Everyone can use a pick-me-up, a perk in the day, or a jolt of re-energizing to pepper the week. Life can be monotonous, overburdening, or just plain stressful, and we need little activities here and again to break up the routine and revive us. Examples of common pick-me-ups are exercise, entertainment (live or recorded), meditation, psychotherapy, a glass of red or a beer, or just meeting a friend for coffee.
And then there’s the spa. Just the word “spa”, whose vowel sound seems to be elongated such that it’s pronounced “spaaaaaa,” – imbibes its very essence: Calm. Restoration. Relief. Time off. A mini-vacation, if you will.
The What
Spas generally include the following:
Spas might also include hot whirlpools, saunas, and Turkish baths. In fact, true to their name, saunas are actually defined as “mineral-rich spring water (and sometimes seawater) used to give medicinal baths.”
The Who
That would be pretty much anyone and their mother. You, your friends, your loved ones, your boss. It’s rare that someone does not benefit from a spa, and that’s probably because they simply haven’t actually gone for a spa treatment.
The Where & The Why
Spas are located as standalone firms or on the premises of 5-star hotels or other vacation resorts, such as cruises. Because of their association with high-end vacation getaways (the “where”), spas have a reputation of being a treat. Not for routine life. They cost money, so as part of a vacation, it can feel justified, but as part of regular life? Feels like you’re spoiled.
But it’s not true. For one, the health benefits of a massage or a facial are numerous. Secondly, professional grooming services can make you feel presentable in a way that otherwise might make you feel like you just can’t go out at all (lip hair wax, anyone?).
Many people shy away from regular spa treatments because of the money. It’s ROI baby, ROI – return on investment. If you feel awesome, your relationships and your work will in turn be more enriched and more successful.
Remember, spa treatments are treatments, not treats. Consider the cost-benefit of a routine massage, facial, or grooming service and decide which one or more will infuse your life with just the right “restart” button.