The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2022 - Issue 31

bitetravel E arlier this year, Philosophia Botanica Skincare’s revolutionary Meridian Flow Golden Facial and exclusive skincare range made its debut at the UK’s first Heavenly™ Spa by Westin, set in the newly opened The Westin London City, close to Southwark Bridge. The facial and skincare created by Chinese Medicine practitioner Franc- esca Canzano-Franklin are inspired by a fusion of African bo- tanicals and traditional Eastern techniques. The Meridian Flow Golden Facial plumps the skin, promotes vitality, and defines, sculpts and lifts at a cellular level. Dur- ing the facial, a fusion of adaptogenic botanical oils is used in conjunction with a gauss micro-stimulator, magnetic pen, and a copper gua sha sculpting spoon to gently stimulate the skin and its sub-dermal layers. The gold-coated micro-mag- netic pearls are then carefully applied to the meridians and acupuncture points of the face to stimulate tissue activity and increase micro-circulation and oxygenation. A tool to reduce the depth of wrinkles and plump the skin, this blissful and one-of-a-kind fusion encourages the natural production of elastin and collagen to maintain healthy skin and stimulate the flow of blood, lymph and qi (vital energy) to the face, head and neck. It also incorporates facial mapping based on Chinese medicine, meridian balancing, magnetic en- ergy matching, acupressure stimulation and a bespoke facial massage ritual created by Canzano-Franklin. The founder started her medicinal brand in Cape Town. “I was inspired by the indigenous flora of the Cape, the wilderness of the African plants and botanical oils, the magnificent nature surrounding the Atlantic Ocean, as well as traditional eastern techniques and Chinese medicine. I wanted to create some- thing in the holistic space that is truly unique.” All ingredients are 100% natural and free from parabens, artificial colours, mineral oils, silicone and any animal raw materials. Philosophia Botanica incorporates ancient wisdom and the true meaning behind its name. Their products are made from various ecological sources around Africa, promoting tradi- tional plant-based knowledge and representing an inspiring story of organic agriculture, sustainability, and botanical cul- ture preservation. The brand strongly supports sustainable agriculture, particularly in Africa, to promote local economic development for generations. Westin London City’s Heavenly™ Spa by Westin, open daily from 9 am to 9 pm, invites Londoners and travellers alike to switch off bustling city life and escape to a sanctuary of seren- ity. It is home to a 12-metre pool delicately positioned around the archaeological remains of the Huggin Hill Roman Bath- house. It has five therapy rooms, a manicure and pedicure room, and an innovative Experience Suite with a sauna, steam room, ice fountain and sensory shower. Treatments are specially tailored to evoke the psychological senses of emotion and meaning, ensuring guests leave feeling physically invigorated and emotionally restored. The atten- tively conceived menu includes various therapies to address wellness concerns and target different body areas. In addition to Philosophia Botanica, treatments incorporating premium skincare from Germaine de Capuccini and Aromatherapy As- sociates rooted in natural ingredients and holistic therapy are available. The 24-hour WestinWORKOUT™ Fitness Studio is located next door, complete with state-of-the-art fitness equipment to provide guests with everything needed for their fitness rou- tines whilst travelling. Post-treatment beverages and replen- ishing dishes are available from the hotel’s all-day eatery, Mo- saic, which serves Westin’s Eat Well menus, whilst The Juicery provides nutritious smoothies and juices to refresh and revi- talise. www.heavenlyspalondon.com Philosophia Botanica’s Meridian Flow Golden Facial and Luxury Skincare Images courtesy of W Communications Range Debuts at Westin London City’s Heavenly™ Spa by Westin