Spa package promises total relaxation

The first time (the drool incident), was when I was lying face down, receiving an extremely gentle back and arm rub from my therapist, Lyndsay, who was using a relaxing combination of Thalgo oils.

I think it was the smell of lavender and the light pressure that made me so sleepy; that, and the way my arms were gently lifted and tucked behind my back, as the knots along my shoulder blades were popped.

This therapy was part of the Freelancer, one of this spa's new collection of summer packages. It consists of a 30-minute massage and a half-hour Feel Good facial, as well as your choice of an Indian head massage, salt scrub, a pedicure or manicure (one hour and 25 minutes in total).

I opted for the latter, which triggered my second faux-pas (the snore). This occurred after I'd turned over on to my back and my nails were being painted with an Orly colour that's a perfect match for everyone's favourite Quality Street – the purple hazelnut in caramel.

Thankfully, the facial element of this package was a bit more lively, as it included an invigorating neck rub.

I figured, however, that Lyndsay must be used to people nodding off in the dark treatment rooms, which have soporific twinkly jazz playing in the background.

Especially since these packages allow you to arrive early and tire yourself out with "the facilities". I'd been virtuous and had a pre-treatment workout in their gym, which features the kind of high-tech equipment that might be more at home on a sci-fi flick (just try the step machine, if you don't believe me).

This had been followed by a few lengths of their 16-metre swimming pool. However, if you're feeling less lively, there's always the option to sit in the Jacuzzi, steam room or sauna – or collapse on to one of the wooden sun loungers with a newspaper. Collapsing was all I was good for, anyway, after this package, which definitely gets my full dribbling and snoring seal of approval.

The Scotsman Spa, 1 Market Street, Edinburgh (0131-622 3800, www.scotsmanspa.co.uk)

Freelancer package, 90. Add on a 15-minute XEN-TEN spray tan for 20.

Flower power

According to experts, hayfever sufferers are going to be hit hard by high pollen counts this summer. Alternative health specialist Jan de Vries recommends you tackle your symptoms with Luffa Complex, a homeopathic remedy from the A Vogel Bioforce range. Until Monday, at the Edinburgh branch only, they're offering 15 per cent off this product, which is available as a tincture (8.92), tablets (7.77) or nasal spray (7.33). All prices before discount.

Jan de Vries Healthcare, 39 Newington Road, Edinburgh (0131- 662 0250)

Get set for summer

It's officially wedding season and, if you're tying the knot soon, you may be wondering how to keep your make-up on your face for 12 straight hours. Just in time for brides (and those who want to party all night long), Urban Decay have launched their All Nighter Setting Spray. Spritz this over your freshly applied warpaint, and your slap should stay virtually immovable from dawn until dusk.

Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray, 17 (www.urbandecay.co.uk)

Hippy hippy shake

Want your fitness routine to double up as a conversation piece? Then get along to the newly refurbished Out of the Blue venue, as they're currently holding weekly capoeira classes (Tuesdays, 8pm-9:30pm, 5 per session) – an Afro-Brazilian danceform with martial art and acrobatic moves. If those don't take your fancy, then maybe the bellydancing classes (Thursdays, 7:30pm-8:30pm, 5 per session) will be more your bag.

36 Dalmeny Street, Edinburgh (0131-555 7100, www.outoftheblue.org.uk)

This article was first published in The Scotsman on Saturday, May 29, 2010