If there's one way to restore balance and calm in our hectic lives, it's with a trip to the spa.

And where better than the luxurious Oceana Day Spa at the Ocean Beach Hotel in East Overcliff Drive, Bournemouth, which has been rated as the best in town on TripAdvisor?

The Asian inspired spa is located downstairs in the contemporary, beach-style hotel - part of the Oceana group - but still manages to feel light, airy and spacious.

A feeling of tranquility descends the moment you walk through the doors into the spa area, which is comfortably decorated with lots of dark wood, cosy sofas and calming Buddha ornaments.

After a warm welcome, I was led through to complete a consultation form, before being shown to one of several quiet treatment rooms.

Here, the therapist outlined the treatments I was here to enjoy - the 25-minute express back, neck and shoulder hot stone massage (£36), followed by the 25-minute Indian head massage (£32), before leaving me to get changed.

A hot stone massage is one of my favourite ways to unwind, and I certainly wasn't disappointed.

The treatment does exactly what it says on the tin - smooth, hot pebbles are placed on key energy points of the body to create an aura of warmth, while the deep, penetrating heat from the stones is used to massage the body using traditional techniques. A fabulous way to ease the pain and tension of aching muscles, as well as deeply relax and rebalance the mind and body.

The 25-minutes passed all too quickly but, thankfully, it wasn't time to leave my relaxation bubble just yet, as my therapist moved onto the Indian head massage.

Designed to relieve stress, the massage works on the scalp, shoulders and neck with an organic Argan oil, and manipulates the arms during the 25-minute treatment.

As a result, I left feeling thoroughly relaxed and rejuvenated and ready to face the world again.

Oceana Day Spa, Ocean Beach Hotel, East Overcliff Drive, Bournemouth T: 01202 208666 E: enquiries@oceanadayspa.co.uk W: oceanadayspa.co.uk