The Spa

    
     Every girl loves to be pampered. One way or another.  I am no exception to the rule, trust me.
Whether it’s getting a pedicure, getting your hair done or the works, it's a treat. Sometimes all it takes is a little "me" time maybe with a good book, a movie or a glass of wine or bottle. But to be truly pampered I think a spa day is the way to go! You can go alone, with one or more of your girlfriends or your significant other.  You might have to drag your significant other or maybe blind fold him, whatever works. Why is it that some men think it's gay to go to the spa?? They haven't even tried it! Anyway...

     Picture it, a full day treatment:
You start your day by changing into a luxurious robe.  You're offered a beverage as you wait to be transformed into another woman. Okay, a more relaxed & pampered woman.  Sorry, unless you’re going in for plastic surgery, it'll still be you in the end. It's not a miracle treatment, just a treat.

     After any necessary paperwork, just in case you pass out from being pampered & they have to call someone, your masseuse comes to pick you up and take you to your room for your massage. Is it a man or is it a woman? That would depend on you. Does it really make a difference? Unless you’re at some sleazy place, they are totally professional & licensed. Never will they see you totally naked.  Besides, some of you have a male doctor, so what's the big deal? You do remember your last physical?? But to each their own. And you can request either or. You can also get a receipt for your massage if you have health benefits, just a little fyi.  Maybe you’re having a half hour, maybe its an hour, but by the time its over, you will start to feel like mush.  Your body will start to de-stress, the knots will start to disappear. Heck they might have to peel you off the table or wake you after you've dozed off  & are starting to snore to the relaxing music...

     Facial: This is probably next. Another hour of just lying there as someone looks thru a giant magnifying glass at all your pores & wrinkles. Okay, its not like that!  I mean yes, they do look but after they've cleansed, picked, masked, toned, massaged & moisturized, etc your skin is revived & glowing! Looks like a few years have been taken off. Remember, I said looks like, it’s not a miracle.  Of course there are many types of facials & the esthetician will recommend the right one & appropriate products to use.
You may want to try a Microdermabrasion Facial. It offers a deeper exfoliation that rejuvenates the overall health and appearance of the skin. It helps to diminish the appearance of superficial hyper-pigmentation and fine lines and helps with breakouts. Kind of like sand-blasting.  Just remember it's not a miracle....
     Pedicure & Manicure: Love this more than facials. Your throne awaits. The pedicure chair definitely comes in all styles.  The best of course are the reclining & massaging ones. Please note that not all spas have these & they are definitely a treat.  As you soak your tired, calloused & dry feet, the tension in your body has almost but gone. The feeling after a pedicure always makes me feel like I'm walking on air. And after your hands & feet are all polished in your choice of color, it's a whole new you.  Don't forget to bring flip flops! Polish does not dry instantly!

     Hair & Lunch: No, not hair in your lunch! Some spas offer a light lunch and they may include a wash & blow dry. But just in case they don't, don't forget to bring a brush or something to make your hair a little more presentable, it may get a little disheveled. 

     You may not have all of these things done in one day.  Not all spas offer the "works".  Most spas are accommodating to their clients needs. Maybe they don't offer a lunch but may provide a snack or allow you to bring one in.  Perhaps, you'll only enjoy a service or two. Pick your favorites or try something new!

     Included in spa services is the famous waxing.  You can wax anything you want. That's totally up to you.  Just remember girls, just because it's winter, doesn't mean your significant other wants a bear next to them.  Contrary to popular belief, hairy legs won't keep you any warmer... Just saying

       Question: Do you tip? The answer is yes.  It is customary to tip for each service that you receive.  Usually it's 10-15%.  But it's totally up to you!  Whatever you feel is right & if you think they deserve more, go ahead. Of course going home after this to do housework or dinner kind of defeats the purpose of a spa day. Dinner out is recommended.

     But with so many spas out there, where do you start??? Go with a recommendation. Spas also range in price & services.  Pick what you'd like to have done & go from there. There is a difference in the little Chinese place you’re used to & a real spa. If you've never done it, put it on your bucket list to do.

     So here's a recommendation:
Five Senses Day Spa in Brampton.  Their web site: www.fivesensesdayspa.com.
It's new but the staff that works there has been in the business a long time. The ambiance is relaxing & soothing. The decor fresh, modern & elegant and the prices are good.

     You'd think I've done this at least once.  If you don't know already, I worked/managed a spa for over 12 years.  So if you ask me to spa or not to spa, I say SPA!!!!