Wellness & Spa Day at The Ned

So this past week I went on my first international trip. FIRST. After three whole months. When in 2017, I was on a plane the first week and actually rang in the year away from home. It has been one of those year’s so far, that time has gotten out of hand and work has had me at great heights.

As mentioned in my weekly vlogs and a bit in my personal notes, I wanted to look more into my well-being this year through self-care, {mostly} plant-based diet and a range of exercises. With time being extra limited lately, I was trying to come up with a way I could really take time to pamper without having to break gym-spa-wellness into multiple chunks a week.

Recently, I decided to spend a day at The Ned—a gorgeous public and members’ only space created by Sydell Group and Soho House. The once Midlands Bank now houses a 5-star hotel, bars & restaurants, lounges, meeting & event spaces, and more. And for me… a one stop destination to get my wellness fixings and you don’t even have to be a Ned member.

7:00am // House Spin Class at The Ned

I’m more of a morning workout person. I tried the evenings, but usually am too tired {or even too full from lunch} to get a proper work out in. So I started the day with the House Spin class. Great music, energetic and pushes my adrenaline to keep the extra coffees at bay! There are a series of other classes you can also take like pilates and yoga or you can use the fully-stocked gym too with lots of space.

8:00am - 9:15am // Showers & Get Ready at The Ned

After an intense workout, I waddled my way over to the ladies changing room. Even through the corridor there is historical memorabilia of sports teams and athletes. Each element plays its part. And straight into the showers I went. The changing rooms are socked with gorgeous Cowshed products made with essential oils and things for all your hair needs! Between the pink marble and the brass finishings, I was completely and utterly in heaven.

930am-11am // Breakfast at Malibu Kitchen, The Ned

And with every great workout comes an even greater breakfast. Since I’m focusing on being on an 80-20% plant-based, I decided a clean meal at Malibu Kitchen at The Ned was the perfect start to the day. You can indulge on something sweet like the turmeric pancakes or young coconut chia seed pudding or go for a savory like the crisp-comforting grain bowl.

I started my meal with the Malibu Sunrise smoothie which blended strawberries, avocado, acai and topped with goji berries.And if you’re looking for a lighter option in the refreshments, you have your House Press juices of course! The food is delicate, packed with flavor and menu perfected to meet everyone’s cravings. PS - definitely go for the Avocado Royale.

11:15am-11:55am

After a very long, leisurely breakfast—I decided to catch up a bit on emails. Something I unfortunately have to do even on the weekends, but in this time you have the option to go to the Parlour to get your eyebrows done, a wax or even a quick massage.

If you’re up to it, The Ned also offers reflexology treatments and vita drips to boost energy and address other concerns. I’m yet to try, but used this trip as a way to get more information for my next visit.

12:00pm // Hammam at The Ned

After a very productive 30 minutes, I headed down to the spa to start my treatments. First was the hammam. Last time I had such an experience was in Jordan and it was “very authentic,” but completely revolutionary. Hammam, or Turkish bath, is a combination of cleansing and relaxation. The process involved sitting and laying in a sauna detoxing your skin, cleansing, exfoliating and then moisturizing with natural oils.

The Ned started my treatment with a foot cleanse and black soap wash, all made with natural minerals. Then came the kessa scrub that removed all dead skin and really encouraged your skin to glow. My favorite was the end, which involved a rassoul hair cleanse. Finally, ending with shirodhara, or gently pouring oil over the forehead and letting it naturally flow down your scalp.

12:50pm // Facial with Cowshed at The Ned

I never realized the importance of a facial until I went to India in November. Sure, I had facials before that, but the amount extracted from my face {that I didn’t realize was there} was mind boggling. In addition, internally the facial helps blood flow and brings firmness and hydration back to your skin.

Naturally, I signed up for a facial with Cowshed. As mentioned above, the products are full of essential oils. They’re delicate and definitely work. My treatment was focused on hydration as that’s what I have been struggling with during these winter months, so we started off with a chamomile toner to cleanse and shrink pores. Then went onto a cranberry oil facial that was massaged from my shoulders, up to my neck, through my face and forehead. Then ended with a jasmine eye balm.

1:30pm // Manicure with Cheeky at The Ned

After a very zen hour, it was time for a manicure with Cheeky. The best part is that if you’re in the city and need a quick treatment or refresh, Cheeky is the place to go. Their treatments are tailored and maximized for busy people. The Cheeky colors, formula and brush applicator are great + doesn’t have a lot of the chemicals, so the polish leaves your nail healthy. I went for ‘Soots Your Nail’ black!

I’m sure I could have stayed for an extra few treatments and hours, but unfortunately had to get back. The treatments are worth the time and investment. One thing to note is that you don’t need to be a member to use the spa and gym facilities, but can be a day visitor. So if you’re looking for a way to pamper yourself {or a friend}, then definitely give this wellbeing experience at The Ned a try.