After a rather tempestuous experience in a Turkish bath in my early twenties, I hasten to say that I have never had a full body massage since.
But when I was invited by the Clarins spa at Selfridges Exchange Square Manchester to a complimentary Melting Honey Hot Stone Massage, how could I decline?
The Clarins Spa is a million worlds away from what I had previously experienced. Who would have thought that through the doors of the busy beauty hall would lie a tranquil haven to while away your stresses?
My therapist Rebecca could not have been more calming and professional. As I’d expressed my unfamiliarity with the process she expertly talked me through each step, and completely put me at ease.
There are two options to choose between, the Relax Honey Massage Gel with Camomile and basil or Tonic with up-lifting rosemary, geranium and mint. I chose the Relax Honey Gel.
The treatment begins with relaxing tonic applied to the feet, whilst marble and slate stones that are cut into five different shapes are placed on various parts of the body. I relaxed immediately as the stones are used to massage pressure points. Next the Honey Gel is applied working up and down each side of the body, front and back. As the tension in my back melts away the gel evolves into a silky oil that sinks into my skin.
The warmth of the hot stones is comforting, particularly on the back and shoulders. Although I had asked for firm pressure, I had to grit my teeth as Rebecca paid extra attention to my knotty shoulders. Next a comfort water cleanser is applied and a spritz of the Clarins Eau Dynamiste spray to send me on my way.
The result: I’m feeling more relaxed than I have felt in months and my once knotty shoulders feel loose and supple.
Thank you to Rebecca and the Clarins team. I haven’t stopped talking about the treatment since!
£60 for 1hr treatment
Clarins Spa
Selfridges Exchange Square
Charlotte Murray
