Fawsley Hall Hotel has been providing their guests with a sanctuary for many years – we grab some time with Spa Manager, Julia Butt.
Julia wanted to be in the beauty industry from the age of ten when she aspired to be a make-up artist. Now, she works in the tranquil environment of a Hand Picked Hotel spa and specialises in body treatments and facials at Fawsley Hall, a country retreat in the heart of Northamptonshire. We talk mindfulness, age defying treatments and the power of water.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
I love working with the public but it is hearing the thanks and the fact that they have had the most amazing and relaxing time at the spa which is most rewarding.
What is your favourite treatment and why?
My favourite treatment is the Elemis Pro-Collagen Age Defy treatment. Targeted massage smooths, nourishes and refines fine lines and wrinkles and the effect on the skin really is visible and long lasting, not to mention it is a truly soothing and indulgent experience.
What is unique about the spa at Fawsley Hall Hotel?
Fawsley has friendly experienced staff working at a high level, dedicated for all guests to receive a first class experience. The indoor swimming pool looks over an amazing secret garden where we also have an outdoor heated hydrotherapy pool. It is like visiting a sanctuary; it has an intimate feel which makes guests feel at ease as soon as they arrive for their spa experience.
You have recently collaborated with Conscious Water to introduce a new wellbeing programme for guests – can you tell us a bit about that please?
Conscious Water is a new concept in water enhancement which acts as a daily affirmation, reminding us to take a moment to ourselves and give time to our aspirations. Each serving which you mix with a glass of tap or mineral water contains a blend of 100 natural flower essences and complementary flavours. There are six aspirations: Love, Sweet Dreams, Clarity, Serenity, Rejuvenation and Happiness and the guest chooses the aspiration they want to focus on. Essentially, Conscious Water is a way to bring more mindfulness to our guests as well as to drink more water.
Mindfulness is growing in the UK – which treatment would you say would be great for people who want to try to switch off from the outside world.
Probably our Comfort Zone Tranquillity Pro-Sleep massage, which we recommend to people who feel stressed and have problems sleeping well. It is a complete mind and body wellbeing experience, perfect to induce a deep state of relaxation combining the intense sleep inducing qualities of essential oils, the bespoke Tranquillity™ Sound, Ayurvedic and Indonesian Sea Malay manualities.
Is there aN Elemis product guests could buy that can help with mindfulness, too?
The new Life Elixirs range, which include bath and shower oils, perfume oils and candles. They are luxurious products and are perfect for giving you the chance to totally unwind and have some me time.
Do you have any other tips for guests on how they can bring mindfulness into their daily routine?
Whenever it is possible, stop, close your eyes, drop your shoulders and deeply inhale several times. When the chaos of thought takes over, find your inner peace and tranquillity again. Using mindfulness and relaxation apps can be very useful too; personally, I can highly recommend Buddhify and Calm, both available for Android and iOS phones.
