If you’re in need of a little R&R amid the hustle and bustle of daily life, you have to check out Sense of Self. Officially opening its bathhouse and massage and mindfulness studio in March 2021, Sense Of Self is offering a modern approach to self care in Melbourne’s north.
Born from the need for an antidote to social isolation and competitive self-improvement, Sense Of Self is a place for "everybody who wants to enjoy an elevated experience". This elevated experience begins at the front door. Entering through a nondescript, heavy rusted door in Collingwood you are transported to a Mediterranean paradise. Every detail has been meticulously chosen to enrich the experience and transport you to a tranquil oasis. From the soft colours of the flowing curtains and upholstery to the striking brass highlights of the tapware and waterfall (yes, waterfall!) Sense Of Self is a truly immersive experience.
Sense Of Self used to be a warehouse so it’s split over two levels. On the first floor is home to the massage and mindfulness studio where remedial, relaxation and pregnancy massages can be booked, as well as dry body brushing, Gua Sha facials and more. The treatments provided are a mix of both European and Japanese bathhouse offerings and the therapists are able to custom design a treatment package to best suit your needs.
Then there’s the bathhouse itself. Located on the ground floor, wander past reception into the communal all-gender change room (for those more modest bathers, there are individual change rooms also available). Once changed, showering before bathing is a must. The showers are divine, featuring decadent brass showerheads and tapware. The venue provides body wash, steaming hot water and enough ambience to wash the stress away.
The pièce de résistance of the Sense of Self bathhouse is definitely the mineral bath. Lower yourself into the mineral-rich, 39-degree water, listen to the sound of the waterfall, close your eyes and let the relaxation take over. You could also take a small group of friends and treat yourself to a morning of catch-ups in a different setting. Either way, your body will thank you. After bathing, be sure to jump in the cold plunge pool or have a pail shower to help increase circulation and reinvigorate the body. Not into bathing? Sense Of Self also houses a Finnish sauna.
Time Out tip: Book the first session on a weekday, there are less people so you’ll be able to take in the full experience and it’s a great way to start your day.