The Fringe doesn’t offer many opportunities for a bit of a breather, which is why Neal’s Yard Remedies have created a Festival Chill-Out Zone for the duration of the festival.
Offering drop-in 15 minute sessions of any of their usual treatments (including Indian head massage, reflexology and therapeutic holistic massage – each £15 for a 15 minute session), Neal’s Yard Remedies is a beautifully-scented, relaxing getaway – and, if you don’t fancy one of their treatments, you can go along for a free cup of herbal tea.
The staff are all extremely accommodating and well-trained, and will tailor your massage specifically to your needs – whether it be a revitalising energy boost when you’ve missed too many nights sleep, a remedy for your aches and pains, or simply a relaxing, well-needed break. As well as different massages and pressure points, they also have different oils for whatever would suit you the most. Unlike during the rest of the year, you don’t have to book an appointment, as they have more therapists during the month, as well as shop staff trained to administer treatments.
I had a lovely brew of spearmint tea, followed by my first ever Indian head massage. Using Arnica balm to sooth my sprains and strains from the overnight bus to Edinburgh, the massage started with hypnotic movements to the scalp, before moving to the neck and shoulders, followed by the upper and lower back. They then moved back to the shoulders and arms before finishing with a face and ear massage. I can honestly verify that I spent the rest of the day much more relaxed (a rarity at the Fringe!), and would highly recommend trying one of their treatments. Failing that, go along to soak up the aromas and the calming atmosphere, and grab yourself a free cuppa!
