The thought of a spell at a macrobiotic spa might send tremors through even the most dedicated dieter, suggesting a whole lot of hunger and little fun. And it’s fair to say that the SHA Wellness Clinic in Alicante is not a place for anyone who enjoys their spa treatments interspersed with glasses of Champagne and naughty treats. SHA is for those who are serious about making long-term changes to their health. A five-day or longer stay promises to set you on the path to a younger, healthier you.
Nestling in the Sierra Helada del Albir, overlooking the coastal village of Altea, the clinic is a luxurious modern structure of five buildings interlinked by bridges, all whitewashed walls, marble pillars and trickling waterfalls. Balconied suites, rooftop pools and a restaurant afford fine views of the surrounding hills, villages
and Mediterranean Sea.
While macrobiotics are at the core of SHA’s work, it also delivers a wide range of anti-ageing, health-promoting therapies, throwing in lectures and consultations (mine diagnosed ‘congestion’ in a rather surprising anatomical region).
I enjoyed a lecture on natural healing and an invigorating yoga class, two fantastic massages, and a macrobiotic cookery class that was most enlightening vis-a-vis the versatility of carrots.
So back to the macrobiotics… it’s apparently about feeding your body essential nutrients to enhance and prolong life. SHA serves elaborate three-course meals in a tranquil restaurant setting where, while admittedly you won’t find a good blue steak or any form of potato on the menu, high-fibre, low fat, dairy-free and vegetarian dishes are pleasingly creative and filling.
SHA left me feeling revitalised but, more than that, it opened my mind to a world of spelt, millet, bancha tea and miso soup. I shall forthwith go to work armed with an array of herbal teas and a lunch box of quinoa and, well… carrots. How long this regime is likely to last is anyone’s guess, but the macrobiotic seeds have been sown…
SHA Wellness Clinic, Verderol, 5 Playa del Albir, Alicante
+34 902 995335, shawellness.com
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