Indian Head Massage at The Marker: Treatment Tales

First there was tapas, then there was japas and now (my very favourite of them all), The Marker Hotel in Dublin has introduced spapas - express beauty treatments that cater perfectly to the corporate community surrounding this 5-star luxury hotel.

Based in Grand Canal Dock in the Irish Financial Services Centre, The Marker counts Google, Facebook and any number of financial services companies amongst its neighours. This part of Dublin is a favourite of mine and my little YouTube video perfectly illustrates why; the video also incorporates a quick tour of the spa, as well as a wee interview with the spa and wellness manager, Clara Lynam. Check it out - and don't forget to subscribe!

My therapist, Paulina 

It makes perfect sense for the hotel to look to its local market and with the new Spapas menu, you can nip in on your lunch break for a speedy grooming treatment that's convenient and reasonably priced - but carried out in a luxe, 5-star environment.

The menu features 15 and 30 minute treatments like lash or brow tinting, eyebrow shaping, lip/chin/underarm waxing for €10 - or bikini/half leg waxing or nail services (for fingers and toes) for €25. Finally, deluxe 30 minute spapas offerings include a facial, back massage or Indian head massage for €45 a pop.

Invited to choose a treatment, I opted for the head massage - something I had yet to try outside of my hairdresser's chair. But this was an entirely different experience: cocooned in a fluffy robe and slippers I padded along to meet my therapist, Paulina, who tucked me up comfortably on a heated bed.

Complementary post treatment sorbet and lemonade - a lovely touch 

Starting softly, she gently swept her fingers through my hair and my mind immediately began to drift away into that almost meditative space.

Slowly and skillfully, the pressure was increased, and the tension expertly kneaded from my head, shoulders and neck. The stresses of a hectic week were literally dissolving in her hands.

Knowing I was headed back to work, Paulina avoided using too much oil around my scalp. As a completely unexpected bonus, my hair looked awesome after - the massage gave me more volume than a large can of Batiste!

Spapas are available Monday to Friday, from 11.30am – 3pm. A loyalty scheme means you'll be granted a free 15 minute treatment on every ninth visit to The Marker; call 01-6875194 or email spa@themarker.ie to book. Need any more enabling? Take a look at my hotel tour. 

Tweet