This we’re sitting down with our founder, Nicola, to reflect on the journey behind Wellness at the Coach House - from her own evolution into wellness to the importance of nature, creating space for rest and what our guests have taught us along the way.
NICOLA'S FAVOURITE MANTRA
“Have a plan, but hold it lightly.”
How did you personally evolve into wellness?
"I have always had an interest in exercise and wellbeing through sports. I was also lucky that my mum loved cooking when we were young so her menu was always adventurous. Holistic health has always been on my radar - acupuncture and reflexology are my reset.I was 37 setting up the business with the kids being a newborn, 2 and 3 so I really needed to tune into how to mind my body at that stage. I noticed a big shift between 37 and 42."
What makes your spa different from simply having treatments?
"We try to integrate wellbeing into the entire guest journey. Exceptional treatments, healthy but delicious snacks, the natural environment, movement, privacy, calm and recovery.The girls are experienced - they have autonomy to solve problems, surprise guests and exercise judgement. No forced robotic scripts. It is a multi-sensory journey: quietness, temperature, acoustics, scent, material, light and genuine relaxation. It gives our guest the ability to disappear, have space, and feel completely unbothered."
Why was the countryside so important to your vision of the spa?
"It has a unique healing power that is irreplaceable. In Japan, doctors prescribe forest bathing for burnout and exhaustion and in Singapore forest scapes are being built within hospitals. Nature eases the mind and tells the body that it is safe. The body can recover when it feels held and safe."
Where do you see the future of the spa, and what are you most excited to create next?
"Caring for you through exceptional and personalised treatments will always be at the heart of what we do. We would love to further grow the business, incorporate wellness events, classes and talks, offer pre- and post-treatment recovery options, such as hot and cold therapy and expand our refreshment and food offering."
What have been your 'high moments' in the Coach House?
"Seeing repeat loyal customers on a monthly basis since our 5 years in operation. You start to believe that it’s a brand you have created and there is something powerful in that. Others believing in your vision. Your brand is a promise and a trustmark.
Another would be Cancer Care Training with Christine Clinton. To witness how our team embraced it - I’m so proud of their capability, their willingness to continue to learn and what they can offer our guests.Lastly, the ability to give back to charity and community. We have fundraised for the Gary Kelly Centre for three years now. They offer phenomenal individual and family support in our immediate area. We will be working with a children’s charity in the coming months. The collective power of business & how they can make a difference in people’s lives definitely motivates me."
What have your guests taught you about what people are really looking for when they take time out for themselves?
A feeling of belonging. It’s ‘I feel like this place understands me, and I belong here’.
A Closing Note
Perhaps the most meaningful part of any journey is seeing an idea become something shared. For Nicola, the past five years have been shaped not only by the growth of the Coach House, but by the trust of returning guests, the continued growth of the team and the opportunity to give back to the community around us.
It’s a reminder that what we build becomes meaningful through the people who choose to be part of it. Thank you for continuing to be part of ours.
We look forward to seeing you soon,
The Coach House Team X
