Most people would agree that it’s been a tough few years, but 2014 is being hailed as the Year of Your Time, a much-needed opportunity to take advantage of better economic news and look after ourselves and our health.

Once again people are looking to commit to exercise regimes in the form of gym membership and to indulge in regular spa days with luxurious treatments and elusive moments of relaxation. Exercise has long been regarded as a great way to combat the stresses associated with the demands of modern living, while increasing physical fitness at the same time.

Stuart King, group MD of Clarice House, explains more: ‘Physical activity boosts the production of endorphins that give us that much-needed feel-good factor.’

Clinical research supports the idea that regular exercise improves some of the symptoms of mild depression and anxiety and can also improve the quality of sleep which is often disrupted by stress.

Stuart continues: ‘We call it “meditation in motion”. After a fast-paced work out, you’ll often find that you’ve forgotten the day’s irritations by concentrating purely on the body’s movements. Working out, whether in the gym or in the pool, on a regular basis can help people to stay calmer and more in control.’

Clarice House is the perfect venue to begin a programme of life-enhancing activity and relaxation. Set in beautiful classic country house settings and with a choice of three locations (Colchester, Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds), it offers an ambience of escape, away from everyday concerns.

Each one has an exclusive health and fitness club, health and beauty salons and luxurious Day Spa facilities that include saunas, steam rooms and therapy pools, perfect for unwinding. And with a range of indulgent Bliss Day packages, there’s plenty of choice for those looking to celebrate birthdays, hen parties, pre-natal treats or simply just essential me-time. All Bliss Day packages include a delicious lunch and robe and towel hire.

Stuart adds: ‘Our state-of-the-art gymnasiums are furnished with the latest equipment and there are plenty of fully-qualified instructors on hand to give helpful advice and, for those needing a bit more motivational support, an introduction to a personal trainer can be invaluable,’ adds Stuart. ‘When joining, each member is given a free fitness assessment and a personal gym workout programme. What better way could there be to kick-start a new regime?’

The Clarice House health, beauty and hair salons also offer a great range of treatments from scalp massage to pedicures, facials, body wraps and waxing, using the best products available. Highly qualified staff ensure that the best professional advice is given at all times and members also enjoy discounts on beauty treatments.

Other member benefits include free of charge classes such as body combat, spinning, pilates and yoga, plus discounts from local businesses and use of all three Clarice House locations. Both Colchester and Bury St Edmunds also have award-winning restaurants serving a modern, British menu of comfort food prepared with care and using the best locally-sourced ingredients.

Stuart concludes: ‘We want our clients to experience the very best service, facilities, expertise and, above all else, find a place to retreat from the challenges of busy lives, where batteries can be recharged and a sense of peace and calm can be restored. I am confident that Clarice House delivers that and more.’

Find out more

To find out more about the Clarice House experience visit www.claricehouse.co.uk