Shirobhyanga

This evening, I enjoyed the experience of a Shirobhyanga - which is the fancy term for an Indian head massage. After a busy day at the office, it was the perfect way to wind down. I was at the One Spa (part of the Sheraton Hotel) with thanks to good friends Jamie & Leanne Murray, who had given me a gift voucher for the treatment for my "big" birthday at the end of last year. Ever since that time, I'd been waiting to pick the ideal opportunity to use the voucher. Knowing that I'd be heading off on holiday in a few days' time, work was bound to be a bit more hectic than normal this week. So I booked a 6pm appointment with the aim of relaxing. I wasn't disappointed. The venue had a very calming atmosphere, with soft music and lit candles creating the right ambience - so relaxation was guaranteed. I'd had a head massage once before, although that was sitting upright in a chair in a Surrey hairdresser's! This was completely different. There was mention of "robe, slippers and towels" in the confirmation email, but I had assumed that this was standard wording and related to full spa treatments. Wrong. I assumed that the masseuse would just focus on my head. Wrong. The treatment also included the neck and shoulders (I thought I'd better clarify that!). I assumed I'd be sat upright in a chair. Wrong again. This was a proper treatment, with me laid out on the massage table (is that the right expression?) I also didn't realise that essential oils were to be rubbed into my scalp. Anyhow, I recommend the treatment to everyone. It's a great way to lose any tension, and left me feeling very content and calm. In fact, I'm now feeling quite sleepy....zzzzzz.