After my first Half Marathon and a super busy stressful week at work, I was definitely in need of both a physical and mental break!
Fortunately a couple of friends and I had just the thing planned last weekend… We headed to Champneys Forest Mere near Liphook on the South Downs, for a 1 Night Spa Break and a bit of relaxation!
We left work early and after an easy train ride, arrived, were given robes and flip flops, and checked into our room. I unfortunately didn’t get any pictures of the Old House where we were staying, but it was gorgeous- lots of dark wood, antique furniture and a feeling of luxury. We even took part in a Quiz on the Friday night in their “Piano Lounge” complete with grand piano!
The first thing we wanted to test on arrival was the pool- just as an AquaMitt class was starting, so we decided to give it a try. I’ve never done any kind of Aqua Aerobics before, but this was great fun- jumping about in the water with webbed gloves on to give you increased resistance and make your arm muscles burn! It definitely felt like fun rather than work, and was the perfect start to the weekend- lots of laughing at each other to wash away the stress of the week.
Before dinner we had our prebooked treatments that were included in the package- a Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage and a Facial – so relaxing, and felt amazing. My skin looked lovely and glowing afterwards too! My legs are feeling pretty good after the half marathon, but I will definitely be booking a massage in the next week or so to give them some tlc too…
On Saturday after the amazing breakfast buffet, we headed out for a walk around the lake.
We got ourselves lost on the muddy tracks through the forest, and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere- such an escape from the city!
Ali and I then took a 1hour Hatha Yoga class – this is a gentle form of yoga, with no flow between poses. It was slow-paced, focusing on stretching and holding poses with some breathing exercises. I normally prefer faster flow classes, but this made a good change, and fit with the theme of relaxation 🙂
After a glorious, healthy and tasty buffet lunch on the terrace in the sunshine, we spent the remainder of our time lazing by the pool with magazines, and enjoying the sauna and whirlpool.
I also swam a very leisurely 20lengths of slow breaststroke. I’m not a great swimmer, but I enjoy just zoning out and paddling up and down. It felt good for my post half marathon legs and hip too.
When it came time to check out we didn’t want to leave! It was a lovely treat for my body after the race, and a great way to mentally unwind with friends. (and it’s always fun to wander around in a robe all weekend)
What do you do to relax and rejuvenate yourself? Have you ever tried Aquafit classes?
Beki x
