The best massages for some proper R&R
From Bamford's underground cavern to the Jumeirah Carlton Tower, these are the places to head for the best massages right now
Words: Zak Maoui
Along with working from the comfort of your home, a fresh hair cut and finding five quid on the floor, getting a massage is one of life's great luxuries. And we don't mean getting your partner to give you one. We mean heading to a spa for an afternoon of proper relaxation in the hands (literally) of a professional. London has some of the best masseuses and services going, and so we tried and tested a few to help you find one that's suited for your needs. Whether you head to the serene sanctuary that is Bamford's Brompton Cross underground spa or to The Peak at the top of the Carlton Tower, there's something for everyone who wants to get some proper R&R away from the bustle of everyday life.
Bamford B Silent treatment
Held down at Bamford's underground spa in Brompton Cross, the B Silent treatment will whisk you away from city life. Chronic stress is one of the leading causes of depleted serotonin and can affect our ability to sleep well, and this treatment is devoted to minimising its effect. The process of deep relaxation begins with a foot bathing ritual. The massage itself blends Thai stretching and traditional rub down techniques with a scalp and reflex zone foot massage and an application of temple balm to the forehead and temples.
Book now at bamford.com
Seed To Skin The Recharging massage at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah
The 100 per cent non-toxic, natural skincare brand Seed To Skin is focused on Green Molecular Science and is based at Borgo Santo Pietro, Italy. It is one of our favourite brands, but you don't need to travel so far now to embrace it. Seed To Skin has taken over The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, and now offers an array of massages to suit whatever you desire. For busy schedules, we recommend the Energising massage. This detoxifying ritual starts with gentle body brushing to invigorate the senses, boost the circulation and stimulate the lymphatic system. Following that a thermal mud is applied to the back, relieving tension, and recharging the body with marine minerals. Next is a relaxing body massage, which will give your body life.
Book now at jumeirah.com
Haeckels Signature Thermal Massage
After a thorough consultation, your Haeckels massage therapist will provide you with the best combination of products, personalised aromas and massage techniques to suit you. This powerful full body treatment uses a variety of techniques to release deep tension from within the body. Manual massage techniques and hot basalt stones alleviate tightness and blocks in the body, while heat from the stones relaxe and soften tense muscles, boosting the circulation. Available in London or Margate, it will leave you feeling rebalanced and charged.
Book now at haeckels.house
Subtle Energies Deep Tissue massage at The Peninsula
A serene oasis encompassing the spacious, quiet lower floor of the hotel, The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Centre is one of the best spas in London. It offers an array of therapies – both ancient and modern – and has teamed up with Subtle Energies to incorporate Ayurvedic aromatherapy into its balancing rituals. Highly effective in promoting flexibility and releasing deep-seated muscular tension, this treatment supports the relief of symptoms such as migraines and headaches and helps to break long-term patterns of pain and stiffness.
Book now at peninsula.com
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