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. 

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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. 

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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

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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

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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.

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Day Spa Arizona

When thinking about day spas, many people do not think about the state of Arizona. It is sad because Arizona has some of the best day spas in the United States. Day spas in Arizona are soothing and relaxing places where clients can get the best message of their lives.

Natural Healing Powers in the Desert

Many people do not realize that some of the best healing powers come right from the desert. Arizona has a lot of desert land, therefore allowing it to have some of the best day spas in Arizona and in the United States. People who are aware of this come from all over the world to experience the relaxing atmospheres and ambiance that the day spas in Arizona have to offer.

Many of the day spas in Arizona offer the clients a smooth, relaxing message in the comfort of a private room. All of the day spas in Arizona are staffed with highly qualified technicians and therapists that has been trained by some of the best schools in the world. Each client is treated uniquely and individually making their massage visit one they will remember for a long time.

The day spas in Arizona are inspired by a relaxing island ambiance. The décor allows the client to relax more comfortably as they receive one of various massages using the best lotions, oils, and creams on the market. Soft background music or nature sounds such as waterfalls or rain drops is played while the client quietly lies on a massage table that is designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation.

Tourists and locals alike enjoy coming to one of the fabulous day spas in Arizona. They are aware of the many benefits of a quality massage. Getting a quality message is more than just relaxing and releasing tension. It is about feeling better and looking better. Medical research does reveal that clients who receive massages on a regular basis are less likely to develop disease and illnesses. They are also better able to deal with pain management. Body massages and treatments not only relax the muscles of the body, they also simulate and relax the nervous system and allow the client to experience healing through touch and sensation.

Therefore, when visiting the beautiful state of Arizona, one should definitely visit one of the awesome day spas in Arizona. Day spas are one of Arizonas best kept secrets. Those who have experienced them will tell you that they are well worth the time. One will look and feel so much better after visiting any of nice day spas in Arizona.

Ahh…the spa. The tranquil sounds, low lighting and refreshing treatments are just what the doctor ordered to add some peace and serenity to the hustle and bustle of your busy life. But most of us don’t have the time (or funds) to interrupt our daily routine to make spa visits more than an occasional treat. Luckily, there are many ways that you can treat yourself to “spa-tacular” experiences each and every day.

Here are a few ideas to add some “spa” to your day and achieve a more serene state of mind.

Shower Worries Away

From the minute you awake in the morning, step into a spa sanctuary with a revitalizing shower. Start by updating your current showerhead with an oversized rainshower, such as Moen’s Inspire 9-inch Rainshower with InvigoRain pressurized spray, which provides a strong, invigorating rainshower experience with full coverage that envelops the entire body in high- performance water sprays. Or if you’d prefer a variety of spray options, try a multi-setting showerhead. Moen’s Inspire(TM) multi-setting showerheads allow you to choose the distinct spray setting that suits your mood. These showerheads are available at Lowe’s in today’s most popular finishes.

Create a Pleasant “Scentmosphere”

As you slip out of the shower, continue to stimulate your senses by smoothing aromatherapy oils over your skin. Products with essential oils provide both psychological and physical benefits; the aroma stimulates the brain, while the oils leave your skin feeling clean and moisturized. Some brands, such as Aveda, even offer a variety of body oils to “balance,” “calm” or “refresh” your senses.

Mood Music

Music has powerful effects on our mood. In fact, numerous studies prove that music can ease tension and uplift our frame of mind. As you start or end your workday, keep the pressures and stresses outside the car by swapping your Top-40 tunes for more tranquil harmonies. Amazon has a variety of great CD ideas, such as “Calm the Mind,” a compilation of relaxing piano compositions and the soothing sounds of nature, or “Peace: Pure Classical Calm,” a broad array of soothing classical tunes, or create your own serene mix by downloading your favorites from iTunes.

Less Stress At Your Desk

Does work have you stressed out and tense? Take a few moments at your desk for the art of reflexology. This age-old technique involves applying pressure to the reflex points on the hands to improve circulation and stimulate relaxation. Start by pinching each of your fingertips. Then, grasp each finger at its base and tug firmly. Allow your grip to loosen slightly, graduating it from the base to the finger tip until your finger slips out of your grasp completely. Within minutes you’ll be feeling less stressed and ready to finish out the day.

Fancy Feet

Whether you’re on your feet at work or just suffering from those stylish, but not so comfy shoes, the end of the day can leave you with sore and swollen feet. Luckily, treating your tootsies is simple to incorporate into your day – even while working on other tasks. Try a footbath with a variety of features, such as bubbles, jets and loofahs, to energize your sore soles. Or for an easy fix, use a small, frozen plastic water bottle and roll your feet over it to stimulate pressure points and reduce swelling. Both treatments will refresh fatigued feet and are simple enough for you to enjoy while multi-tasking. By adding just a few of these spa-like secrets to your day, you’ll soon be feeling cool, calm and collected – all without an appointment!

But of course, There is no replacement for a professional spa service

Arizona Spas, Aveda Spa, Beauty Tip, Day Spa, Spa Music

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Scott J. Aveda Lifestyle Salon & Spa NYC NY

REVIEW THIS SPA NOW

You have to love a spa that is dedicated not only to the personal integrity of the mind and the body, but also to its role as a responsible environmental global citizen. The Scott J. Aveda Salon with locations in Manhattan, adheres to the belief of treating ourselves, each other, and the planet with care and respect. Their 3,000 square foot space incorporates tall bamboo and a waterfall wall with shelves filled with their Aveda 100 percent natural products with ingredients of pure flower and plant essences sourced from around the world whether it’s Western Australian sandalwood for healing dry and sensitive skin, Bulgarian rose and lavender for soothing properties, or the Brazilian Morikue nut for hair nourishment.

Education is key – the staff is sent to the Aveda School for in-depth study of the products and services. They bring you on a personalized aroma journey where you can select your own scent and custom blend shampoo or body cream or massage oil using their pure essential oils. You first consult with the technician so that the best treatment for your body, skin, or hair can be chosen.

Massages incorporate shiatsu, deep tissue, and lymphatic drainage to name a few. There is the Hydrotherm massage that utilizes two warm water units, front and back, to stimulate circulation through the muscles. A full line of facials, nail care, and waxing is at your fingertips, as well as body treatments like the Rosemary Mint Body Wrap and the Caribbean Therapy which uses healing touch and plant ingredients from the islands for exfoliation, smoothing, and detoxifying. Of course they are famous for pioneering hair products for cuts, styling, and coloring. Don’t forget to add on a scalp treatment and massage for cleansing, moisturizing, and shine.

Signature Treatment: It is the style as much as the service which is the signature at Scott J. Aveda where the client gets personalized programs to best achieve their goals. The spa always gives a little extra whether it’s the custom blending or the hot towels or the hand massage or the aromas in the space and in the products. They’ll even arrange for lunch.

Closed Mondays and some Sundays in the winter. Scott J. Aveda Lifestyle Salon & Spa NYC NY

Aveda Spa, NYC Spas, New York Spa