food plays an important role at Bazara Resort & Spa with fresh, local ingredients prepared by esteemed chefs. Breakfasts consist of a buffet so large your eyes will pop out – try the local yoghurt drizzled with honey, omelettes made-to-order, and fresh, colourful fruit. Lunch can be as casual or formal as you wish with small à la carte menus including a fresh catch of the day.

Skipped lunch? Afternoon tea is served each

goodspaguide.co.uk

day from 4pm, with mint tea, homemade cakes and scones.

We loved the spice night buffet at The Sultan’s Dining Room – several small curry dishes prepared using local herbs and spices and put in the middle of the table for all to share. The verdict? As good as anything we’ve eaten in India.

At The Livingstone Terrace Restaurant, five-course daily changing menus include delectable dishes like pumpkin, green cardamom and ginger soup; grilled baby rock lobster with Swahili coconut sauce and creole rice (the fish here is beautifully fresh); and Moroccan slow-cooked lamb leg with cous-cous and baby vegetables. Cocktails served at the Dhahabu bar are local takes on the classics, too – try a mango Cosmopolitan or a spiced Old Fashioned.

Don’t miss

The morning or evening yoga session: This is a great way to start, or end, the day.

A trip to the local school: Watching five-year-old children count to

10 in English will melt the coldest of hearts.

The history teller experience: Sit on the terrace of the Dhahabu Bar with a cocktail and listen as a local historiancum-storyteller regales stories of Zanzibar past and present.

Who do you think would like it?

Spa enthusiasts: The spa is worth the trip to Zanzibar in its own right – miss it out at your peril.

Water lovers: Between the plunge pool and the sea (not to mention the two outdoor pools), you could be in the water all day.

Honeymooners: Want an island idyll that’s not in the The Caribbean or The Indian Ocean? Ta-dah… WM Good Spa Guide travelled from London to Zanzibar with Kenya Airways.

One night at the Bazara Resort & Spa starts at £660 based on two sharing. kenya-airways.co.uk; bazara-zanzibar.com

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TREATMENTS

good

vibrations

Savant Spy explores why we love a sound bath

G

ongs, Tibetan singing bowls, drums, chanting and crystals have been used in healing rituals for thousands of years, bathing the recipients in rhythmic vibrations to produce a trance-like effect. Today’s chakrawaving millennials are as likely to book a sound bath (aka gong bath) as a yoga session.

With celebs like Russell Brand and Gwyneth Paltrow extolling their healing and relaxing powers, we decided to get it on and bang a gong – or rather lie down and let someone else do it for us.

WHAT DO I WEAR TO A SOUND BATH?

Not a swimsuit: despite the name, a sound bath is water free. You should wear loose, comfortable clothing and – as you will be lying still for an hour in a sleep-like trance 46 | Wellness |

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

– something warm. Stylish yoga casuals, cashmere pashminas or sweat pants and a baggy tee: it’s up to you. There won’t be any online outfit sharing as your devices will be switched off and placed far, far away so as not to pollute your healing sound waves.

WHAT HAPPENS IN A SOUND BATH?

You can have a shared sound bath with a group (remember – it is not an actual bath) or book one-to-one sessions. Beforehand, you can tell your session leader what anxieties or troubles you have so they can adapt the treatment to benefit you most.

Rooms are usually dark, perhaps candlelit, with scattered yoga mats, cushions, pillows and blankets, all placed far enough apart so you have plenty of space. Some compare it to a Zen slumber party. There may be large gongs in the room – don’t worry, these will not be loudly rung causing

TREATMENTS

to calm our internal rhythm rather than you to run out of the room in alarm. breath. The sound provides focus for There may also be singing bowls, tuning Where can I try a sound your mind and body, a bit like those forks, bells, chimes, shruti boxes, shells bath? soothing rain-sound apps to help you and crystals laid out, all with deep sleep, while also blocking out any vibrational qualities to create your Crystal Sound Healing (30 minutes, random distracting sounds, such as car immersive sonic experience. £70) at The Lanesborough Club horns, voices outside the room or, in You will lie on a yoga mat with a and Spa, Mayfair, London. the case of sound baths, the snoring of pillow and blanket, and maybe an eye people next to you. pillow, too. Your healing practitioner Lush Spa: Bath, London, Edinburgh, There has been some fascinating will then get you relaxed, perhaps with Cardiff, Liverpool, Leeds, Poole. research into the effects of sound on a brief guided breathing meditation.

The Sound Bath (60 minutes, £80) the brain, particularly binaural beats in Once you are pleasantly chilled, they is a facial, massage and ear candle the treatment of anxiety, depression will generate sound vibrations, gently at treatment, fully clothed, to the and sleep disorders. Binaural beats are first to get you used to it. You will bathe tune of a soundscape using tuning when two different in the vibrations forks and church bells. sounds are played for around fortyuk.lush.com '... music can be used in each ear which five minutes, successfully to relieve Sound Awakening hold regular the brain integrates. simply listening sound bath workshops and retreats A process known and tuning in, patient anxiety before in Stoke Newington, London and as ‘entrainment’ awash in sound operations ...'

The Cotswolds synchronises and rhythm. At soundawakening.co.uk our brainwaves the end, your and provides a stable frequency that practitioner will softly rouse you, slowly Sunshine Hub in Shepherd’s Bush, produces a hypnotic, trance-like bringing you back to shore. At the end, London also run Gongbaths and rhythm. Our brainwaves gear-down you will have a period of quiet time to 1-1 sound healing sessions from from normal beta functioning (13help you reorient yourself. £12 per hour 30Hz) to calmer alpha (8-13Hz), sunshinehub.co.uk meditative theta (5-7Hz) and the delta HOW WILL IT MAKE ME FEEL? deep sleep state (0.5-4Hz).

After your sound bath, you should feel A 2005 study demonstrated that ridiculously calm and angst-free. Some music can be used successfully to relieve – Qi – flows through our bodies), have described feeling so meltingly promoting healing and releasing patient anxiety before operations, relaxed they have been unable to move tension. They also say that crystals have while others have linked rhythmic sonic or even speak for a few moments unique vibrational frequencies that vibrations to lowered blood pressure. afterwards. You may also feel emotional synchronise the body in several ways, Holistic therapists believe the as deeper feelings rise to the surface hence the popularity of crystal sound vibrations can unblock your chakras thoughout, too. Your sound bath baths, using crystal bowls. (the seven centres where life energy practitioner will be on hand to talk you through how you feel and give you any advice you need. People report feeling THE SPA SPIES’ FAVOURITE SOUND peaceful and more focused for at least TREATMENTS 24 hours afterwards. You may want to take it easy for a few moments to collect Supreme Spy enjoyed a sound bath at a yoga retreat at yourself; then drink plenty of water.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

A sound bath can be a fast way to achieve a deep meditative state, cutting through the mental chatter, inhibiting stress responses and using frequency goodspaguide.co.uk

Chilston Park Hotel, a Handpicked Hotel in Laham, Kent.

She said after she felt “as light and bubbly as a glass of wine”.

Sybaritic Spy had a holistic treatment at the Six Senses Spa at the Alpina Gstaad, Switzerland. It began with a vibrating Tibetan singing bowl which was placed on her back so the vibrations travelled along her spine.

AUTUMN/WINTER 2018

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TREATMENTS

As the dark nights creep in, why not broaden your palate with a little colour therapy – it could be just the thing to brighten your days.

bright&

all things

S

ound isn’t the only thing that vibrates: every colour on the spectrum has its own wavelength, too. Colour or chromotherapy has been around for thousands of years. It was used in healing by the Egyptians, Ayurvedic practitioners and ancient Chinese.

Today’s spas use colour therapy in treatments such as chronotherapy baths, chakra healing or LED facials, but have also introduced therapeutic coloured light into saunas and relaxation areas.

WHAT’S THE THEORY?

Light moves in waves and each colour on the spectrum has different wavelengths.

Colour therapists believe that different colours correspond with the body’s inner vibrations and energy levels.

Certain colours rebalance or stimulate specific chakras. Chakras in Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic Medicine are seen as wheels or cogs that move energy around the body. When these get stuck, we become unwell. Each colour corresponds to a specific chakra – there are seven located around the body. Therapists can deduce what colour you need to complement and rebalance your energy levels.

WHAT’S THE EVIDENCE?

Coloured light has been used to treat some serious ailments. Ultraviolet light is often used to treat skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can be temporarily eased by lamps emitting blue light.

However, colour therapy is a complementary medicine with no 48 | Wellness |

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

beautiful scientific evidence. It is used to enhance wellbeing, not cure serious illnesses.

You may have a favourite colour, notice that you feel calmer in a green space, ‘see red’ when you’re angry or feel inspired by blue skies. In the 1900s, Dr Max Lüscher devoted his life to study how colour affects behaviour and developed his famous Lüscher colour test, which is said to reveal our unconscious emotional states. Prison inmates in Texas are made to wear pink – the colour of the womb – partly to embarrass them, but partly because the colour is said to reduce aggression.

HOW IS IT USED IN SPA TREATMENTS?

Colour is absorbed by the eyes, skin and skull. Colour therapy uses a variety of methods, the most common being LED light boxes or lamps with colour filters.

In ‘Colourpuncture’, practitioners shine lights onto specific acupressure points.

Simply looking at certain colours can also produce an effect: think of ‘forest bathing’, where you simply look at greenery, or ‘blue gym therapy’, which believes a natural environment can enhance wellbeing.

Therapists may ask you to select a colour, as this can guide them in diagnosing what colour or colours you need to balance your energy levels.

HOW IS IT USED IN FACIALS?

LED colour light therapy is said to balance the skin using coloured wavelengths that penetrate the skin at varying depths – blue is said to be good for congested skin, red for anti-ageing.

You either wear an LED mask or have a

lamp pointing at your face. Therapists claim the light can energise skin cells to produce more collagen, increase blood and oxygen flow. Carla Bruni and Jennifer Aniston are said to be fans.

WHY HAVE IT?

Colour therapists claim colour can be used to aid sleep, anxiety and depression, as well as help people find clarity and peace. It is harmless, except when certain doctors mislead the seriously ill by claiming that it can cure immune deficiencies and cancer. When used as part of a spa treatment, however, coloured light can enhance your feelings of wellbeing and is a lovely way to express how you feel. WM

Where can I try colour and light therapy?

Enjoy a Sun Meadow in winter at K Spa at K West Hotel in London or head to the Sabbia Med light therapy beach at Ye Olde Bell in Nottinghamshire.

Book in for an ESPA facial at Bulgari Spa in London’s Knightsbridge and add 30 minutes of LED Light Therapy (£100).

Kohler Waters Spa at the Old Course Hotel, Scotland have chromotherapy bathing treatments.

The Seven Colours Spa at Heritage Le Telfir in Mauritius bases its wellness package on colour therapy: there are even chromotherapy lamps in your bedroom.

a Reason

to chill

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TRAVEL

Home from

HOME

The Longevity Ceghona Country Club is a healthy retreat in Portugal that feels like home, says Supreme Spy

hile Longevity Ceghona Country Club isn’t the last word in luxury or splendour, we loved it for that very reason. A cosy, comfortable and welcoming place located near Faro in Portugal, it could be described as a boutique resort. With just 26 rooms and six suites, it’s intimate and relaxing, yet offers a separate country club and spa, with plenty of green spaces and parkland.

Sit by the pool and soak up the sun or slouch into a giant beanbag by a pond and watch the frogs hop around the lilies – whatever you do, you’re sure to relax.

The Country Club is separate from the main hotel and located in a white, pink and peach-hued building with dark green shutters; the newer areas (The Spa and Wellness Centre) are white with slate grey touches.

Then comes the wellness element: stress management, fitness, boot camp, detox, weight loss and anti-ageing are all addressed here. Before arriving, guests are asked to fill out a questionnaire so that stays can be personalised – did we want to do boot camp combined with high intensity exercise, or to go for a liquid diet with a lower intensity work out? We agreed to brave the liquid diet and combined it with less demanding exercise.

Within minutes of deciding, we wondered if we had made the right choice (the food here looks good).

W

What’s on offer

Bedrooms vary in size and design; even those on the smaller side have their own private garden or balcony to soak up those green views. The gardens are well manicured

throughout the resort and have beautiful splashes of colour and spongy grass to sink your toes into. All face the National Park next door. Our room was right next to the spa; we loved the short walk from our private garden to the reception area to check in for treatments.

From the hotel, red quarry tiles and bricks line the steps down to the outdoor pool, which is filled with fresh water. Here, you will find a hydro pool with three jets at one end, ideal for loosening up those tense shoulders after the journey.

The ‘Detox & Relax Wet Area Circuit’ (thermal experiences to you and I) can be found in the spa and includes a salt steam room, sauna, experience showers, ice fountain and outdoor experience showers, all finished to a high standard. Best of all: we didn’t see another guest while we went around, the journey felt really private.

We particularly liked walking through the shower tunnel before relaxing in the redhued salt room.

The Wellness Centre, in a separate building, is where you’ll go for nutritional consultations and expert one-to-ones. Here you can learn your metabolic age, how hydrated your body is and what visceral fat you are carrying (the fat surrounding your organs). This information was delivered in the most considerate way by a professional but not-too-strict nutritionist; just what you need when about to embark on a liquid diet.

The studio next door is where most of the fitness classes are hosted. This intimate room comfortably accommodates eight people at a time – the perfect size for us.

Four or more classes and activities are available to guests each day, with everything

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

from bicycle tours to crystal healing workshops.

There are outdoor yoga classes, too, although the Peristaltic Movement session we participated in was held inside. This style of yoga promotes a healthy digestion through breathing exercises and we loved the incredibly knowledgeable instructor.

A personal highlight for us was the jump class: 40 minutes of high intensity jumping on a trampette to upbeat music. Although hard, it was huge amounts of fun, and unleashed our inner child.

Tell us about your treatment(s)

Treatment rooms are private and calming; if you are staying for a week be sure to book in a few experiences – they have some interesting ones.

We began with a back and leg massage shortly after arriving; this successfully targeted all the areas of tension built up during the journey here. My male therapist was extremely skilled, with a firm yet comforting touch.

The Premium Weight Loss treatment is something that I will never forget – lying naked in a circular tube powering out heat could have been a recipe for disaster, but I sweated loads and felt invigorated after.

The Longevity Cegohna Country Club takes an educated approach to treatments with an array of results-driven facials and massages on the menu, as well as holistic, relaxing and signature treatments, such as Cranial Sacral Therapy.

Food facts

The Pure Café is at the centre of the resort: you’ll head here for all your meals, or juices,

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PORTUGAL

smoothies and soups. The staff are all very friendly and helpful – even to those greeneyed monsters on the liquid diet (guilty as charged).

While we did brave the liquid diet to start with (when in Rome), by the second morning we didn’t have the energy for a morning run and had to ask for a bowl of salad at lunchtime to give us some energy for the day ahead.

As the food here is so healthy and fresh anyway, the liquid diet isn’t something we would try if we visited again. Rest assured though, those that carry it through are served with a juice, smoothie or soup every two hours to keep them going, each packed with fresh fruit and vegetables.

Those able to use their teeth, meanwhile, are treated to breakfasts of chia fruit pots, granola, fresh juices and savoury local dishes – everything was very colourful and extremely moreish. Lunches consist of two courses: either cold or

goodspaguide.co.uk

hot soup, followed by a hot main course accompanied by vegetables or salad. Our favourite dinner of the entire trip was watermelon, red onion and basil soup followed by pesto-covered cod served with roasted vegetables.

On our final night we relented and had homemade ice cream – a welcome treat. While tucking in we couldn’t help but wonder... if we let this melt, could it possibly count as liquid?

Who would like it?

If you have been through a trauma – be it emotional or physical – a week at Ceghona Country Club could be just what the doctor ordered. The friendly faces (including those of other guests) and healing experts make this the perfect nurturing retreat.

Wellness seekers: If staying well is part of your lifestyle – and you want a holiday that will leave you feeling restored rather than having to move your belt buckle

on a notch – this is a good option. The views from the pool make it feel like a real holiday, too.

Solo travellers: Many guests on our visit were female and travelling alone; Ceghona is a comfortable place to be by yourself, with plenty to see and do.

Don’t miss

A trip to the national park: This is conveniently located right next to the hotel; after a good night’s sleep, we enjoyed a morning run here, and there are options to cycle around, too.

The beach isn’t far away, either – make it a point to come here after a morning or afternoon of exercise; there are worse ways to spend a day and it's a nice way to reward yourself after a punishing exercise session. WM Seven nights at The Longevity Ceghona Country Club starts at £1,765 per person. longevitywellnessworldwide.com

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SOUL FOOD

Soul

food You’ll love this plait created by The Alternative Kitchen, full of mushrooms, pinto beans and – for a warming winter kick – paprika.

eet Stu Henshall, musicianturned-baker who appeared on our TV screens in 2015 on The Great British Bake Off. Before this he was touring as a musician with the likes of The Prodigy – talented chap.

Since baking, Stu has turned his passion for food into a business, launching The Alternative Kitchen, a plant-based cooking empire that now includes books, magazines, bespoke catering and a successful supper club. Stu now juggles this with raising two young children, admitting that – while life may not be as rock and roll – he probably gets a similar amount of sleep.

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SOUL FOOD

We asked Stu to create a recipe for us that could be a classic winter warmer – here’s what he came up with.

SHIITAKE STUFFED SEITAN PLAIT INGREDIENTS

6 Once fully incorporated, transfer the mixture onto a 40cm length of kitchen foil, creating a flattened sausage shape with a 5cm gap on each side 7 With the side of your hand, work the mixture flat until it is no more than 1cm thick 8 Move the mixture to the lower half of the sheet and, using the foil, roll it over to encase the mixture by overlapping slightly 9 Bake for 40 minutes

TO MAKE THE PLAIT 1 Unroll the puff pastry with the short end facing you. Cut the two furthest

away corners off and cut a square out of the two corners facing you.

2 Then cut horizontal 10cm lines 2cm apart, leaving one each side until you reach the point closest to you, with the two missing squares 3 Once cooled, unwrap the filling with a bread knife, slice the ends off to reveal a perfect cylinder 4 Place this on the centre of the pastry, folding the top piece of pastry over before plaiting the slats diagonally down to create the plait 5 Bake for 15 minutes at 170c/gas mark 3. Serve hot – and enjoy. thealternativekitchen.net

FOR THE STUFFING: Olive oil 170g shiitake mushrooms, sliced 2 leeks, sliced 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1 tbsp dried thyme ½ cup breadcrumbs 1 vegetable stock cube Juice of ½ a lemon Salt and pepper to season FOR THE ROAST: 3 cloves of garlic ½ can of pinto beans 325mls of vegetable stock 3 tbsp soy sauce 4 sundried tomatoes 2 tbsp olive oil or oil from sundried tomatoes 2 cups vital wheat gluten 1/3 cup nutritional yeast 1 teaspoon sweet paprika 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried sage Pepper to season 320g pack of ready rolled puff pastry

FOR THE FILLING 1 Preheat the oven to 170c/gas mark 3 2 For the stuffing, fry mushrooms and leeks in oil until soft, then add the salt, pepper, garlic and thyme. Cook for another minute 3 Crumble the stock cube into the pan and add a squeeze of lemon and the breadcrumbs. Toss ingredients until the breadcrumbs are lightly toasted 4 Blitz the garlic, beans, tomatoes, stock, oil and soy sauce in a processor until smooth 5 Combine remaining dry ingredients and blitz again

goodspaguide.co.uk

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55

WELLNESS

work Wellness at

Stylish Spy finds 10 ways to increase your wellbeing at work.

W

e spend a third of our lives at work – that’s more time than at home, with loved ones or on holiday – so it’s important we work somewhere that keeps us well.

This may sound silly but there are an

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

incredible number of factors that can put pains to productivity – anything from the temperature of the room to unwanted noise. Thankfully, there are a few simple ideas you, as an employee, can adopt to get the most out of your working day.

WELLNESS

1

Too hot, too cold or just right? Nothing distracts us more than being at the wrong temperature. Let’s face it: that meeting won’t go well if you’re constantly fanning yourself or, come winter, shivering away in the corner. While we may not be in a position to control the building, we can layer up in the winter and wear lighter clothes in the warmer months. A small fan on your desk might be a good idea, too or perhaps a plug-in heater.

2

Get the lighting right

If you work long hours, and everyone else has gone home, turn off the main lights and invest in a desk lamp – the lower lighting will help you adjust to the evening and ensure you get a good night’s sleep when you return home.

3

Buy some plants Research shows that plants increase wellbeing, creativity and productivity at work by sucking in the carbon dioxide in the air and releasing oxygen.

If your office doesn’t have plants around, grab a couple of small ones for your desk and let them do their thing.

4

8

Get the temperature right

Get some fresh air

You may be on deadline, but you won’t be as productive in the afternoon if you don’t get outside for a bit. Yes, it’s cold outside at this time of year, but a brisk 10-minute walk or a quick sit on a park bench can do wonders. Fresh air can also prevent us from catching colds, so long as we wrap up.

goodspaguide.co.uk

5

Drink plenty of water

While it’s tempting to drink cup after cup of tea or coffee, particularly in the colder months, too much caffeine can make us anxious and jittery. Try drinking glasses of water in between cups of caffeine or, if you need to warm up, try mint, green or fruit tea instead.

6

Take a lunch break

You’ll be surprised at the number of people who try to eat a sandwich with one hand while typing with the other – no doubt covering their keyboard in grated cheese. A proper lunchbreak is imperative; it resets your mind and allows you to digest your food properly.

Go and meet a friend, buy that dress you’ve always wanted or sit in the park and enjoy your food. Whatever it takes, take a break.

7

Get your eyes tested

Spend all day staring at a computer screen?

You’ll need regular eye tests to prevent eye strain and stop headaches. Book a yearly appointment to ensure your eyes are in tip-top shape – your company is legally obliged to pay for it, too.

Fend off that cold

Winter is an awful time for bugs and colds, with all sorts of nasty viruses circulating. Invest in some First Defence and spray it up your nose at the first sign of a cold, or increase your intake of vitamin C. If you have a cold, it’s sensible to stay off work until you are no longer contagious – an office can’t be productive if everyone is off sick.

9

Eat healthily

It’s tempting to spend all day snacking on crisps or tucking into another piece of cake – and don’t even get us started on that seemingly innocuous, yet highly calorific, Pret sandwich – but eating healthily at work will keep your mind alert and your body less slugglish post lunch (known as the hypoglycemic dip). If it’s too cold for salads, try fresh soups rich in vegetables and spices, or small jacket potatoes with tuna.

10 Make friends

They say you shouldn’t mix business with pleasure but that doesn’t mean you can’t make friends. In fact, please do.

Whether it’s someone to go to lunch with, a shoulder to cry on after a bad meeting or a quick drink after work, getting along with our work colleagues can make your working life much more enjoyable.

CALLING ALL EMPLOYERS According to Dan Zakai, co-founder and CEO of Mindspace, employers need to place a larger emphasis on the aesthetics of the office to retain and attract the best talent. Natural light – or better lighting – more break-out areas and more plants in the office are some of the more basic requirements, while wacky ideas are becoming more popular. Amazon’s new office in Seattle, known as the Sphere, features 40,000 plants, the sound of running water and the smell of blossoms. Food for thought?

AUTUMN/WINTER 2018

| 57

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THE BUBBLE RATINGS

The Bubble

PHOTO: ST BRIMSTONE HOTEL & SPA

From jaw-droppingly fabulous VIP treatments and facilities to good value spas that are perfect for a regular drop in, here are the best UK spas listed by type and Bubble Rating.

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THE BUBBLE RATINGS

Ratings

e award Bubbles rather than stars, and we won’t allow anything less than three Bubbles on The Good Spa Guide. Our Bubble Rating is an overall score, but our three and four bubble spas may still offer outstanding treatments, have a beautiful pool or a divine relaxation space, indoors or outdoors.

Sometimes, a spa’s overall rating will be lower simply because they have fewer facilities or a break in the spa journey: perhaps you will need to leave the spa and get dressed for lunch. That’s why it’s worth reading our in-depth reviews on individual spas at goodspaguide.co.uk to find out more. Meanwhile, here is a breakdown of our Bubble Ratings.

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5 5 4 3 goodspaguide.co.uk

Bubble Luxury – the peak of spa

sophistication. “Shut the door I'm not leaving!”

Bubble – extra special. “I'll be back next weekend.”

Bubble – excellent, but perhaps has a break in the spa journey.

“Mmm, take me back…”

Bubble – great for a day out with good treatments but may not have quite as many facilities.

“Nice, will go there again.”

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THE BUBBLE RATINGS

DAY SPAS FIVE BUBBLE

Aqua Sana Elveden Forest

Aqua Sana Sherwood Forest

Suffolk

Nottinghamshire

Aqua Sana Woburn Forest

Head into the Centre Parcs complex in a beautiful forest. Enjoy a fabulous thermal journey, bubble in the courtyard spa pool, then relax on a four-poster bed in the Zen garden, or on waterbeds.

Part of Centre Parcs, The Forest Spa celebrates its surroundings with spectacular new outdoor facilities, including outdoor hot springs, Volcanic and Nordic zones and, the star of the show, The Treetop Escape with its glass-sided treetop sauna and forest balcony.

This modern glass and timber building in the Centre Parcs village has six differently-themed spas in one, including Blossom, Sensory, Fire and Ice, and Herbal spas. Swim into the forest in the warm bubbly hyrdotherapy pool then, on sunny days, relax on the sundeck.

0344 826 6205 aquasana.co.uk

0344 826 6205 aquasana.co.uk

Eden Hall Day Spa

Hale Country Club & Spa

The Spa in Dolphin Square

Eden Hall is a grand mansion with lavenderfilled gardens; its huge conservatory is now a bright relaxation area. Bask in several thermal rooms spanning inside and out, then watch the sunset from the outdoor hot tubs.

The day spa has a thermal suite with a hemlock wood sauna, salt cave, Zen steam room and fire-and-ice room. Lower yourself into the main indoor pool before drifting outside and gazing over the lawns.

A small but beautifully formed day spa with Moroccan themed dĂŠcor and treatments. Heat facilities include a hammam, rasul and a salt steam room. Relax on warm tepidarium beds while nibbling dates and sipping tea.

01636 525 555 edenspa.co.uk

0161 904 5939 halecountryclub.co.uk

020 7798 6767 dolphinsquare.co.uk

0344 826 6205 aquasana.co.uk

Nottinghamshire

FIVE BUBBLE

Cheshire

Bedfordshire

London

FOUR BUBBLE

The Woodland Spa

Aqua Sana Longleat Forest

Aqua Sana Whinfell Forest

A contemporary day spa backing onto 100 acres of Lancashire countryside. The Thermal Experience Journey has heat rooms, a serenity pool, a hydrotherapy pool and an outdoor infinity pool. DĂŠcor is sleek but natural.

The World of Spa offers a huge array of thermal facilities and experience rooms. Soak in the warm, circular outdoor spa pool at night and gaze at the twinkling stars peeking out between the giant redwood treetops.

This impressive spa is set within Lake District woodland. Outside is a small swimming pool, a large hydrotherapy pool and a Zen garden.

Inside, your spa journey takes you around the world via country-themed experience rooms.

01282 471 913 thewoodlandspa.com

0344 826 6205 aquasana.co.uk

0344 826 6205 aquasana.co.uk

Lancashire

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Wiltshire

Cumbria

THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FOUR BUBBLE

Bannatyne Kingsford Park

Beau Monde Salon & Spa

Imagine Spa Blofield Heath

Just two miles outside Colchester, surrounded by parkland, Bannatyne Kingsford Park is a spa and health club set in a white neo-Jacobean manor house. There's a 21-metre pool and thermal facilities, plus a modern Elemis spa.

A stylish, modern day spa and hair salon, part of the Stablewood Leisure complex. The 11-metre pool, with its aquamarine tiles, is set in a double-storey barn. The relaxation room has a faux fire and fake fur rugs.

A homely day spa with gorgeous food, a delightful thermal area and a lovely spa garden.

After bubbling in the hot tub, and popping in and out of the heat facilities, curl up in a cosy outdoor relaxation cabin.

01206 734 301 bannatyne.co.uk/spa/colchester-kingsford-park

01668 212 250 beaumondelucker.com

01603 712 550 imaginespa.co.uk

Inside Spa

Smallshaw Farm Cottages & Spa

Thai Square Spa

Essex

Lancashire

Northumberland

Yorkshire

Norfolk

London

Smallshaw is a sumptuous self-catering country retreat with a day spa in a converted cowshed. Sample the Himalayan, herbal and panoramic saunas, then try the aroma steam room and rasul before exploring the grounds.

A luxurious day spa that offers a genuine Thai experience in the heart of Westminster. Divine treatments are performed by expertly-trained Thai therapists in opulent surroundings. There’s a sauna, gold-tiled Jacuzzi, Himalayan salt room, rasul and relaxation area.

01226 767 506 smallshaw.com

020 7839 7990 thaisquarespa.com

The Club and Spa at Cadbury House

The Gainsborough Health Club & Spa

Thermae Bath Spa

Bristol

Suffolk

Set in woodland, Cadbury House has panoramic views over the Bristol Channel. The Club and Spa is glass-fronted with curved cream walls.

There’s an outdoor hot tub, indoor pool with thermal facilities and relaxation zone with pods.

Enjoy country views from a pool and Jacuzzi set in a 15th Century barn before heading to the exclusive spa area. This has a lovely café with local food, a quiet relaxation room, an outdoor terrace and a rasul.

This small day spa in a leisure centre is a hidden gem full of Eastern promise. The reception area doubles as a café and glitters with lanterns, while thermal facilities are softly lit. Relax in the Asian-inspired relaxation room.

01282 661 735 insidespa.co.uk

01934 834 343 theclubandspabristol.co.uk

goodspaguide.co.uk

01787 279 009 thegainsborough.co.uk

Somerset

In the centre of historic Bath, Thermae is a tourist attraction but also a rather special spa, with its famous rooftop pool overlooking the city. The New Royal Bath is an award-winning blend of modern glass and classic Bath stone.

01225 331 234 thermaebathspa.com

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THE BUBBLE RATINGS

THREE BUBBLE

Spa Experience Kensington

Spa Experience Wimbledon

An affordable day spa in Kensington Leisure Centre, Spa Experience aims to be inclusive and friendly. The thermal facilities include an aroma steam room, sauna, ice fountain, a hydrotherapy pool and monsoon shower.

A bright and modern day spa in the red brick 1901 building of Wimbledon Leisure Centre.

The thermal area is set in the historic bath house, with high ceilings and windows letting in lots of light.

020 3793 8220 spaexperience.org.uk

020 8540 9419 spaexperience.org.uk

London

London

DESTINATION SPAS FIVE BUBBLE

Champneys Forest Mere Hampshire

A large destination spa set within enchanting grounds. Don't miss bathing in the thalassotherapy pool, trying rejuvenating rasul treatments or stepping outside to the cedar wood hot tub. There are plenty of health classes to keep you busy, too.

01428 726 000
 champneys.com

Lifehouse Spa & Hotel Essex

Champneys Tring

Bedfordshire

Hertfordshire

Champneys Henlow is set in 150-acres of parkland next to a flowing river, gushing weir and romantic gardens. Highlights include the huge range of classes, the creative restaurant buffet and the bright pool area.

Tring is Champneys flagship spa, a combination of glamorous stately home and holistic wellbeing retreat. The extensive spa facilities and classes are complemented by the Marine and Wellness Spa, which offers guests a range of water-based treatments.

01462 811 111 champneys.com

01255 860 050 lifehouse.co.uk

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

01442 291 000 champneys.com

Ragdale Hall Spa

Stobo Castle Health Spa

The original dedicated spa retreat, Ragdale is a comfortable country house set in attractive gardens and grounds. The spa has quite a cult following; the huge array of facilities on offer will have you visiting your favourites time and again.

Set in the low hills of the Scottish borders, Stobo Castle is Scotland’s only destination spa.

Guests sleep and eat in an historic crenelated castle, while the spectacular spa, with its ozone treated pool, is in a modern extension.

01664 434 831 ragdalehall.co.uk

01721 725 300 stobocastle.co.uk

Leicestershire

A modern spa set in English Heritage-listed Thorpe Hall Gardens. As well as traditional spa treatments, Lifehouse offers health and wellbeing consultations from resident specialists including fitness, life coaching, nutrition, weight loss and holistic therapies.

64 | Wellness |

Champneys Henlow

Peeblesshire

THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FOUR FOUR BUBBLE BUBBLE

Champneys Springs Leicestershire

Springs is surrounded by water, walkways and open parklands. Facilities include a 25-metre indoor swimming pool with sauna and steam room. You can book the thalassotherapy pool for up to 12 people and relax in the quiet zone.

01530 273 873 champneys.com

HOTEL SPAS FIVE BUBBLE LUXURY

Dormy House Hotel & Spa Worcestershire

ESPA at Lucknam Park Wiltshire

Galgorm Resort and Spa County Antrim

The modern spa attached to this farmhouse hotel contrasts clean Scandinavian design with cosy Cotswold stone, while facilities include a 16-metre infinity pool, several thermal experiences, a Champagne nail parlour and a fully-equipped gym.

A country mansion set in 500 acres of Wiltshire countryside. Facilities include stunning indoor and outdoor pools, a Japanese salt room and a salt-water pool. If you’re looking for a holistic experience, book into the Well-being House.

01386 859 910 dormyhouse.co.uk

01225 742 777 lucknampark.co.uk

Pennyhill Park an Exclusive Hotel & Spa

Rudding Park Spa

Sequoia Spa at The Grove

This five-star hotel has award-winning food and a stunning spa. Head outside for a Hollywoodstyle pool and various bubbly hydro pools. Inside is a huge swimming pool with underwater music.

The new spa in this Regency hotel is split over three levels, with modern heat facilities and glass walls looking over the lovely gardens.

Visit the Roof Top Spa and Garden with its hydrotherapy infinity edge pool.

A chic country hotel with a boldly-designed spa. It’s a Scandi maze with dashes of eccentric charm, such as the plant filled relaxation atrium with its hanging wicker chair, room-sized hydro pool and black-tiled swimming pool.

01276 471 774 exclusive.co.uk

01423 871 350 ruddingpark.co.uk/spa

01923 294 294 thegrove.co.uk

Surrey

goodspaguide.co.uk

North Yorkshire

A spectacular spa attached to a Georgian country house. The outdoor Thermal Village has a Beltane hot tub with an open fire and sofas, hot tubs on the riverside and a glass-sided Celtic sauna – all set in pretty landscaped gardens.

028 2588 2550 galgorm.com

Hertfordshire

AUTUMN/WINTER 2018

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THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FIVE BUBBLE LUXURY

Serenity Spa at Seaham Hall County Durham

Set on the exhilarating North East coast, the hotel is romantic, while the spa is an adventure. Head though an underground walkway for an ozone-treated pool, hydropool, thermal rooms and outdoor hot tubs.

0191 640 7950 seaham-hall.co.uk

The Scarlet Spa Cornwall

This luxury eco hotel has an adult-only holistic spa with a freshwater outdoor pool and cliff-top baths that look out over the bay. Try an Ayurvedic treatment or swim in the 13-metre pool while gazing at the sea.

01637 861 800 scarlethotel.co.uk

Utopia Spa at Alexander House Hotel West Sussex

Set in 120 acres of gardens, woods and Sussex parkland, Utopia Spa has a deep-blue swimming pool surrounded by pillars. Relax in the outdoor hot tub and enjoy the peaceful spa garden.

01342 885 483 alexanderhotels.co.uk

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

The Bulgari Spa London

The Lanesborough Club & Spa London

Beneath the über-stylish hotel, you’ll find a stunning 25-metre swimming pool, golden vitality pool, thermal facilities and divine treatments. Escape to a poolside cabana and be transported to a place of serenity.

A sumptuous urban spa, treatments include massages, facials, manicures, bespoke sessions with a resident practitioner and therapies designed exclusively for the spa.

020 7151 1055 bulgarihotels.com

020 7333 7064 lanesboroughclubandspa.com

The Spa at Gleneagles

The Vineyard Spa

Perthshire

Berkshire

Gleneagles is famed for its hospitality, dramatic scenery and impeccable design. Inside the spa, the gold and bronze wet facilities are separated into journeys for men and women – re-join your companion in the unisex vitality pool.

The Vineyard is a luxury hotel with a famous wine cellar. The spa is compact but elegant with a circular pool area and café serving delicious food. The customer service and attention to detail is second-to-none.

01764 694 332 gleneagles.com

01635 528 770 the-vineyard.co.uk

THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FIVE BUBBLE

Agua at Mondrian London

Agua at Sanderson

Aquarias Spa at Whatley Manor

In the basement of the Mondrian hotel on the Southbank you will find a glamorous and sleek spa. There’s a large Art Deco steam room, a Glamour Room for beautifying and a futuristic spa lounge.

The Sanderson is an über-stylish hotel just off Oxford Street. The all-white Agua spa is a celestial retreat. Try the eucalyptus steam room, one of the tailored treatments and then curl up in your private relaxation pod.

Tucked away at the end of a long driveway is this historic manor with its bright and modern spa. Warm up in the four thermal rooms, drift in the large hydro pool then swim outside to the suntrap spa garden.

020 3747 1000 morganshotelgroup.com

020 7300 1400 morganshotelgroup.com

01666 827 070 whatleymanor.com

Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

Bailiffscourt Spa

Brimstone Spa

This grand country-house hotel and spa makes the most of its surroundings. Drink in the mountain and lake views from the indoor pool, outdoor hot tub and even the sauna. We love the Hush Room with its woodland views.

The spa is set in a large Sussex barn, with huge windows by the indoor pool overlooking the gardens and warm outdoor pool. You may glimpse an ostentation of peacocks while bubbling in the hot tub.

Nature meets striking modern design in this spa. Long windows in the al fresco sauna bring the woodland in. Swim from the indoor hydro pool to the large outdoor pool, with its wood burning stove, and gaze at the trees.

01768 788 900 armathwaite-hall.com

01903 723 511 hshotels.co.uk/bailiffscourt

01539 438 062 brimstonehotel.co.uk

London

Cumbria

London

West Sussex

Wiltshire

Cumbria

Cornwall

Gloucestershire

Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa

With pebble-lined walls and white-wash woods, C Bay Spa is set over two levels with views over the Atlantic Ocean. There's an outdoor pool and hot tub, sauna pod, relaxation lounge and a private treatment suite on the beach.

Glass-fronted C-Side Spa is sunk into the hill to one side of this Cotswolds hotel. The slate-lined, 19-metre indoor pool and 15-metre outdoor heated pools are a real treat. Make time to check out the art work scattered around the grounds.

Enjoy the 18-metre pool, steam room, sauna and aroma room, where the modern white design complements the bold artwork on the walls. Upstairs is a much more relaxed spa area in cool, earthy tones.

01736 792 810 carbisbayhotel.co.uk

01242 870 900 cowleymanor.com

01635 551 188 donningtonvalley.co.uk

C Bay Spa at Carbis Bay Hotel C-Side Spa at Cowley Manor

goodspaguide.co.uk

Berkshire

AUTUMN/WINTER 2018

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THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FIVE BUBBLE

Eastwell Manor, a Champneys Spa Hotel

Eforea Spa at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel & Spa Liverpool

Elan Spa at Mallory Court

The Old Pavilion in the grounds of this 450-year-old mansion houses a spa with a 20-metre indoor pool, sauna, steam room and hydrotherapy pool.

Eforea Spa in the heart of this vibrant city is small but packs a lot in. Try the 10-metre relaxation pool, the bubbly vitality pool and the berry-scented steam room.

01233 227 138 eastwellmanor.co.uk

0151 556 1222 doubletree3.hilton.com

The spa, restaurant and bedrooms are in a large house next to the hotel, along with a hydro pool, heat rooms, gym, outdoor whirlpool and sauna – so you can eat, sleep and live ‘spa’ without having to leave.

HarSPA Southampton

K Spa at K West Hotel & Spa

Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa

Injecting a touch of luxury, HarSPA has a pool, gym and treatment rooms. You’ll also find the HarBAR, a spectacular rooftop bar, kitchen and club, with outdoor fire pits and a wood-fired pizza oven — great for cocktails.

K Spa is a busy hipster haven near Shepherd’s Bush. Explore the thermal facilities with a group of friends; bubble in the hydro pool, then kick back in the Relaks Room or have a snooze on a sunken bed in the Sun Meadow.

Set in a grand country estate, this rural hideaway spa has an 18-metre infinity pool and vitality pool, along with a steam room, sauna and saunarium. Outside there are formal gardens and 1,000 acres to wander around.

0238 110 3210 harbourhotels.co.uk

020 8008 6600 k-west.co.uk

01582 698 855 luton-hoo.co.uk/spa-wellness

Moddershall Oaks

Mottram Hall

Norton House Hotel & Spa

A spa delight within a red-brick exterior – the facilities include two swimming pools (one indoor, one outdoor) saunas, a steam room, a deli and a cosy relaxation lounge with open fireplace. The outdoor spaces are divine.

This country house hotel has an impressive spa and gym. There’s a huge indoor pool area with hot tubs, but head outside to the quirky heat facilities – mineral Stonebath and a Brechelbath – and sunny Scandi-style garden.

An elegant Georgian country-house hotel just outside Edinburgh with a separate modern spa.

Swim in the pool, brave the bucket shower then bubble in the hot tub. On a sunny day, the Zen garden is a lovely suntrap.

01782 399 000 moddershalloaks.com

01625 828 135 qhotels.co.uk

0131 333 6479 handpickedhotels.co.uk

Kent

Hampshire

Staffordshire

68 | Wellness |

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

Merseyside

London

Cheshire

Warwickshire

01926 330 214 mallory.co.uk

Bedfordshire

Midlothian

THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FIVE BUBBLE

Ockenden Manor Spa

Park House Spa

Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa

Park House is a stylish spa in a tranquil countryside setting. Try the elegant 15-metre pool, sauna and steam room before drifting outside to the heated pool and courtyard. Order drinks from the bar to enjoy by your lounger.

Set in converted stables, the spa has a glass-roofed pool – perfect for enjoying the elements while swimming – heat facilities, a rasul and two relaxation rooms. The nail bar overlooks the pretty gardens and lake.

01730 819 000 parkhousehotel.com

01270 610 016 handpickedhotels.co.uk

SenSpa at Careys Manor

SoSPA at Sofitel St James

Spa at Ramside

With Zen gardens, Thai food, treatments and décor, this luxurious spa offers a slice of Thailand in the New Forest. The thermal experiences are extensive and there’s a huge spa pool and an ozone-treated swimming pool.

Set over three floors, the SoSPA is a haven of French pampering set in a former banking hall.

Décor is sumptuous deep pinks and purples; facilities include a private hammam, Jacuzzi, hydro pool and chromotherapy bath.

01590 624 467 senspa.co.uk

Embrace your inner mermaid as you dip in and out of the 25-metre swimming pool, balcony infinity pool, hydro pool, and indoor and outdoor whirlpools. Curl up in funky soundwave therapy pods or relax in the spa garden.

020 7747 2200 sofitelstjames.com

0191 375 3088 ramsidespa.co.uk

Spa Sirène

Spa at Ye Olde Bell

St Brides Spa Hotel

The petite and stylish Spa Sirène can be found in the basement of the sociable Royal Yacht Hotel. The shimmering pools, warming facilities (including sauna and salt steam room), delicious food and utterly charming staff make it a popular place to recharge.

The quirky spa in this 17th Century inn is split over two levels. Thermal facilities include a sauna, stonebath, laconium, steam bath, salt inhalation room, 10-metre indoor/outdoor pool, snowstorm experience and Sabbia Med light therapy room.

This stylish hotel makes the most of its clifftop location: the facilities, rooms and restaurant offer stunning views all year round. But the jewel in St Brides' crown is the outdoor infinity hydro pool – bask in warm water while looking out over the bay.

01534 615 425 theroyalyacht.com

01777 705 121 yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk

01834 812 304 stbridesspahotel.com

West Sussex

This dramatic modern spa sits in a walled garden next to an Elizabethan hotel. Enjoy the indoor/outdoor pools with a glamorous poolside sundeck and huge thermal rooms.

Don't miss the views of the South Downs from the rooftop terrace.

01444 449 191 hshotels.co.uk

Hampshire

Jersey

goodspaguide.co.uk

West Sussex

London

Nottinghamshire

Cheshire

Country Durham

Pembrokeshire

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THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FIVE BUBBLE

St Pierre Park Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort

Stanley House Hotel & Spa

Stoke Park Spa

Swim a couple of lengths in the outdoor pool, soak up the award-winning gardens from the hot tub or eat lunch on the spa terrace. Inside, there’s a marbled steam room and volcanic sauna. Feeling active? Head to the lakeside gym.

Deep in the heart of Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, The Spa offers peaceful country views from most of its strikingly well-designed facilities.

There’s a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, salt steam room and tepidarium beds.

Expect a warm welcome.

A white-washed Palladian mansion set in an immaculate 300-acre estate. The beautiful garden is the star of the spa with its outdoor hydro pool and Scandinavian sauna. We loved the Bond-style relaxation room with fish tank wall overlooking the indoor pool.

01481 722 341 handpickedhotels.co.uk

01254 769 229 stanleyhouse.co.uk

01753 717 172 stokepark.com

Swinton Country Club & Spa

The Coniston Spa

The Garage Spa

A stylish new spa in a glorious location.

There’s an 18-metre indoor pool with windows overlooking the spa garden, a hydrotherapy pool, an aroma steam room and a Finnish sauna. Outside you’ll find a 10-metre pool.

The highlight of this modern spa is the outdoor infinity pool overlooking the lake and rolling Yorkshire dales. The indoor swimming pool and modern facilities also offer countryside views.

Healthy eating is on the cards in the spa café.

With a fascinating past, transformed from an ancient stopping station, this modern spa with quirky themed names for its facilities, has both indoor and outdoor hot tubs, a steam room, salt inhalation room and a hammam.

01765 680 950 swintonestate.com

01756 748 080 theconistonhotel.com

01833 627 232 themorritt.co.uk

The Garden Secret Spa

The Headland Spa

The Kinmel & Kinspa

Set amid six breathtaking acres of formal gardens, this glorious retreat has everything you need for total relaxation. Facilities include a hammam, 12-metre vitality pool, salt room, herbal sauna and blossom steam room.

The spa in this dramatic hotel is below the first-floor reception; its pretty café spills onto a beachside terrace. There is an attractive thermal space with a heated pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room.

01246 280 077 ringwoodhallhotel.com

01637 872 211 headlandhotel.co.uk

Kinspa, a few steps away from the hotel and set in acres of parkland, has a petite swimming pool and a large hydrotherapy pool with a swim-through waterfall overlooking a water garden. Head to the quiet relaxation room with its stunning panoramic views.

Guernsey

North Yorkshire

Derbyshire

70 | Wellness |

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

Lancashire

North Yorkshire

Cornwall

Buckinghamshire

County Durham

Conway County

01745 822 659 thekinmel.co.uk

THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FIVE BUBBLE

The Mere Golf Resort & Spa Cheshire

The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel Suffolk

The Spa @ Suites Hotel Merseyside

This elegant hotel and spa is a beautiful mix of old and new. There’s a 25-metre pool with a vitality area and lots of heat rooms. Relax on the sun-drenched terrace or snuggle up in the relaxation rooms.

Set in the grounds of a Georgian hotel, this tasteful spa has a dramatic glass structure housing the lovely hydro pool, glass-fronted sauna and steam room. The decked roof terrace overlooks Newmarket’s race tracks.

01565 830 155 themereresort.co.uk

01638 676 130 bedfordlodgehotelspa.co.uk

The Spa at the Midland

The Spa Hotel at Ribby Hall Village

Utopia Spa at Rowhill Grange

This elegant spa has shimmering décor. The highlight is the relaxation room with four hanging pods, cocooning chairs and three beds with duvets. Facilities include a 9-metre pool, hot tub, alderwood sauna and steam room.

The thermal space in the adult-only Spa Hotel is stunning – a vast glass structure with a bubbling hydro pool and seven heat experiences. It overlooks the decked spa garden with its hot tub, sauna and Zen garden.

Rowhill Grange is a modern country house hotel, but its spa has a Romanesque vibe with temple-like pillars and frescos of Italian landscapes around the therapeutic pools. Try the new nail bar and relaxation room.

0161 932 4080 qhotels.co.uk

0800 085 1717 ribbyhall.co.uk

01322 517 438 alexanderhotels.co.uk

Verbena Spa North Yorkshire

Weavers’ House Spa at The Swan at Lavenham

Y Spa at The Waterfront Hotel

This former coaching inn-turned-boutique hotel, has an Italian-style outdoor pool and raised hot tub in its courtyard. The spa has a stylish café, a hexagonal thermal area and a homely lounge with cosy sofas and blankets and bookshelves.

An ancient hotel with a beautiful modern spa set in a delightful secret garden. Small but perfectly formed, it manages to pack in a sauna, steam room, garden room and outdoor vitality pool on a pretty terrace.

This stunning, modern spa with clean lines and bold colours is set in a leisure complex. It has spacious, quirky thermal facilities; the sauna is called Some Like it Hot, and there are fish tanks in the café walls.

01439 772 930 fevershamarmshotel.com

01787 246 246 theswanatlavenham.co.uk

0333 7007 667 yspa.co.uk

Manchester

goodspaguide.co.uk

Lancashire

Suffolk

The hotel and spacious spa have a design concept – suites instead of ‘rooms’. The Thermal Suite has a heat and ice journey; the Grand Relaxation Suite vast beds where you can enjoy chocolate-dipped strawberries.

0151 549 5400 suiteshotelgroup.com/spa

Kent

Bedfordshire

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THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FOUR BUBBLE

The Belfry Spa West Midlands

This luxurious golf resort is set in 500 acres of countryside near Birmingham. The stylish spa offers ESPA treatments, a decadent relaxation room and beauty studio. Head down to the ‘fire and ice’ experiences and large, bright pool.

01675 238 600 thebelfry.co.uk

Chuan Body & Soul at The Langham

Brandshatch Place Hotel & Spa Kent

An elegant mansion with a modern spa and health club near the racecourse. There’s a gym, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, heat rooms, and funky chill out areas. On a sunny day, visit the rooftop terrace and soak up the sun.

01474 875 040 handpickedhotels.co.uk

Fawsley Hall Hotel & Spa

Carden Park Cheshire

Carden Park is a golfers’ paradise set in beautiful Chester countryside. The 20-metre swimming pool is filled with light; the spacious spa offers a sauna, steam room and warm hydrotherapy pool with swan fountain.

01829 731 007 cardenpark.co.uk

Foxhills Club and Resort

Northamptonshire

Surrey

A classy spa in the basement of the five-star Langham hotel with a spectacular swimming pool set in what used to be a bank vault. The glamorous fittings suggests guests here expect the very best.

The historic hotel overlooks a peaceful lake, while its spa is in a renovated coach house.

Guests can enjoy a quiet relaxation room with snuggly blankets, a 17-metre pool, steam room, sauna and gorgeous outdoor hot tub where you can soak up the fresh air.

The spa in this huge resort has its own romantic walled garden with an outdoor sauna, Jacuzzi and natural freshwater plunge pool.

Escape the golfers with a luxurious treatment, then lounge on sofas by the bright indoor pool between refreshing dips.

020 7973 7550 chuanspa.co.uk

01327 892 000 handpickedhotels.co.uk

01932 704 555 foxhills.co.uk

Grand Jersey Hotel & Spa

Headlam Hall

Hoar Cross Hall

A classic hotel on the Esplanade in St Helier. Its basement spa has a 15-metre pool, heat facilities and a sumptuous relaxation room – help yourself to homemade cakes. Enjoy lunch in the Champagne Bar with sea views.

Set in acres of romantic walled gardens, this 17th Century house has a separate modern spa. There’s a 15-metre indoor pool and a steamy outdoor hydrotherapy pool. Curl up in the spa lounge with its cosy log-burning stove.

Set in 50 acres of impressive grounds, Hoar Cross Hall has a large spa with an equally impressive list of facilities, including a 26-metre vitality pool, hydro pool, Nordic heat and ice suite, water gardens and outdoor terraces.

01534 288 459 handpickedhotels.co.uk

01325 730 238 headlamhall.co.uk

01283 576 506 hoarcross.co.uk

London

Jersey

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MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

County Durham

Staffordshire

THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FOUR BUBBLE

Holm House Hotel and Spa

L’Horizon Beach Hotel & Spa

Lion Quays Hotel and Spa

The hotel's swimming pool and Jacuzzi overlook beautiful St Brelade’s Bay. Head upstairs to the shiny Elemis spa, with its chic little nail bar; treatment rooms; dark posttreatment sleep room; and large, stylish chill-out space.

Lion Quays is a modern resort on the Welsh border with a large spa. There’s a pebble-edged hydro pool, emerald steam room, sauna, snow cave, 25-metre pool and Jacuzzi. In the summer, grab lunch outside to watch barges and ducks drift by.

01534 494 433 handpickedhotels.co.uk

01691 684 300 lionquays.co.uk

New Hall Hotel & Spa

Nutfield Priory Hotel & Spa

Lounge by the indoor pool, pamper in the Champagne nail bar, relax around the wet facilities or feel the sun on your face on the panoramic terrace. Treatment rooms overlook the landscaped gardens and the Malvern Hills.

New Hall is believed to be the oldest moated house in England, with a beautifully-preserved medieval tower and covered drawbridge. The red-bricked spa has a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and a 14-metre swimming pool with southwestfacing latticed windows.

A warm and friendly Elemis spa in the grounds of the grand Victorian priory. There’s a 14-metre pool, Jacuzzi and sauna, plus a spacious mosaic steam room and pretty spa garden. Drink in the views of the Surrey Downs at lunchtime.

01886 833 551 bankhouseworcester.com

01213 354 741 handpickedhotels.co.uk

01737 824 434 handpickedhotels.co.uk

Santai Spa

Spa 15 at No.15 Great Pulteney Somerset

Spa by Kasia at Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa

The Santai Spa is within the chic Genting Hotel. Think dark shimmering colours and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing cityscape views. Float around the 15-metre pool, try the salt cave then head to the outdoor hot tub overlooking Pendigo lake.

A quirky spa in the atmospheric vaults of an elegant Bath hotel. Each of the four delightful treatment rooms has been designed by local art students. There’s a cedar wood hot tub, a barrel sauna and a cosy relaxation room with a roaring fire.

0121 273 1000 gentinghotel.co.uk

01225 807 015 no15greatpulteney.co.uk

Within beautifully landscaped grounds, the spa is hushed and calming with a 15-metre indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room and three tranquil relaxation rooms. Head to the stunning Asian Sensory Garden with its summerhouse.

Glamorganshire

This former Arts-and-Crafts-style mansion on a clifftop has views over the Bristol Channel.

The spa is small but pretty with a 15-metre hydro pool, an aromatherapy steam room and a relaxation lounge with French doors opening onto a sun terrace.

02920 713 502 holmhousehotel.com

Malvern View Spa at The Bank House Worcestershire

West Midlands

goodspaguide.co.uk

Jersey

West Midlands

Shropshire

Surrey

Cheshire

01244 572 199 spabykasia.co.uk

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THE BUBBLE RATINGS

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London

The Day Spa at Whittlebury Hall

The Elms Hotel & Spa

A stylish spa set within the super-chic Crowne Plaza Hotel in Battersea. Facilities include a sauna, steam room and large hydrotherapy pool to bubble away any post-work tension.

Enjoy a gastro-pub style lunch overlooking the Thames and hotel heliport.

If fun is what you’re looking for, head to this day spa in a separate wing from the popular hotel.

The main attraction is the heat and ice experience with hydrotherapy pool, hot and cold thermal rooms and experience showers.

Set in beautiful Worcestershire countryside.

Swim lengths in the spa’s indoor heated pool before warming up in the indoor/outdoor hydro pool with bubbling jets. Thermal facilities include a steam room, sauna, ice fountain and rainforest shower.

020 7801 3500 spavertalondon.com

01327 850 489 whittleburyhall.co.uk

01299 891 850 theelmshotel.co.uk/spa

The Goodwood Hotel West Sussex

The Netherwood Hotel and Spa

The Runnymede on Thames

The Goodwood Hotel screams British luxury.

The Waterbeach Treatment Rooms has a relaxation lounge, four treatment rooms and a tanning cubicle. The health club has a 14-metre pool, sauna and steam room, a Jacuzzi and loungers to relax on.

Situated amid 15 acres of woodland and landscaped gardens, with breathtaking views across Morecambe Bay, Netherwood Spa has a hot tub, aroma steam room, salt inhalation room, sauna and nail bar.

Water babies will love this bright, contemporary spa attached to a modern hotel on the banks of the River Thames. Inside there’s an 18-metre indoor pool and whirlpool; outside is a large swimming pool, open during the summer. Great for spa-ing with friends.

01243 520 114 goodwood.com

01539 533 999 netherwood-hotel.co.uk

01784 220 990 runnymedehotel.com

The Spa at Cotswold House Hotel

The Spa at Roe Park

The Spa at Sopwell House

A charming spa set in a converted coach house at the end of a pretty hotel garden. Try the bright thermal space with its large, warm hydrotherapy pool. Relax on comfortable loungers and order poolside smoothies.

The spa and leisure club are in converted stables behind this Georgian country house hotel on the dramatic Inishowen Penisular.

Downstairs is a large, bright 20-metre pool and thermal facilities, while treatments and meditation rooms are upstairs.

The spa in this stylish whitewashed Georgian manor has a Zen-like pool area with floor-toceiling windows overlooking the delightful grounds. Head to the thermal area or grab some sun in the spa garden. A £10 million extension will be completed by February 2019.

028 7776 2929 roeparkresort.com

01727 864 477 sopwellhouse.co.uk

Spa Verta

Northamptonshire

Gloucestershire

01386 840 330 bespokehotels.com 74 | Wellness |

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

Cumbria

Londonderry

Worcestershire

Surrey

Hertfordshire

THE BUBBLE RATINGS

FOUR BUBBLE

The Spread Eagle Spa West Sussex

This historic hotel, set in the Sussex market town Midhurst, has bags of charm. Its modern spa has a bright pool area with doors opening onto a pretty spa garden. There’s a secluded whirlpool, plus steam and sauna rooms, too.

Lunch in your robe in the conservatory.

01730 819 829 hshotels.co.uk

The Vaulted Spa at the Kings Head Gloucestershire

In the heart of historic Cirencester, this spa is in the vaulted cellars of a boutique hotel.

There is a wet zone with colour-changing Jacuzzi, infra-red sauna and emerald-hued steam room. Relax on air-beds with blankets.

01285 700 900 kingshead-hotel.co.uk

Wynyard Hall County Durham

Wynyard Hall is a rather grand affair; its spa is set, rather quirkily, in a converted boathouse on the shores of the lake. Unwind in the thermal suite before heading to the spa terrace which has two steamy hot tubs set on the edge of a lake.

01740 644 811 wynyardhall.co.uk

THREE BUBBLE

Ufford Park

Wood Hall Hotel & Spa

A 15-metre pool, sauna, steam and hot tub are for all guests, but the spa area is exclusive and has peaceful facilities. These include a white-mosaic hydro pool, mineral grotto, steam, sauna and an ice bowl for the brave.

A tranquil country house set on top of a hill with countryside views. The compact spa has a pool, steam room and two treatment rooms.

Enjoy strolls through the 100-acre grounds and dine in the 2 AA Rosette restaurant.

01394 385 555 uffordparkspa.co.uk

01937 587 271 handpickedhotels.co.uk

Suffolk

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Yorkshire

AUTUMN/WINTER 2018

| 75

THE DEBATE

THE DEBATE:

Wellness vs Pampering Cream teas and champers, or clean eating and chakras? The Spa Spies argue for and against health or hedonism packages in our spas.

THE SPA SPY:

I would honestly shiver with horror if I found myself at a hen party spa day with cream teas and Champagne: it’s so clichéd. And have you ever tried to sip a (plastic) glass of bubbly in a Jacuzzi?

I have, and I didn’t feel glamorous, at all – just a bit naff. Pampering makes me think of poodles; wellness is contemporary and stylish.

Wellness is not about being excessively virtuous but feeling balanced and beautiful, rather than bloated and bleary. Around the world, spas are embracing wellness and luxury combined – often with an eco-element, too.

Pampering is about waste and excess; wellness is about sustainability and long-term thinking.

To create a spa around sustainability and holistic health demands more thought than simply using brand-based treatments and a hotel lunch menu. I like to be inspired, whether by food that is going to give me energy and make my gut microbiota happy; by wellness rituals, such as setting intentions while inhaling a balancing spray or practising mindfulness in a massage to deepen the experience.

Wellness may be the mot du jour, and some places are jumping on the bandwagon without much thought but, if done properly, wellness brings a creative and innovative element to the spa day. I’m thinking gorgeous décor, beautiful settings, locally-sourced food and treatments that truly take care of you.

Chakra healing with Tibetan singing bowls sounds bonkers but feels divine as well as deeply emotional. You can even have a virtual reality mindful experience – or a real one, sitting in an outdoor pool and appreciating the natural beauty surrounding you. And you don’t need a Prosecco or a scone to feel blissed out. Frankly, I’d rather be a Gwynnie than a Kardashian. Give me wellness over pampering any day.

76 | Wellness |

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SPA TIME

'I crave pampering.

I want treatments with the words diamond and truffle in them, massages that ease my aching limbs and make me snooze ...'

'Wellness can make you feel pampered, but in a good way: it’s more about nurturing than indulging.'

SAVANT SPY:

I feel surrounded enough by people 'gramming their superfood salads or showing off their lycraclad bodies. There’s too much ‘wellness’ going on for my liking, most of it ridiculous and a total rip off: spas are places to escape this po-faced puritanical insanity.

In a world gone mad with austerity, and lots of depressing stats about diabetes and obesity, I crave pampering. I want treatments with the words diamond and truffle in them, massages that ease my aching limbs and make me snooze – not stay awake so that I can focus on my calf muscles, as one meditation asked me to do.

Why on earth would I pay good money to think about such boring things as parts of my body?

I want to drift away on a decadent cashmerecovered cloud imagining I’m gazing into Chris Hemsworth’s twinkly eyes (he plays Thor, by the way).

From where I’m sitting, pampering looks a lot like ‘self-care’ but way more enjoyable.

Life can be fast-paced and stressful: some people want to punish themselves further with wheatgrass. I want to relax and feel like a Hollywood starlet. The element of fantasy and indulgence is part of it – pampering is playful and fun, like dressing up as a princess and eating too many Smarties when you’re young.

Wellness belongs outside a spa in the real world. Health shouldn’t be a fad but something you do every day and have fun on your days off.

It’s all about balance (to borrow an over-used and somewhat nonsensical phrase from the wellness lexicon). I don’t want to splash out on eating less and having a wispy treatment that does nothing. I have had my chakras realigned, thank you very much, and it was frankly underwhelming. And I won’t tell you where you can stick your kefir and kale smoothie. WM

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