Thinking of treating yourself to a pamper session? Wanting to find a perfect gift for someone who deserves to take some time to relax? KEEP ON READING.

As a qualified beauty therapist and a person who finds it hard to relax on a daily basis the thought of being the client during a treatment makes me slightly anxious. But over the last few months I’ve visited some of the best spas and relaxation havens throughout Canberra – all in the name of research, of course!

Whether you have a birthday coming up, need to add something else to your wish list, want to have some girlie time with your BFF, your partner or you simply want to treat yourself. Here are my top three pamper palaces to meet all budgets…

Foot and Thai Therapeutic Massage – low budget

One of my ultimate, instant relaxation go-to’s and reasonably priced depending on the timeframe.

Foot and Thai is located in Belconnen and you can choose from a variety of massage styles including aromatherapy and traditional Thai. When you leave the reception area the experience instantly begins as you automatically feel as though you’re in another world. The dimly lit atmosphere, the scent of aromatherapy oils and the peaceful sound of relaxing tunes playing softly in the background all add to the experience.

The session can lasts for half an hour up to two hours and start at $40. Enjoy a sauna before or after your massage then finish with a hot cup of green or peppermint tea. You can choose to be in the same room if you go with someone or have a room all to yourself. Be sure to book in advance as this place usually books out two weeks ahead of time, but it’s definitely worth the wait.

Live Well Spa and Wellness Centre – mid budget

I’ve only recently discovered this little gem hidden two streets back from the centre of the trendy suburb, Manuka, in a heritage listed building. Just under a year old, Live Well is the place to go to get back in touch with your spiritual self and experience a deeper level of treatments and therapy for relaxation and healing purposes.

Wesley Smith, owner and practitioner, has a background in yoga and acupuncture. He’s recently evolved from 10 years as a one man band business to a team of five other professional practitioners.  From travelling and visiting several overseas spas his vision was to create a space to look after clients and help transform and enhance your health and wellbeing through a holistic approach. I think he’s done just that!

Live Well combines pampering beauty treatments with a holistic approach. Treatments range from reiki, meditation, acupuncture, specialty massages, facials, body treatments plus much more. I was treated to the one of the signature 120min treatments, ‘Splendour’ where I was embraced with the flower ritual followed by a full body massage and rejuvenation facial. The lovely therapist had magic hands and was able to ease my mind and send me into a world of relaxation.

After the treatment was over (much to my disappointment) I was able to indulge in the recovery pod. One of the great things about Live Well is that there’s no rush as you are served a hot cup of tea (Real Chai is my fave). You won’t be disappointed after your visit where you will walk away glowing, both inside and out.

Mudd the Spa – high budget

Mud, mud oh glorious mud. Tucked underneath Hotel Realm in Barton, Mudd offers a range of beauty treatments for new brides, mothers, couples and anyone who wants to escape the outside world and experience a little slice of heaven. I will admit, it is on the pricey side (lucky for me, I was given a birthday voucher) but you won’t have any regrets.

I was immersed into a hydrotherapy spa, treated to a head massage and hair masque, refreshed with a facial and my experience was finished with a mini manicure. The spa offers indulgent packages and a variety of face and body treatments.  As I floated out the door after my treatment I felt like a new person with no worries in the world. This is one for special occasions!

As Winter is now officially over I recommend to treat yourself to something special to perk yourself up – you deserve it!

Can’t afford a spa visit? Grab some scented candles, bath oil, a cd player and check out Shonagh Walker’s tips to Turn Your Home Into A Day Spa.

Have you been to any of these places?  What is your favourite relaxation hot spot in Canberra?