Spa of the month

SHA Wellness Clinic, near Valencia in Southern Spain, is not a spa in the traditional sense. It is a wellness clinic devoted to the modern macrobiotic diet, as championed by celebrities including Sting, Gwyneth Paltrow and Madonna.

On arrival guests are introduced to Método SHA , a new concept created exclusively by the team of experts at SHA.  This method aims to rebalance the mind and body using a mix of both ancient wisdom and advanced technology.  After an initial consultation, your very own personalised programme and diet is created through a combination of macrobiotics, natural therapies and specialist consultations.

If you thought macrobiotic bland, SHA is sure to change your mind. Its macrobiotic dishes will lift you out of your weary winter state by blending tasty Mediterranean and Japanese-fusion cuisine, prepared using only organic ingredients including organic fish, fresh fruit, ample nuts and seeds and other natural snacks - setting the record straight on the myth that a macrobiotic diet consists of just brown rice and water.

The schedule of daily activities and natural therapies work alongside the macrobiotic diet and include yoga, Tai Chi, laughter therapy, Shiatsu, Watsu, acupuncture, ozone therapy, hydrotherapy, relaxation techniques, laughter therapy, meditation. Also easy to learn macrobiotic cooking classes are available at SHA which means that guests can maintain this healthy lifestyle when they return home. The SHA Learning Centre offers a variety of talks and conferences related to macrobiotics as well as tools for improving one's lifestyle.

Set on the Sierra Helada hillside, its five independent buildings are linked by bridges and quite literally sit above the beach town of Albir in the Costa Blanca. SHA somehow magically keeps to a minimalist design with an aura of warmth and solidity without feeling the slightest bit clinical.  The stunning design is modern and über chic with large bright windows, white walls, floors and furniture, tropical plants and running water.  

SHA's goal is to make macrobiotics more accessible through evaluating the way we live and breathe - SHA Wellness Clinic is should certainly be the first stop on this journey to change.   

For more information visit www2.shawellnessclinic.com