Cold water therapies
The sheer feeling of the cold. When you go swimming in natural waters, that’s the first thing that hits you.
Written by Nat Louis
Ayurveda is a centuries-old system of holistic health from India that emphasises balance between mind, body, and environment. At Scarlet Hotel, our Ayurvedic-inspired treatments combine traditional techniques, such as Abhyanga (full-body oil massage) and Shirodhara (gentle warm oil poured on the forehead), with locally sourced, natural oils and personalised consultations.
Each therapy is tailored to your constitution, helping to restore harmony, reduce stress, and enhance wellbeing. Below, discover the therapies we offer, their benefits, safety considerations, and what to expect when you book an Ayurvedic treatment at Scarlet Hotel in Cornwall.
Ayurvedic treatments are part of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system focusing on balancing the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Treatments aim to harmonise mind, body, and spirit through massage, oils, dietary guidance, and lifestyle recommendations. Common therapies include Abhyanga, Shirodhara, Marma massage, and Panchakarma detox programs.
The word "therapist" comes from the Latin therapīa, which means "to cure" or "to heal". We love how this connects with Ayurveda's approach of getting to the heart of what's really going on, rather than just masking the symptoms.
One of the most common questions we receive at Scarlet is why sports massage doesn't feature on our spa menu. The answer isn't about capability; our therapists are fully qualified in sports massage therapy, and we certainly have the resources. Instead, it's a deliberate choice that reflects our philosophy and the unique experience we've created for our guests.
Our therapists are here to guide you on an Ayurvedic-inspired journey of discovery. With gentle, skilled care, they'll help you identify where your body and mind are holding onto tension, then work with you to create your own path towards release, restoration and balance.
When guests choose Scarlet, they're seeking something deeper than targeted muscle work. They come to us to step away from the stresses of modern life, to reconnect with themselves in a setting where luxury meets nature. Our spa treatments are carefully curated to support this journey of relaxation and renewal.
Every treatment at Scarlet begins with an intimate consultation rooted in Ayurvedic principles. Our therapists take time to truly understand what you're experiencing, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. This conversation helps us determine how you want to feel when you leave, creating a personalised pathway to that state of being.
Through the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda and our practitioners' extensive training, our therapists can offer exactly what your body needs in that moment. Sometimes this differs from what you might expect or what you've experienced elsewhere, but it's precisely this tailored approach that makes the difference.
The tension held in your muscles tells a story that goes beyond the physical. Rather than focusing solely on knots and trigger points, our therapists work with your entire musculoskeletal system through gentle stretching and mindful breathwork. This holistic approach guides you away from the stress stored in tight muscles and toward the relaxation you're seeking.
Sports massage typically involves ongoing sessions over weeks, months, or even years to address chronic issues or injuries. During your stay with us, our therapists may only see you once or twice. So, while we cannot "fix" deep-rooted problems in such a short time, what we can do is allow you to forget where the aches and pains are by treating these areas through heat, touch and the natural movements of our therapists. As well as giving you the holistic tools to prevent illness and injury in the future from your diet, lifestyle and natural movements.
At Scarlet, we believe that true healing happens when we address not just symptoms, but the whole person. Our treatments are designed to give you a profound reset, equipping you with the awareness and tools to maintain wellbeing long after you leave us. This is why we've chosen to focus on transformative spa experiences rather than clinical interventions. Because sometimes, what we need most is to be reminded of our natural capacity for peace and renewal.
What are Ayurvedic treatments?
Ayurvedic treatments include massage, oil therapy, lifestyle advice, and detox protocols aimed at balancing mind and body according to your dosha.
Are Ayurvedic treatments safe?
Yes, most therapies are safe when performed by trained therapists. Consult your doctor if you have health conditions, are pregnant, or take medications.
Do I need a consultation before treatment?
Yes, a short consultation ensures your treatment is personalised and safe.
Can I have Ayurvedic treatments if I’m pregnant?
Some treatments are not recommended. Please inform us at booking for suitable alternatives.
How do I book an Ayurvedic treatment at Scarlet Hotel?
Book online via our spa booking page, call reservations, or enquire at reception.
We're here to plant seeds of wellness that flourish long after you've returned home. Whether it's the complimentary wellness classes overlooking our clifftops, the Scarlet Restaurants' nourishing recipes that use fresh and local ingredients, or simply the art of truly slowing down, these become part of who you are.
Take a piece of Cornwall's healing energy wherever life leads you. Book your spa treatments today and get a head start on making your stay with us the most relaxing and tranquil yet.
The sheer feeling of the cold. When you go swimming in natural waters, that’s the first thing that hits you.
Have a spoonful of Scarlet to start your day the right way.
Learn more about holistic well-being and health by using Ayurveda at Scarlet Hotel.
In Ayurveda, the year is broken into three seasons which mirror the three dosha types. Autumn into winter is the season of Vata. Literally translated as ‘wind, Vata is dry and cold with bursts of movement.
Once a common practice for humans, barefoot walking and running has recently resurfaced as a popular trend for mental and physical wellbeing enthusiasts.
Often referred to as ‘The Science of Life’, Ayurveda is an ancient system of holistic wellbeing, with roots in India over 5,000 years old.
Introducing the Restorative Sleep Break, Scarlet's newest wellness break crafted to enhance meaningful relaxation and improve sleep patterns.
Explore everything you need to know about starting your cold water swimming journey on the breathtaking cliffside of Mawgan Porth in our natural outside reed pool.
Looking for a wellness retreat in Cornwall? Reconnect with nature at Scarlet Hotel, where mindfulness, spa therapies, and sustainable luxury create the perfect escape.