A trip to the spa is a relaxing experience, however there are a few things one should know before going into for a treatment.
First off, there are some rules one should be aware of before heading to the spa.
- Do not drink at the spa
- Do not smoke at the spa
- If you have a heart condition, diabetes, or have high or low blood pressure, make sure you consult your doctor before heading to the spa.
- No kids. Most spas allow only those who are 18 years or older to enter. Some will allow those as young as 16, but that is the minimum.
- Wear proper footwear in the fitness area. No one wants to pick up foot fungus.
- Leave your phone in you locker. People come to the spa to relax and forget about everyday worries, so please do not disrupt your experience or the experience of others by snapping selfies or checking Facebook.
On top of the rules, there are a few spa etiquettes that should be practiced when going to a spa.
- Arrive early to your spa treatment, at least 30 to 45 minutes early. This will allow you to take advantage of spa amenities and wind down before your treatment begins.
- Tipping is not included in the price of your spa treatment. A gratuity of 15 to 20 percent is appropriate for good service.
- Make sure to cool down after using the steam room or sauna, you need to be dry for your massage.
- Make sure you take a shower before entering any spa facilities. Most will have showers on site, but make sure you are clean and fresh before the massage therapist put their hands on you.
- Only take off clothing that is relevant to the treatment you are getting. You may feel comfortable strutting around in your birthday suit, but if you are just getting a facial, it is not appropriate.
Another important thing to know before booking a spa treatment is the definition of what you will be receiving. You have most likely heard of a Swedish Massage, it is a classic treatment found in most spas. However, there are tons of other types of massages that are all worth exploring.
- Deep tissue: A deeper manipulation of the muscle to release tension among problem muscle groups.
- Sports Massage: Similar to a Deep Tissue massage, this localized massage focuses on lengthening and loosening muscles, often with heat.
- Aromatherapy: Utilizes light to medium pressure, often combining Swedish, Shiatsu and reflexology techniques, with therapeutic essential oils.
- Reflexology: Pressure is applied to the reflex points of the feet and/or hands to improve circulation, and relieve stress and promote relaxation.
- Aveda Therapy Based on ancient Ayurvedic principles, sensory testing is conducted to choose an aromatic key element to create an overall sense of well-being and balance.
- Watsu: While you are in water your therapist uses Shiatsu pressure point techniques, stretching and movement therapy to release tension.
- Maternity: Specially designed for relaxation and to give relief to expectant mothers.
- Tandem: Massage performed by two therapists at once.
- Shiatsu: Pressure is applied to the meridians and acu-points on the body, to relax and energize.
- Reiki: Healing is transferred by lightly placing hands on various parts of the body.
- Jin Shin Jyutsu: Holding of energy points to balance the mind, body and spirit.
- Stone: Smooth, rounded, heated stones are used as a massage medium for relaxation.
- Cranial Sacral: Gentle traction and pressure on the scalp and spine to release tension and restore symmetry. Especially helpful for those who experience migraines, TMJ and sinus problems.
- Head, Shoulder, and Neck: Concentrates on these three problem areas to relieve tension.
- Neuromuscular Therapy: Deep Massage used to locate spasms and hyper-contraction in tissues. Eliminates trigger points that can cause pain, restores posture alignment, rebuilds injured tissue, increases flexibility and blood flow.
Besides getting a massage, there are other treatments available at the spa. Here are some other spa service definitions that can help you expand your beauty routine.
- Facials: Facials can consist of a variety or combination of the following: a deep cleansing treatment to tone and exfoliate the skin; steam; extraction; facial massage; neck and shoulder massage; moisture treatment. There are many varieties of facials, so make sure to contact the spa for information and a menu of services.
- Wraps: The body is wrapped in a purifying element such as clay, seaweed or pre-treated herbal towels to draw out impurities, relax muscles and detoxify the skin. Steam and moisturizers also may be applied. There are many varieties of wraps, so contact the spa for more information and a menu of services.
- Salt Glow: Sea salt crystals and a cleanser are used to exfoliate the skin, then rinsed away and followed by a moisturizing treatment.
- Body Buff: Similar to a salt glow, but using smoother elements such as Jojoba beads or crushed nuts as the exfoliate.
- Body Scrub: Similar to the salt glow, but using natural elements such as pumice or a loofah as the exfoliate.
If you are looking for a Spa Hotel in London or Spa treatments in London, why not book a treatment at the Spa at the Montcalm.
