Self-care: Revive both skin and soul at Rivivi




As seasons shift and nights draw in, it's cue to invest in some self-care. Lisa Millard recommends a visit to Hemingford Grey treatment room Rivivi

Rivivi in Hemingford Grey, run by Lucy Hannington (60107316)
Rivivi in Hemingford Grey, run by Lucy Hannington (60107316)

The boutique treatment room of Rivivi (Italian word meaning ‘live again’) is nestled in a lovely location called The Grey House – home to an array of independents under one roof in the splendid village of Hemingford Grey (a stone-throw from St Ives). Rivivi owner Lucy Harrington has worked with Clarins and as a mobile beauty therapist before opening doors at The Grey House in February this year.

Lucy offers a menu of facials and massage treatments that feature luxe spa brand Essential Herbology – including hot stone, Thai inspired foot and lower leg and pregnancy massage – and works with clients to create a bespoke experience to meet their needs and preferences.

I experienced the Rivivi Signature, a 90-minute massage using heated stones and hands that includes a facial and head and scalp massage. Cocooned in the fluffiest of towels, listening to ambient music and inhaling the sumptuous scent of essential oils, the massage starts on the back, where warmed oil is applied to the skin followed by hot stones to create sweeping shapes that soon tame my tense muscles into a relaxed state enabling me to sink into the cushioned bed and drift off.

Lucy then turns her attention to each leg where the hot stone is worked into the curves of the calf and soft underside of the foot to increase the level of relaxation. When Lucy works on my arms, she smooths the stones over my muscles before leaving them cupped in each hand to let the warmth set in – it felt somehow grounding, like holding hands with someone you love.

Turning over, each leg and foot, arm and hand receive more attention before Lucy starts the facial, expertly finding the pressure points around the face to somehow both relax and revive. The scalp massage was blissful and I was gently brought back to reality with a sweet-smelling spritz.

A truly wonderful treatment that is complete, addressing each part of the body, the Rivivi Signature can be adapted to focus on specific areas depending on what you want. I’m not sure I would choose to change the experience – it was one of the best treatments I have ever had – but I would certainly choose to repeat it.

Rivivi Signature Treatment, 90 minutes, £75

Rivivi, The Grey House, 36b Marsh Lane, Hemingford Grey PE28 9EN

Full treatment menu and contact details to book at rivivi.co.uk


Read more

More by this author