‘Wellness’ Say the Swiss – so ‘Spa’ Your way to Well, here we’ll walk you through our secrets to relaxation …
We all know that the beginning of the year can be a tricky time. New Year is over, and if that’s not bad enough thanks to winter colds, longer till payday and dealing with everything you let slide over the holidays it’s no wonder stress levels start to rise. As Spring starts to flicker in the distance, we should feel ready with a bounce in our step but not all of us are…
Help is at hand thanks to a simple ingredient and that’s water. Ever noticed how things tend to feel better after a hot bath or cool shower? That’s because water is a natural purifier. It’s lovely on our bare skin and rejuvenates both mind and body at the same time, acting as a balm to thirsty skin and tightening your pores.
Our founder Emily is a spa and water lover (fanatic) and she sampled many over the Christmas/New Year period in Switzerland. Scroll to see some of Emily’s photos she brought back to show us from different parts of Switzerland…
Photo Credit: Emily-Jane Stapley
Photo Credit: B2
Spa treatments are also popular. Many, especially massages, tend to involve tactile methods and there’s something very reassuring about close human contact. Especially when their aim is to relax you using a technique like Balinese Head Massage.
According to health experts, countries that promote regular spa usage like Japan who actually encourage their workers to visit Onsen’s or traditional bathhouses tend to have better productivity. Switzerland, Germany and Iceland have also reported fewer sick days, ie there’s a lower percentage of ill or stressed out employees thanks to the plethora of outdoor/indoor thermal baths, ice-based treatments, and plunge pools on offer!
“We know that if we can reduce stress we can minimise our chances of developing dementia since stress and dementias are inextricably linked.” -Emily, Founder.
A visit to a spa, be it for a couple of hours or a long weekend is a perfect way to hit the reboot button and refocus our energy on what’s important. Spending time in, or near water calms mental chatter and lets us reflect on any big decisions we need to make. Remember, low-impact activity like swimming is also a fantastic way to keep fit, as well as being fairly gentle if you’ve taken things a bit too easy over the holidays!
Photo Credit: Emily-Jane Stapley
Photo Credit: B2
Don’t forget that getting out and about, eating healthily and exercising at least three times a week are all ways you can reduce the risk of dementia. For those living with the condition, time spent in a swimming pool, or spa gives them the chance to experience something different. Spas make you feel ‘hugged’ by the warm water, have plenty of opportunities for human contact through massage and boost your mood courtesy of a manicure, pedicure or cleansing facial.
Here at the DC we always like to practice what we preach so while I can recommend some beautiful UK venues, including Hoar Cross Hall in Staffordshire, Emily has experienced the delights of real Swiss spas on more than one occasion. In her words, she’s a real ‘water baby!’ In Switzerland going to the spa is a bit like saying you’re going to the pub after work for drinks, it’s really common and people clear their schedules to make time for a quick dip. Not only are spas good for your body but also your social life as you never know who you might meet in the pool, or what amazing business idea you’ll think of while in the sauna!
Photo Credit: Burgenstock Resort
If you’re a spa newbie don’t worry and don’t be afraid to ask reception/spa host if you have any questions. Day spas tend to include robes, towels and flip-flops in the price of admission but if you’re staying in a hotel with spa attached you often find these are complimentary. One of the best times to go to the spa is either early morning or late at night so you beat the main ‘rush’ as it were. For instance, did you know that many spas in Switzerland stay open till 11pm?
Photo Credit: Emily-Jane Stapley – From the Alps
Photo Credit: Emily-Jane Stapley – Zurich City
Photo Credit: B2, roof pool by night
If you’re looking to take someone with early-stage dementia to a spa then it’s best that you go in a group so they won’t be left alone if you need to use the bathroom or change. Some dementia patients may be afraid of water so watch carefully when you bring up the subject. If it’s a positive reaction then fab! However, if they seem very nervous it may be because they’ve become a little cautious around water- so an alternative form of pampering may be better for them.
In short, spas are wonderful for just about everyone as young, and old alike enjoy them and if you’re looking for somewhere awesome to take someone for their birthday, or anniversary then a spa day is the perfect present!
Photo Credit: Rigi Kaltbad
No Comments