It might be Merivale Mall’s best secret – within minutes of arriving at Bhava, I’m whisked away from the hustle and bustle of mall life and into a calming cocoon. Warm bed, warm room, and warming energy from my beauty expert, Aleisha.

As the world opens back up and life returns to lightning speed, taking a break from it all has not been high on my agenda. But I have vowed that in my post-Covid life I’ll appreciate the art of slowing down, and my visit to Bhava is an important part of that vow. Bhava claims to apply a holistic ethos to treatments, and I’m keen to experience that for myself.

The spa is spacious with sleek style and a minimalist design that is very soothing to the soul – all soft lighting, halcyon colour scheme and wooden highlights. After I fill out a very thorough skin analysis form, Aleisha introduces me to Bhava’s most popular new offering: the Osmosis Medi Facial.

This premium facial lasts about an hour combining highly advanced tools and age-old techniques that guarantee rapid cell turnover using high doses of active ingredients leaving skin glowing naturally for days. Each Osmosis Medi Facial is tailored to your skin’s particular needs, designed to bring it up to optimal health. It naturally restores skin with a range of products for all types, including sensitive skin like mine. Osmosis products are an exclusive American holistic medical skin range.

The facial is nothing short of heaven. Aleisha takes me through the steps, including soaks, serums, hot towels, and intense massage. As we go, she educates me about each step and the benefits that I’ll experience after.

I’m also treated to advice on how to improve and maintain my skin health, and as I prepare to leave Bhava’s bubble of bliss, Aleisha leaves me with her most important beauty tip: hydration is key to maintaining great skin between facials.

Bhava is a nail and beauty spa in Merivale, with a philosophy that beauty should be holistic and come from the inside.

bhava.co.nz