In search for the perfect Ayurvedic treatment, our founder, Sadie found herself underground, deep beneath Piccadilly Circus, in Café Royal’s Akasha Spa – a haven of peace and tranquility. She tells all about her sumptuous Ayurvedic experience.

You would forget you were in London completely if it wasn’t for the faint rumble of the distant tubes that murmur nearby. As I put on my dressing gown I think of all the busy commuters, sweating side by side, sardine style, and I feel so grateful that I am here and not there. My therapist could not have been nicer or more accommodating as she showed me to the treatment room and I felt the stresses of the week already start to ease away.

I was here for the Relax and Balance Ayurvedic treatment, which consists of an entire body massage with the most delicious smelling oil, finishing with the tradiotional Shirodhara, which is a form of Ayurveda therapy that involves gently pouring oils over the forehead with an apparatus that hangs above you. The name comes from the Sanskrit words shiro (head) and dhara (flow). The treatment lasts 80 minutes and through the rhythmic movement of the therapists massage I found myself getting sleepier and more relaxed by the second. I don’t think I realised how much I needed this. Once the treatment was over (I always dread that moment – to the extent where sometimes I realise its all I have been thinking about for the last 20 minutes “oh god – please don’t be over”) I felt more energised than I had expected but also very calm. The oil takes a few washes to get out of your hair but once it’s clean, you’ll notice it is much softer than normal.

Not just renowned for their Ayurvedic treatments, the Akasha Spa has also become a favourite amongst London’s major business profiles who take time out of their busy schedules to come to the meditation classes. The Watsu Pool too has a steady stream of water devotees paying a visit. And if all that activity (or relaxation) works up a healthy appetite – why not order something as delicious as it is healthy from their spa menu to satiate any hunger pangs.

Treatments start from £60, hotelcaferoyal.com

words by Sadie Reid