‘Just breathe’: A commonly used phrase, synonymous with both relaxation and creating some space in one's mind. This is precisely what Chris and Jen have created with their new urban spa in Sheffield.

The goal at R1SE is the use of increasingly scientifically backed methods to enhance recovery and general wellbeing. This includes dedicated red light and compression therapy as well as hot and cold exposure, with the provision of two saunas and 4 dedicated ice baths. This is on top of a new yoga studio, where they continue to offer a wide variety of yoga and Pilates classes. On the face of it, it already sounds great, but the reality is it has so much more than ‘just’ this to offer.

It was opened at an opportune time for me. I was in the throws of trying to function again following a bike accident (both physically and psychologically) as a dad, a husband and an Anaesthetic Doctor and I was dangerously close to falling into a spiral of self-pity and frustration. I was in need of something…., so the timing was impeccable. I had spent my time off work, with my arm in a sling, trying to learn more about what other things I could do that would benefit my physical and mental health, that weren’t exercise. The common themes were hot and cold exposure, breathwork and paying attention to diet and gut health. I came across R1SE’s new spa from chatting with colleagues and then doing some online / social media research. Finding out that Chris made his own kombucha, practiced guided breathwork regularly and was opening a local place with sauna’s and ice baths was almost too good to be true.

I was nervous about going, but cautiously optimistic. Thankfully, within seconds of arrival, I was reassured that it was a good decision. I was welcomed with a wonderful openness from two people who have the single-minded goal of giving people the time, space and facilities to better themselves and live happier, healthier lives, no matter who or what you are. It was clear from the outset that it is a completely non pretentious environment, where anyone and everyone can benefit- not just elite athletes (although they’re also catered for).

Needless to say, I loved it and continue to do so. Finding the ‘calm in the chaos’ in a 3-degree ice bath, practicing guided breathwork in the infra-red sauna followed by self-massage in the aromatherapy sauna was just the beginning. I now find myself returning again and again. It’s just so accessible and so good for me. Every time I arrive home having been at R1SE, my two children and wife unanimously comment on how much better I look. I am coping with home and work stressors better and am undoubtedly a happier and healthier person for it. The fact that it opens so early, meaning I can have a ‘Fire and Ice’ blast session or do some red-light therapy and breathwork before going to work is the icing on the cake. I am certain that patients have benefitted from a better version of myself on those days!

All people can benefit from what R1SE has to offer. The appreciation that life is busy and full of stressors is built into their ethos. Yes, it is a wonderful space to relax, but it is also a place where you can (and are encouraged to) safely challenge your body and your mind. This in turn makes dealing with those day-to-day stressors that little bit easier. Every person will have their own reasons for deciding to go, but they’ll leave with so much more than just what they came for. It is a place that draws you in and leaves you wanting to keep coming back. No ‘normal’ spa does what R1SE does.

I know that Chris and Jen will continue to evolve and continue to redefine wellness, not just in Sheffield, but further afield as well. I am so very grateful for what it has offered for me already and so excited to see where R1SE goes next. It has truly become my place to ‘just breathe’.