International Women’s Day is coming up on Saturday, March 8th, and while the stresses and demands of everyday life may make us overlook the significance of this day, it’s still a good reminder to take a step back and treat yourself.

There’s something rather comforting about a day that lets us simply celebrate ourselves and give us the opportunity to indulge in a little well-earned self-appreciation. While the day has its roots in advocacy and progress, dating back to 1911, you don’t have to spend it attending panel talks (thankfully).

Sometimes, the best way to honour yourself is to step away from the demands of everyday life and revel in something purely for you—be it restorative or indulgent. From spa rituals in five-star surroundings to mindful workshops and exquisite culinary experiences, here are seven sophisticated ways to treat yourself this International Women’s Day.

1. Indulge in a luxurious spa day

One of the most luxurious ways to unwind is by indulging in a spa day at one of London’s renowned wellness centres. The Mandarin Oriental Mayfair Spa is a perfect example of luxury and relaxation. With its subterranean oasis, 25-metre swimming pool, sauna, and steam room, this spa offers bespoke treatments designed to melt away all tension. A 90-minute treatment at the Mandarin Oriental starts at £220, and the calm, serene environment ensures you’ll leave feeling completely rejuvenated.

If you’re looking for alternative options, you might want to consider The Corinthia Hotel Spa, known for its lavish treatments in a beautiful setting. Another great choice is the Bamford Haybarn Spa, where organic treatments leave you feeling refreshed from the inside out.

2. Attend a Terrarium workshop

Sometimes, creativity is the best form of self-care. A terrarium workshop is the perfect way to spend a few hours immersed in a creative process. At London Terrariums Workshops, you’ll have the opportunity to craft your own miniature green world. In just two hours, with all materials provided, you’ll create a beautiful terrarium while engaging in a meditative, hands-on experience. It’s a perfect way to take your mind off daily stresses and indulge in some mindful creativity. The workshops are held at various venues across London and cost around £60.

If you’re looking for other creative outlets, consider visiting The Mindful Art Studio, where you can explore a range of workshops that combine creativity with mindfulness. Or, for a truly indulgent experience, The Chocolate Factory offers hands-on chocolate-making workshops that promise to be as fun as they are delicious.

3. Explore London’s urban saunas

We know it’s quite a leap to move from the luxury of the Mandarin Oriental to the laid-back spirit of an urban sauna (and there’s no way to make that transition sound any smoother). However, sometimes, you might want a little less glamour and a lot more of a unique, memorable experience—something you can share with friends and colleagues to prove you’re adventurous.

Though we are all for indulging in luxury, it’s good to have options. For something a little more invigorating, London’s urban saunas offer a revitalising experience that combines heat therapy with contrast bathing and ice plunges. Community Sauna, with locations in both Camberwell and Walthamstow, is a popular choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the rejuvenating powers of heat. It’s an energising, communal experience that’s not only good for your body but also for your mind.

Alternatively, Kensal Green Baths offers a more traditional sauna experience, nestled in the heart of London. For a truly unique offering, you could also check out The Sauna Lab, a mobile sauna service that pops up in various locations across the city, bringing the experience directly to you.

4. Savour a gourmet afternoon tea

Few things are as quintessentially British as a gourmet afternoon tea, and London boasts some of the most luxurious settings to enjoy this timeless treat. The Ritz London, with its opulent Palm Court, offers a truly indulgent experience. You’ll be treated to delicate pastries, fine china, and a live musical ensemble as you sip on your tea. Prices start at £79 per person, and it’s an experience that will leave you feeling like royalty.

If you’re after other luxurious afternoon tea experiences, Claridge’s offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere for a splendid tea, while The Savoy’s Thames Foyer provides spectacular views of the River Thames along with their delectable afternoon tea menu. Both places are perfect choices for a day of indulgence.

5. Experience a virtual yoga session

Not everyone wants to leave the comfort of home to unwind, and that’s perfectly okay. For a moment of calm and clarity, a guided yoga session can work wonders. Yoga with Adriene provides free online classes for all levels, making it easy to roll out your mat and find your flow whenever the moment strikes.

Mindful Moments offers virtual yoga, meditation, and relaxation sessions designed to help you reset. The Virtual Yoga Studio also offers accessible online yoga classes for all levels, so you can stretch and relax wherever you are.

6. Pamper yourself with a self-care gift box

Sometimes, self-care arrives in a beautifully wrapped parcel. IzzyBee Self-Care Packages curates hampers that are packed with artisan skincare and soothing teas from independent UK brands. Starting at £30, these boxes make for a lovely indulgence and are perfect for anyone who enjoys a little self-care at home.

Other options include The Calm Box, which offers a collection of relaxation and mindfulness gifts, and The Wellness Box, which features products designed for ultimate relaxation and well-being.

And if none of these options tickle your fancy, you can always take advantage of London Theatre Week to book a show you have always wanted to see at a discounted price, or visit a new art exhibition in London (though the good weather may entice you to a day out!).

International Women’s Day is as much about celebrating yourself as it is about championing progress. Whether that means surrendering to a massage, immersing yourself in a creative pursuit, or simply savouring a perfectly brewed cup of tea, the key is to honour what brings you joy. So, let’s raise a glass for all the wonderful women we know (including ourselves!).