If you feel anxious about the thought of going to a spa, you’re not alone. When they get a gift card at a day spa, several people have their first spa experience.
Some individuals don’t even use it because they’re worried about what’s going to happen and the finer spa etiquette points.
But you should unwind-literally! Usually, getting your clothes off for a massage is the main area of concern.
This should not be a concern, since, during a massage, there are very strict protocols for draping in America.
Only the portion of your body is revealed that is being worked on. A sheet and blanket or even a broad towel are covered with the rest of it.
For some forms of therapy, such as reflexology, you should leave your clothes on.
And the genuinely shy will still get a manicure and pedicure for a facial or a spa.
And you don’t have to think too much about knowing what to do because every step of the way, someone is going to be there to tell you where to go, what to do and what’s next.
1. Choosing a Spa
Most of us, what’s nearby and within my budget, make our choices based on convenience? But there are other things you need to take into consideration.
From the individual at the front desk to the massage therapists, estheticians, nail technicians, and make-up artists look for friendly, nurturing staff.
All therapists should, of course, be licensed.
A well-trained employee begins with the individual at the front desk, so forget it if they’re not nice on the phone.
When you arrive, with calming music, low lighting, and nice aromas, you want a peaceful, relaxing, well-designed atmosphere that is also safe and sanitary.
It’s nice if you can find special appliances that will help you spend more time relaxing, such as hydrotherapy tubes, whirlpool tubs, steam rooms, sauna, steam cabinets, Vichy shower, etc.
2. When It’s Your First Time at the Spa
If you want to find out what a spa is like before you book an appointment, you can always ask for a tour.
The spa may or not be able to fit you, but it’s fair to inquire. When researching ahead, there are a couple of things to watch for.
Tell the spa concierge when you book your appointment that it’s your first spa visit.
He or she should take as much time as you need to answer any questions you have about what various spa treatments are like, what they will recommend for you when you should arrive, and so on.
Massages, facials (there are several different types of facials), body treatments, and spa manicures and pedicures are the most common spa treatments.
If you have a preference for a male or female therapist, the spa concierge may normally inquire. You’ll probably be booked with a male if you say you don’t have a preference.
It’s okay to announce your choice. Most individuals, particularly in the beginning, feel more comfortable with a female therapist
3. Select Your Spa Treatments
Massage, facial, body care, manicure, and pedicure are the basic spa therapies. A massage will help you to relax and get rid of tension in the muscles.
A facial is a thorough washing of your face, and a body treatment exfoliates the skin on your body and softens it A Swedish massage is a good place for beginners.)
Manicures and pedicures are also offered by most spas.
A massage and a body treatment is a successful combination (get the body treatment first or a massage and a facial treatment.
You can also combine services (get the massage first). The therapist’s quality dictates the quality of the care.
If you may, obtain a personal guide. Often, think about whether you need a therapist for men or women.
4. Before You Go
Before or after your massage, don’t eat for at least an hour.
After your service, drink plenty of water to maximize the benefits of your treatment and enjoy your massage.
Arrive early so that you have time until your treatment to enjoy the sauna, steam or whirlpool.
When you get into a whirlpool, shower before a massage to get rid of the chlorine.
Before your care, allow your mind to calm down. You may want to leave valuables at home, although most spas have lockers that lock.
5. Enjoy Your Spa Experience
For massage and body care, most people normally know how to remove your clothing, however, you are covered with sheets or big towels. Relax-nobody judges the body.
Before your treatment starts, take a long, deep breath. Envision the relaxation of every muscle in your body, and simply be responsive to the experience.
Communicate with your counselor. Let them know if you have any input on the temperature or amount of pressure.
If you choose, you can chat or not and the therapist will generally follow your lead. Take the time to slowly reintegrate after the procedure is over, instead of running off.
A 15 percent to 20 percent tip is suitable.
By taking care of yourself, maintain a positive feeling when you get back home.
Many spas market the items they use, so they don’t feel compelled to purchase them while getting into a proper skincare routine at home is a good idea.
6. More Spa Basics
Several different types of spas are available. The most prominent one is the day spa.
On holiday, at a resort or hotel spa, other first-time spa-goers get their first spa experience.
From small private inns such as The Harbour Inn in St. Michaels, Maryland, to the luxurious, sprawling resort spas in Hawaii, resort/hotel spas come in a wide variety of sizes and types.
People interested in weight loss or jump-starting a healthier lifestyle also prefer destination spas that offer a spa experience that is all-encompassing.
Lake Austin Spa Resort or Canyon Ranch are examples.
Spas offer fantastic, nurturing experiences, but typically they are not inexpensive.
There are many accessible destination spas at lower rates that have what you’re looking for.