A massage that doubles as a wellbeing experience certainly grabs my attention. The Saturn Returns ritual at AWAY Spa, W London does exactly that. This exclusive treatment, created in collaboration with author and spiritual guide Caggie Dunlop and Seabody, the Irish skincare line founded by cellular biochemist Dr Helena McMahon, known for its seaweed-infused skincare and supplements enriched with high-efficacy marine bioactives.
My therapist explains that this is a full-body treatment combining a soothing massage with Seabody’s signature seaweed poultice therapy. The experience begins with a ginger shot to boost digestion, and the idea of sinking into a heated bed for 90 minutes already feels like bliss. Mindful breath work gently eases my body into a state of calm and renewal, something I needed more than ever after rushing through a very wet Regent Street following a full day of festive shopping.
Then comes the most unique part of the experience: the gentle, rhythmic sound of the ocean drum moving from head to toe. It truly felt like lying on a beach in the evening or listening to the waves through a seashell. Paired with the breath work and soft essential-oil scent aroma in the background, it resets the mind in the same way a meditation or sound-healing session would. What followed was a bit of a blur, as if a light switch flipped…I drifted straight to sleep.
It’s the attention to detail that truly stands out: hot towels, warm body oil, and the unique combination of hands and seaweed poultices. At the end, my therapist explains that the poultices exfoliate, detoxify and nourish the skin thanks to their infusion of marine minerals and antioxidants.
Followed by a restorative scalp and head massage, before the final touch: being wrapped in Seabody’s Sleep Body Balm, due to launch early spring next year and created to calm the nervous system, balance the circadian rhythm and encourage deep sleep.
This is far more than a standard treatment. It offers the grounding benefits of meditation, a focus on sleep and renewal, and a thoughtful connection between the mind, body and sea. It’s ideal for long-haul travellers needing to reset into a new time zone or anyone who struggles with sleep.
My only regret was making dinner plans that evening…I was ready for bed the moment I floated out of the treatment room.
Available exclusively at W London’s AWAY Spa
AWAY Spa, W London, 10 Wardour St, London W1D 6QF
