August: Body Experience
Wednesday 1st August 2007 by Elizabeth Richards
Feeling in need of some R&R? Is a bit of 'me time' just what the doctor ordered? Or are you after a gift for someone who has everything?
A spa break, whether it's for an hour of an evening or a long weekend away, always does the trick so tune in monthly for our resident Spa Expert's pick of the very best spas selling their experiences online.
 For August, Body Experience got our vote.
Where is it?
50 Hill Rise, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 6UB.
www.bodyexperience.co.uk 
The line
Voted one of the UK’s top five day spas, Body Experience is a health and lifestyle day spa for men and women.
The scene
All soothing neutrals, fragrance-infused corridors and sensual lighting, the luxurious interior – particularly the relaxation lounge – feels comforting and cocoon-like while the gorgeous garden is the perfect spot to catch a few rays.
Who goes?
Busy women and brides-to-be looking for a feel-good fix without spending a night away from home.
The menu
Facials (including male-specific), wraps, scrubs, mud treatments, massages, pre-natal treatments, reflexology, manicures, pedicures, lifestyle clinic, nutritional advice, fitness training, Intense Pulsed Light hair removal (IPL). Physiotherapy coming soon.
The names
Thalgo, Li’Tya, Elemis, Shiseido and LaTherapie.
Signature treatment
The cleansing, healing and comforting Mud, Aroma Steam and Kiradjee Indulgence Treatment involves the application of coloured medicinal muds to the body while aromatherapy oil-infused steam soothes the mind. Mud is showered away before the Kiradjee massage – an Aboriginal treatment using the client’s own weight and movement rather than the masseuse’s strength – concludes the treatment. £165 for 2 hours 15 minutes.
We tried
The wrinkle-busting Thalgo pure collagen facial, £90, 1 hour 15 minutes. A good facialist – and the perfect facial – is one of life’s rare treats but Body Experience delivered in spades with this velvety soft mask. Applied to treat the neck, lip and eye areas there was none of the claustrophobia that often goes hand-in-hand with a facial and skin instantly felt smoother and more comfortable. The treatment concluded with a skin-enlivening bowl of fresh fruit salad. A big thumbs up to the gorgeous Scandinavian therapist who had the kind of tension-melting hands and soothing voice one can normally only dream about.
The results
Skin was soft and plump for at least a week afterwards.
Special mention
The bridal packages make a fabulous pre-wedding treat: indulge regularly from engagement to big day or simply opt for a day of pampering in the final week.
Gift vouchers
The clever gift voucher facility allows you to build the perfect package and buy online. Treat yourself or give as a gift!
Visit www.bodyexperience.co.uk
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