Lacking a bit of fizz? Try the champagne massage!

WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?

I SUFFER from the joint condition osteoarthritis, which leaves me in pain when I walk long distances. But my job as a Pilates instructor means I need to stay physically fit. This means I have a strict criteria for weekend spa breaks – minimal relaxation combined with activities to keep my blood pumping.

The breaks must also be suitable for my long-time holiday companion Suzannah, who is recovering from breast cancer. Sadly, many therapists are cautious about causing damage so she is often refused treatment.

WHAT’S THE SOLUTION?

BETWEEN the Cumbrian deer parks and Lake District waters lies the awardwinning Armathwaite Hall hotel and spa. It is one of a handful of UK spas to offer specialist treatments to people living with cancer. For everyone else, there’s an array of luxurious facials and massages (one features truffle and champagne), plus bespoke exercise and nutritional programmes from in-house specialists.

There are also two floors of state-of-the-art facilities, including a hydrotherapy pool and a dance studio. At last, somewhere that ticks all my boxes.

WHAT’S THE TREATMENT?

AFTER an attentive member of staff took our detailed medical information, I darted straight to the gym. My 20-minute run was made so much better thanks to the scenic views. Next came our respective treatments. For me that was a 55-minute ‘good spirits’ massage, using rhythmic movements to alleviate the inflammation in my joints.

Suzannah opted for one of four specialist treatments provided by trained oncology masseurs.

Her masseuse sensitively identified areas of tension – the result of surgery and radiotherapy – and applied deep pressure for minutes at a time, sending Suzannah off to sleep. Apparently, the treatment took her to ‘pre-cancer’ levels of relaxation. Before bed, we ate an exquisite dinner of mushroom risotto followed by egg custard tarts. The next morning, the familiar aches in my joints and muscles had almost subsided. While my mind had relaxed, my body had gained bags more energy. Suzannah, meanwhile, has already booked us in for a second visit.

A one-night stay at Armathwaite Hall (armathwaite-hall.com) costs from £170 based on two people sharing.