A totally stress-free life might be too much to ask for (and to be honest, it might not be that exciting), but hey, there’s no harm in aiming high. While we’d swear by mindfulness, quality time with friends (and, well, prosecco if you must know) here are four other stress-busting therapies we’d prescribe if we were doctors. (Disclaimer: we leave medical advice to the professionals, but we do know a thing or two about pampering ourselves.)
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1 A tension-melting head massage
If you get aches and pains from working at a computer, snap. While we wouldn't swap it for living in the 1920s, there's a remedy. Tackle the tension you get in your head, neck and shoulders with a trusty Indian head massage. It's good for your scalp, too. Therapists use a range of heavenly-smelling Ayurvedic oils that will leave your hair feeling nourished and looking shiny.
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2 A steamy Turkish bath
Going to a Turkish bath is the next thing to being whisked away to the Mediterranean sea. We'd recommend relaxing in a steam room infused with eucalyptus oil first. Then move onto a mineral-rich exfoliating scrub and massage. Who needs the beach?
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3 A hot stone massage
Hot stone massage has all the serotonin and dopamine boosting benefits of Swedish massage. Loosely translated as, it can put a smile on your face by stimulating the happiness hormone. It also comes with the added bliss of warm polished stones being rubbed along your body with scented oils. This cleverly balances your body's energy through targeting acupressure points. That's the zen we're talking about
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4 An indulgent spa break
Escape the rat race and head off on a spa weekend. Grab the girls, your partner, your mum, your sister (or all of the above… whatever works) and make the most of the chance to disconnect completely. Embrace it and give your smartphone a rest too – those cute cat photos can wait till Monday. If you're looking for somewhere extra special, check out these six spas that go the extra mile.
FAQs
What are the benefits of an Indian head massage?
An Indian head massage helps relieve tension in your head, neck and shoulders. It also nourishes your scalp and leaves your hair looking shiny, thanks to the use of heavenly-smelling Ayurvedic oils. This treatment is especially suitable if you get aches from working at a computer.
How does a Turkish bath help you relax?
A Turkish bath lets you unwind in a steam room infused with eucalyptus oil, followed by a mineral-rich exfoliating scrub and massage. This experience gives you a relaxing break and a touch of the Mediterranean, making you feel like you’re on holiday without leaving the city.
What makes a hot stone massage different from a Swedish massage?
Hot stone massage includes all the serotonin and dopamine boosting benefits of Swedish massage but adds the luxurious touch of warm, polished stones and scented oils. The heated stones target acupressure points and help balance your body’s energy. The result is a deeply relaxing and blissful treatment.
How can a spa break help you disconnect from stress?
A spa break gives you a chance to escape daily life and fully disconnect, whether you go alone or with loved ones. You can embrace the experience by giving your smartphone a rest and focusing on relaxation. It’s a perfect way to recharge before returning to your routine.
Which therapies are good for reducing stress at a salon or spa?
Popular stress-busting therapies include Indian head massage, Turkish baths, hot stone massage, and indulgent spa breaks. Each therapy offers unique benefits, from tension relief to mood improvement. You can choose a treatment based on your personal relaxation needs and preferences.