Beauty
“Searching for a haven of peace and tranquillity in the run-up to your wedding? Relax, thanks to South-East Wedding Magazine, your search has ended …
Close your eyes and picture the scene: You are calm and completely relaxed, soothed by the hypnotic sound of gently flowing water and enchanting tones playing softly in the background. The scent of fragrant oils fills your senses and your holistic therapist gently massages those aching muscles as you slowly drift away in a blissful spirit of tranquillity…
Sound too-good-to-be-true? For many of us living in this post-celtic tiger Ireland, we can often find it quite difficult to wind-down and relax. Of course, if you’re planning a wedding, you are probably under additional strain, and the spa experience described above probably sounds heavenly! In recent years, a myriad of spas have opened throughout the country and are providing a variety of health and beauty treatments to suit every budget. Not only does this demonstrate that Irish people are increasingly aware of the importance of a healthy mind, body and spirit but it also means that there is no longer any excuse not to take time-out to avail of the serene and healing benefits of the spa experience.
The word ‘spa’ is derived from the Latin ‘solus per aqua’, meaning ‘health through water’. While not all spas provide water-based treatments, there are a wide variety of treatment centres available, ranging from day spas -where clients attend for a day (or part of a day) to receive holistic treatments - to resort spas, which are usually linked to a hotel where clients can stay over and avail of some well-earned rest and recuperation. Some of the most popular spa treatments in Ireland, for both men and women include: reflexology, floatation therapy treatment and hot stone therapy. Spa treatments can have a detoxifying effect on the entire body and the primary benefits of these, and most holistic treatments include deep relaxation, pain and stress relief, and decreased blood pressure and heart rate, in addition to a general feeling of well-being.
A wide variety of beauty treatments are also available at most spas, that treat both the face and body. Often described as ‘a facial for the whole body’, the beauty therapist will cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate your skin during the treatment, leaving it clear, soft and radiant. Every bride wants to look their most beautiful on their wedding day and a professional body and face treatment has to be an essential part of the preparation process.
Spa breaks can also provide great gift ideas for bridesmaids and groomsmen, and with an ever-increasing number of luxury spas located across the South-East region, there is definitely something to suit every taste and requirement.
So if your big day is just around the corner, why not take a break from the stresses and strains of dress fittings and guest lists, and spoil yourself with a well-deserved pampering session – and who knows, you might even be able to turn that treat for one into a romantic mini-break for two!
