The new year is synonymous with a wellbeing reset, but those in the know enjoy regular “maintenance sessions” with the best in the business year-round.
But where do the A-list head for the game-changing holistic therapies? From a sought-after Ayurvedic healer to an osteo to the stars, Selina Julien shares her little black book of London’s most coveted wellness gurus.
Dimple Amani
Best for: Lymphatic drainage massage
With a roll call of celebrity clients such as Rita Ora and Jenna Coleman, Dimple’s new Knightsbridge location on Harrod’s fifth floor is busier than ever with appointments for her signature lymphatic drainage massage – unsurprisingly a huge hit with supermodels too.
It’s the perfect party detox as the lymph nodes are activated by a gentle therapeutic massage to eliminate the toxins from the body’s waste system. Dimple’s right hand woman Marcia knows all her secret techniques and just as well as the waiting list for the woman herself is long.
Try the buccal facial while you’re there. Rigorous at moments, but not unpleasant, as someone who clenches their teeth at times, the tension instantly melted away within seconds. Dimple’s magical copper wand, inspired by her grandmother’s technique of exfoliating her skin with a metal can works wonders alongside the amethyst gusha which sculps the skin. The results speak for themselves as my jawline was noticeably more defined, and my face felt less puffy.
Lymphatic drainage full body treatment with Dimple, 60 minutes for £350.
harrods.com/en-gb/services/harrods-hair-and-beauty-salon/services/body-treatments
Claire Dabreo
Best for: Five element acupuncture
Calm and compassionate, Claire Dabreo – known as the London Acupuncturist – specialises in five element acupuncture, which focuses on the origin of health concerns rather than solely treating the symptoms. The former PR turned wellness practitioner trained with renowned healer Gerad Kite after reaping its benefits following a back injury.
Claire’s discreet about naming high profile patrons but has a decade of experience working with them across a wide range of issues and is passionate about supporting fertility and pregnancy, whether natural or IVF procedures. She’s also a birth doula.
By gently inserting tiny needles into specific body points to ensure the energy (Qi) flows around the body, Claire explains that it’s the blockages that cause illness and cleverly extracts all the information she needs during her informal chats at the beginning of each session.
The treatment is virtually pain-free, apart from the occasional sharp sensation when she hits the blocked spot. Every session feels like fine tuning the body, and the lasting benefits were felt long after leaving the clinic.
£110 for 90 minutes initial consultation.
Natalie Eve Roper
Best for: Ayurvedic awakening
Ex-Bulgari therapist Natalie is strictly word of mouth recommendation and believes that clients only visit when they’re ready to do the work on their heart. Having learnt the ancient healing system from masters in India, Natalie’s international patrons are testament to her prowess – and she’s committed to creating a safe space for women only.
Expect an immediate sense of calm as you enter Natalie’s London home filled with crystals and scented oils. She starts with an in-depth consultation, which feels like a warm hug and comforting therapy session rolled into one before she takes your pulse to check your Ayurvedic dosha type (Kapha, Pitta or Vata) for imbalances and delivers a bespoke 90-minute treatment.
The hot rock abhyanga massage is a blissed-out affair as Natalie drizzles oil on marma (energy) points and uses her signature deep stroke technique to release stagnant energy. While the rose quartz wands rolled across the face to encourage self-love was deeply relaxing.
A beautiful, healing experience which will leave you feeling emotionally grounded and spiritually nourished.
£150 for 90 mins treatment plus 30 minute consultation.
Sarika Patel
Best for: Colon hydrotherapy
A flock of models, actors and presenters disappear down a staircase to Clarity Wellbeing in the heart of Kensal Rise, North West London. Sarika’s reputation proceeds her as what she doesn’t know about flushing out the toxins from your colon and liver cleansing, isn’t worth knowing.
The ex-NHS therapeutic radiographer overhauled her career after her life was transformed by colon hydrotherapy and she now specialises in IBS treatment, stress relief therapy and supporting weight loss. Championing its physical and emotional benefits, Sarika is the best advert for its lasting effects.
During the colon cleanse, filtered water is flushed through the system using a tube that’s inserted into the rectum to clear the toxins. Sarika gently massages clients’ stomachs to encourage the evacuation process and thankfully feels like a friend having a gossip, which removes any awkward moments.
Loyal fans all agree, you instantly feel lighter and brighter – and over time boast a clearer complexion too!
£105 for a 60 minutes gentle cleanse colonic, £265 for The Liver Cleanse.
Jonathan Le Bon
Best for: Healing osteopath treatment
Your body will thank you after a one-to-one with Jonathan Le Bon, renowned for his transformative osteopath sessions. With over 25 years helping clients with symptoms such as posture related issues to debilitating illnesses such as cerebral palsy, everyone from babies to octogenarians have benefitted from his healing hands.
Le Bon’s real gift is intuitively tuning into his clients, so don’t be alarmed by his leading questions during the consultation. Beyond that, he works on treating the root of the issue with very gentle manipulation. It’s all so gentle, many find it hard to believe how game-changing the results are as you leave the clinic with a renewed spring in your step.
Jonathan splits his time between London’s West End practice and his Southampton clinic, so it’s no wonder his appointments are like gold dust. It’s not uncommon to spot a famous face or rock star in the waiting room either as they regular jet for some TLC from the man himself.
£190 for 60 minutes.
