Spa Protocol: No Cell Phones!

Tip #7: 
Turn Off your Cell Phone. You can't fully relax if you're answering calls, checking emails or texting. And neither can the person next to you. This even goes if you're getting a pedicure or while in the relaxation room. Bring a book or magazine instead or better yet decide to take a nap.

Massage Therapy 101: Acupressure Massage

Image: www.espritwellness.com

Acupressure is an ancient Chinese healing method that involves applying pressure to certain meridian points on the body to relieve pain. The human body has fourteen "meridians" that carry energy throughout the body. These meridians start at the fingertips, connect to the brain, and then connect to the organ associated with the specific meridian.

Acupuncture and Acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture uses needles, while Acupressure uses the gentle but firm pressure of hands. There is a massive amount of scientific data that demonstrates why and how acupuncture is effective.

Acupressure is the most effective method for self-treatment of tension-related ailments by using the power and sensitivity of the human hand. Acupressure deals with all the aspects of a person as a whole: body, emotions, mind, and spirit as one, not as separate parts. It relaxes muscular tension and balances the vital life forces of the body. 

Common Benefits:
• Relieve stress and tension 
• Relax mind and body 
• Increase blood circulation 
• Aid in the removal of toxic wastes 
• Provide relief from head, neck and shoulder aches 
• Promote the healing of injuries 
• Increase energy levels 
• Increase overall feeling of well-being 
• Decreasing labor pains

Read More...

Spa Protocol: To Talk Or Not To Talk That is the Question

Tip #6: 
You can choose to talk during your spa session or choose to be silent.  The therapist should always talk the cue from you. If you are not talking and the therapist just won't quit don't hesitate to say something like " you know I  really just want to reach a complete sense of calm in a quiet environment" they should get the point. In general, a rule of thumb is to always use your "spa voice" when you talk in any space within the spa.

Bliss Spa at W Hotel, Midtown Atlanta-9.2.11

Picture by: www.blissworld.com

Spa Design & Decor- 4 of 5 blossoms

Service/Hospitality- 4 out of 5 blossoms

Body Treatments- 4.5 out of 5 blossoms

Prices- $$$

Website- 4 out 5 blossoms

Cleanliness- 5 out of 5 blossoms

Overall experience- 4.3 out of 5 blossoms








Bliss Spa at the Midtown W Hotel was a very fresh experience. First of all the W Hotel has a swag all its own , it caters to a young chic client that is into working hard and partying hard and relaxing in the utmost style.  The spa's decor has an airy and fresh look with picturesque clouds throughout. The staff was friendly and helpful by reviewing your spa services and giving a quick tour of the spa to first time visitors before escorting you to the changing/relaxation area where you wait to be received by your therapist.  I enjoyed the experience thoroughly...especially the massage! (no surprise there). Read more

Spa at The Peninsula Hotel, Chicago IL-8.23.11

Pictures by: http://www.peninsula.com/Chicago/en/Wellness

Spa Design & Decor- 4.5 of 5 blossoms

Service/Hospitality- 5 out of 5 blossoms

Body Treatments- 4.5 out of 5 blossoms

Prices- $$

Website- 5 out 5 blossoms

Cleanliness- 5 out of 5 blossoms

Overall experience- 4.8 out of 5 blossoms

The Spa at Peninsula Hotel in Chicago was definitely a cut above the rest.  It had a more earthy quality in the decor than I had initially expected but overall the space was beautifully designed and done with the utmost taste.  The customer service was also impeccably hospitable and gracious.  But the most exciting part of the Peninsula Spa experience was the treatment I received.  I experienced the body envelopment  detoxifying mud wrap in a luxurious body treatment suite complete with a state of the art shower in the room.  Read More...

Full Service Spas vs. Small Business & Franchise Spas

Written by: Marisa Carter

There is a great difference between going to a full service spa and simply getting a massage.  Both can be beneficial to your wellness but I want to make it clear for new spa goers the differences between the two experiences.  As a recent avid spa-goer I have taken note of the different types of facilities that you can go to seek relaxation.  There are many and you always want to be sure that you are going into a new spa experience knowing what to expect.  In many cases it is fun and exciting not knowing what to expect but in the case of spa going it is particularly important that there are no surprises, especially unpleasant ones.  This may turn off you sense of relaxation and make you feel nervous or tense during the treatment you are receiving and this the opposite affect that any spa experience should give you.  

Therefore, I have put together a list of Full Service Spa Expectations vs. Franchise Spa or Small Business Spa Expectations. I hope this will help you to navigate the large world of spas to achieve the type experience you are looking for.

Full Service Spas (this may include Resort Spas, Destination Spas, Hotel Spas, or Day Spas):

• A superior quality in service and hospitality
• A detailed listing of massages, body treatments, facials and pedicures/manicures offered
• Spa package offerings, typically offered as either half day packages or full day packages
• The facility is very well designed for function and in its decor selections
• Each space within the spa should exude a strong sense of calm and relaxation
• Each space should be extremely clean and sanitary procedures are taken very seriosly
• Upon arrival you should receive immediate service, a spa robe, sandals and a locker.
• Additional amenities usually include but are not limited to: a changing or locker room, a steam room, sauna, drink service, relaxation room and Jacuzzi
• It is expected that you arrive 15 to 30 minutes previous to your appointment time, so you may check in, fill out any necessary paperwork, get changed and begin the relaxation process by waiting in the relaxation room or steam room.

Franchise Spas and Small Business Day Spas:

• Polite yet quick service, designed to get people in and out who have tight schedules
• Usually there is a limited treatment menu focusing on only a few massage techniques, which typically include Swedish massage, Deep Tissue massage, and Aromatherapy or Sports massage), facials, manicures and pedicures. Some spas also offer a few body treatments such as a Body Scrub or Body Wrap.
• Arrival 10 to 15 minutes in advance should be more than enough time to get checked in and fill out any necessary paperwork.
• Treatments are often less expensive because you are not paying for the additional amenities or extra quality in service.
• Often the spa will offer you a membership rate for a monthly fee so that you may return for a discounted rate.
• Design decor may not be as luxurious as its counterpart.

Spa Protocol: Drink Plenty of H20

Tip #5: 
Drink lots of water before your treatment and drink even more after you have completed your treatment.  Water helps to flush the toxins out of your blood stream once they have been released from your muscles.  It is important to drink plenty of H20 in order to maintain the relaxed and rejuvenated state that your body has achieved through massage.

The Dana Spa at The Dana Hotel & Spa, Chicago IL

Picture provide by: www.danahotelandspa.com

Spa Design & Decor- 4 of 5 blossoms 
Service/Hospitality- 4.5 out of 5 blossoms

Body Treatments- 4 out of 5 blossoms

Prices- $$

Website- 4 out 5 blossoms

Cleanliness- 5 out of 5 blossoms

Overall experience- 4.5 out of 5 blossoms

I had been looking forward to my first trip to Chicago for awhile now.  I couldn’t wait to experience the deep dish pizza and the famous Millennium Park but most of all I was looking forward to my spa treatments.  The Dana Hotel and Spa did not disappoint. For starters the spa was beautiful—the various uses of materials were elegant and fun.  It featured gorgeous iridescent blue mosaic tile throughout and a variety of natural materials that made it feel comfy and luxurious at the same time.  What topped off the experience was a knowledgeable staff with the best customer service I have received in awhile. Read more

Brand Healings: Bliss No 'Zit' Sherlock Skin Care System

This skin care system has done wonders for my skin in just a matter of days.  I have been using Bliss for about 10 days now and I have already noticed a refreshed appearance. I have not broken out in days and my dark spots are already starting to clear. I can’t wait to see what the effects will be in 8 weeks.  I feel as if I am giving myself a mini facial each time I wash, and the scent is amazingly fresh and soothing.

Brand Healings: Mia Clarisonic

Wow! was I skeptical of the Clarisonic when I first heard about it. I simply wrote it off as another novelty product with little lasting effect.  Well I was wrong! I love my Mia Clarisonic. It has smoothed out my skin dramatically and is allowing my Bliss skin care products to really penetrate my pores and make change.  The Mia is a bit expensive retailing at $150 but so far it has been worth every penny. I cannot wait to see the change in a few weeks from now. I have a strong feeling that I will completely understand the genius of this product.  I recommend it to anyone with acne prone skin or uneven skin complexion. It will have you clear and refined in no time.

Brand Healings: Tisserand

www.tisserand.com

Essential oils by Tisserand are truly relaxing and rejuvenating. After a long day at work or a stressful encounter Tisserand 100% organic and pure oil has the ability to aromatically melt away your tension and refresh you.  Whether you seek a rich aroma in an oil like patchouli, the calming and floral scent of lavender or an invigorating citrus refresher like bergamot, Tisserand provides a pure essential oil to fit your need. Read more

Eco Day Spa, Sandy Springs GA

Picture provided by: Eco Day Spa

Spa Design & Decor- 3.5 of 5 blossoms

Service/Hospitality- 4 out of 5 blossoms

Body Treatments- 5 out of 5 blossoms

Prices- $$

Website- 3.5 out 5 blossoms

Cleanliness- 3.5 out of 5 blossoms

Overall experience- 4 out of 5 blossoms

I have just discovered a wonderful local  spa in Eco Day Spa! This eco-friendly spa is nestled in the Fountain Oaks Kroger Shopping Center in between Cafe Posh and TCBY. The charmingly simplistic spa had impeccable hospitality and service, and the massage was sensational. 

I had one of the best full body massages I have experienced in months! My masseuse Sheka, a professionally licensed therapist, was notably passionate about her craft. She implemented technique that  fully relaxed my body and relieved me of stress.  Her pleasant demeanor helped me to get comfortable and allowed me to wholly  enjoy my head to toe massage.  

This quaint day spa offers membership prices and a variety of services  including hot stone massage, 4 handed massage, a relaxing soak manicure/pedicure, body wraps, body scrubs and full body waxing. The owner Johnnie Jones, an experienced spa director and esthetician, promotes a healthy and green lifestyle with the use of eco-friendly spa products and marketing materials. Check out Eco Day Spa at : www.ecodayspa.net 

Spa Culture: Korean Day Spa

Pictures provided by Jeju Sauna @ jejusauna.net

Written by: Marisa Carter

A Korean day spa that replicates traditional Korean bath houses, is a definite experience to be had by avid spa-goers. The Healing Chambers are a unique way to unwind and become rejuvenated by detoxifying the body. The Wet Spa, which includes whirlpool baths at different temperatures, all of which you enjoy in the nude is a very relaxing environment for those unabashed by their bodies. Every first time goer must try the acclaimed tradition of the Korean Body Scrub.  For centuries, Korean women have been partaking in the tradition of exfoliating the body with scrub mitts that rid of dead skin and smooth the skin like no other. When you first arrive you will check in at the front desk and receive spa wear and wristbands that include your individual locker key.  Admission to the spa for the general use of the facilities should be around a cost of $25.  This includes access to different healing chambers, a swimming pool, fitness area, the wet spa, sleep rooms, and locker room. Additional services are available for an added cost such as the famous Korean body scrub and a multitude of other massages.  Read more...

www.jejusauna.net

Brand Healing: The Basics

Seek the Essentials

There are some essentials that every woman should have. The world is not only tough on the spirit and mind but on the body as well. Our body's are temples that must be maintained inside and out.  I'm sure you have heard the saying "you get out of it what you put in it".  In order to obtain my natural beauty and rid myself of the sluff that piles on from day to day I stock up on the basics: vitamins, face wash & scrub, makeup remover, acne control, body wash, and moisturizer. I often find myself wanting to alternate products so I have listed my top two of each basic. Maybe you can find some benefit of these products as well. 

Read Full Article at Brand Healing

Sole Spa, Buckhead, Atlanta - 7.17.11

Spa Design & Decor- 4 of 5 blossoms

Service/Hospitality- 2.5 out of 5 blossoms

Body Treatments- 4.5 out of 5 blossoms

Prices- $$

Website- 3 out 5 blossoms

Cleanliness- 4 out of 5 blossoms

Overall experience- 3.5 out of 5 blossoms

See Full Review at Spa Reviews.

Begin to Imagine True Relaxation

Check out these videos and you will understand

why I am a Spa Junkie. These spas give you

an idea what reaching Nirvana is like.

Videos by REALIZACION JAVIER ROMANO

Mango Orchard Spa-St.Kitts, Caribbean

The Mango Orchard Spa at Ottley Plantation 

St. Kitts, Caribbean - Spa & Health

Check out this destination spa I found in St. Kitts Jamaica!

The service, spa treatments and accommodations seem so amazing.

Definitely something to look into.

http://www.ottleys.com/

Spa Decor: Addressing the Senses

 Color~Light~Aroma & Sound~Texture~Accessories~Durability  & Cleanliness                                                                            

It is important to address all of the senses when thinking of design techniques for a spa. When creating a sensory experience, which all spas should be striving to achieve, it is important that when a client enters the spa their thoughts of the world melt away.  This means that immediately you should see, hear and smell a space that evokes relaxation and rejuvenation. Below are the multitude of elements that a spa should include and perfect.  The styling and decor of a spa is such a  pertinent aspect in the process of relaxation. As a client the spa should make you feel at ease and for a spa owner it should be functional and stylish enough to make clients come back again and again.  There are several spa decor styles that can evoke a different yet equally serene and stylish environment: 

Modern Tranquility~Vintage Glam~Urban Oasis~Classic Elegance~Pure Zen~Euro Mod~Cottage Chic Tuscan Charm~Resort Collection.

Read Full Article at Spa Design

Massage Heights, Charlotte NC - 7.9.11

Spa Design & Decor- 3.5 out of 5 blossoms

Service/Hospitality- 4 out of 5 blossoms

Prices- $$

Website- 3.5 out 5 blossoms

Cleanliness- 5 out of 5 blossoms

Overall experience- 4 out of 5 blossoms

Read Full Review at Spa Reviews

Blue MedSpa, Midtown Atlanta - 6.16.11

Spa Design & Decor- 3.5 out of 5 blossoms

Service/Hospitality- 3.5 out of 5 blossoms

Prices- $$$
Website- 3.5 out 5 blossoms

(my biggest pet pev is not listing pricing)

Cleanliness- 2.5 out of 5 blossoms

Overall experience- 3 out of 5 blossoms

 Full Review at Spa Reviews