Ohio Spa treatments pamper the body, soothe the soul

Can we all agree that this has been one of the most brutal winters in recent memory?  When it wasn’t snowing, the skies were gray and dank. When it wasn’t freezing cold, it was only really cold. Add in the grim economic climate, and the only things more diminished than our spirits are our 401(k) funds.

While we wish we could all be whisked away for a mini break to Florida, the reality of the paragraph above makes that unlikely. Instead, we find balms to our souls — and winter-battered skin — much closer to home, in luxurious treatments at local spas.

Sure, some of these treatments are pricey, but they’re all far cheaper than a beach vacation in March. Some of these are new experiences; some are treasured hours from the past. Like any great getaway, the memories linger.

Charles Scott Spa & Salon in Rocky River.

It would be hard to find a more apt spa treatment with which to greet spring than Chaz’s Choice, named for owner Chaz Henline.

And it is choice.   The treatment, done in the rooms inside the spa sanctuary, lasts more than two hours. But after that, your skin will soft, smooth and pretty much ready to be bared. Or at least it will be after a couple of days of rubbing on self-tanning lotion.

First, your skin is dry brushed, which loosens the dead skin but also revs up your circulation. That’s followed by a sugar scrub (sugar with a little oil, which is less harsh on the skin than sea salt). You know how good it feels when you have that done during a pedicure? Multiply by 10.

Then, you lie on a special bed and a warm shower from multiple heads rains down on you. It’s like a warm, powerful rain that goes on and on until your whole body is cleansed of the grainy sugar.

Then, you dry off, put on a robe and go to another room, in which your esthetician covers you with a special detoxifying mud. You’ll be wrapped in a Mylar blanket for about 20 minutes (she’ll check on you after 10 minutes to make sure you’re feeling OK).

Then, she’ll help you rinse off with a shower hose, and you’ll dry off again, go to another room and be massaged for 30 minutes with a super-moisturizing cream. You won’t shower after that, because you’ll want that moisture on all day.

After this treatment, you’ll feel soft and renewed, with a fresh glow — and the bad memory of your itchy winter skin will be only that.

Details: Chaz’s Choice, $170, doesn’t including styling and blow-dry. 

 Sacred Hour Massage & Skincare, Lakewood

For regular devotees of pampering on a budget, there’s always a tough choice: Do I get a nice facial that involves some half-hearted massage, or do I go for the deep-tissue massage and say to heck with all those clogged pores?

Thanks to Tabitha Ainsley at Sacred Hour, that’s no longer an issue. Ainsley, well-known on the West Side for the most pleasurably intense massages ever, is also a fully licensed esthetician now with a full range of skin-care and waxing options on her menu.

Ms. Stressed Out, meet Ms. Chill.

At Sacred Hour, you’re invited to leave your shoes — and your worries — in the lobby. There, Ainsley quietly asks about any specific areas of concern, because talking is politely discouraged inside the darkened corridors.

Inside an antechamber, a footbath with scented oils awaits, and you’re invited to sip water or tea as your feet soak. You’re soon ushered into a candlelit massage room, where you undress and lie face down on the heated table.

The scent of peppermint oil fills the air as Ainsley begins the massage, done at your favored level of intensity. She starts with the feet and ends at the aching shoulder muscles, cramped from long hours at the keyboard.

At Ainsley’s hushed request, the now half-asleep subject flips over and Ainsley begins the facial process. She uses Norabloom Botanicals, a line of paraben-, petroleum- and fragrance-free skin-care products including the most heavenly, gentle sugar scrub, followed by a moisturizing mask.

As the mask works, Ainsley does, too, completing the full body massage, ending with an invigorating scalp massage.

Before she exits, she gives one final stroke to the face and says, “Relax, take your time.”

Wait, we have to leave?

Details: $135 for 105 minutes. 

——————————————————————————–

Aveda’s Green Science Facial, Bella Capelli Sanctuario, Westlake

Aveda’s Green Science facial, which makes use of “green” ingredients, is an intense and fabulous splurge especially fitting for spring.

The Green Science facial, which just debuted last year, is available at Bella Capelli as well as some other full-service Aveda salons. You should allow about two hours for this intensive treatment.

First is a deep, exfoliating organic enzyme peel derived from cactus (this is Aveda’s answer to more abrasive glycolic peels). In fact, all the products used in this treatment get their power from plants. The aroma of lavender and ylang-ylang is part of the sensory treat.

The cleansing is followed by the company’s trademarked line-minimizing stimulation, which you experience as a soothing massage of the face. Then, a mask is applied and stays on for 20 minutes.

The facial’s signature is that it’s all about “high-touch skin therapy.” So besides having your face massaged, you also get a blissful massage of the feet, hands, arms and upper body, and then a hydrating cream is applied.

While that’s going on, you’ll get an application of the Green Science anti-aging skin-repair system, which is made to reduce fine lines and the appearance of age spots.

You’ll walk out of the salon with a definite glow: partly from the treatment, and partly from the psychic benefits of pampering.

Details: $175, though discount packages are available. 

——————————————————————————–

Chocolate Polish and Body Wrap, Jack Arra’s Salon & Spa, Concord Township

We’ve heard raves about the body polishes and moisturizing treatments at this Concord hot spot.

In the Body Polish and Moisturizing package ($50), the skin is exfoliated using micronized seaweed to eliminate dead skin cells and toxins. Which sounds just great until you hear about the Chocolate Polish option.

In this package, the body is first exfoliated and buffed, then a chocolate mousse mask is applied before you are gently wrapped in a blanket. Later, a wonderfully thick butter- cream moisturizer is applied before you rise and dress again. Turns out your spirits can rise just like a chocolate souffle.

For an additional $7, friends recommend adding the Aromatic Sinus Steam Canopy to the body wrap or especially the massages on offer at Jack Arra’s. This a combination of hot steam and essential oils to soothe those overworked sinuses.

Details: $130

——————————————————————————–

Coco MojiToes Pedicure, Natural Beauty Salon & Spa, Twinsburg

Natural Beauty is carrying a great new line of spa treatments all based on a wonderfully aromatic blend of fresh coconut and tangy lime. The two fruits are touted for the significant amounts of lauric acid, polyphenols, and tocotrienols they contain, which are said to be good for the skin.

We recently indulged in spa pedicure, cockeyed optimists that we are — with the warm weather over the weekend, can sandal weather be far away?

First the feet are soaked in a steaming, pulsating bath of scented water. After the toenails are shaped and cuticles cared for, the feet are exfoliated with a lime-coconut scrub and vigorously massaged. The polish of your choice is then applied.

The salon is offering a special for March and April — purchase a Coco MojiToes pedicure, and get a Coco Lime Resurfacing Facial for $45.

The only thing that would make this deal better? An actual mojito.

Details: Pedicure cost is $48

Full Article and Credits

Affordable Spas, Aveda Spa, Day Spa, Massage, Ohio Day Spa, Spas in Ohio Aveda Spa, Cleaveland Ohio Day Spas, Ohio Day Spa

Many people are living in fear right now about the direction of the economy. Unchecked, this fear can create stress and carry over into all areas of life including relationships, jobs and our physical well-being.

Wendy Schulstad, the founder of Rustic Sage Healing Haven, has outlined some of the tools she finds most helpful in dealing with challenging times and finding peace regardless of our outer circumstances.

Tools for Finding Peace in Difficult Times:

Feel Your Fears – How?

• Fears are a gift. They provide us with great insight about our life and our desires. However, they often paralyze us because we avoid feeling them.
• Imagine your worst fear and take time to actually feel it.
• Once you live through it in your mind, it will begin to take the power away from the fear because you will know that even if it came true, you would survive.
• Then when ready, set the fear on a shelf. Fears will never go away. You can always take them off the shelf and look at them again, but now you can choose how and when you want to bring it back in.

Reframe Your Life – Explain how to “reframe”

• Life is how we see it
• When we are unhappy, it is usually because we believe that something or someone in our life should be different.
• Reframing is the process of choosing to look at life from a different angle.
• What if we trusted that everything in our life was exactly as it was supposed to be?
• What if we believed that every experience, every person, everything that has ever crossed our path was perfect for our life? If we didn’t think life was supposed to be different, then there would be no resistance and much less suffering. It doesn’t mean we would like it but we would feel a greater sense of peace and calm … no matter what shows up in our life.

Give the Gift of Self Love – What is self-love & why important?

• Many of us try to give to others when we are not giving to ourselves and we end up feeling resentful and exhausted at the end of the day.
• Before we can give to others, we must first make our well-being our number one priority.
• Self-love is being gentle and giving ourselves a break, knowing we are always doing our best, even when it does not look like it.

Community Day

What: Full day of COMPLIMENTARY massage, wellness services, classes, workshops &
live music. Refreshments provided by Mandala Tearoom.

When: Saturday, February 28th from 9am to 9pm

How: Call 480-990-1994 to reserve your appointment today! 

Lift Your Spirit Care Package

We are all family.

If you suffer any kind of major loss during 2009, such as the death of a loved one, a loss of a job, loss of a marriage or loss of a home, call us and allow us to nurture you.

We will provide you with a FREE Hour of Life Coaching and a FREE Half Hour of Massage or Other Wellness Service of your choice.

We understand that life can hand out some difficult situations so we would like to serve as a soft place to land. This is a complimentary offer so nothing is asked in return. Call 480-990-1994.

Full Article and Credits

Affordable Spas, Arizona Spas, Day Spa, Stress Relief

Christina Critchell thought she understood how to operate the Vishy shower while visiting a high-end spa. But when a blast of water blew her towel across the room, she had to bare the consequences.

The awkward experience revealed that Critchell’s listening skills had been on vacation. “They were explaining it to me, but maybe I was just tuning it out,” Critchell said. “I thought I was well-versed in the spa world, but they said, ‘You could have worn your bathing suit.’ ”

Critchell now knows plenty about the spa life, as she manages day-to-day operations at the Oxford Club in LoDo.

Want to get the most from the experience? “Don’t overthink it,” Critchell says. Building up too many expectations can downgrade the experience.

Banish stress ahead of time by kicking back with a cup of tea or a glass of Champagne just before a treatment, she suggests.

Even with an economic slump, consumer demand boosted spa employment numbers last year, according to the 2008 U.S. Spa Industry Update.

It took 67 years before Mary Kotsay stepped into day-spa serenity. Determined to compare home facials with the real deal, the Westminster resident booked an appointment with the Spa at Five Parks, in Arvada. She was hooked instantly.

It may be a splurge, but Kotsay is making room in her budget. “I’m on a fixed income, but I like to go about twice a month,” she said. “I felt younger.”

A few tips from Critchell for first-timers to the spa:

* Arrive early: Get there before the scheduled appointment. Running late could mean an extra charge.

* What to wear under the robe: Dress to your comfort level. From massages to total body mud baths, inhibitions only detract from the indulgence factor. Disposable bathing suits are available at some spas.

* Gratuities: The standard is 15 percent to 20 percent, depending on level of satisfaction. When buying a package, read the fine print – gratuities are often included.

* Avoid the burn: Salt scrubs and shaving don’t go together. Give legs a break by shaving the day before a salt scrub.

Discounts

Looking for discounts on a spa-like facial? Consider beauty schools, which offer treatments at a fraction of the cost. A few to consider:

* Aveda Institute Denver, 303-567-7500

* Heritage Education, Denver, 303-729-2644

* Regency Beauty Institute, Westminster, 720- 214-1750

Heading to the spa? Here are a few terms of the trade

* Bindi: Combine the likes of light massage, body work and exfoliation for a well-rounded treatment.

* Sugaring: Remove unsightly hairs with a sticky sugar solution.

* Eyebrow threading: Looking for thinner brows? This ancient method yanks hair at the root with a cotton thread. It originates from the Middle East and Asia.

* European facial: Type of massage applied to the face, scalp, hands and arms. Gentle cleansing with steam helps open the pores and chases away dirt and grime. It stimulates collagen and elasticity.

* Oxygen facial: Oxygen sprayed onto the face during a facial to hydrate and perfect the look of aging skin. The jury’s still out on whether it’s a skin-care panacea.

* Kneipp baths: How about a plunge into the icy-cold Danube? The treatment originated in Germany but now has a more gentle approach; it’s now just a dip into warm and cold waters.

* Sweat lodge: A meditative practice used in American Indian cultures. Intense heat from a sauna- like tent helps the body sweat out impurities. It’s said to help promote clarity and focus.

* Caldarium: The hottest seat in the bathhouse – in Roman times, that is. Today, steam is heat used to detoxify the body. A pool may or may not be used.

* Moore mud wrap: Get painted in mud. Used with steam to detoxify the body and bring on a deepened state of relaxation, it helps with skin conditions, aches and pains.

* Parafango: It’s part paraffin wax, part volcanic mud and helps ease aches and pains when applied to the body. Some claim it helps with rheumatism and arthritis.

* Dry brush: A natural-bristle brush is used to stroke the skin, exfoliating and increasing movement of lymphatic fluid. It’s often used be- fore an herbal steam or mud bath.

Affordable Spas, Aveda Spa, Colorado Spas, Day Spa Spa Employment

Winter Tips from The Evensong Spa

Stay Healthy this Winter 
It’s that time of year when coughing, sore throats, and sneezing seem abundant in offices and homes. It’s important to strengthen your body’s defenses against illness. Follow these important tips to stay healthy this winter.

Manage your stress. You can’t control everything in your life – a job loss, a loved one’s death – but you can change how you react to unpleasant events. Relieve tension through meditation, yoga or tai chi, which all have been known to boost the immune system.

Eat well. Without a nourishing diet, your body is more vulnerable to infections. During the cold and flu seasons, reach for dark fruits and berries, particularly blueberries and raspberries, which seem to have immunity-boosting effects.

Get moving. Getting regular exercise helps your body avoid succumbing to illness in times of stress. 30 minutes of daily physical activity is ideal. Try biking, walking and even cleaning.

Sleep! A normal sleep cycle is vitally important for the immune system. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night. 

Evensong Spa643 Illinois Ave
Green Lake, Wisconsin 54941
USA

920-294-3347

Wisconsin Spa Deals

Wisconsin Spa Packages

Wisconsin Spa Discounts

Affordable Spas, Balanced Body, Balancing Your Life, Day Spa, Health, Stress Relief, Wisconsin Spas Spa Stress Relief, Winter Health Tips

Once upon a time, we paid people to cut, buff and paint our nails.

Once upon a time, we had people shape our unruly eyebrows and rub hot, smooth stones over our sore backs.

Once upon a time, we put time aside to have people rip hair off our legs with wax and wrap us in algae.

Those days, for many of us, are long gone.

Spas obviously want us back. And so, there are deals. Many end soon, so act fast if you’re yearning for pampering. Here are a few that caught our eye (framed, we admit, by slightly unruly brows):

212 Salon and Day Spa: 212’s “Quick Pick-Me-Up” is so tempting in the dead of winter, when our hair and nails are brittle and dull. For $100, you get a mani and pedi, protein conditioning treatment, shampoo and a blow-out.

Calla Lily:  Calla Lily, a spa that offers everything from seaweed body masks ($60) to Brazilian bikini waxes ($80 and up), will take 20 percent off any service through Saturday. Just print out the coupon on the Web site and book your indulgence.

Spa Space:  How about a 75-minute massage? Spa Space is offering its $150 Space Ritual Massage for $120. You need to buy a gift certificate for that massage specifically to get the discount (see the spa Web site for details).

Urban Spa Chic:  Never been to Urban Spa Chic? If your nails are a mess, this might be the time to change that. The spa is offering a $10 mani with a seasonal spa pedi ($48) for first-time clients on Tuesdays through Thursdays.

Affordable Spas, Chicago IL, Illinois Day Spa, Illinois Day Spas, Spa, Spa Day, Spa Experience

Brought to you by Spavelous

http://www.spavelous.com

Recessionistas listen up — the economic challenges are not an excuse to let your stress build up while the care of your skin, nail and mental health goes down. There are plenty of deals to go around at spas with 17-year spa and wellness industry experience  Mindy Terry has done the digging so that you can savor the relaxation.

“People need the spa experience now more than ever and the slow economic times present great opportunities for spa lovers,” said Terry. “As consumers become increasingly discerning about how to spend their discretionary dollars, businesses are looking for ways to enhance the value of the spa experience, while rewarding and incentivizing their loyal customers. It’s a great time to score a deal on relaxation!”

With current projects spanning the globe from Egypt to Washington, D.C., Terry’s globetrotting lessons will help you stretch your dollar at the spa:

– Capitalize on Slow Times — look for the best deals between Monday and Thursday when business levels are lowest.

– Buy Local — your small day spas and nail salons are great for manicures and pedicures, and while you probably won’t lounge around in a robe and slippers while sipping tea, you’ll still leave with great looking nails.

– Massaging Massage Costs — there are cost-effective ways to find the perfect rub. With locations throughout the United States, Massage Envy offers a membership program where you can receive a massage every month, build them up or even transfer them. No frills here, but if you are worried about your checkbook, it is a great alternative.

– Bundles of Joy — many day spas offer price breaks on treatment “bundles.” For example, buy 10 massages, get one free, or buy three services or more in a day and receive 10-15 percent off.

– Education on Wheels — when staying in urban hotels, Terry likes to hop in a cab and ask the driver where to find the best spas. She has been pleasantly surprised with the recommendations, particularly those found in New York, Chicago, Barbados and Lima, Peru. And, for those resort and hotel travelers who don’t mind missing out on a comprehensive spa experience with large wet areas, access to fitness, meditation spaces, etc., they will save a dime or two by checking out local day spas where they can have a great experience for up to 25 percent less.

– Ommm Online — spa Web sites and e-mail blasts offer last-minute deals on products and services as well as monthly specials, so be sure to sign up. Blogs, e-letters and webinars also provide great tips and techniques for coping with stress and dealing with the pressures of daily life.

You may also want to opt for creating a spa-like living environment at home. Sure, it’s not as glamorous and you have to do the work, though it’s convenient and free …

– Raid the Pantry — Terry has the perfect recipe for creating your own scrub. Take some sugar in the raw and mix it with honey (honey helps moisturize and calm the skin). After reaching a consistency that you like, put a couple drops of essential oil in the mix (Terry loves orange). Microwave for five seconds and take it into the shower with you. Use your hands to slather it all over and rinse. Don’t worry; the shower’s steam will help the honey become less sticky.

– Take a Breather — when you feel stress or anxiety coming on, disconnect from the world for a few minutes with this exercise: Close your eyes and take in a long, deep, belly breath. As you inhale, visualize fresh oxygen flowing through your nose and filling your lungs. Then use your diaphragm to push out the air and, while doing so, imagine all stress, tension and impurities being forced out. Try this ten times and you’ll be enveloped in calm.

– Yoga on the Cheap — yoga cards provide excellent tips for those who want to do it themselves. Check out “OM Yoga Flash Cards” by Cyndi Lee or “The Yoga Deck: 50 Poses and Meditations for Body, Mind & Spirit” by Olivia Miller.

– BlackBerry Massage — take a break from the electronics and give yourself a quick hand massage to increase circulation and lessen fatigue. You will be surprised at how much tension the palms of your hands hold and how much better you feel after this quick rub.

– Cuticle Coaching — nice nails don’t always require money. While in the shower, push back your cuticles while the skin is softer because of the water and heat. Keep a nail file in your purse for shaping while commuting on the train or sitting in traffic (though, don’t attempt while driving!) In addition, always have a clear polish on hand to keep nails looking clean and well-groomed.

– Living the Spa Lifestyle Every Day — mix Epsom salts with a couple drops of your favorite essential oil for a great and inexpensive way to enjoy a therapeutic relaxing bath. Need to lift your spirits? Focus on your favorite piece of art or photograph while practicing deep breathing techniques. Have extra facial moisturizers lying around with only a few drops left? Don’t throw them out, instead use as a quick hand treatment.

Full Credits and Article

Affordable Spas, Spa, Spa Experience, Spa Treatments

New Life Hiking Spa Announces Dates for 2009 Season

New Life Hiking Spa will be open for the 2009 season during the dates of May 14 – September 27, 2009. New Life has been open each spring – fall in Vermont since 1978.

Killington, VT- New Life Hiking Spa will be open from May 14 – September 27 for the 2009 season and is now taking reservations. New Life Hiking Spa is a nationally recognized, affordable fitness and weight loss destination celebrating 31 years in business. Founded in 1978 by the director, Jimmy LeSage, M.S., New Life is one of the oldest and most established vacation package programs of its kind in the country catering to over 500 guests each spring through the fall season.

one of the top 10 destinations in the world to get in shape

one of the eight best weight loss spas

one of four great weight loss spas

For guests booking a 2009 vacation by January 31st, a $20 discount will be offered per person per night.

The New Life Hiking Spa program accommodates approximately 40 guests at a time. Hiking options accommodate beginner, (along picturesque country settings) intermediate, (along the diverse terrain of the Appalachian and Long Trails) and advanced (challenges up the some of the highest peaks in Vermont) fitness levels.

New Life Hiking Spa is an all-inclusive vacation. Prices start at $209 per night and include spacious air conditioned room and private bath, three gourmet meals and nutritious snacks, nationally renowned hiking program (all levels), all exercise classes, massage and / or facials (one per three night stay), use of all facilities and participation in all programs (including cooking demos and lectures).

About New Life Hiking Spa:
New Life Hiking Spa is a nationally recognized affordable spa located in the beautiful Green Mountains of Vermont. Known for its exhilarating hiking program, a world renowned weight loss retreat, delicious healthy meals and a comfortable atmosphere, New Life Hiking Spa offers the chance to experience the peace of the outdoors in a down-to-earth, country inn environment. It is ideally suited for small groups, couples or individuals trying to improve their fitness level and eating habits. New Life is open each year in Killington, Vermont from mid May through the end of September. New Life offers a variety of vacation options including a 2-4 day mini-getaway, a 5-10 day Jump Start Program and the 11-day or longer Weight Loss Retreat. New Life Hiking Spa was chosen by MSNBC.com as “one of the top 10 destinations in the world to get in shape”, by Shape Magazine as “one of the eight best weight loss spas”, and by Health Magazine as “one of four great weight loss spas”.

Affordable Spas, Destination Spa, Girlfriend Spa Getaway, Spa Openings, Vermont Spas

If there was ever a time for Taking the Cure, it’s now. As we move headlong into uncertain economic territory – rollercoaster Dow, layoffs, foreclosures – isn’t it tempting to just yourself in a terry-cloth robe and pretend the world has vanished, if only for a few days? As counterintuitive as it may seem to spend your dwindling assets on a vacation, some vacations can actually be an asset – to your peace of mind.

This winter, destination spas close by are offering deals that soothe even before you walk in the door.

How to choose

The word “spa” means different things to different people, so consider what type of experience you’re craving.

Do you want a boot camp or a pamper palace? Almost anyone can display a “spa” shingle these days – even those ubiquitous nail salons are doing it.

A “spa” is technically a “resort with mineral springs,” according to Webster’s Dictionary, but that definition has been expanded to include an establishment devoted to health, weight-loss, beauty and fitness.

Rule of thumb: If you crave facials, wraps and massages (not to mention a Cosmo or a nice glass of wine at the end of the day), many hotels with spa components offer these indulgences. If changing your lifestyle, losing weight or getting in shape is paramount, check into a destination spa.Destination spas

Deerfield Spa

East Stroudsburg, Pa.

800-852-4494

COST $800 a person, based on double occupancy, for a 10-day stay

This spot in the Poconos opens for the season on April 3. During April, the “stay 10 days, pay for 7″ package includes all meals, one $75 massage, an unlimited number of exercise classes (including Pilates and guided hiking) and accommodations in a homespun-style shared twin room with shared bath.

New Age Health Spa

Neversink, N.Y.

800-682-4348

COST $209 a night per person, based on double occupancy.

You’ll find more bells and whistles than other spas that charge twice the price. Meals are prepared with fresh greenhouse herbs, lettuces and wheatgrass. An extensive list of fitness options include some unusual classes – belly dancing, “aquarobics.” Take on a 50-foot outdoor climbing tower, set off on a bald-eagle watch, go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Evening events include lectures, movies.

Copperhood Inn and Spa

Shandaken, N.Y.

845-688-2460

COST $350 a night per person, double occupancy (two-night minimum)

The spa’s ethos, “guests are never burdened by strenuous exercise” and “starvation is not our philosophy,” sums up a decidedly European way of thinking. Fitness classes here include fencing, and the dining room offers a nice wine list. A stay includes multicourse meals, fitness classes (including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing), indoor pool, modern dance and a stay in country-pine rooms.

Lodge at Woodloch

Hawley, Pa.

866-953-8500

COST From $445 a night per person, double occupancy (two-night minimum)

Voted one of the “Top 10 most luxurious spas in the U.S.” by Forbes magazine, the two-night “Awaken to a New You” package includes three daily meals, snacks, one spa service a day, fitness classes and a private session in your choice of personal training, nutrition, meditation, Pilates or yoga. Among the “mind-expanding” activities available – indoor cross-country biking, geocaching, painting classes, cooking demonstrations and guided hiking in the Delaware Valley. Valid for stays through Feb. 28.

Canyon Ranch

Lenox, Mass.

800-742-9000

COST From $640 a night per person, double occupancy

On the cutting edge, Canyon Ranch brings fitness experts, physicians, nutritionists, mind and body specialists, master chefs and alternative health practitioners together in one place. Luxurious rooms, gourmet dining – with demonstration kitchen, dozens of fitness classes and treatment options are offered and coordinated by your personal Program Advisor. Pricey? Yes, but Canyon Ranch, Lenox’s winter two-night special ($1,280) includes a room, three daily meals, a $260 spa credit and your choice of more than 225 all-inclusive programs and services. (Rates at peak season are almost double this.) Valid through March 31

Hotel spas

Hotel Hershey Chocolate Spa

Hershey, Pa.

717-520-5888

COST From $501 a night for two people

The spa’s most popular treatment, a 15-minute Whipped Cocoa Bath ($45), is an experience comparable to sitting in a cup of hot chocolate. It’s just one of many treats in the three-day, two-night “Chocolate Spa Getaway” package, which includes a $350 spa service credit, a trademark “Spa Rain Shower” and massage, a room at the Hershey Lodge, lunch, fitness classes and admission to Hershey Gardens.

Gideon Putnam Hotel

Saratoga Springs, N.Y.

866-890-1171

COST $462 a night for two people

Located in the country’s very first spa town, health seekers have been coming to Saratoga Springs to “take the waters” since the 1800s. And this hotel has been a presence here for nearly as long. As part of the “Spa Retreat” overnight package, a couple can enjoy breakfast, dinner, a one-hour Swedish massage and time in the Roosevelt Bathhouse, where you can indulge in a warm and tingly effervescent mineral soak.

SPA FAQ’s

What should I bring?

For the most part, think “exercise” when stuffing your suitcase. Yoga pants, sweats, jogging bras, bathing suits, aqua shoes, hiking shoes. During the winter, you will be outside quite a bit, whether snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, so pack warm socks, boots, a warm coat and lots of sunscreen. Do not bring the family jewels or couture clothing. Even the most luxurious spa is casual when it comes to dining and downtime.

Will I starve?

No. Three meals a day, plus snacks, are included daily in most destination spa packages, though the food tends to correspond to the level of accommodations. Artfulness of preparation increases with each uptick in price, so expect fresh but basic meals at budget spas such as Deerfield and New Age Health spas, and gourmet cuisine at luxury spas like Canyon Ranch and Lodge at Woodloch. Generally, spas are “health conscious,” which means no alcohol on the premises. There are exceptions, however. European-style Copperhood Spa has its own wine list.

Affordable Spas, Destination Spa, Spa Experience, Spa Getaways, Spa Resort

A Little Something Extra

Evensong Spa 

Choose one of the following enrichments:
Wild Lime Blossom scalp treatment
Arnica muscle repair application
Detox Sea Algae application
Paraffin for hands
Paraffin for feet
Aromatic hot towel treatment
7 Circuit Instant Lift
Aroma Pure Expert mask
Women’s shampoo and style
Men’s haircut and style
Make up application
Eyebrow waxing
Spa access and beverage

Affordable Spas, Wisconsin Spas