There's nothing quite like a relaxing weekend away to help you shake off the week. And whilst it may feel like a luxury that we often don't feel we have time for, I'm firmly of the belief that making time for yourself is the most important thing that you can do for your body and your mind in the long-term.

With that in mind I packed my bags, jumped on a plane and was treated to the ultimate Gold Coast weekend escape with one main goal - make sure I leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. So without further ado, here's my recipe for the perfect wellness weekend escape with JW Marriott Gold Coast and BodyLove Pilates.

Stay...

If there's one thing that immediately spikes my dopamine levels it's sunshine, and when I think sunshine I think Surfers Paradise.

A five-star resort located in the centre of the action, the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa is pure luxury from the moment you walk through the door. Having been refurbished in 2020 the rooms are generous and welcoming boasting a king size bed and floor to ceiling ocean views. I was there for BodyLove Pilates' Wellness Weekend which also meant I was treated to the ultimate goodie bag waiting for me in my room which was the perfect way to start my long weekend.

Do...

My perfect holiday is one I don't have to plan myself. Give me a loose itinerary and options to explore and I'm in heaven.

The JW Marriott Gold Coast resort itself has more than enough activities to keep you occupied for three days, and I therefore opted to spend most of my time making use of the facilities. Starting with the heavenly Spa by JW which opened mid 2023 after a multi-million dollar renovation. Not only did I indulge in one of the most decadent one hour massages of my life, the sauna and steam room was also available for use before and after my treatment with fluffy robes and slippers to top off the experience.

It would be remiss of me not to also mention the four BodyLove Pilates and breathwork classes I took part in over the weekend which varied in intensity to suit what our bodies were feeling. BodyLove founded Ali Handley taught the classes herself and it was the perfect mix of fun, community and relaxation. Not to mention the phenomenal playlists which helped ease some of the "mindful burn" Ali bases her classes on. Whilst this was a one off weekend, BodyLove has two locations across Sydney offering regular classes, and the JW Marriott Gold Coast has just launched its Aqua Sculpt program allowing you to test out your skills at floating water pilates.

The rest of my time was spent lounging by one of the two pools with a good book. I opted for the on site saltwater lagoon complete with white sandy beaches and a swim up waterfall. Perfect for those who aren't into chlorine. Want the real deal? Surfers Paradise main beach is also just a stones throw away, as is the Nerang River and the beautiful tree lined walkway that runs alongside it.

Take...

For me this whole weekend was about relaxation which meant a good book, my favourite swimsuit from Bond-Eye Swim and a non-greasy broad-spectrum SPF were top of my list. I also pulled out my most comfy activewear set from Leelo Active and my emotional support drink bottle from Frank Green which never leaves my side.

The JW Marriott had almost everything else covered with comfy robes, beach towels, a hairdryer and even an iron waiting for me in my room when I arrived.

Eat...

Night one included a spectacular pescatarian three-course dinner at JW Marriott's award winning Citrique restaurant. We were also treated to a breakfast buffet daily featuring everything your heart could possibly desire - Eggs Benedict, waffles, a plethora of cereal choices (including Weetbix to my immense delight), and even a juicer to create your own drink of choice. Day two also included a decadent high tea at Chapter & Verse - the on site bar and lounge.

If you're looking to head outside the confines of the hotel then simply step out the door and you really are right in the middle of everything. Japanese, Italian, Malaysian - you'll have no shortage of choices.