Nothing beats the feeling of sheer, blissed-out peace that comes after a spell on a massage table. But with the huge array of different treatments on offer, it can be tough to choose which will be right for you.  

One treatment to keep an eye out for is Lomi Lomi massage. Hailing from Hawaii, this treatment is designed to leave you feeling as relaxed as can be, with your knots and stresses worked out of your entire body.

The main difference between Lomi Lomi and ‘traditional’ (Swedish) massage is that the therapist mostly uses their forearms rather than hands during the treatment, and works on larger areas of the body at the same time. This means that the general feeling of a massage is more calming – in fact, the techniques used mimic the feeling of waves rolling over a shore. The therapist moves around the table as they work, rhythmically and methodically, almost dancing as they knead the body.

Historically, Lomi Lomi massage was practiced by everyone, from children to chiefs, the techniques taught by Polynesian settlers in Hawaii. But luckily, you don’t have to go all the way to Hawaii to experience this magical treatment. It’s one of the many therapies on offer at the Vanilla Browns Spa in the River Lee Hotel, where a Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage costs €95 for 80 minutes.

You can enjoy the treatment as part of a package, too. Wellness on the Weir costs from €168pps and includes:

• Two nights’ accommodation in a Superior Room.
• €40 voucher (per person) for Vanilla Browns Spa.
• Full Irish Breakfast both mornings.
• Two-course evening meal with glass of house wine.
• Complimentary access to NRG Health & Fitness Centre (on site).
• Complimentary parking.
• Late checkout until 1pm.