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Ushvani Spa

The Blurb

Just off of Sloane Square, Knightsbridge, you’ll find the Malaysian-inspired Ushvani Spa. Situated inside an Edwardian, Grade II listed building, this temple of peace and power is the result of four years of research and refinement, by founder Usha Arumugam. Usha wanted to bring a truly Malaysian experience to London, weaving her culture into every part of the spa’s offering, from the decor to the treatments.

Ushvani is set over three floors, with something different behind each door: a treatment room, relaxation room, spa pool or steam room. There’s even a suite for couples and friends, called ‘Asmara’ (which means love), and a large studio called ‘Sentosa’, which means peace and tranquillity, where guests can enjoy yoga and Pilates classes.

The lower floor is reserved for women only. Here, there are three treatment rooms, as well as the main spa facilities. Men are welcome to the spa but for treatments only, which take place on the floors above.

The Style

Ushvani has beautifully married the classic character of the Edwardian building with Malaysian style. Throughout, the decor is a dark, chocolate brown with flashes of orange – the colour of good health, happiness, balance and prosperity. Expertly crafted sculptures and hibiscus flowers sit in almost every corner and running all the way from the ceiling of the top floor to the entrance hall is a stunning floral drape, made in Malaysia with natural dyes. On the middle floor, you’ll also find a large fish tank, swimming with tropical orange fish.

The treatment rooms follow the same colour palette. They are minimalist, with everything hidden behind cupboards and the smell of pleasant hibiscus. In some rooms, like the couples suite, there are huge original fireplaces, which add such character and warmth to the room.

The Process

After swapping my shoes for soft white slippers on arrival, I was taken down to the lower floor where the spa and treatment rooms are, and given a robe. Guests are recommended to use the spa facilities before their massage appointment, so that’s exactly what I did; sinking into a warm bath before relaxing in one of the wet rooms. When it was time for my massage I simply sashayed across the hall to the treatment room, ‘Senyum’, which means smile.

The day spa offers a variety of different treatments including massages, body scrubs and wraps, and facials. I opted for the Balinese massage: 90 minutes of Malaysian-inspired massage, which promises to relieve tension. We started with a little meditation, breathing in and out in counts of eight. My masseuse, Dorina, then worked her way around my body, first starting on my back before moving on to my legs, feet and arms. The pressure was just right – I could feel the tension flowing away, drifting into a semi-conscious state of pure bliss. This treatment also includes a short stomach massage, though guests can request not to have this done. I’ve always been sceptical but actually rather enjoyed it and found it to be very beneficial.

All of the products used are the spa’s own brand, created specifically for Ushvani. They are 100% natural and smell wonderful.

After my massage, I was left to regain my consciousness and dress. Usually, you are taken to another room to relax post-massage and given a cup of hibiscus tea. Due to Covid-19, this area was shut on the day I visited, so instead I took one for the road; stumbling around Sloane Square in a warm, foggy haze.

The Verdict

This was unlike any spa day I have had before. There was something so tranquil and serene about the whole experience – I felt instantly calm the minute I walked through the flower bordered door.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of London but don’t want to travel for miles, this is the place to go. In fact, I’d come to London just to soak up this experience.

It’s ideal for couples, friends, and mothers and daughters. And if you book the Asmara Suite (for couples and friends) for a three-hour session, there are some wonderful extras you can add on too.

www.ushvani.com

1 Cadogan Gardens, Knightsbridge, London, SW3 2RJ

020 7730 2888

reservations@ushvani.com

Tried & Tested