I had an incredible sound bath experience at a stunning Sussex spa – it was the most relaxed I've felt in ages

And that’s why a sound bath is such a wonderful experience, because it allows you to take space for yourself and to get into a deeply relaxed state.

My friend Sarah and I joined the Under the Stars Sound Bath & Dine at Ockenden Manor in Cuckfield, West Sussex. A sound bath is a meditative experience where you lie down and ‘bathe’ in a series of gentle, almost hypnotic sounds.

The sound bath package at Ockenden Manor also includes two hours in the spa and a two-course dinner with a glass of bubbles, making it about a five-hour experience.

As it was a gorgeous summer evening, our sound bath took place in the stunning gardens of Ockenden as the sun set. Air mattresses are set up in a semi-circle, and everyone is given blankets and a block for under their knees.

Led by Becky Sharp, you’re given a brief explanation of the experience, before she begins using a combination of gongs, crystal singing bowls, chimes and ocean drum to help you find stress relief, emotional grounding or follow a path into mindful stillness.

It definitely took my brain a while to calm down and get into ‘the zone’ (you never realise how fidgety you are until you’re asked to lie still!) but once I did it was blissful. It really does help to soothe your nervous system and once it was finished I felt really zen-like.

The only problem was it seemed to be over way too soon. I couldn’t believe an hour had gone in what felt like five minutes.

As we enjoyed the sounds Becky played, I could also hear the birds singing, owls hooting and even the sound of the gentle breeze in the trees. There was the odd car and motorbike whizzing by, but nothing that stopped you from fully immersing yourself.

When we took off our eye masks at the end of the session, there were even rabbits frolicking all around us. It was magical.

For this special package, you can arrive at 4pm and use the spa for two hours. There’s an indoor/outdoor pool, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, a sauna, steam room, rainforest shower and plenty of loungers to relax on.

Dinner is at 6pm in the main house. We chose to eat outside, with views over the rolling South Downs.

As we sipped Sussex sparkling wine, we opted for a main and dessert each. My friend Sarah had the lamb and I opted for the cheese soufflé. Both were utterly delicious, as were the chocolate délice with blood orange sorbet and chocolate choux bun with poached pears and salted caramel desserts we ate.

If you’re looking for something different to share with a friend or family member, or just to take some well-earned time for yourself, this was an experience that left me relaxed and recharged.

For more information, see https://www.hshotels.co.uk/ockenden-manor/spa/wellness-retreats