To step into the Lily Room is to step away from the stresses of the day and to feel nurtured…
What began as a necessity for Claire Popham rapidly became a keen interest when she was impressed by the difference reflexology made to her health and wellbeing.
It is now an enduring passion that she shares with other women through her complementary therapy business, The Lily Room, which she runs from her home in East Sheen.
The Lily Room is a sanctuary of calm and relaxation, offering a range of complementary therapies, including reflexology and several types of massage, that help women of all ages, not just with specific disorders, aches and pains but also with their general sense of wellbeing and relaxation.
“We all lead such busy lives,” says Claire, “that it is really important to put aside and hour or so for ourselves as often as possible to regroup and feel revitalised – even if it’s simply through a lovely organic facial.”
“Beauty really does come from within and it is difficult to project it if you are feeling stressed, uncomfortable, unwell or simply don’t feel nurtured,” adds Claire.
Claire’s first experienced reflexology when she was working long hours in a stressful job and developed a serious stomach disorder that was not helped by conventional medicine.
“Within days I began to feel better and was intrigued. I began studying reflexology as a hobby but I absolutely loved it and so decided to make it my vocation – although I enjoy it so much that I don’t think of it as a business. I love the fact that I now have over a dozen clients who have been with me for more than ten years.”
Having studied Anatomy and Physiology and Holistic Massage at St. Mary’s, Twickenham, qualifying in 2004, Claire went on to study Reflexology, Hot Stone Therapy, Pregnancy Massage, Deep Tissue Massage and Indian Head Massage. She continues to develop her skills with additional training courses each year.
“It’s important for people to know that the person treating them is properly qualified – that’s why I have my certificates on display.”
Claire’s approach is about treating the whole person individually, not just the underlying problem and an initial consultation is fundamental to finding the right approach. She leaves long enough gaps between appointments to allow some flexibility on time, too.
“Whilst pregnancy massage is very specific, I like to work out what is best for the individual and part of the beauty of being trained in a range of therapies is that I can tailor make a solution, sometimes combining therapies.”
“I find it particularly fulfilling to spend time nurturing and caring for a client who is feeling low – perhaps because they are going through chemotherapy or some other difficult time. I really feel I can make a difference.”
A lovely treat is a Suti Organic Facial Massage – pure relaxation using a brand created right here in East Sheen by another complementary therapist, Suzannah Jenkins.
“The Suti range – which uses the finest, active, organic ingredients with the aim to bring a greater sense of well-being to the user – fits perfectly with my other therapies.I also sell the products which customers love to take home.“
It’s little wonder that The Lily Room not only looks lovely and feel inviting but smells wonderful, too. Claire also has a free unpublicised therapy that patients tend to turn up early for – her Cocker Spaniel puppy, Bailey!
All of The Lily Room’s treatments, including their origins and prices are detailed at www.thelilyroom.com.
Prices start from just £15 for a leg & foot or hand & arm massage and, if you pre-book five treatments, you will receive a sixth treatment of your choice free.
Gift vouchers are also available from £30 and make a wonderful treat for a friend or family member who could use a little ‘me time’.
