How to be spa savvy
“A good spa experience is more than just the treatment, it’s the whole encounter from when you arrive to when you leave,” said Janet Brice Content Director of Spa Traveller Wellness
Her three top tips for making the most of your spa experience are:
1. Arrive early, by at least an hour before your treatment, to unwind and enjoy the steam and sauna facilities BEFORE your massage as this helps the muscles to relax.
2. Take along two swim suits as you may want to change from a one-piece into a bikini for your treatment if you want to avoid those awful paper pants!
3. Target your spa treatment to your own health needs for example a Swedish Massage is great at helping to boost circulation and a deep tissue massage helps ease recurring pain. You can find the spa menu on the website so it is less stressful if you select your massage before you arrive.
Spa Etiquette
• Turn off your mobile phone when you arrive. A ringing phone in the spa defeats the relaxation benefits and prevents you from switching off from the outside world.
• Prior to beginning your treatment you will probably be asked to fill in a health consultation form.
• You need time to relax and unwind. Try to arrive at least 30 minutes before your spa appointment so you have time to check in, change into your robe and slippers, and relax. All clothes are placed in a locker and most spas provide paper pants which are worn during your treatment or you can wear a swimming costume.
• Take advantage of the wellness facilities most spas have, especially the saunas and steam baths, and hot and cold plunge pools.
• Shower before your spa treatment to remove sweat if you’ve arrived late, and to wash off any heated pool or chlorinated hot tub water.
• During your treatment you will be covered with a sheet or warm towel and only the part of the body being massaged will be exposed.
• If you schedule two treatments together, get a massage before your facial. A body treatment should go before your massage.
• If you’re uncomfortable with anything during your treatment make your feelings known, as this way your therapist can adapt her technique to suit your needs.
• Ensure your therapist thoroughly explains the treatment you’re having and the types of products being used.
• You can talk during the treatment or remain quiet and snooze. The therapist will follow your lead.
• Book your treatments well in advance. If you’re going on holiday, don’t wait until you get to your destination to book your treatments or you may be disappointed.
• Think carefully about what you want to achieve from a treatment, so you can maximise the experience.
• Tipping: If you liked the treatment 10-20 per cent is generally accepted. If you are on all-inclusive spa package, ask if the tip was included in the package.