Ship-Shape’s trip to Sanctuary Spa

In the effort to juggle jobs, relationships, housekeeping and a half decent social life, the majority of us can frequently find ourselves stressed out and craving a little TLC. So when Wahanda.com got in touch with me a few weeks ago and asked me if I fancied a massage on them, I jumped at the chance.

I chose to visit the Sanctuary Spa located in Quakers Friars, Cabot Circus, as I’ve used their products ever since I got hitched. One of our friends bought me a travel set including their original body scrub, hand cream and distinctive Cremé Soufflé moisturiser to take on the honeymoon. So whenever I use their products I’m reminded of the two weeks we spent in the Maldives, diving, eating and taking advantage of the on-site spa.

While I may be familiar with their products, I’d never had the luxury of a Sanctuary Spa experience, until now. The shopfront that conceals the spacious collection of treatment rooms is comparatively teeny and so tucked away in the far corner of Quakers Friars that I didn’t even realise it was there.

Upon arrival I was led past the mani/pedi stations, upstairs to a dressing area (hello, comfy robe) and seated in the Lavender Lounge, which is possibly the most luxurious waiting room ever. Picture low lighting, cosy purple armchairs and footstools, and the feeling that this could be what the inside of a purple Quality Street looks like. After chilling out I was taken to the treatment room by my masseuse for the evening, Jess.

Until the massage I didn’t think I was that stressed, but it turns out I was packing a heck of a lot of tension in my neck and shoulders that had apparently been there for a long time! Fortunately after an hour of tension-busting work and a devine mini head massage, I left feeling light as a feather. I can see why regulars keep flocking back to this womens-only spa, and it’s well worth a visit if work, romance or Christmas shopping is getting you down.

It’s hardly a New Years resolution, but I think I might have to forgo a few magazines and nights out and spend the money on the occasional spa treatment instead! So if you fancy a massage in Bristol then I recommend checking out Sanctuary Spa.

Have you had a massage before and would you consider trading a few G&Ts for a monthly spa treatment?