Day Spa Etiquette and Day Spas 101

  
Spa Etiquette - What You Need To Know
by: Angie Kocsi

Spa-goers visiting the spa for the first time often need to know what is expected of them as they prepare for their spa experience. As the spa strives to provide the client with a tranquil and safe environment so too the spa-goer has certain expectations placed upon them. To make the spa experience as relaxing and enjoyable as possible here are a few simple guidelines to follow:

1. Book well in advance and where possible pick up a brochure from the spa that includes prices and treatments. Call 24-hours in advance if you need to cancel or reschedule.

2. Request detailed information on the type of treatment booked.

3. Ask about the therapist assigned to you. Do you prefer a male or female spa therapist?

4. Wear suitable clothes and be prepared to undress according to spa treatment you have booked. Spa robes and slippers are provided for the comfort of the client and spa personnel are trained in proper draping techniques for complete comfort and privacy.

5. Arrive 10 – 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to ensure you are calm and relaxed before the spa treatment.

6. Always alert the spa therapist to any current or chronic health condition that may need to be addressed before your spa treatment.

7. In consideration of the other spa clientele, cell phones and pagers are not a good idea in the spa – remember your there to get away from the stress!

8. Allow the therapist to advise and prepare you for the treatment you have reserved. As you relax and benefit from the spa treatment you will be sure to feel the stress melt away.

9. Everyone is different – so feel free to speak or not during your treatment. Share information and feedback on your personal comfort level or any sensitive areas on the body.

10. Relax you’re at the spa! Enjoy the treatment and reap the full benefits.

11. Take time as you prepare to leave the treatment room, however, remember there may be another client waiting to use the space.

12. Determine the tipping policy in advance and be prepared accordingly.

13. Let the spa personnel know if your experience at the spa was as expected. Your feedback is always appreciated.

14. Now is a good time to ask about any new products to take home.

Scented candles or essentials oils will help to enjoy the spa at home.

15. Remember the right way to spa is your way so always have good communication with the spa personnel and make the experience a relaxing and memorable one.

Spas in Canada © Copyright 2005
www.spasincanada.ca
Contact the spa team by email: spas@spasincanada.ca

About The Author

Angie Kocsi is co-founder of Spas in Canada. After many years enjoying the great spas in Europe and drawing upon her knowledge of the corporate world, along with a successful career in Public Relations and International Marketing www.spasincanada.ca was created. Contact the spa team by email: spas@spasincanada.ca

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Spa Protocol 101: Massage Virgin
by: Sandra Mahoney

It's your first time at a spa. You're nervous, shy and curious; a little embarrassed to be bare-assed. If this sounds like you, you're a spa virgin. But rest assured, your first time getting a massage will be handled by professionals who quite literally put you into their hands.

Unsure about massage-etiquette, your first step should be to arrive at the spa on-time or somewhat early. As you check-in for your massage you will most likely be issued a robe and directed to a changing area. Undress completely, or if modesty doesn't permit, leave your panties on. As you settle down on the massage table, your therapist will keep your body draped under a sheet.

Mmmm...Oooh...Spaaaah

The room will be dimly lit and the sheet will only be moved to expose the area being worked. The massage therapist will ask general questions to allow you to receive the most from the session. Give feedback. If something is uncomfortable or hurts, if you're too hot or too cold, if there's a specific area that needs attention speak up. But most importantly relax, close your eyes, let your mind wander and allow someone else to take care of you.

Basking in the Afterglow

All good things must come to an end. After your massage, you'll emerge from the spa relaxed, peaceful, a little less tense but perhaps somewhat light headed. It's a good idea to drink lots of water following the massage to help remove the released waste and toxins. But now what? Chances are you're thinking about when you can do this again. Take this time to book another massage appointment at the spa. Whether its next week, next month, or six months from now you're more apt to keep an appointment if you make one right away. Though up to your discretion, tipping is always appreciated. If you enjoyed your massage and therapist, the general rule of thumb is 10-15% of the cost of the session.

And finally, don't go right home. Prolong that loosey-goosey, just-had-a-massage, feeling by spending some more quality time alone. Go window shopping, stop for some tea or simply drive the real, long way home listening to your favorite CD. Not a bad ending for your first time.

About The Author

Sandra Mahoney is a mother of 3 and cofounder of Million-Dollar-Mama.com. Million-Dollar-Mama.com is a realistic web site for mothers who don’t have a lot of ‘me’ time. Our goal is to encourage mothers to put themselves first on their 'to-do' list and take time out of their busy schedules to do the things that bring them joy: girlfriend getaways, get-togethers with friends, working out, and the occasional spa treatment. Look like a million -- feel like a million. feedback@million-dollar-mama.com

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