fbpx
  • Claudia's Review of SHA Wellness Clinic, Spain

    Review of SHA Wellness Clinic


    What is SHA Wellness Clinic and who’s it for?

    SHA Wellness Clinic is an award-winning luxurious destination, ideal for anyone looking to cleanse their body & mind in gorgeous surroundings and in the hands of the best detox specialists in Europe. Their approach is based on a macrobiotic inspired cuisine, western philosophies and high-end eastern technology. During my four days at SHA, I’ve witnessed the life-changing power of these three elements combined, and how they can contribute to improve health. During my stay I met a variety of guests, some were simply looking to kick-start a balanced lifestyle while detoxifying the body, others were suffering from serious illnesses in search of healing therapies, and some with high weight-loss goals. With different lengths of stay, we all felt our intentions had been achieved and returned home feeling healthier.

  • Claudia’s Review of BodyHoliday, St Lucia

    What is BodyHoliday and who’s it for?

    No wonder the mantra here is “Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind.” Working on our bodies whilst being kind to ourselves is an amazing way to relax the mind and bring clarity into our lives. It allows us to access our full potential and discard anything that keeps us from living life in full. This is precisely what BodyHoliday has in mind for its guests; the attention to detail, the thoughtfulness of the service and the in-house expertise make BodyHoliday not only a very special place in paradise, but also a great option for anyone looking for an all-inclusive wellness holiday to re-connect with nature, have fun and get the mind and body back on track. It’s one of the most popular wellness destinations in the world for solo travellers, but it’s equally exceptional for couples, friends and adult families. I can speak from personal experience when I say it’s exceptional for honeymooners, like my newlywed husband and I!   

  • Combine Culture and Wellness: The Ultimate Travel Calendar

    culture and wellness

    Whether interested in immersing yourself in a foreign culture, participating in a new sport, taking an exotic adventure, enjoying a community festival, or savoring local food, this list covers events happening every month of the year right next to our many retreats spanning from the Americas to Asia. Time to mark your calendars for a relaxing trip abroad which includes an event of your liking!

  • Conceptionmoons: Fertility Wellness Holidays for Starting a Family

    Conceptionmoons: Fertility Wellness Holidays for Starting a Family

    If you and your partner are beginning the process or have already started trying for a baby, then our 5 fertility wellness holidays are a great excuse to escape on a couples healthy holiday whilst maximising your chances of conceiving. Whilst falling pregnant may happen faster for some couples than others, regardless of how long it takes, being mentally strong and healthy will steer you in good stead for the future when trying to conceive. From the stunning Portuguese coast to the beauty of the Himalayas, take time to de-stress and boost your chances of success at one of these wellness retreats ideal for a conceptionmoon.

  • Congratulations To The Gold List 2018 Awards Winners

    Join us in congratulating the winners of the 2018 Gold List Awards, Australia’s only reader-voted awards. This gives honor to the best hotels around the globe selected through various categories in the luxury and leisure space.

  • Crispy Potato Napoleon by the Farm at San Benito

    Crispy Potato Napoleon Recipe

    Try this decadent Crispy Potato Napoleon from The Farm at San Benito, featuring crunchy, fresh vegetables and rich flavours. This healthy, nutrient-dense dish provides a combination of textures, thanks to the crispy potatoes and creamy, flavourful aubergine atop a bed of greens. All of this is topped with a fine pumpkin ginger sauce, beneficial in reducing inflammation in the body. A delicious vegan recipe, perfect for when you want to reward yourself with a warming, hearty meal full of nutrients.

  • Cultural Well-being Honeymoon Escapes to Discover & Recover

    Cultural Well-being Honeymoon Escapes

    Begin newlywed life exploring new corners of the world and discovering new experiences on a healthy honeymoon to remember with our exclusive Discover Recover Holidays, perfect for a cultural wellness honeymoon escape. Create everlasting memories as you combine cultural tour discovery with wellness retreat recovery at a range of worldwide destinations from Costa Rica and St Lucia to Bali and the Philippines.

  • Cycling Holidays: Fitness adventures in the outdoors

    You don't have to be a cycle enthusiast to enjoy a cycling holiday. Are you looking for your next big adventure and do you crave discovering nature? We regularly cycle to work as a quicker way of getting around but are constantly met with scenes of traffic and commotion, which does nothing for our peace of mind and relaxation. Escape on a cycling holiday for a change of scenery with the likes of spectacular countryside views or unique natural wonders of the world. Combine your love of exploration, nature and fitness and gain a healthy experience that will make you feel alive again.

  • Detox Holidays

    Detox, or detoxification is the removal of toxins from the body via methods including special diets, hydrotherapy, sauna therapies and exercise.

  • Discovering Ayurveda at Ananda in the Himalayas

    Discovering Ayurveda at Ananda in the Himalayas

    Dr Shijoe Mathew

    Dr Shijoe Mathew is the Ayurvedic Physician at Ananda in the Himalayas. He has practised and learnt Ayurveda under many eminent scholars in regions all over India, after studying its principles at Vishnu Ayurveda Medical College. During this time, he came across a traditional family practising Ayurvedic toxicology treatments from which he learnt the traditional art of Ayurvedic pulse examination. He was inspired to discover this traditional medicine growing up in the spiritual town of Kerala, and by his great-uncle, who was an Ayurvedic eye doctor.

     

  • Discovering Complementary Therapies

    Elaine Willams from Grayshott SpaDr. Elaine Williams

    Elaine Williams is qualified in Osteopathy, Naturopathy, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Aromatherapy and Advanced Massage. She has been the recent winner of the Spa Traveller "Top UK Spa Therapist" award and was voted by the Telegraph as one of the top ten therapists in the world. Elaine is also a registered general Nurse and has a Bachelors (BSC) in Psychology. She previously taught at the International College of Aromatherapy in London and spent two years at the Osteopathic Centre for Children in London, where she specialised in Cranial Osteopathy. Elaine started at Grayshott Spa twenty years ago and is now the Director of Natural Therapies, in which she is responsible for expanding the range of holistic treatments and for the training of all therapists.

      


    Interview with a Master Practitioner

     

     

    What originally inspired you to pursue and learn about all the holistic and natural therapy treatments?

    I was originally inspired to pursue Complementary Medicine therapies in order to help friends and acquaintances when Conventional Medicine had nothing of help to offer. As I learnt more I became totally fascinated, enrolled to train as an osteopath and continue to study as there is so much of interest to learn in this field.


    How can reflexology pin-point imbalances in the body?

    Reflexology pin-points imbalances in the body using a reflex map on the foot. Specific areas of the feet have been found to correspond to specific areas of the body. By gently palpating the foot the therapist can feel changes in the tissue texture and tension over areas where an organ or structure may not be functioning to its full potential. It is common for the client to simultaneously experience tenderness on this area of the foot as it is pressed should a problem exist.


    Can you explain what Naturopathy is and what are the core benefits?

    Naturopathy is using a non pharmacological approach to restore the body to health as long as this is appropriate for the presenting problem. It largely employs the modalities of correctional nutrition, hydrotherapy and structural treatments such as osteopathy and massage. The aim is to increase the vitality of the person and to remove any obstructions to recovery.

     

    Reflexology at Grayshott Spa

     

    What is involved in an Osteopathy treatment and what type of problems can it help with?

    An osteopathic treatment will begin with an assessment of the whole structure, particularly the spine. It is commonly used to treat back pain, whiplash, and limb problems such as tennis elbow, sprained ankle or painful hips. Additionally there is a branch of osteopathy known as visceral osteopathy, which is dedicated to the treatment of organs and can help with conditions such as asthma or digestive problems. Once a diagnosis of imbalance has been made the treatment may consist of soft tissue manipulation where muscles, tendons or ligaments may be treated. Joints may be articulated or sometimes techniques such as High Velocity Thrusts may be applied which are the techniques that people know as 'having their bones cracked'.


    How can people benefit from acupuncture and can the needles hurt?

    Acupuncture treatments are designed to restore functioning to the body when a health problem exists. It has been found to assist with a multitude of heath problems from digestive disturbances to skin problems, asthma, hormonal imbalances, back pain, anxiety and stress related conditions. The needles are very fine and are more like little hairs than needles. It is common not to feel any sensation from the needle at all as it is inserted, however the more acupuncture one receives and the healthier one becomes, the more likely it is that a slight ache is experience in the point after needling it.


    Is there one specific therapy that you use the most when treating back problems?

    For back problems I tend to favour osteopathy or acupuncture depending on the problem.


    How can people benefit from a detox and what are the best treatments to use?

    People can generally benefit from a detox as it enables the body to clear accumulated toxins which will in turn increase vitality. Many treatments are helpful for detox; at the spa we favour specific nutritional approaches combined with hydrotherapy baths, blitz, massages, particularly the Lymphatic Stimulation Massage, and Thai foot treatment.

     

    Acupuncture at Grayshott Spa

     

    For clients looking to lose weight, along with the right diet and exercise programme which spa treatments can help?

    Weight loss is always more effective when combined with exercise and detoxification so the treatments listed above are effective as are the mud treatments and acupuncture.


    At Grayshott Spa, which holistic therapy do you find your clients request the most for stress?

    For stress Cranial Osteopathy is a popular choice as it relaxes the whole nervous system. Oriental Wisdom and holistic massage are popular choices along with Blissful Slumber, a massage designed to help overcome insomnia. Hypnotherapy is also fabulous for calming the mind.


    What are the key benefits of Aromatherapy?

    Aromatherapy can have a wide range of applications as the therapeutic essential oils do a lot of the work. The oil blends are applicable to a wide range of health problems including hormonal problems, insomnia, digestive disturbances and muscle strains to name a few. It is exquisitely relaxing thus fabulous for combating stress, it assists the circulation and aids lymphatic drainage and a further benefit is that the oils leave one's skin feeling fabulous.


    Tell us your top 3 health and fitness tips?

    • Strive for a balanced diet, including a minimum of seven portions of fruit and vegetables per day (greater than the government guidelines I know!)
    • Aim for at least 15minutes of exercise per day, which can be as simple as going for a short walk or putting on some much-loved music and dancing
    • Finally, be kind to yourself with your thoughts. Can you manage to get through a whole hour without criticising yourself once? Few people can. Be aware of your thoughts and replace criticism with kindness for yourself, you will become much calmer.

     

     

    For more information visit Grayshott Spa.

  • Discovering Naturopathy

     

     

    Sue Davis - Lifehouse SpaSue Davis

    Prior to becoming a naturopath, Sue Davis spent many years working in the corporate environment; this experience helped her gain invaluable insights into the multi-layered health and wellness challenges faced by busy executives. It was Sue's hectic, fast paced and ultimately unhealthy lifestyle in Hong Kong that spurred her on to retrain as a naturopath for four years in Sydney. After a successful number of years helping the elite clientele of the top ranking International Health and Wellness Resort 'Chiva-Som' in Thailand, Sue is now back on her home ground in the UK.

     


     
    Interview with a Naturopath

    Can you explain what being a naturopath and naturopathy treatment entails?

    The naturopathic philosophy is to stimulate the healing power of the body and to treat the root cause of disease. Symptoms of disease are seen as red flags highlighting improper functioning of the body. Naturopathic medicine is the fusion of modern scientific research and the timeless wisdom of nature. It is a profound healing system that encompasses all aspects of health and truly embraces the mind-body-spirit connection. The most basic premise of naturopathy is that the body has the inherent ability to heal itself if given the right tools. These could include dietary and lifestyle correction, the concept of 'food as medicine', herbs, flower essences, nutritional supplements, detoxification and exercise.


    What are the most common health benefits after a naturopathy treatment?

    Naturopathy is very empowering as much emphasis is placed on education so that the person has the tools to take control of their health. Once someone understands that health doesn't just happen by chance and that it is a life-long process that involves a clear understanding of the factors that affect their health then they are in a much stronger position to achieve long term health and vitality.

    Some people have a whole range of symptoms that they have been unable to address on their own or with the help of other medical practitioners. With a broad understanding of the relationship between health, life and the environment naturopaths are often able to offer a new perspective and provide safe and effective ways to restore health. Naturopathic medicine is very effective in improving quality of life for those with serious and life threatening illnesses. It works very well for those patients that are looking to combine conventional and naturopathic treatments with the aim of minimising side effects to drugs and conventional treatments.


    What treatments would you recommend for clients who are stressed?

    In terms of spa treatments, ESPA personalised massages are a wonderful way to relax. For those requiring something more indulgent then a Hot stone back, face and scalp for the ladies and a Stress buster for the gents are highly recommended. Meditation classes are also a great way to reduce stress, especially as a private session. Other great treatments for stress are Shiatsu massage which works on balancing and releasing energetic blocks from joints and muscles to restore vitality. For those that don't like massage, Reiki is a gentle, healing process performed while fully clothed aimed at restoring balance to mind, body and spirit.

     

    Lifehouse Spa ESPA personalised massage

    An ESPA personalised massage


    What part do herbs play in Naturopathy and how can herbs work in combination with other forms of natural medicine?

    Many pharmaceuticals have been formulated by isolating an active constituent in a herb. A great example is aspirin derived from Willow Bark. Nature is very clever and doesn't tend to get things wrong so herbalists traditionally use the whole herb rather than a part. Whole plants are known to synergise and potentise an active ingredient as well as ward off any side effects common in conventional medications.

    Herbs are very effective in the initial stages of a naturopathic protocol and can work quickly to help alleviate a condition. Digestive health issues and hormonal imbalances respond very well to herbs. They are prescribed either as liquid blends, tinctures or as herbal teas. Herbs are also great in treatments for stress in conjunction with meditation. Reflexology can help herbs to work more quickly and efficiently and acupuncturists routinely prescribe herbs to balance and heal the body following a treatment.


    If you lived on a deserted island for one year, what seven foods would you most want to take with you?

    1. The first food would already be there, the humble coconut. So versatile and excellent for good fats, protein and the isotonic properties of the coconut water.
    2. Dark chocolate for antioxidants and magnesium and I'm a woman so a no brainer.
    3. Quinoa working on the basis it's the only grain that's a carbohydrate and a protein plus it kept the Incas going.
    4. Potatoes -surprisingly a good source of vitamin C and excellent for making fat chips
    5. Almonds - good for calcium
    6. Extra Virgin Olive Oil - good source of omegas and needed for the fat chips
    7. Red wine - for antioxidants and to relieve the inevitable boredom


    Can you name a few examples of common ailments or problems that can be treated by a naturopath and how?

    Digestive health issues respond particularly well to naturopathic intervention. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common ailment with stress as the root factor. Advice will include practical ways to reduce stress levels including relaxing abdominal breathing techniques, yoga, regular massage and meditation. Inflammation of the digestive tract is often present and this is addressed through 'healing and sealing' of the digestive tract with soothing demulcent herbs such as Slippery Elm and Aloe Vera. Oily fish two to three times a week or fish oil supplementation will be recommended for the Omega 3 anti-inflammatory properties. Food intolerances may be an issue particularly if the integrity of the gut lining is compromised so a finger prick blood test may be performed in the consultation to detect for food antibodies. Probiotics to restore friendly gut bacteria and digestive enzyme supplements for the efficient breakdown of proteins, fats and carbohydrates may be necessary to help the body better assimilate nutrients and build healthier cells. Those with big coffee habits will be cajoled to switch to soothing chamomile and peppermint teas.

    As a Naturopath much emphasis is placed on the digestive health as we very much believe 'you are how you digest'. You can have the best diet in the world but if your digestion is compromised you won't reap the full benefits.

    Feeling tired all the time (TATT) is another common complaint that responds well to naturopathy. Some initial blood tests may be required from the person's doctor to rule out any thyroid problems or anaemia. Emphasis would again be placed on improving the overall digestive health to promote better energy production. The liver is a governing organ for energy so cleansing herbs, juices and foods such as beetroot, proven to generate nitric oxide and stamina would be prescribed. White refined carbohydrates such as bread, pizzas, baguettes, pasta, potatoes and white rice often form the bulk of a person's daily dietary habits and these can swing blood sugars causing a person to feel extremely tired. To break this cycle each meal would need to include some type of protein together with complex carbohydrates and beneficial fats. B-Complex supplementation would be prescribed as well as my favourite recommendation of supergreens powder which is a powdered blend of wheatgrass, barleygrass, chlorella, nettles, sea greens and other green dried superfoods. Both of these create more energy.

                                         Lifehouse Spa hydrotherapy pool  Lifehouse Spa leg massage

    Relaxing in a hydrotherapy pool and receiving a leg massage


    Tell us about a client that you most enjoyed helping any why?

    My favourite client was a very busy events organiser in his mid 50's based in Hong Kong. He would regularly visit Chiva Som in Thailand for 2 weeks at a time. The first time he arrived he was very overweight, with a poor complexion, bloating, very stressed and completely burn out from flying all over Asia. He didn't have time for exercise, was an insomniac and tended to eat all the wrong things at all the wrong times due to the nature of his job. His blood pressure and cholesterol were very high. 

    From a practitioner's view point this was damage control at the extreme, however, it is never too late to create positive health changes especially when an individual has identified the need for help and this chap was willing to consider anything if it meant he would look and feel better.

    Initially I worked on correcting his poor dietary habits providing him with tips and advice that were practical and achievable for his erratic lifestyle. He undertook a cleansing detox programme at the start of his stay to give his liver some support, normalise his digestion and create some motivational weight loss. Heavy duty exercise is not recommended during a cleanse so this provided the perfect opportunity for him to rest and recharge and normalise his sleeping patterns.

    After the detox and for the rest of his stay he ate a balanced daily diet of good quality protein, fruit and vegetables. He exercised with the physiotherapist in the swimming pool in the mornings to protect his joints and back and in the afternoon either did interval training in the gym or went for long brisk walks. This combination proved to be a winner and he had lost 7kg by the time he left. His blood pressure had normalised and blood tests revealed much improved cholesterol levels.

    Once home he hired a personal trainer and became more organised with his food, often taking his own snacks on planes or by simply making better choices. We had talked about the 80/20 rule meaning 80% of the time he followed the plan and 20% of the time he could relax and eat anything he fancied. This worked well as it ruled out denial and cravings, the downfall of most diets. Two years later and with regular trips to the resort I was greeted with the question 'Would you like to see my six pack?'


    What's the most significant thing you've learnt about your health over the course of your career?

    That my body likes routine and if I swerve away from regular good habits then I'll pay for it with poor sleep and lower energy levels.


    Why do you think alternative therapies like naturopathy are becoming more popular?

    I think there is a general air of disillusionment with the healthcare service and that people are becoming more wary of prescribed pharmaceuticals that often carry unwanted side effects. Articles on natural health are becoming more mainstream in popular magazines and newspapers so people know that they can take Echinacea to ward off a cold or drink more water to cure a headache. If they venture to see a naturopath they are guaranteed at least an hour to focus on themselves rather than the 3 minutes allocated by a time poor GP.


    What are your top health, lifestyle and diet tips?

    Start each morning with ½ lemon squeezed in warm water to cleanse, alkalise and initiate digestion. Add a thumb size piece of fresh grated ginger to improve circulation and alleviate bloating then stir in a teaspoon of manuka honey to keep the immune system happy.


    If you had to recommend one simple lifestyle change we could make, what would it be?

    Switch off all technological equipment before going to bed. Electro-smog from technology builds up in our bodies so it is not a good idea to use your mobile phone as alarm. Televisions should be switched off at the plug in bedrooms and Wi-Fi should be off when not in use. You will sleep better for it.


    View our Luxury Spa Breaks for further inspiration.

  • Don't Feed Your Stress, Fix It

    Don't Feed Your Stress, Fix It


    Stress is the ultimate 21st century syndrome. It can creep in at any moment and can be caused by almost anything in your life, whether it's work, family or your social life.  Although stress is perfectly natural it needs to be kept under control as excessive amounts can be harmful not only to your body and mind, but can also lead to unhealthy habits, such as over eating and smoking.

  • Easy ways to improve your health and fitness

    There are lots of simple, easy and fun ways to get an extra boost out of life and improve your health and fitness. You should start by simply being in nature and the great outdoors. Too many of us are hunched over desks all day and without natural sunlight. Top up your vitamin D levels by getting a burst of beautiful autumn sun as and when you can; fifteen minutes a day should get you feeling full of beans!

  • Exclusive Couples Retreat at REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort

    Looking to rekindle your romance this season of hearts? Embark on an exclusive couples retreat at REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort, a luxurious romantic haven set amidst the breezy hills of Nusa Dua in southern Bali. This 6-day retreat will be held 10 to 16 February and will be hosted by French psychoanalyst and couple therapist, Cécilia Commo.

  • Exploring Yoga and Pilates with Angie Newson

    Angie NewsonAngie Newson

    Angie Newson has been in the health, fitness and well-being industry for over 21 years and over that period has taught all aspects of fitness. She is fully qualified to teach Pilates with The Pilates Foundation UK and is a certified Iyengar Yoga teacher. Angie is the author of Get Fit for Free with Yoga and Pilates published by The Reader's Digest and she is also the Pilates presenter on Sky's Fitness TV. As a health and well-being writer, she writes regularly for the national press and many women's magazines and is The Sunday Telegraph's Stella magazine's Yoga/Pilates 'expert'. Angie regularly travels overseas to teach classes and retreats and now hosts an exclusive Yoga & Pilates holiday at Longevity Wellness Resort in Portugal. Her classes appeal to all ages (her oldest client is 84!) and she adapts her sessions to suit her students of all levels. www.exploreyogapilates.com

     

  • Face Mapping: What Your Skin Tells You About Your Health and Nutrition

    What Your Skin Tells You About Your Health and Nutrition

    Ever wondered how your face can reveal what you eat? Naturopathic experts take a different approach to explaining how your diet plays a major role in the aging process, through a method called ‘skin mapping’. This is an ancient idea which suggests that parts of the face are linked to particular organs in the body. The redness, puffiness, dark shading, sagging, lines or spots on certain parts of the face can reveal a lot about a person’s diet, and so naturopathic experts use this information on anti-ageing holidays to suggest the necessary supplements and diet changes to promote healthy ageing. Naturopaths have found that sugar, wine, dairy and gluten are often the underlying cause to people’s inner problems which can result in the onset of premature ageing. Naturopaths therefore use the skin mapping technique to reveal which type of ‘face’ or ‘faces’ a person has, with different faces indicating different issues.

  • Fight Against Type 2 Diabetes One Healthy Holiday at a Time

    Diabetes is the epidemic of the 21st century and the biggest challenge confronting Australia’s health system. Rapidly emerging as a leading cause of death among Australians, it is also one of the primary causes of heart attacks, strokes, amputations, kidney failure, depression, dementia and severe infections – all of which contribute to premature death. 

  • Fiona's Review of Borgo Egnazia in Puglia, Italy

    Fiona's Review of Borgo Egnazia in Puglia, Italy

     

    What is Borgo Egnazia and who’s it for?

    This is a wellness sanctuary for anyone that’s looking for a place to truly get away from it all. The perfect destination to spend some time being pampered, find some tranquillity and reconnect with yourself. Borgo Egnazia provides a five-star luxury wellness break for anyone who needs to take a step away from their daily life and find some inner peace. The integrated wellness programmes are tailor-made to meet the specific needs and goals of guests, and along with breath-taking scenery and numerous events and cultural activities, makes Borgo Egnazia the perfect destination for solo travellers, couples and families alike.

  • Five Inside Out Beauty Travel Essentials

    There are a few travel essentials which are a must-have when I am on the go. I do feel that they make an incredible difference in ensuring that my skin, mood and energy are optimal.

Get £50 off your first holiday