A FORMER Maryport bank has been transformed into a new wellness and rejuvenation centre in the town.

In the heart of Maryport, an old bank has been reborn as Essence, a sanctuary of wellness and rejuvenation, thanks to the dedication and vision of former NHS nurse, Gemma Hornsby-Lofthouse and her husband, David Lofthouse.

The couple have traded the conventional for the complementary, opening a state-of-the-art wellness centre that promises to keep the community healthy through holistic and alternative therapies. Gemma, a registered nurse for over 20 years, made the bold decision to leave her secure job with the NHS to pursue a dream of promoting wellness in a more holistic way. 

The newly unveiled centre, housed in the old TSB bank building on Senhouse Street at Maryport has undergone a major refit, Gemma said: "I wanted to create a space where people can focus on maintaining their health rather than just treating illness.”

The first week of appointments is nearly fully booked, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for this innovative form of relaxation and stress relief. Alongside floatation therapy, the centre proudly boasts the first red light therapy bed in Cumbria, attracting attention from wellness and sports enthusiasts across the region.

Together, Gemma and David have created an oasis that blends the nurturing aspects of holistic therapies with the latest in wellness technology.

The centre host a range of practitioners offering a range of complementary therapies, including massage, reflexology, reki and physiotherapy designed to promote overall well-being.

Next month will see the start of group sessions in the community space starting with sound therapy healing. With the hopes to attract other practitioners in the future to hold yoga, Pilates and functional fitness classes.

As Gemma and David embark on this new journey, they are hopeful that their centre will become a cornerstone of health and happiness for the community. For those interested in experiencing the centre’s offerings, early booking is recommended, especially for the highly sought-after floatation therapy sessions.

The clinic had its open day on July, 13 it was very well attended and even saw people queuing outside waiting for it to open.