Hola!
I'm working in Manhattan today - hosting a graduation fair and while the student traffic is sporadic ( I should've let my staff work this event) I decided to spend some of my down time posting (since I forgot to bring any other work with me...)
I'm still gathering my information on pricing and services for spas but here's a breakdown on some general information - Read Spa 101....
Check a few spas out first. One of the best resources is always word of mouth yet I love this website called www.spafinder.com . Here you'll find all things SPA....Ahhhh...:) You can learn about destination spas, day spa, get gift certificates, and learn all about Spa 101.
Spa 101 Tips
1. My bestie many years ago gave me a great gift which I use to this day. She gave me a spa kit - which included spa sandals, pedicure kit and something else that escapes me at the moment :) I use the sandals the most. A word to the wise - if you don't bring your own slippers (sandals) they will provide them for you. Sometimes I'm squeemish about such things..so this really is a matter of personal preference. They also provide robes and lockers to store your personal items.
2. Do you want to spa in the buff (nude)? This is also a matter of personal taste. The good news - spa folks (called therapists) make you feel at home and are aware of of those who may feel uncomfortable in the nude. You can of course wear undergarments - and some spas even provide you disposable ones! (who knew!) I learned this at my most recent spa trip at the luxurious Borgata Hotel Spa and Casino in Atlantic City.
www.theborgata.com
This is one of the best spas I have even been to! OMG...they provide disposable undergarments, shower caps, deodorant, hair spray....everything a girl needs! I was completely pampered here - and it didn't hurt that I had requested a man - and got the most handsome brutha! :) He was completely professional and it was the best massage ever! The Spa at Borgata is called Spa Toccare - and happened to be voted the Reader's Choice Best Spa for 2010 by Spa Finder - the very link I provided earlier. The great thing here is the spa was also voted the best in the male spa experience as well. So here's to the ladies and gents - go here if you can!!
3. Cell Phones are NO BUENO! Ok so I am addicted to my new IPhone - and a good friend (who I talk to almost everynight) makes fun of me about it....however this is the one place my IPhone doesn't go. Remember this blog is about pampering oneself...sometimes it's really hard NOT to be connected to our very mobile, social network sites oriented world. However, I leave the IPhone in my locker so I have an 60 or 90 minutes(or whatever I purchased) of free uninterruted time.
4. Conversation anyone? Well this also is a matter of personal taste. Do you want conversation while you are relaxing? I find after the introductions some therapists will ask if you want conversation or silence....I prefer silence....and usually fall alsleep if it was good! During this visit I was actully snoring LOL! On a different note, do tell your therapist how you would like your massage. Most ask if the force they use is too much or too little. Let them know.
5. The BIG sell. Here lies a drawback of some spas. After you are finished whatever the service, almost always is the attempted sale of the products that were used during your visit. Funny at Borgata this didn't happen and I was pleasantly surprised. So keep in mind that there maybe a sales pitch at the end. Just say NO - otherewise you could be spending money on products you really don't like or need.
6. Take off your jewelry. This one really annoys me. I have nails (yes they are mine that are silk wrapped) and it's difficult to get the jewelry on and off - however for a full range of motion during the massage it's best to remove it.
7. Bring Pets? NO. Why do some feel the need to bring their pets everywhere?? Not unless the the pets are going to their own spa day...and yes there are spas for pets....
8. Wearing Perfume - Now this one is interesting. I can't say that I've ever thought about it because I wear perfume almost everyday yet it's probably not a good idea to wear perfume to the spa in case the therapist is allergic. Again a matter of personal preference.
More Later...gotta go back to work!
Ciao
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Wellness in a hurry.....
Here's to an end to a very busy day. (Cheers!)I think I'm liking this whole blogging concept as a way to release stress :)
For those who know me, I'm really good at listening and helping others but rarely do I share myself with the same gusto. Why? Who knows..it's just not my thing. I have however figured out that my stress level as a result of me not sharing my inner most thoughts that easy, takes a toll.
So while I gather my lists for the next blog entry (which I'm thinking will focus on spa pricing and maybe even some local spots for Mother's day - don't hold me to it though since I write what comes to me...) I want to spend some time on how to be mentally well.
After a long and hectic day.. I headed to the gym, came home and made a spinach salad (for those of you who read my tweet earlier - like you really care..) and here I sit blogging. Interesting enough I find this relaxing. I'm a Knick fan and they will be immortalized in my entry as they were losing with 13 sec left to Boston so back to writing I go....
My thoughts for the day: Decide what makes you feel good. While I'm not sure what I'm doing at this moment qualifies as pampering myself - I think it does since almost every night without fail I'm logging in and checking on my online classes I teach or grading papers. This is the first night in a long time my laptop has been used for something other than work!
I've always wanted to write - not that I knew how, I mean as in got a degree in English Literature or anything , but I think I express myself well enough and can tell a fairly good story....
And it feels good. None of these concepts are new to anyone yet we often need to be reminded to take time for ourselves. Focus on the FREE things you can do to feel better..pampered. I mentioned bubbles baths. This is a great stress reliever and offers probably the best chance of quite time if you have a house full of people. Alone? Together? whichever...:)
My other favorite way to relax and pamper myself is with a great book. I'm an avid reader.... I finally bought a NOOK as I have way too many books in my house. I need a garage sale.
But there's something about writing....I've always kept a diary...ok as we get older it's called journaling. I remember the time when I was about 15 years old(and the only real time I got in trouble) I had a good friend who I used to hang out with after school...I went to her house and neglected to call my mom. After several hours my mom called the cops and yes they found me....by reading my Diary!
I stopped writing for a long time after that incident lol.
I will say however I started several years ago and when I feel terribly stressed or out of sorts, I write. I'm working on a book...hopefully...it's really slow going.
So to all those out there that forget to put themselves first - take a "Time Out" for you. Since the weather is improving - get outdoors. Exercise, write, sleep, spend time with your boo... DO SOMETHING.
Sometimes the best things in life are truly free.
Next up - Spa pricing and services
Ciao
For those who know me, I'm really good at listening and helping others but rarely do I share myself with the same gusto. Why? Who knows..it's just not my thing. I have however figured out that my stress level as a result of me not sharing my inner most thoughts that easy, takes a toll.
So while I gather my lists for the next blog entry (which I'm thinking will focus on spa pricing and maybe even some local spots for Mother's day - don't hold me to it though since I write what comes to me...) I want to spend some time on how to be mentally well.
After a long and hectic day.. I headed to the gym, came home and made a spinach salad (for those of you who read my tweet earlier - like you really care..) and here I sit blogging. Interesting enough I find this relaxing. I'm a Knick fan and they will be immortalized in my entry as they were losing with 13 sec left to Boston so back to writing I go....
My thoughts for the day: Decide what makes you feel good. While I'm not sure what I'm doing at this moment qualifies as pampering myself - I think it does since almost every night without fail I'm logging in and checking on my online classes I teach or grading papers. This is the first night in a long time my laptop has been used for something other than work!
I've always wanted to write - not that I knew how, I mean as in got a degree in English Literature or anything , but I think I express myself well enough and can tell a fairly good story....
And it feels good. None of these concepts are new to anyone yet we often need to be reminded to take time for ourselves. Focus on the FREE things you can do to feel better..pampered. I mentioned bubbles baths. This is a great stress reliever and offers probably the best chance of quite time if you have a house full of people. Alone? Together? whichever...:)
My other favorite way to relax and pamper myself is with a great book. I'm an avid reader.... I finally bought a NOOK as I have way too many books in my house. I need a garage sale.
But there's something about writing....I've always kept a diary...ok as we get older it's called journaling. I remember the time when I was about 15 years old(and the only real time I got in trouble) I had a good friend who I used to hang out with after school...I went to her house and neglected to call my mom. After several hours my mom called the cops and yes they found me....by reading my Diary!
I stopped writing for a long time after that incident lol.
I will say however I started several years ago and when I feel terribly stressed or out of sorts, I write. I'm working on a book...hopefully...it's really slow going.
So to all those out there that forget to put themselves first - take a "Time Out" for you. Since the weather is improving - get outdoors. Exercise, write, sleep, spend time with your boo... DO SOMETHING.
Sometimes the best things in life are truly free.
Next up - Spa pricing and services
Ciao
Monday, April 18, 2011
Princess for a Day....
So I missed Spa Week....just in case you didn't know, one of the best spa deals in the city is Spa Week. For $50 you can get an array of treatments at some great spas in the city.
Here's the link http://www.spaweek.com
Spa Week happens in April and October each year. You will need to use your email address or create one in order to log in. You can also use your zip code too. The good news..Spa Week is held across the Country so depending on where you live you may be able to book an appointment in your own city or when traveling!
I discovered day spas many years ago when I was looking for something to do for my mom's 70th birthday. At that time, day spas were high priced in Manhattan, not too many in the outer boroughs so we went to this fab spot(of course I don't remember the name but alas it's out of business anyway) on 5th Avenue and 53rd Street, and I treated my mom like the Pampered Princess she is :) We spent the day...had lunch...we did facials, massages, mani/pedi's, and even hair. (OK so mom was not impressed with the hair stylist...and neither was I).
After that day, I realized I loved pampering me and made a vow to myself that while it's great for a man to spoil and pamper me - I like doing it for me! So I set my sights on learning some basics about the spa industry...
Like...there are Day Spas and Spa Vacations...as I continue blogging I'll be discussing the benefits and pitfalls of both.
So be a Princess for a Day! Check out Spa Week when it rolls around again...or check the list of Day Spas and call and ask if they have any extended promotions!
Some basics when going to Day Spas:
1. If participating in Spa Week and because the the price of the treatments, you'll
usually need to book early.
2. Be aware that the specials only include the service. Tipping is required. There
will be someone who doesn't believe this, however having worked in service
industries, it is a sign of excellent or bad service. Ok perhaps not
required..but expected. The tipping standard for the spa industry is 15-20% of
the bill. Of course this is dictated by the area of the country you live in as
well as the service. Here's some info for tipping:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2152713_tip-spa-services.html
3. There is usually a cancellation fee involved if you fail to call and cancel! The
standard is you can call up to 24 hours in advance to cancel. Make sure to check
with the individual spa however as cancellation fees can range and be of
significant cost to you.
4. When making an appointment decide if gender matters. I truly don't care if my
massage is given to me by a man or woman. Although I do prefer women...most spas
will ask this question and in case the don't - decide when making your
appointment. It really is about what you feel comfortable with. I can't say that
men automatically give better massages - I've had some men and women who were
both fab!
5. Arrive 15-20 minutes earlier than your appointment. The reason is simply - there
is paperwork to fill out ( no spa wants liability issues on their hands so they
have you fill out a questionnaire for health related issues) and you need time
to change.
More next time....
Here's the link http://www.spaweek.com
Spa Week happens in April and October each year. You will need to use your email address or create one in order to log in. You can also use your zip code too. The good news..Spa Week is held across the Country so depending on where you live you may be able to book an appointment in your own city or when traveling!
I discovered day spas many years ago when I was looking for something to do for my mom's 70th birthday. At that time, day spas were high priced in Manhattan, not too many in the outer boroughs so we went to this fab spot(of course I don't remember the name but alas it's out of business anyway) on 5th Avenue and 53rd Street, and I treated my mom like the Pampered Princess she is :) We spent the day...had lunch...we did facials, massages, mani/pedi's, and even hair. (OK so mom was not impressed with the hair stylist...and neither was I).
After that day, I realized I loved pampering me and made a vow to myself that while it's great for a man to spoil and pamper me - I like doing it for me! So I set my sights on learning some basics about the spa industry...
Like...there are Day Spas and Spa Vacations...as I continue blogging I'll be discussing the benefits and pitfalls of both.
So be a Princess for a Day! Check out Spa Week when it rolls around again...or check the list of Day Spas and call and ask if they have any extended promotions!
Some basics when going to Day Spas:
1. If participating in Spa Week and because the the price of the treatments, you'll
usually need to book early.
2. Be aware that the specials only include the service. Tipping is required. There
will be someone who doesn't believe this, however having worked in service
industries, it is a sign of excellent or bad service. Ok perhaps not
required..but expected. The tipping standard for the spa industry is 15-20% of
the bill. Of course this is dictated by the area of the country you live in as
well as the service. Here's some info for tipping:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2152713_tip-spa-services.html
3. There is usually a cancellation fee involved if you fail to call and cancel! The
standard is you can call up to 24 hours in advance to cancel. Make sure to check
with the individual spa however as cancellation fees can range and be of
significant cost to you.
4. When making an appointment decide if gender matters. I truly don't care if my
massage is given to me by a man or woman. Although I do prefer women...most spas
will ask this question and in case the don't - decide when making your
appointment. It really is about what you feel comfortable with. I can't say that
men automatically give better massages - I've had some men and women who were
both fab!
5. Arrive 15-20 minutes earlier than your appointment. The reason is simply - there
is paperwork to fill out ( no spa wants liability issues on their hands so they
have you fill out a questionnaire for health related issues) and you need time
to change.
More next time....
What is Pampering?
So what is Pampering? Why do it? IMHO (in my humble opinion) pampering is simply taking care of oneself. Funny how many think this can lead to (or is the same as) being spoiled ( it can) , high maintenance (it can), or conceited (it can). However, I'm not talking about the over indulgences that the image of pampering creates...I'm talking about the things that some of us choose to do to make us feel better. The reality is however that all women can indulge and pamper themselves ( or have someone else do it!)
A word on pampering for men...or the men in the women's lives that are reading this....men want and need to be pampered too. That means everything I write is applicable to men? Women take notice!
I titled my blog The Pampered Princess because I do love to be pampered, and I don't necessarily wait for someone to pamper me.
My motto is "Do You".However the method - creating work/life balance is about finding what is right for you.
So some basic tenants of The Pampered Princess:
1. To thine own self be true. Simply put - find out what really makes you happy. If it's reading...crave some time out for yourself and read that book you been meaning to read.
2. Pampering doesn't always have to cost money. One of my favorite ways to pamper myself is a hot steamy bath, scented candles and music.Think of inexpensive ways to pamper yourself while you save for the ultimate pamper party.
3. Pamper by yourself and in groups. Ok this may seem contradictory but sometimes the best was to pamper oneself is to be by oneself. Crave out the "me" by prioritizing and making lists and include in you lists some "me" time.
4. One last note on being true to oneself...if you are in a job or career you do not like or has run it's course ....this is the ultimate stressor and you may find yourself applying many of the tools offered in an effort to find balance. I highly recommend analyzing the "fit" of that job....
More later.....
A word on pampering for men...or the men in the women's lives that are reading this....men want and need to be pampered too. That means everything I write is applicable to men? Women take notice!
I titled my blog The Pampered Princess because I do love to be pampered, and I don't necessarily wait for someone to pamper me.
My motto is "Do You".However the method - creating work/life balance is about finding what is right for you.
So some basic tenants of The Pampered Princess:
1. To thine own self be true. Simply put - find out what really makes you happy. If it's reading...crave some time out for yourself and read that book you been meaning to read.
2. Pampering doesn't always have to cost money. One of my favorite ways to pamper myself is a hot steamy bath, scented candles and music.Think of inexpensive ways to pamper yourself while you save for the ultimate pamper party.
3. Pamper by yourself and in groups. Ok this may seem contradictory but sometimes the best was to pamper oneself is to be by oneself. Crave out the "me" by prioritizing and making lists and include in you lists some "me" time.
4. One last note on being true to oneself...if you are in a job or career you do not like or has run it's course ....this is the ultimate stressor and you may find yourself applying many of the tools offered in an effort to find balance. I highly recommend analyzing the "fit" of that job....
More later.....
Why Pamper?
Lady Y here ready and willing to assist all those who have never tried pampering themselves! This is my first go at blogging and i'm excited and nervous, Why? Because although I know I talk alot ...one is never sure folks you don't know will read your stuff!
A lil' 'bout me...I hail from NYC specifically the Borough of Queens... yet I am Brooklyn raised...and it is currently where I work. My days are spent stressing over financials in a college and by night I'm a Adjunct Professor. I'm involved in a host of other things that make life downright stressful at times. Can you say major stress?
My friends and family keep me sane - yet this blog was developed because of the things I learned in life's journey that aid in helping the work/life balance. How many reading this have problems in this area?
Managing work, home, children, relationships, community service ...all can take a toll on us. So here's to helping anyone reading find a better way to maintain the work/life balance.
A lil' 'bout me...I hail from NYC specifically the Borough of Queens... yet I am Brooklyn raised...and it is currently where I work. My days are spent stressing over financials in a college and by night I'm a Adjunct Professor. I'm involved in a host of other things that make life downright stressful at times. Can you say major stress?
My friends and family keep me sane - yet this blog was developed because of the things I learned in life's journey that aid in helping the work/life balance. How many reading this have problems in this area?
Managing work, home, children, relationships, community service ...all can take a toll on us. So here's to helping anyone reading find a better way to maintain the work/life balance.
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