It’s not difficult to understand why one in five in the UK are vitamin D deficient.
The main source of this vital nutrient is direct sunlight, something Britain lacks for much of the year.
In its most extreme form, deficiency can cause bone deformities and increase the risk of fractures.
However, for most, low levels can manifest as unexplained fatigue, general aches and pains, as well as a weak immune system – something none of us want as a “quadruple epidemic” of flu, RSV, norovirus and Covid sweeps the world. United Kingdom.
Lack of vitamin D has also been linked to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that affects patients during the winter months.
But the Donnington Valley Hotel and Spa in Berkshire has something to beat the winter blues with its Aqua Sun Mineral treatment (25 minutes, £119), which is “particularly good for treating SAD and promoting a feeling of wellbeing”, it promises.
Lack of vitamin D has also been linked to seasonal affective disorder (SAD). stock image
The treatment itself involves lying in a warm bath with essential oil while jets of air gently massage the body. stock image
the treatment
The Donnington Valley Hotel and Spa is located in Newbury, just outside Reading, surrounded by green hills which give it a feeling of expensive seclusion despite being situated right next to the M4. It also has a golf club, 18 m swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.
The treatment itself involves lying in a warm bath with essential oil while jets of air gently massage the body to stimulate circulation and nourish dry skin.
The bath is taken under a cover of UV light which I’m sure is low level so it doesn’t damage the skin but is enough to stimulate the body’s natural production of vitamin D.
Recently, blood tests have suggested that I have low levels of vitamin D, and I’m wondering if that is causing my energy levels to drop.
Certainly, I leave feeling relaxed and energized, ready to shop for Christmas gifts.
Rooms at Donnington Valley Hotel and Spa start at £129 per night for a standard double room and £209 for a suite. (donningtonvalley.co.uk)