In a world that celebrates external validation, self-care is a revolutionary act, and whether you're coupled up or going solo, Singles' Day is the perfect opportunity to take time for yourself with a spa break that's all about you.
"But this revolutionary act of treating ourselves tenderly can begin to undo the aversive messages of a lifetime." - Tara Brach, American psychologist, author, and proponent of Buddhist meditation
Giving you time and space to breathe again, finding that internal rhythm that's so readily disrupted by the outside world, spas are wellbeing sanctuaries ready to wrap you up in a fluffy robe and slippers, while someone else looks after you for a while.
Exhale, make space, and give yourself permission to stop - these are the solo spa days and breaks designed just for you.
"Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation" - Audre Lorde, American writer, professor, philosopher, poet, and civil rights activist
"Self-care is never a selfish act — it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer others." - Parker Palmer
Located within the five-star hotel, Raffles London at The OWO, the Guerlain Spa is a 27,000sq ft urban sanctuary set over four floors and created in partnership with its famous French namesake. All about self-indulgence, this is a space that's the height of luxury, with a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, a Vitality pool, sauna, steam room, experience showers, and a state-of-the-art gym. Treatment rooms have private showers and changing facilities, and therapies were designed specifically for Raffles London for a transformative experience.
Located on Level 52 of The Shard, London’s most iconic landmark, Shangri-La The Shard, London is a world that deserves your full attention. With floor-to-ceiling windows that flood it with natural light, enjoy sweeping views of the city skyline from the infinity sky pool, the gym, and slip into savasana with a treatment or two from Elemis. Why not meet friends in the hotel's TĪNG is the Shangri La dining experience afterwards for 360-degree views and an opportunity to enjoy time together.
Because of its natural spring waters, the Worcester town of Malvern is known as a spa town, so it’s only appropriate that it plays home to The Malvern hotel, spa and health club. Gorgeous whether you're staying for the day or overnight, it's a destination that feels decidedly sophisticated. The spa offers a world of experiences, including a 20 metre indoor/outdoor pool that remains at a constant and optimum 35⁰ C, a thermal suite (that is to say herb sauna, steam room and hydrotherapy pool) and a gym. Therapies include holistic face and body treatments from Elemis, as well as non-surgical CACI treatments, which are superb.
On the famous Berkeley Street in the heart of London's iconic Mayfair, 1 Hotel Mayfair prides itself on its luxury hospitality credentials as well as being a sustainable sanctuary. In this chic destination, the spa is by the UK-born Bamford brand, famed for its organic skincare, and its influence spans in-room wellness as well as the spa area. For those staying overnight, the hotel's partnership with HigherDose, means you can hire a sauna blanket and PEMF Mat to use in your room. Living walls throughout the hotel add to the sense of wellbeing and tranquility, there's a 24/7 gym, and suggested running routes in the nearby Royal Parks. The spa is a place that's all about pampering and connection with nature. Make time and space for therapies using the Bamford skincare line made from natural and organic ingredients.
A riverside eco-wellbeing experience, bhuti at Bingham Riverhouse is part of the stylish boutique hotel, located on the banks of the Thames in Richmond and offering easy access to central London as well as attractions like the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and Richmond Park. An experience that's rooted in nature, recharge mind and body with contrast therapy in the ice bath and infrared sauna, as well as classes such as yoga, meditation, and sound healing. Therapies are deeply restorative, including sound healing, Oskia facials, holistic facelifts, gua sha therapies, and more. Then make time for coffee, afternoon tea, or cocktails in The Riverhouse Restaurant.
A dreamy Devon destination, Gaia Spa at Boringdon Hall is a destination in its own right. Situated within the grounds of this historic hotel, the ultra modern spa has enough going on to keep you entertained all day. From the swimming pool that overlooks the countryside to the swim-through hydrotherapy pool that takes you from indoors to out, you will feel like you’re in your own private escape. Spend time in the thermal areas, treat yourself to a treatment from ESPA or Gaia's own product range, and then refuel in the dedicated Spatisserie spa cafe.
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