Head into 2021 feeling refreshed and recharged by taking some much needed ‘time out’ to reset and restore your equilibrium.
If lockdown, dark nights and cold winter weather has left you in need of a wellbeing boost then the Six Senses Spa at The Alpina Gstaad has a wellness break designed to raise your vibes and up level your immunity.
Situated in the Swiss Alps, the spa is renowned for offering exceptional healing programmes, from ‘Yoga for Sleep’ and ‘Energy Sound Healing’, to ‘Holistic Anti-Ageing’ – think neuroscience meets ancient wisdom. Now, when we need it most, the spa has created two new programmes designed to put a positive spring in your step and kick start your new year.
Power Vibration Retreat
Turn negative energy into positive through a blend of vibratory sound and energy healing treatments, sophisticated daily mindfulness sessions and breathing techniques. The body’s subtle energy vibration is explored with different methods in order to rebalance, revitalise and reconnect with the inner self. A deep immersion into mindfulness, meditation and spiritual practices.
This retreat is ideal for anyone who needs to de-stress, this programme is about deep rest. It helps to build inner resilience and inspires more ease, peace and happiness. From £6,245, including 6 nights’ accommodation.
Purifying Cleansing Immunity Boost Retreat, 1 – 5 days
A focused cleanse which combines customised treatments and nutritional supplements with personalised face and body treatments and the latest anti-ageing technologies, including a skin analysis.
This cleansing programme helps to boost and support your natural immunity, raises energy levels and can prompt a shift in excess weight. From £4,932, including 4 nights’ accommodation and 3 lunches. A one-day taster is also available from £675.
For more information on the spa programmes and retreats available visit The Alpina Gstaad
Tipped to be 2021’s hottest new fitness trend, transformer pilates combines popular machine-based pilates workouts with mindfulness and breath-work techniques to efficiently achieve your fitness goals. Pioneering this new workout is KARVE – a fitness and wellbeing community born in lockdown, whose Kensington High Street Studio is due to launch later this year.
Inspired by the energetic attitude of the New York fitness scene, founder Yulia became an avid fan of machine-based Pilates that quickly helped her gain results without the injury or joint pain she previously had experienced in other high-impact physical training. Boosting heart rate, endorphin levels and metabolism, these spring-based workouts ignited Yulia’s motivation to establish a holistic workout adapted to London lifestyles.
Capturing the infectious spirit of New York’s workout scene tailored to London lifestyles, the Kensington High Street studio will offer classes featuring their signature spring-loaded machines. Designed to ‘karve’ both body and mind, with workouts centring around building slow-twitch muscle fibres to increase body strength and drive the metabolism. Gentle on the joints, each transformer Pilates class follows a sequence of resistance-based, mindful movements that are amplified to ensure transformational results.
In the meantime, KARVE are offering a taste of what is to come in their studio with KARVE On Demand – a subscription to sweat and sculpt at home with minimum equipment, but maximum results. Targeting specific areas of the body, the library of signature high-intensity, low-impact workouts supports stay at home wellbeing goals, with abs, legs, upper body, cardio burn workouts across pre-burn, burn and post-burn categories, followed up with endorphin-fuelled stretching and meditation sessions for that all important mindful finish to your lockdown workout.
For more information about KARVE and to sign up to their 7 day free On Demand trial, visit www.karve.club / @karve.club
Yoga gear and clothing are now a big part of yoga practice, particularly when you start for the first time. With your first yoga session, you need to make sure that you do have the right gear and clothes.
Yoga gear is, to put it mildly, varies significantly, and it continues to grow. There are already plenty of various yoga gear choices out there to support your sustainable yoga practice, whether you are an experienced yogi or a complete novice.
Here is a list of all the various kinds of yoga gears, women and mens yoga clothes to choose from and how each aspect of your practice will stand to gain from these.
YOGA GEAR: Must-haves
Yoga Mats
It is essential to have your very own yoga mat because you will sweat a lot. For instance, when you are doing Bikram yoga, you will be sweating buckets. Therefore, it is a lot better and hygienic to work with your own mat than those provided in the studio.
When it comes to choosing a yoga mat, there are a lot of different materials and thicknesses from which to choose. Different types of yoga match different kinds of mats, too. Ashtanga yogis typically prefer yoga mats which are thinner, so they have more excellent ground grasp and contact. If you go to therapeutic sessions, you might want to consider a thicker, more cushioned mat.
Your mat traverses up your personal space when doing yoga, so yet another vital thing to note is the length of the mat. Standard-sized yoga mats would be perfect for under six feet yogis. Consider purchasing a longer yoga mat if you are taller than 6 feet.
Yoga Mat Bags
Yoga mat bags are convenient to put your mat in and carry it to and from a yoga session. When you are rushing to catch the train, nothing is worse than a yoga mat unraveling. The yoga bag keeps the mat safe and clean from any elements. During yoga, you can also make use of the yoga bag to store any valuables.
Some yoga mat bags yoga can only accommodate just one mat. Larger bags will be needed if you need to store two mats, a towel, a blanket, or a block.
Yoga Wrist and Knee Pad
If you have been performing yoga for quite a while now, you know how it can be harrowing for the joints — especially the elbows, wrists, hands, shoulders, and knees. The pads are intended to give your joints a soft cushion so that you no longer have to complain about the pains.
Yoga Block, Bricks & Belts
Yoga props are best suited for beginner yogis or if you are just have recovered from an injury. Props such as bricks, blocks, and belts will help you get deeper into postures that would be unattainable otherwise.
Bricks and blocks are excellent props to assist with those tight muscle groups. For instance, you could use a block for sitting on if you have hamstrings or tight hips and were attempting to come to position into a seated forward fold. Bricks and blocks are also helpful in yoga poses wherein you need to balance, such as when you are doing Half Moon, where the grounded hand does not touch the floor.
Belts or straps are also useful for postures, such as when you cannot reach your feet when doing a seated forward fold.
Yoga Towel
A yoga towel is more useful than it may seem.
With regular use, mats can deteriorate and wear down. This is the main reason why you will need a yoga towel. A full-length towel will provide your mat with protection and promote better hygiene. Towels provide a barrier that is machine-washable for convenience and cleanliness.
If you have no mat but have a yoga towel, you can use the towel over the shared mat provided in the studio to ensure there would be no microbe sharing. You will have to purchase a high-quality yoga towel for it to serve its purpose. One side should be smooth, and the other side should be perforated.
This is hugely helpful when doing Bikram because of increased risks of slip and slide.
YOGA CLOTHING: Must-wear
A lot of people now wear yoga clothes for fashion, not just solely for yoga sessions. You will mostly find yoga clothes with pockets, different colors and designs, and mesh cut-outs. Ensure that when you wear these types of clothes in a regular yoga class, it will work. Try to do some Sun Greetings first when fitting it before you buy yoga clothes.
How the clothes feel – regardless of what kind of exercise you are doing – is pertinent, and especially with yoga, you are going to need clothing that gives you plenty of freedom to move and wicks away sweat.
Yoga Bras
Although most sports bras are okay to use for yoga, there are available yoga bras that you can purchase, which is specifically designed for yoga.
You want to make sure that the yoga bra offers full support and looks good as well. It must have adjustable straps and be stretch enough for you to move freely. The fabric of the yoga bra should also be something that can wick away sweat.
It must have adjustable straps and be stretch enough for you to move freely. The fabric of the yoga bra should also be something that can wick away sweat. Make sure you get yourself a yoga bra that is chick and has fun designs to make you look fabulous even when you are sweaty.
Yoga Tops
Yoga tops are also another significant piece to include. You will want a shape-fitting tank top or tee shirt, one that fits perfectly on the hips. This guarantees that your top will not slip over your head when doing bending postures. You are also going to want to consider a breathable and wicking fabric. Before purchasing, try to lean over and touch your toes in the dressing room. If your shirt will hang loose and show your chest or slips over the head, it is not the appropriate shirt to use.
Yoga Sweaters
Yoga sweaters are another great piece of apparel to consider. If you plan to do errands after a yoga class, you probably would like to wear something cozy. Extra layers will avoid the chill that normally happens when you leave the warm room of the studio.
Yoga Pants
Yoga pants are also a key part of a yoga outfit. Yoga pants are available in a wide range of designs, sizes, and fits. Consider wearing high-waisted leggings or yoga pants because it would less likely ride down when doing inversion poses. You may choose to wear loose-fitting yoga pants when doing slower classes, but tight-fitting yoga pants are recommended for high-speed classes.
Yoga shorts
Yoga shorts are an excellent choice for men, as they also have built-in comfort liners. Women might choose to wear shorts for hot classes; however, it would not most likely provide much coverage during bends and inversion poses.
There are numerous water-related activities that people engage in during the summer months. We all know how important it is to have a clean pool, but this can be tricky with all of the equipment that you will need to purchase and maintain. This article offers some helpful advice for keeping your pool in good shape.
What Steps Should You Follow to Improve Your Pace
There are many ways to improve swimming times. You can start by improving your stroke, or using proper form when you are in the water. The most important thing that you should do is make sure your pool is clean. This means removing any debris from the bottom of the pool and cleaning it thoroughly. Keeping your pool clean will not only make sure it lasts longer but will give you a better chance at hitting new personal bests!
Pool Maintenance Tips
One of the most important things you need to keep your pool in top shape every time is to give it a thorough cleaning. You can do this manually with a bucket and sponge or just hire someone else to do it for you. If you want to maintain the cleanliness and health of your pool, you should limit chemical use and not just focus on the pool itself. Making sure that you have a reliable filter is key, as well as regularly cleaning the pool. Use a chlorine solution weekly and a bromine solution monthly for added benefits. There are many ways to improve your swimming times.
If your pool is in need of some serious TLC, you might want to consider investing in a pool cover. A waterproof pool cover will help reduce chlorine and sunlight’s effect on the water making it easier for you to enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about all the dangers that come with swimming in pools.
If you want to improve your swimming times, you will need a pool enclosure. The pool enclosure protects the pool from the debris and can also be useful for controlling temperature levels. It provides a sense of safety to the children and adults that use the pool, but it can also protect against dogs, birds, or bugs that could potentially harm swimmers.
How To Use A Pool Filter
Filters are one of the most important pieces of equipment when it comes to keeping a swimming pool clean. They help the water flow smoothly and they remove many contaminants from your pool’s water. The most common types of filters in pools are sand filters, cartridge filters, and diatomaceous earth-based filters. These three types have their pros and cons that will be discussed below.
Tips for Getting More Out of Your Pool
If you’re looking to get more out of your pool, you need to understand how it works. The first thing you should do is to read up on how pools work from a professional perspective. Next, make sure to know the basics of the pooling system and what steps should be taken in order. Finally, learn how you can use these tips to save money and energy.
A new world has called for a new routine. To keep fit is both needed physically and mentally – to survive the current climate we are killing the home work outs like never before. And why can’t we look great at home whilst doing it? we interviewed Danielle King the creator of KIHT the innovating new fitness label that everyone is talking about. KIHT represents sisterhood the messages behind the brand are cute and we cannot get enough – we sat down with Danielle to get the low down.
Tell about you! Who are you? Your story with fashion
Hi! I am Danielle, a designer, fitness lover and founder of the brand KIHT Collective. I am massively enthusiastic, annoyingly positive and a massive foodie!
My fashion story is so long I could probably write a book (I just might!)
From a really young age I was always drawing clothes and outfits that I’d love to wear, I went on to making them and customising things, taking sewing classes when I was in college and then onto Uni where I specialised in knitwear.
Fast forward quite a few years, I worked my way up in the industry to an up and coming company called Missguided. It was at the start of fast fashion and it was ace working to carve out that path that was so different from traditional retailers. My last role before I set up on my own was heading up the design team at PrettyLittleThing. Again when I started it was small and offered cheap basics. In a few short years, I’d built a design team, launched a ton of successful ranges and worked with some incredible people.
But it just never quite fit for me. The waste, the factories in China VS the shiny campaigns with celebs and models. I always knew I wanted my own business at some point and I knew it would be clothing but I didn’t know what. Up until this point I hadn’t felt ready.
One day the idea hit me and that was it! I took the leap, quit my job and started working full time on setting up KIHT.
Working out in the heat or the cold?
I enjoy both
Your brand reflects empowering women how important is that you?
So important! The brand is a reflection of a lot of my own beliefs and values.
How are you being sustainable?
The goal with KIHT is to become as sustainable as possible. Right now we are doing the following:
We manufacture near east out of a small town called Porto in Portugal, this keeps our carbon footprint low. Unlike most businesses we also buy our ‘2nds’, this is stock that doesn’t pass the strict controls, but is still wearable. We do this as it is normally destroyed or ends up in a landfill.
All our packing is either from recycled sources or can be recycled. We have also partnered with the charity TreeSisters, for every transaction we donate a tree to be planted. They are an incredible charity that supports women in reforestation projects around the world.
What’s your go to workout?
Right now my workouts have changed ALOT because of lockdown. Normally I would say it’s weight training, but right now it is spinning. I luckily bought a spin bike just before we went into lockdown and honestly it’s been one of the best purchases I have ever made!
Long baths or long runs?
Right now defo long baths!
Here at house of coco we love all things travel, what is your go to item from your collection that would be perfect for work out abroad?
For working out abroad and in nicer weather it would be the Myah bike shorts in pink and the matching top Olivia, plus they look so good you could easily wear them all day before you work out!
How have you dealt with the lockdown? Tell us about your home routine
I feel a little guilty admitting this, but I have actually quite enjoyed it! It’s been really good for solidifying my routine. I have definitely simplified my routine and life, which I aim to continue once we move out of lockdown.
The biggest game changers in my routine have been two things:
My bedtime routine, as I made the decision that I wanted to really prioritise my sleep. I put my phone on to night mode from 9pm so I don’t look at it. I watch less TV and ensure I wear my blue blocking glasses if I do. I cannot tell you how much this has changed my sleep quality! I now go to bed and fall asleep easily and sleep right through the night. In the morning I tend to wake naturally feeling refreshed! (it’s so unsexy, but omg its such a huge revelation for me!)
Meal planning, (not meal prep) this has made my life so much simpler and saved so much time! We shop less often and eat so much better. We sit down, normally on a Sunday and plan out our meals for the next two weeks, make lists and head out Monday morning to the local greengrocers and butchers/fishmongers. We stock up, freeze all the meat/fish, we have a little white board on the inside of the cupboard with our meals planned out, that’s basically it! We hardly use any plastic as nothing comes pre-packed, we never have food waste and it’s sooo much quicker than the supermarket! O, we also have a shared shopping list on our phones so we can easily add to it – that has been game changing!
What is go to holiday destination and why?
I’m going to say for me it’s variety! I don’t really go to the same place twice. I love to travel and explore, I’m not a sunbather, I’d much rather be doing something, whether that’s skiing, exploring a city or learning to kite surf, give me adventure!
How was Kiht born? What made you go down the route of a fitness brand?
KIHT came to life when I was really struggling to find trend led gym wear that didn’t cost a fortune! The only things on offer at the time were not really feminine and covered in awful logos, unless you could afford to spend £100 on a pair of leggings.
It wasn’t long after this I quit my job and started working full time on KIHT. It’s taken a lot to get the business off the ground. From day 1 I was adamant that it needed to be high quality, affordable and produced near east (not china) as I wanted a high ethical standard. All of those things together are extremely difficult for a small business!
KIHT has perfectly married all of my passions together in one! Before this my active and fitness life was almost separate from my job, but now they feel like they are in total harmony! I love it.
What inspired you with your debut collection?
I took alot of my inspiration from the catwalks, necklines, detailing and colours. I wanted the collection to feel current so it would slot into your wardrobe and be really wearable. I spent time testing the fits too, I wanted them to make you feel great, support you and also perform. The whole range is also designed to be mix and match so you can really get the most out it! Something I defo took from my own gym wardrobe struggles!
Life had somewhat changed since covid 19 how have you adapted and what do you see the future for fitness being like?
I walk a lot more, which I am absolutely loving and something I will definitely continue to do. Getting outside in nature everyday has been great and it’s been so lovely seeing so many people out running, cycling and exercising outdoors. It would be great to see this continue.
My hope for fitness is that people will see it more as a blended and long term approach. Rather than the view that you can only be fit if you go to the gym, count macros and HIIT train. (all of which are great). Fitness is unique to everyone, it needs to be firstly what you enjoy and secondly something you can stick to longer term.
Looking at fitness as a long game and not as a weight loss hack is honestly one of the biggest changes I’d love to see.
Would you agree that keeping fit is key for great mental health? How do you deal with a bad day?
100% there is literally no downside to moving your body at all! It is so good for your mental health, mindset and wellbeing!
If I’ve had a bad day I need that endorphin hit! I always go for something high intensity. I am really into VO2 max training at the min, so it will be a 45 min spin session that involves Tabata training. It totally clears my head as I literally cannot think about anything else except breathing! I absolutely love it
If you want a serious dose of positivity then head to @kihtcollective on instagram
and if you like what you see head to www.kiht.co.uk
Exercise for most people involve grueling workouts and hours of weightlifting and sweating. Some also think that they need the right equipment to start an exercise routine. But, what if you realize that you can have fun and stay fit at the same time? Plus, all these can be done in the comfort of your home. You can find some inspirations here.
Practicing Yoga: Increasing Flexibility and Achieving Mindfulness
Yoga has gained attention over the years. People are now more aware of its benefits. Enrolling in a reputable yoga studio will help you start your journey to this practice. The good thing about yoga is it does not need much equipment, except a mat and your willpower. Also, you can do it in the comfort of your home as there are online classes for almost all levels.
Yoga also is a holistic practice. Being more in tune with your body helps you relax and achieve a great level of mindfulness. You might also get surprised when you use muscles that have long been dormant.
Gardening: Soaking in the Sunshine
Most people are so accustomed to being inside their homes and offices. They miss out on getting vitamin D. Gardening provides you with many opportunities to soak in the sun.
Also, this hobby helps you do mini workouts without you realizing it. Lifting pots and watering cans, pulling weeds, and shifting movements are some examples. Being outdoor and surrounding yourself with nature is also a great mood booster. Plus, you have the chance to grow your food.
Cleaning and Redecorating: Moving Your Muscles
You may get a burst of energy when you commit to organizing your space. Consider how many times you need to bend over or squat when you deal with cabinets in the lowest area. Also, you will find yourself stretching as you organize items on your topmost shelves. How about enjoying the muscle work-out of scrubbing the windows and floors? These things may seem simple but can help you break into a healthy sweat.
Redecorating your home can also give you an excellent workout. Painting and rearranging pieces of furniture are only some activities you can do.
Baking: Keeping on Your Feet
Baking is a science of precise movement. A minute short or late can change the outcome of your goods. This is why it will keep you on your feet and will keep you alert. Also, pounding, mixing, and pouring is good for your arms. Bending over in the oven and moving around to decorate give your feet and legs ample exercise.
The process of producing baked goods also keeps your mind focused. This is an added perk aside from only honing your physical body.
Getting a Standing Desk: Stretching and Fidgeting Do Wonders
You do not have to feel stuck in your chair as you finish your work. A very healthy alternative is to get a standing desk. This will give you some time to do your work while standing up. It will help you stretch your muscles a bit and improve your posture. Also, there is a certain level of unease and a time to fidget. This level of discomfort can help you burn calories more than you realize.
It is time to remove the notion of exercise as limited to a gym. Learn to find opportunities at every corner of your home to keep fit. You can incorporate workouts as you move about in your natural routine and have fun at the same time.
We love a good yoga class and with gyms still closed for the moment it’s one thing that can easily still help when it comes to switching off, winding down and giving us a moment of calm.
We’ve found a trio that we’re enjoying this month, from an Ibiza retreat in the comfort of your own living room to yoga on the beach…in the middle of London!
Tune In To Yoga Live From Necker Island
If you’re craving the Caribbean (who isn’t), Virgin Limited Edition is hosting a live yoga session tomorrow, Thursday 9th July, from one of the most exclusive private islands in the world. Sir Richard Branson’s stunning private island in the iconic British Virgin Islands is not only one of the most idyllic place in the Caribbean, but also home to yoga teacher Katie Doo.
Whilst Katie typically spends her days offering group and private yoga lessons exclusively for the guests of Necker Island, her live session direct from Necker takes place at 5pm BST – tune in to the @VirginLimitedEdition Instagram channel.
The Ibiza Retreat In Your Living Room
Soul Adventures runs a series of yoga retreats throughout the year in the sun-bleached hills of Ibiza, harnessing the power of this magical island in its programmes run by Kundalini Global Teacher, Reiki Master Teacher, Shamanic Healing Practitioner and Sound Healing Therapist, Trish.
While there are dates back in the diary for this year at Soul Adventures’ Xuclar Beach House, an elegant beach house set high up in the mountains, surrounded by forest and opposite the beach “Cala Xuclar”, for those still apprehensive of flying there’s a 40-Day Journey To Joy At Home Retreat Programme. The beautiful cloth bound book contains 40 daily Kundalini meditations, yoga classes, kriyas and playlists accessed by QR codes, as well as life hacks to make you feel more vibrant, stunning photography of inspirational destinations in Ibiza and worldwide and access to weekly LIVE online healing circles with Trish. The limited edition programme book is available at www.souladventures.co.uk
Pop Up at the Beach At Neverland London
You don’t have to board a flight to feel the sand between your toes as Pop Up at the Beach is back for the third year at Neverland London for another season of (socially distanced) yoga.
From Saturday 11th July, their Saturday morning classes will run from 10.30am-11.45am with a fun and energising class led by experienced Yogi, Cassie, founder of Pop Up Yoga Club – as well as guest teachers who will bring their unique styles to the sand. From Vinyasa to Yin, and Power to Acro, there’ll be something new to try each week with classes suitable for all levels. Class tickets cost £20 and also include entry to Neverland London, and a vegan treat to enjoy and re-energise at the end of the class. www.popupyogaclub.com/beachyoga
Getting the motivation to work out at home is tough, especially when group workouts aren’t an option and the sofa is looking extremely attractive. However several incredible fitness companies have come to the rescue and created amazing interactive content you can access from home. So step away from that Netflix series, hop off the sofa and I guarantee doing even a few minutes a day will be worth it!
BLITZ it with MANOR
Already known for their approach to the mental as well as the physical, MANOR has a strong history of offering straightforward, results-led fitness & training that emphasises commitment, technique and camaraderie. Their work with London charities and especially men’s mental health charities has inspired them to create BLITZ to act as inspiration and support during this time. BLITZ has been designed to keep your immune system strong, your body active, your mind focused and your spirit positive.
You can expect online training from ex-professional athletes, accountability and motivation through the social media community, food and nutrition tips and daily access to supportive and inspiring content. mymanor.london
Stream Live Classes with Peloton
Described as game changing live fitness, Peloton Membership is a pass to classes that range in length and intensity and boasts millions of members worldwide.
You may be surprised to know that you don’t need a Peloton branded bike or equipment to access all of their online classes streamed right to you. They have also just extended the membership trial to the Peloton app so it’s free for 90 days. You can use it for not just accessing live and on-demand cycling classes, but also guided workouts for yoga, meditation, HIIT, walking, running, and weight training. onepeloton.co.uk
Try Stress Less Yoga
Anything focused on stress relief at the moment has to be a positive and London based Annie Clarke is bringing her stress busting yoga flows, meditation and breathwork practices to help you manage your stress. Available for free on Youtube use these full length sessions to make your home more zen over the coming weeks.
Try sequences including stress-less flow, grounding meditation and even less scroll and more soul mindfulness practices. So put your phone down, take a breath and a moment of calm. annieclarke.com
Work Up a Sweat with Third Space
One of London’s most exclusive gyms Third Space is opening its doors to the world via Instagram. Offering a range of classes each day from the ‘Extreme’ workout, which is as its name suggests, one to get the heart rate going, to a selection of core and yoga classes. Class schedules go live the day before, so decide on your favourite elite trainer and schedule in that workout. All workouts are available for 24 hours afterwards so no excuses! Allowing you to train for life, right from your living room. Instagram @thirdspacelondon
Feel The Burn with Barry’s Bootcamp
Known by some via their slogan ‘The Best Workout in the World’ Barry’s Bootcamp is synonymous with The Red Room and Hell Week. You can now create your very own Red Room and join in a virtual Hell Week from home with free 30 minute daily sessions available on the Barry’s UK instagram. With an emphasis on community spirit, they are focusing on the mental as well as the physical toll isolation is taking, especially on those who are home alone. With a new initiative called Barry’s Cares they can help with nutrition, offer a friendly ear through some of their team who are mental health First Aiders and even put together virtual family workouts. Instagram @barrysuk
We might be confined to barracks for the foreseeable, but we know #TeamCoco won’t be the only ones already curating a list of where we’ll be escaping to once this is all over.
While far-flung destinations are always high on our lust list, the reality is that the tourism industry closer to home will also need a big hand to get back on its feet post-lockdown and given we will ALL be in need of some well-earned R&R after all the drama, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite UK wellness breaks to look forward to for some serious relaxation.
1. Lifehouse Spa
Lying less than 90 minutes from London means Essex’s Lifehouse Spa is a dream spot for a post-work escape; oh how we yearn for those heady days of knocking off early on a Friday night and rocking up at a hotel in time for dinner. Make the most of a weekend away with the Your Health, Your Way package (from £319 per person, available through www.SpaBreaks.com). Guests can choose from a targeted menu, access to fitness classes and with full use of the soothing spa facilities from 10am on day of arrival until 6pm on day of departure there’s no excuse not to make full use of the hydrotherapy pool, relaxation rooms, plunge pool, experience showers and sauna and steam rooms.
2. The Headland
Newquay previously have been synonymous with that post-GCSE party crowd, but it may well lure a new clientele with the opening of The Aqua Club, a new multi-million pound leisure complex at The Headland. With commanding views out to to sea, the Club boasts six pools, a sun terrace and a new restaurant, The Deck. Head outside for a sunset spa with its two pools enjoying views of the Atlantic and The Deck offering a place for guests to enjoy a bite to eat. The use of natural stone allows the building to blend into its environment as much as possible, while a living roof and additional plantings help to minimise the visual impact of the building as well as providing a natural habitat for the flora and fauna around the peninsula.
An overnight stay at The Headland costs from £150 per room. Contact Pride of Britain Hotels on 0800 089 3929.
Nothing beats a bracing coastal walk for blowing away the cobwebs and at County Durham’s Seaham Hall there’s no shortage of dramatic coastline to explore. The Georgian country house features 21 beautiful suites and a whopping 44,000 sq ft of spa. Accessed via a subterranean walkway, it includes indoor pool, outdoor hot tubs, Zen Garden complete with hydrotherapy pool, an Asian herbal sanarium, salt sauna… the list goes one. Drawing influence from Far Eastern healing and wellness rituals, some of its newest therapies include ishga touch therapy, combining the natural, healing properties of seaweed with an advanced, ancient ‘touch’ technique for those affected by anxiety, depression, phobias, exhaustion and stress; so undoubtedly something we could all do with post-lockdown. Last year it also introduced a range of alternative therapies that focus on the key tenets of rebalancing life, improving sleep quality, de-stressing and promoting relaxation, such as hypnotherapy and Mind Calm.
A stay costs from £195 (two sharing), for one night in a Junior Suite, full English breakfast and use of the spa facilities. Currently they are accepting bookings for departure after August 1st. Call Seaham Hall on 0191 516 1400.
If you’ve ever dreamt of swanning around a country estate pretending to be the Lord or Lady of the manor (and let’s be honest, who hasn’t), The Langley, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Buckinghamshire, might be a fair bet. Beautifully situated in the former manor home of the third Duke of Marlborough on 150 acres of formal gardens and parklands originally designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, the location is pretty spectacular. The mansion is steeped in history, but the world-class Sisley Spa is the brand’s largest in the UK and offers advanced and scientific treatments in a seriously luxurious spa setting.
Created by award-winning interior designers Dennis Irvine Studio, the spa combines striking design elements with world-class facilities including two thermal areas (one female-only) with vitality pools, saunas, steam rooms and hammam facilities, a VIP suite equipped with private vitality pool, juniper sauna, amethyst steam room and hammam, and a 16-metre indoor swimming pool. It’s the perfect countryside escape.
Nestled in the Dorset village of Evershot, the award-winning Grade II listed Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Spa is surrounded by miles of glorious countryside that inspired Thomas Hardy, with many connections to the literary great. A quintessentially idyllic escape for the ultimate luxury staycation, it not only has a boutique spa but hosts a calendar of wellness activities throughout the year. Guests can book in to a Mindfulness Workshop (11th September or 4th December) giving an insight to mindfulness with Verity Woodgate, whose programme, Zenna (www.zenna.me), was created to help businesses develop healthy workplace environments. They also offer an overnight spa experience available year round, summer art lectures from renowned historian Jennie Spiers and hiking experiences taking in the Jurassic Coast.
Art lectures £30 each. Mindfulness Workshop days £75 per person. Spa offering from £364 per night, based on two people sharing a Classic Room.
The mental benefits of immersing yourself in countryside can’t be ignored and few locations in the UK are as magical at the New Forest, with its verdant greenery and wild ponies. The legendary Lime Wood is introducing new retreats for 2020 with renowned nutritionist Amelia Freer and fitness guru Matt Roberts. Amelia will be hosting her first three-day retreats, focusing on whole body wellbeing, deep relaxation and empowering health through knowledge. Designed to help participants to slow down, find sanctuary and balance, nourish the body and mind, and create a bespoke plan for long-term positive wellbeing, the programme includes talks, interactive workshops, yoga classes and cooking demonstrations. It’s a rare opportunity to personally connect with Amelia herself, while her day workshops including Eating for Health and Batch Cooking offer a more affordable insight.
Matt Roberts’ three-day retreats have been designed to support personal training and wellbeing goals, seeing guests head into the New Forest National Park with group hikes and runs as well as activities in the rooftop gym and studio. Both packages – the Body Reboot Retreat and the Body Rebalance Retreat – include two nights at Lime Wood, all meals, training sessions, two Bamford treatments and use of the Herb House Spa from £1890 per person.
Amelia Freer retreat from £1650 per person (single occupancy). Day workshops from £175. Dates TBC.
With the ski season almost upon us you need to be swift if you want to bag the best hotel. House of Coco recently visited the Mont-Blanc region of the French Alps to check out two very different places to stay this winter.
Just 45 minutes from Geneva airport is Saint Gervais, home to four villages and two ski areas, including ‘Evasion Mont-Blanc’ and with more than 400km of pistes this is the third largest ski area in France.
Nestled against the mountain of Saint-Gervais at an altitude of 1,150 metres in the heart of Saint-Nicolas is The Armancette Hotel. This brand new, 5-star hotel is a luxurious après-ski haven. Tucked away in a remote valley it offers guests a magnificent Alpine setting, with views of the Mont-Blanc as well as Mont-Vorassay.
The Armancette is an intimate boutique hotel with just 17 rooms, each one uniquely designed to reflect the environment and nature, think lots of wood, granite, stone and luxurious faux fur and silk. The rooms are elegantly designed and with an outdoor balcony you can wake up to breath-taking views across the village and valley.
This alpine jewel has successfully created a relaxed, calm vibe, making it a great place to stay if you want to chill-out after a day skiing. If you don’t fancy a drink in bar you can always retreat to the hotel library and games room to read or challenge your pals to one of the many board games. For those who want to take time out to unwind then hit the spa where you can make the most of the treatments, sauna and steam room. There’s an indoor pool with relaxation area as well as a heated outdoor pool with a terrace offering a magnificent, panoramic view of Mont-Vorassay, the Aiguille de Bionnassay, Armancette glacier and the Domes de Miage.
Located on the site of the village bakery, The Armancette is keeping the tradition alive with their on-site bakery serving golden pastries, an array of mouth-watering cakes and fresh bread daily. The smell of warm bread fills the ground floor each morning and is so enticing. I challenge anyone to walk by and not come away with some delicious tasty treat. The hotel restaurant, La Table d’Armante is modern yet cosy with an extensive menu offering fresh, local, seasonal dishes. There’s also a great choice when it comes to breakfast, so you can fuel up with one of their speciality juices or scrumptious omelettes before hitting the slopes.
20 minutes from Saint-Gervais and you’re in Chamonix, ski heaven! With plenty of ski runs this is the perfect place for any seasoned skier.
Catering for all budgets is La Folie Douce. Synonymous with après-ski partying and situated in the centre of Chamonix, this funky hotel has fantastic ski-in, ski-out access to the Brevent and Flegere ski areas.
What was once the historical palace of Le Savoy is now a chic, opulent, insta-worthy place to stay. The carpets depict life-sized synchronized swimmers, ice skating boots hang from the walls and there’s the odd mannequin and telephone booth scattered around the place.
The vibe is cool and eclectic. They’ve successfully nailed the trendy industrial look with exposed brick work juxtaposed elegant plush velvets and statement lighting giving the place a chic air. The hotel has 250 rooms, including premium (four star), access (three star) and dormitory rooms (three star), offering cheaper accommodation for groups. The premium rooms have views of the mountains and that quirky, luxury feel that runs through the whole hotel.
This is the après-ski party palace, with three restaurants, a main bar upstairs with a vast cocktail menu and for those looking for some fun and live entertainment, there’s the basement bar where you’ll find people dancing on the tables alongside the cabaret performers and DJs.
If you don’t feel like partying and want to rest your ski-weary legs then you can try out the yoga and spa. Here you can soak up glorious views of the Alps from the heated outdoor pool, take in a treatment or relax in the sauna and steam room.
Whatever you are looking for in a ski holiday, La Folie Douce caters for everything and everyone and is bound to be a hit with the ski crowd this winter.
House of Coco travelled to Saint Gervais and Chamonix courtesy of Savoie Mont-Blanc www.savoie-mont-blanc.com
