To Your Health
August, 2008 (Vol. 02, Issue 08) |
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Make sure you have mentally "unplugged" from the sources of stress in your life as much as possible. Try not to think about work, the kids, your spouse, the bills or any other stressor that might rear its ugly head.
Put all these ideas aside for a while and give yourself permission to relax. If possible, take a long shower or relaxing bath before your appointment. Make it a ritual of sorts: light a candle, play soft, soothing music and add some fragrant bath salts. Preparing yourself mentally to receive relaxation is just as important a step as making the commitment to make the appointment. A little "pre-pamper" time can go a long way toward getting the most out of your spa experience.
Squealing into the parking lot on two tires and running to make your appointment time is truly counterproductive to the results you're trying to achieve. The goal is to reconnect with balance and relaxation, and you should give yourself time to enjoy the process. Arrive a bit early to fill out the intake form. Typically, this is a form used by the spa to evaluate your needs and desires, as well as make them aware of any health issues you have that might encumber your experience. This is time well spent, and being thorough on this form can help ensure your visit to the spa is a comfortable one.
The spa treatment you have chosen might require you to fully disrobe. You will be left completely alone during this time to respect your privacy. You will have an opportunity to slip between the sheets on the massage table or don another form of clothing such as a spa wrap or disposable undergarments. If you feel the least bit uncomfortable without clothing, just tell your therapist or spa technician. Adjustments can be made to your treatment that will accommodate your modesty while still providing a quality service.
While receiving your treatment, try to block all outside thought. Simply concentrate on the moment and the services you are enjoying. It's perfectly acceptable, as well as expected, for you to let your therapist or technician know if the service you are receiving is uncomfortable in any way. You are the focus of the service, and your comfort and level of satisfaction are the most important things.
Once your services have been completed, you will have a bit of time to bask in the warmth and relaxation. I would not advise trying to jump up and take on the world right away. Allow yourself to revel in the peace and serenity for a while. If the spa offers a relaxation room, by all means allow yourself enough time to enjoy it. Often, a small enclave with tranquil settings and books or magazines is offered as a perk. Also avoid making any major decisions immediately following a relaxation service. You should allow your mind the time to ease back into the reality of hustle and bustle.
Following a massage, drinking water always is a good idea. It rehydrates you and gives you back some energy. If the spa offers a juice bar, indulge in a cool tropical concoction that will extend your mini vacation just a little bit longer.
It's important to talk about the gratuities. How do you know what to tip? It's customary practice to tip for services you feel met your standards and expectations. The whole goal, however, is to exceed those expectations. Most spas will try to do just that, and the service you receive from the technician or therapist is a huge part of that experience. A good rule of thumb is to shoot for between 18 percent and 20 percent in terms of a gratuity.
