The Sanook Spa at the Courthouse Hotel on Great Marlborough Street promised to be a haven of tranquility offering a peaceful and pampering escape from busy city life, and true to it's word, the spa did not disappoint.

With an heated in-door swimming pool, sauna and fitness room, the small but perfectly formed facilities is perfect for some much needed me-time.

I tried the Back-up Plan which consisted of a refreshing back exfoliation scrub (made in-house, especially for the treatment), a cleansing back mask and a wonderfully unwinding hot stone massage. It didn't take long for the feeling of heavy shoulders to be scrubbed and kneaded away.

There was however one blunder that I have to mention; as part of the treatment, you're required to shower off the back scrub ahead of your massage. Yet, the shower was an awkward trek out of the treatment room into the communal shower area, a journey undertaken via the fitness room: Picture the scene; a back full of sticky scrub dripping down my back as a plodded sheepishly through the fitness centre to reach the communal showers with very little privacy.

It would have been far more pleasant and convenient to have a small shower space within the treatment room to avoid such upheaval mid-treatment. That said, the space within the spa does not permit such a luxury so I must remain sympathetic. And whilst it did take me a little while to settle back into a state of relaxation, post shower, I have to admit that the hot stone massage quickly made up for it. All in all, the Back-up Plan was a lovely mini moment of pampering, which lasted a quick 45 minutes, but the sheer indulgence of the treatments left me feeling floaty and relaxed long after.

The Back-up Plan costs £55
To book call: 020 7297 5563

Sanook Spa
Courthouse Doubletree by Hilton
19-21 Great Marlborough Street,
London W1F 7HL
Web: www.courthouse-hotel.com

I've recently discovered Dr. Bronner’s Magic Liquid Soaps. These naturally moisturising soaps are organic come in a variety of yummy scents including Peppermint, Lavender, Tea Tree, Rose and Lemon Grass Lime.

My favourite to use is the Organic & Fair Trade Shikakai Hand & Body Soaps (£6.99). It's a smooth, rich caramel-colored soap, made up of an organic blend of white grape juice, sucrose and Shikakai powder, coconut oil, olive oil, hemp oil, citric Acid and vitamin E. While some soaps can leave the skin feeling stripped of moisture, the Shikakai soap foams into a rich lather and skin feels cleansed and soothed.

Dr. Bronner’s is the No. 1 selling organic soap brand in the USA, famous for not using any synthetic components in their products, and all major ingredients come from certified Fair Trade sources throughout the world. It's no wonder UK fans are flocking to department store Liberties and Waitrose supermarkets to get their hands on the multi-use soaps. Not just for hands, Dr. Bronner's soaps are also ideal for shampooing and body.

Have you tried Dr. Bronner's Soaps? Leave your comments.

Web: www.drbronner.com

Last week I attended a Bobbi Brown event for an introduction to their new Pretty Powerful campaign. It takes a look into the relationship that women have with makeup and how it makes them feel. Many of us at the event agreed that it made us feel a little more 'polished', 'put together' and more confident.

The idea behind Pretty Powerful is to show how a few simple tweaks to your daily makeup routine can help you achieve more beautiful results for added confidence in looking your best.

I had the opportunity to try out some products with Bobbi Brown's Head of Artistry Paul Herrington. He showed me how in less than 10 minutes, I could brighten my normal makeup look with Pout Rouge (£16.50) and Long-wear Gel Eyeliner (£15.00).

Normally, I shy away from wearing cream blush because my skin can be oily and within a few hours the colour melts into the skin. And I don't wear much eyeliner partly because I'm too impatient to put it on and also the fact that I never quite mastered the liquid liner look.

But I was presently surprised to discover how fool-proof it was to apply Bobbi Brown's gel eyeliner. With the nifty eyeliner brush in tow, making my eyes pop is now easy. The Pout Rouge for Lips also works a treat on my cheeks and has the staying power I need.

Prior to the event, I only had one Bobbi Brown product in my makeup kit, and that was the Shimmer Brick; a must-have especially during the Summer to pull off a dewy, golden look. However, now I'm keen to stock up on more Bobbi Brown essentials for the sheer ease and versatility of the brand.

Check out my before and after photo to see how I went from 'pretty' to 'pretty powerful'. (No, I'm not indulging in self appreciation here, merely quoting the words of Paul Herrington! ).


To find out how Bobbi Brown can take you there too, visit your nearest store, or watch the video campaign online at www.bobbibrown.co.uk/prettypowerful

My question to you is how does makeup make you feel? Leave your comments please!

Pretty Stylish London has two fabulous Benefit products to giveaway. One lucky reader will win Benefit Boiing - the industrial-strength concealer (in shade 02), perfect for hiding dark circles, shadows and discoloration. And Brows a-go-go; the all-in-one brow and eye shaping kit.

So fingers at the ready to enter this quick fire competition! To be in with a chance of winning you must be following the blog - simply leave a comment telling us why you'd love to have these two Benefit beauty essentials. Ready, set, GO!

Winner picked Monday 8th March
For more information on Benefit cosmetics visit: www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk

Yesterday I attended the Viva Glam launch of two new lipsticks to raise awareness of MAC Cosmetics' Aids Fund. The new campaign entitled 'From our Lips' is fronted by Lady Gaga and Cyndi Lauper, the new spokespersons for the fund, and the event was hosted by Sharon Osbourne.

The star studded gathering had Britain's fashion and entertainment darlings in attendance including models Agyness Deyn, Tallulah Adeyemi, designer Henry Holland and diva extraordinaire Jodie Harsh.

It was an intimate 'audience with' and both Lady Gaga and Cyndi Lauper had much to say about the subject of HIV and AIDs. Fans of MAC and the divas alike from all over the world emailed questions for Sharon Osborne to invite the feisty duo to address.


The discussion shared the extent to which MAC are working with pharmaceutical companies to develop a female condom, and donating the full price of the new lipsticks (£12.50) to their charity.

It is understood that 2.5 million dollars will go to locations with the highest level of aids infection such as Africa, the Caribbean and Queens, New York. More money will be distributed to other affected countries and cities as needed.

Flamboyant and as iconic as ever, it is hoped that the discussion between Gaga and Lauper on the subject of HIV and AIDS will encourages people to think and act differently about the disease. One of the biggest preconceptions is that AIDS is primarily a gay disease, but the infection rate of heterosexuals is vast enough to challenge that myth.

At one point the discussion turned to solemn was when Cyndi Lauper talked openly and somewhat emotionally about loosing a best friend to the disease in the 1980s. It was this loss that made her pay more attention to protecting herself from the infection. She said to ignore the importance of safe sex would have been a disservice to her friend who lost his life.

When asked what their message to women around the world about sex is? Lady Gaga spoke bluntly in saying 'Wrap it up with a condom. Women are now the highest demographic of the infected'. In agreement Lauper stated 'Women need to feel strong enough to say 'I practice safe sex, or nothing at all' - protect yourself and don't be a knucklehead! Viva Life, Viva Glam'.

Web: www.macaidsfund.org

It's official: I'm in love with the Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare range.

I recently changed my beauty regime to include the Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, the Instant Boost Skin Tonic and Skin Repair Moisturiser. It's been just six days, and already I've seen a noticeable difference in the clarity of my complexion and the texture of my skin.

I know that I'm a tad late on discovering the benefits of this range; fellow beauty bloggers have been raving about it for some time now. But like so many other women, I tend to be a stickler for brands and products I've used for years - I need to be strongly convinced before I consider anything other than my favourites. So when I was invited to try out the Liz Earle Signature Facial (£85.00) it was the perfect opportunity to get to know the brand personally.


The facial is 90 minutes of pure, unadulterated indulgence, right down to the treatment bed (which was huge!) It was wonderful having my face treated with what felt like the most luxuriously rich, fragrant products. The treatment was so relaxing that I'm sure I let out a tiny snore as I dozed off for what must have been 10 minutes. (Somewhat embarrassing I know, and I'm not even a snorer!)

Victoria, the therapist was very thorough, and I was particularly impressed with her technique of extraction; it was close to being pain-free. After the treatment (which also included a shoulder massage and foot rub), my skin felt replenished, looked brighter and had a healthy glow.

I was curious to follow up with the home care products and see whether they would help to prolong the results of the facial. I gave myself one week to try a selection from the Liz Earle skincare range and consider if the buzz surrounding the iconic Hot Cloth Cleanser and others were truly deserved.

Packed with ingredients such as eucalyptus, cocoa butter and rosemary, It didn't take long to understand just why the Hot Cloth Cleanser has won numerous awards; quite frankly it does exactly what it says on the bottle - it works, and works so very well.

The cleanser removes stubborn mascara and all traces of makeup with complete ease. It smells gorgeous and my skin is super soft afterwards. Currently, I use the cleanser twice daily and follow up with the toner and moisturiser, which are equally fabulous products.

The best thing about the products is that whilst they are not strictly designed 'for problem skin' they work on getting rid of those pesky blemishes that I'd normally have to treat with Salicylic acid based lotions, and with my sensitive skin, they tend to irritate my skin in the process.

Tomorrow will be the last day of what was supposed to be a temporary beauty regime, however, I love the products so much that I will continue to use it as part of my daily skincare ritual. I really believe the hype now, in fact it's not hype at all - Liz Earle products really work, even on acne prone skin like mine. I can't wait to see the results in a month's time!

Liz Earle
38-39 Duke of York Square,
Kings Road, London, SW3 4LY
Tel: 020 7730 9191
Web: www.lizearle.com

Leave your comments! Have you tried Liz Earle products?

Introducing a wonderful natural beauty range that has perked up my pamper time considerably; Pinks Boutique is a UK based brand lovingly created by Luke Sherriff and Kirstie Allen. Their passion for unique aromas and exotic Asian ingredients has manifested in a range of spa quality products, free from parabens and unnecessary chemicals.

The buzz around Pinks Boutique is increasing at a rapid pace; the brand kick-started the new year with co-founder Kirstie's inclusion into the Natural Beauty Yearbook 2010 Top 20 Personalities, placed 17th as voted for by Spas and Salons.

Recently, I've been enjoying the citrus blend of the Lemongrass and Mandarin Facial set (£23.00). These little pots of goodness are a pleasure to apply, and my skin feels like I've had a professional facial afterwards. It's the Bamboo & Oatmeal Polish (£19.50) that I love the most - it has a rich texture that glides on the skin, and the beads of oatmeal are gentle enough to use everyday.

I'm so impressed that I'm keen to try the other ranges, and will schedule a visit to one of the increasing number of spas within London that now treat with the Pinks Boutique range. I'll keep you posted on how the other products fair.

What organic products are you smitten with right now?

Pinks Boutique
Visit the website to find your nearest organic Spa:
www.pinksboutique.com

Last week I visited the Harbour Club and Amida Spa in Notting Hill with a friend for an afternoon of relaxation and pampering. It was a more modest venue than anticipated; a community gym of sorts come spa, and not the luxury expected. We opted for the Heavenly Spa Day for two, a special deal we bagged at a discounted price via Wahanda.

This deal entitled us to a 30 minute massage, express facial, mini pedicure and a light lunch, plus full use of the facilities. The facilities however were 'compact', so this basically meant use of the gym and the wet area, which included a tiny steam room and sauna.

After accepting the mediocre fate of our pamper afternoon, the treatments started off with a hitch; they only had one pair of slippers available that were clean. To be honest the pair of slippers they did have looked like they needed a good clean... In the end, we were issued make-shift flip-flops, the ones used to help transport freshly painted toes from the treatment room to the lounge.

But then came a positive worthy of note; the staff - so apologetic and lovely that I couldn't stay vexed for too long. And the treatments despite being super speedy were very thorough and performed to an excellent standard. The therapeutic massage did well to ease the niggles in my neck and shoulders, whilst the Elemis balancing facial was perfect for giving my skin a quick shot of hydration. The pedicure was great (the polish still looks good as new today). And the lunch was a wholesome grilled burger and chips (not exactly healthy but it was yum).

I've since learned that the package which cost £140 could have been experienced more indulgently for the same price at the Harbour Club, Chelsea - it's high-end counterpart. In reality, I suspect that the Harbour Club, Notting Hill is a place where locals pop in for essential waxing and a quick polish rather than a fully fledged spa day.

The result? I felt a little deceived; the photos of the facilities online looked lush, but I quickly understood from the staff that it was all down to fancy camera work. The phrase 'don't believe hype' comes to mind.

Harbour Club
1 Alfred Road
London W2 5EU
Tel: 0845 125 7017
Web: www.amidaspa.co.uk

In a recent Style Note post I featured homemade gifts and the editor's pick went to a pretty travel brush roll designed by London based beauty blogger Muhsine of Bubblegarm.

I loved it so much that I ordered one as an early Christmas pressie to my myself, and it arrived in the post today! It came beautifully gift wrapped so it felt extra special opening it. The version featured in a previous post was pink roses, however since then, she had designed others in lilac and red. I opted for the red; it's a bolder shabby chic fabric and looks gorgeous on my dresser.


Priced at £10 it's a practical investment to keep my makeup brushes nice and tidy. Not to mention the fact that it's machine washable, perfect! I understand that the brush rolls are limited edition, so visit the official blog of Muhsine's accessories L O L I C O C O to get your hands on one before they're gone.

Web: lolicoco.blogspot.com

Another fabulous giveaway readers! This time Christmas has come early. The health and beauty mecca that is Wahanda have teamed up with Pretty Stylish London to giveaway a luxurious £100 worth of pampering vouchers to spend anyway you like!

If you don't already know, Wahanda is the most comprehensive wellness site around. With more than 10,000 spas, salons, studios, gyms and therapists from the UK and beyond; honest reviews; and seriously good deals on offer everyday.

In the run up to Christmas you'll find some fantastic inspirations, including pamper packages discounted up to 50% off from spas and salons across London and UK, including Hydrohealing in Notting Hill, SFC Mobile Spa; the spa that comes to you, and gifts from Aromatherapy Associates.

For your chance to win you must be following the blog. So if you haven't already, please click the follow button to the right, or subscribe via the mailing list on feed burner further down.

Next: Leave a comment below and answer the following question "What Wahanda Listed spa/salon would you spend the vouchers at and why". Be sure to include a link back to the Wahanda listing!

Visit: www.wahanda.com and start browsing the wealth of listings online to pick your favourite.

Good luck darlings!

Terms and Conditions:
This free prize draw is open to UK residents only.
Entrants must be 18 years of age or over.
No purchase necessary.
The promoter reserves the right to re-draw the prize if the prize winner cannot be contacted within a reasonable period of time.
The competition is closed on 31st December 2009.
All entries received after this date will be excluded from the competition.
The winner of the competition will be chosen at random and contacted via email.

There are some products that I use all year round and then there's the SOS products that I stock up on especially for the Winter.

The change in elements can be particularly trying for my skin (and my mood), so I'm drawn to creams and potions that have rich, uplifting scents and are big on nourishment. There are four must-have products that I can't live without during the colder months, strangely enough they are all in green packaging! Not only do they look give the bathroom shelf a boost of fresh colour, they boast some pretty impressive ingredients to keep my skin supple and protected from the cold.

Weleda Skin Food - £6.95
This deep-penetrating replenishing skin repair cream is perfect for dry patches of skin and for added winter protection. The key ingredients are extracts of soothing chamomile, calendula wild pansy and a blend of enriching oils.
Available at www.weleda.co.uk

Vaseline Lip Therapy with Aloe Vera - £1.14
This is an oldie but a goodie; it does exactly what it says on the tin. Chapped lips are soothed with the Aloe Vera and the petroleum jelly creates an enriching barrier of protection.
Available at www.superdrug.com

Body Shop Tea Tree Body Wash - from £4.00
I love this product not only because of it's fantastic purifying properties but because it's ethical; made from The Kenya Organic Farmers’ Association (KOOFA), it's a Community Trade product which means you're helping to give back every time you buy. The key ingredient is Tamanu oil, which is a natural anti bacteria.
Available at www.thebodyshop.co.uk

Molton Brown Warming Eucalyptus & Ginger Body Scrub - £28.00
My biggest investment is this divine Molton Brown Body Scrub that is a miracle worker on dull skin. I use it twice weekly for an all-over smooth feeling. Aside from making my skin feel gorgeous, the smell of eucalyptus & ginger gives me that boost and picks-me-up when I'm feeling lethargic in the mornings.
Available at www.moltonbrown.co.uk

Yesterday I blogged about a Kérastase hair treatment that I had at my local Rush Salon. Turns out, off the back of the review, the award-winning salon group would like to offer 50 Pretty Stylish London readers the chance to have a free treatment and blow dry, so now you can try it for yourself! How's that for a treat?

Rush London are at the forefront of hairdressing and now have 47 salons across London and the South East. Renowned for their passion, quality, creativity and professionalism, every Stylist is trained to the highest standards ensuring each client receives the ultimate salon experience and a luxury service.

50 lucky readers will win a fantastic blow dry with one of Rush’s experienced stylists – the perfect treat when you’re in need of pampering or looking to impress on a girls night out. In addition to the fabulous blow dry you will receive complimentary refreshments, a Personal Hair Consultation and a luxury Kérastase Treatment Ritual, which will be individually prescribed for you to ensure your hair glistens and shines. Visit www.rush.co.uk

This exclusive prize is only available for fifty readers only. To be in with a chance of winning you must be following the blog or a subscriber. So if you haven't already, please click the follow button to the right, or subscribe via my mailing list on feedburner further down.

Next you need to answer the following question:
How many salons to Rush have?
Submit your answers using the comment box below.

Good Luck! Competition ends on the 2nd November 09.

Terms and Conditions
UK residents only. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Selected Stylists only. Appointment times and restrictions may apply. Prize must be redeemed within one month of being informed you have won.

At this time of year, the changing elements can take a toll on your hair. If like me you worry about frizz and split ends, I'd recommend trying a professional deep conditioning treatment.

Kérastase is a prescriptive range of hair care products used to prevent damage and give your hair a boost of nourishment. The Kérastase in-salon programme is ideal for getting an expert diagnosis best suited to your hair type and a personalised homecare programme.

There are several salons that use Kérastase, however Rush London salons are my pick of the bunch. You may remember that I've posted about Rush before, my local branch rescued me from a very bad hair day during the summer, and since then I've become a regular client at the award wining salon chain.


Last week I was prescribed the Oléo-Relax treatment from the Kérastase Ritual Collection, ideal for dry, frizzy hair. This taming treatment included an indulgent 15 minute mask complete with head massage.

The Oléo-Relax system works to smooth frizz and protect hair from heat styling and the cold weather. The formula's Patented active ingredients penetrates the core of the hair fibre and restores the natural balance of the scalp for optimal conditioning.

The whole process was uber relaxing and a week later, my hair still feels lovely. I also find that there is less breakage through combing, so it has definitely helped to strengthen the tresses.

Other systems available include Resistance Force; for weak/flyway hair, Reflection; suitable for highlighted/coloured hair and Specifique; used to help thinning and dandruff.

There are 47 Rush hair salons across London and the South, and with over 15 years experience, there's usually a stylist available to handle all hair types, including afro hair. Treatment prices range from £12.50-17.50.

Visit the website for further information on your local branch. www.rush.co.uk

London Fashion Week's official hotel, The May Fair is home to one of central London's premier day spas. Last month, I visited the spa to try the Perfect Peace package; a two hour pampering session combing two of the spa's most sought after treatments - a traditional Swedish massage and prescription facial.

A drizzle of warm oil started 60 minutes of kneading that left me in such deep relaxation, I was practically asleep by the end of the treatment. The facial was specifically tailored to suit my combination skin and I was given a AHA treatment to shift dead skin and bring out a healthy glow, which it did - I was impressed with how clear my complexion was weeks after.

The surroundings are as luxurious as you'd expect from The May Fair, and the spa has some impressive features including a herbal sauna and aromatic steam room that guests can enjoy up to an hour before their treatment time.

The facilities have been designed with a spiritualistic feel; Asian inspired symbols and incense candles enabled me to forget the busy streets of London just outside, for a moment of r&r.

The Perfect Peace package costs £180 and a visit to the May Fair Spa is just the ticket for instant de-stressing.

The May Fair Hotel
Stratton Street,
Mayfair, London,
W1J 8LT

Tel: 020 7769 4041
Web: www.themayfairhotel.co.uk

After trying the Smooth Shapes treatment for cellulite last month, I was out to discover another beauty fix and curious to know if there was a treatment out there to combat stretch marks. The online beauty community Wahanda introduced me to Microneedle Therapy now available at Destination Skin.

Now to say that I'm not a fan of needles is putting it likely, but I wasn't about to let nerves get the better of me. Microneedle Therapy is a natural rejuvenation method; non-surgical treatment that with regular use can be beneficial to various skin conditions such as aging (wrinkles, stretching), scarring (acne, surgical), and hyperpigmentation. Industry experts claim it to be more effective than ablative treatments like laser resurfacing, dermabrasion, and chemical peels.

Key to the therapy is the Microneedle roller, a type of medical tool with anything from 200 and more needles that as you might have guessed, are rolled and gently pressed onto the skin to create tiny pricks as it moves. Essentially, it injures the skin's surface, stimulating collagen and elastin production to thicken the skin. This process works to help smooth scaring.


It sounded incredibly interesting, if not a little too good to be true. But what particularly appealed to me was the fact that the recovery time for this treatment was super fast - more so that than dermabrasion and laser treatments that can take more time than the 1-2 days Microneedle therapy requires. And if it can reduce the likes of stretch marks and scarring (my two pet beauty hates) I was going to give it a try.

Initially, the feeling of the needles on my skin took some time to get used to. It was a sensation I wasn't used to and to be honest, I didn't like it very much but after a while, the prickling sensation became less noticeable. As the roller was moved up and long my thighs and hips, I could feel my skin becoming warm. The therapist informed me that the warming sensation was a good sign, it meant that the treatment was working.

Lasting 40 minutes, the treatment left no discomfort afterwards, which was great. I was able to wear my jeans out, just as I had arrived, with no worry of irritation.

The next day, my skin felt a little itchy where tiny scratches had appeared on the surface that the roller had been used. However, this was part of the healing process, and after a couple of days my skin had calmed. Three weeks on, the stretch marks that were targeted certainly feel smoother and less prominent, even if they are still visible.

My verdict is that Microneedle therapy isn't a quick fix and it doesn't bear instant results, however, it's far kinder to the skin than laser therapy and the more intense dermabrasion treatments available. It can be used anywhere on the body. All in all, it's a safer alternative for those who have very sensitive skin and for that reason I'd much prefer a course of this treatment than any other option. Prices start from £150. A course of three treatments will cost £360.

See the latest Destination Skin offers and discounts at Wahanda.

Destination Skin
House of Fraser
Westfield Shopping Centre
London
W12 7GA

Tel: 020 3372 6453
Email: westfield@destinationskin.com
Web: www.destinationskin.com

Last week I tried a new facial that uses 100% natural elements to rival the results of invasive dermabrasion. Using tiny droplets of water via a high air pressured jet, layers of skin are gently removed, revealing a fresh complexion and supple skin. The treatment is called hydrodermabrasion and aims to improve skin problems such as acne, scarring and wrinkles.

It works as a natural 'peel', offering an alternative to convention dermabrasion techniques that can often require skin recovery downtime. With hydrodermabrasion you can literally have the treatment and go about your day.

For acne, the treatment is tailored with Vitamin C infused water to help settle and calm the breakouts, and for scarring, therapists use an intensive scar repair solution to speed up the skin's healing process. All products used are created by REN Skincare, free from skin-unfriendly synthetic ingredients.

I wanted to try this treatment because I've had a terrible bout of acne this year. Hormonal changes have really taken toll on my chin and I've been battling with pimples and blemishes for over 6 months. I've tried a great number of facials during this time including an lovely organic treatment in February. However, I'm convinced that monthly sessions of this treatment would work wonders for my skin. After one session my skin literally glowed, and I found my skin was no longer over producing sebum, which is the root cause of my breakouts. I was impressed that my skin stayed matte for several days after and active blemishes quickly dried down.

I would recommend trying this, if like me, you're experiencing relentless breakouts. Available exclusively at independent organic spa hydrohealing, facials cost between £80 and £85 for a tailored, 60 minute treatment.


hydrohealing
216a Kensington Park Road
Notting Hill Gate
London W11 1NR
Tel: 020 7727 2570
Web: hyrdohealing.com

Date: Every last Thursday of the month
Time: 6-8pm
Admission: £15 per person

Liberty is hosting a new beauty event entitled Cocktails and Cupcakes. The series of beauty and well-being evenings are taking place every last Thursday of the month until November.

Guests will have the opportunity to sample ‘most wanted’ skincare products from top cosmetic ranges, sip on tea-infused Martinis unique to each event and nibble on their famous cupcakes. Sounds delicious. Oh and there'll be fabulous goody bags.

‘Cupcakes & Cocktails’ evenings’ schedule:
Smart, Sassy, Sexy – make up for contemporary gal...
27th August
(featuring Cherry Sencha Martini)

Something about Eve...
24th September
(featuring Creten Mountain Martini)

Ladies, refine your smell buds...
29th October
(featuring Anastasia Martini)

For tickets please contact Freya on:
Tel: 0207 734 1234 ext 2602
Email: libertyrestaurants@live.com
Web: www.liberty.co.uk

TEA room
Liberty Store,

Regent Street
,
London W1B 5AH

How many times have you joined a gym at a pocket burning price and failed to visit it more than 10 times that year? I'm completely guilty of this. I still have a membership that I'm tied into for another 12 months, reluctantly paying, and in all honesty, I've visited the gym three times this year.

I originally sighed up for the fitness classes. At the time the gym had brilliant options like street dance, Soca aerobics and boxercise (with a rather delicious instructor). But when the new timetable came into play just a month after I joined, I was disappointed that they had struck off all the classes I loved, and replaced it with kundalini yoga (really not my thing).

Looking back, I wish I'd been savvy to the abundance of free gyms and fitness classes currently available in London. Admittedly, I doubt that it would have radically changed the fact that I can count the amount of times I've worked out on one hand, but, at least I wouldn't be out of pocket! If you're like me and much prefer to participate in group activities, rather than go it alone, here are some options for you, absolutely free:



Body Attack
Wednesday until the 26th August
7.30am – 8.30am

Join the fitness professionals from 37° for free fitness classes in The Scoop at More London. Classes are suitable for all fitness levels and abilities. Classes are limited in size; therefore it will be run on a first come first served basis. At your first class you'll need to arrive 10 minutes before to register.

Gym Tennis™
Wednesday 26th July - 26th August
7.30am – 8.30am

Wimbledon may be over but if you've still got the tennis spirit, then Gym Tennis™ may be just class for you. The Gym Tennis Racket replicates the basic shots such as the forehand and backhand swings, volleys and smashes, to give you a conditioning fitness workout.

For more information visit:
www.morelondon.co.uk


Green Legacy Gym

I love this idea - a place for everyone to work out, a free, outdoor gym with safe, robust equipment. There are a lot of these popping up in London. Owned by The Great Outdoor Gym Company, they hope that the service will continue to expand beyond parks and reach destinations like outside health centres, housing developments, in the grounds of hotels and health spas. The low impact, resistance based equipment is suitable for the whole family, young and old.

To find your nearest gym visit:
www.tgogc.com/find-a-gym

It's been a while since I had the pleasure of visiting a day spa and normally I opt for somewhere rather luxurious like the Sanctuary or Austin's but today, whilst scouting for the perfect Summer sandals, I popped into Cowshed, an all together cosy beauty spot. My feet required a little pampering so I booked in for the Ultimate Cowshed Pedicure.

Aside from the routine cuticle tidy, skin smoothing and foot rub, this deluxe option includes a scalp and shoulder massage. As I sat with my feet cocooned in a soothing hydration mask, all the tension and fatigue from a week of endless errands was eased away. By the time the polish was applied (in a beautiful metallic red), I felt revived and my feet were sandal perfect. It's just a shame I still didn't find any to wear! I would definitely visit the spa again - a fabulous pit stop when shopping in Carnaby. The Ultimate Cowshed Pedicure costs £55.00.

Cowshed
31 Fouberts Place,
London
W1D 7QG

Tel: 020 7534 0870
Web: www.cowshedonline.com

Opening Hours
Monday - Friday 10am - 8pm
Saturday 10am - 7pm
Sunday 11am - 5pm