The dawn of the new week brings with it the beginning of National Spa Week, aiming to raise public awareness of the real physical, mental and emotional benefits that regular spa attendance can offer. Far from being the indulgent treat we tend to see it as in the UK, across Europe regular spa attendance is a cultural norm for the whole family. I've always believed in the restorative powers of a spa visit and this week thousands of spas and salons across the UK are uniting to offer lots of exciting introductory offers and promotions on spa treatments so that more people can ‘give it a try’. Take a look at www.spaweek.co.uk.co.uk for more information and to find a spa near you.
On that note, a few weeks ago I had the pleasure of visiting Chelsea's oasis of tranquility, the Ushvani day spa. Mere moments from Sloane Square and yet a world away from London's busy streets, it's been voted the UK's Best Day Spa by both Tatler and Condé Nast Traveller. The Malaysian spa is housed in a beautiful former hospital on Cadogan Gardens with an abundance of unique touches to the set up and decor, including specially-commissioned Malaysian artworks throughout the spa and the delicate aroma of ginger, nutmeg and pandan leaves which greets you on arrival. The spa is also home to the Asmara Suite (pictured), an intimate self-contained space for duos or couples to seriously indulge in total privacy.
I'd expected it to be busier when I visited on a Friday afternoon, until I was informed that they limit the number of appointments and avoid clashes so as to allow guests to enjoy the spa pool steam facilities - the lower ground floor of which is reserved for ladies only - uninterrupted. I must say, it was an utter treat to have the hydrotherapy pool to myself without having to fight for space. After a dip and a steam, I curled up with my book in the relaxation room and helped myself to a bowl of fruit and nuts whilst reading until it was time for my treatment.
Their signature Malay Massage is justifiably renowned for its contouring and toning benefits; using long kneading strokes and soothing stretches it is apparently one of the gentler approaches amongst the Asian therapies. I've been told by a therapist before that it's a great compliment if a client falls asleep during a massage. Suffice to say I was out like a like. The total seclusion and silence afforded thanks to Ushvani's policies certainly made a difference - I've had massages in the past whereby it's impossible to switch off thanks to thin walls amplifying every titbit of gossip from the receptionists, but there's certainly no risk of that here. Post-treatment I headed back upstairs to the Tea Room where I enjoyed a cup of hibiscus tea before being unleashed back into the real world.
For the perfect afternoon away from it all, Ushvani is the insider's secret you want in your little black spa book.
www.ushvani.com
Love Laurel x
