Saturday, June 16, 2012

Happy Father's Day!

Greetings !

Tomorrow is Father's Day and it's still not too late to treat the man in your life to a relaxing day after time with the family....Why not try a spa? :)

Since I've asked this question to the men in my life - I often hear spa-ing is not for them and something they would never do unless on vacation. For many men a cut and relaxin' undisturbed in front of the TV or a night out with the fellas is relaxation enough. Ladies - it's time to change this! How about a visit to a spa? :)

My go to resource wwww.spaweek.com is offering egift cards! So if you have plans tomorrow that don't include a spa - why not get a egift card when he can use it 365 days and it never expires! It can be used at over 5000 spa locations....

Other last minute steals and deals....

Brooklyn NY - Body By Brooklyn Is offering packages from June 14-June 18 from $145.00 and while I mention it - I really can't endorse it. You can google and check the reviews...I hear the place was featured on VH1's "Love and Hip Hop" so......

New York, NY - Oasis Day Spa - Another great spot offering Father's Day specials....

http://www.oasis-dayspa.com/menu


Have a fabulous day!


Ciao!

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Stress...Spa-ing...Spirituality

Hola!

It's been a minute since I've posted...work obligations.. but really I haven't have the urge to write. This has been a trying first two quarters of the year for me. I've learned how much strength, fortitude, and spirituality I really have :) So what's this have to do with the Spadiva?

I feel my blog maybe taking shape and moving into a broader direction....I think...or maybe I need to deviate a bit to speak to all those who may have experienced the same issues :)

I love "spa-ing" and pampering myself and a lot of it is born out of the stress experienced in my day-to-day life. So I've been thinking about stress - the effects of it, how to manage it and what role does it play in other's lives? I completely missed "Spa-Week" in April for my discount spa treatments and scouting out new spas, yet I did make it to my favorite spot because I was so stressed I could feel it in my bones (had the best Hot Stone Massage ever!! - and you need to read my other spots to know what my favorite Spa is!)

So the question is how is Stress,"Spa-ing", and Spirituality related? Or are they? The answer really depends on you. It depends on what YOU believe.

Have you had days where you felt you couldn't go on because your stress levels are out of control? Home, School, Work, Children, Family..all pushing you to the brink? Ladies and Gentlemen - yes GENTLEMEN as this affects you as well..what things do you do (has a cool ring right?? thinking of Stevie Wonder as I write.."Do I DO.." ) to manage stress?

I love http://www.webmd.com/search/search_results/default.aspx?query=stress since it's so full of information.

DISCLAIMER...I'm not into self diagnosis so please when using this website seek professional medical advice as necessary.

There is a section on stress and I wondered if many realize just how dangerous stress can be. Stress can cause mental, physical and emotional changes and at it's height can be deadly. How well are you managing your stress?

There's nothing more important than your foundation - what you believe in - your core values. For me spirituality helps guide me through the toughest of times. When your core is rocked - guess what? Your stress level increases. Spa-ing can be used to manage stress but be wary - taking care of the external NEVER fixes the internal.

Make sure you are familiar with the causes, symptoms and how to manage stress.

So..some quick tips:

1. Physical symptoms of stress include: headaches, stomach aches, backaches, trouble sleeping, overeating, and irratibility.

2. Go back to your core values. Spirituality is not religion. It can be - but doesn't have to be. Define, understand, remember the role of spirituality in your life. For me - that has meant remembering why I pray.

3. Learn the ways to manage stress.

A. Meditation - I've mentioned it before. I've begun the practice again which my older sister does religiously. In addition to clearing the mind,it slows your heart rate, and will reduce your stress.

B. Spiritual growth - I'm not preaching here but how does one handle life's stressors if all you believe in is yourself? I really want to know. Are you spiritual? Does it matter to you? I found that it matters to me and it is my core. If it is for you - don't forget it- dust it off in times of strife.

C. Go Spa! I wouldn't feel complete if I didn't mention spa-ing! Again I know it's views as a luxury for many but... I've spent my life in Education Finance and I'm here to tell you we all spend money on the things we want. Yet remember, there are always free ways to spa!

So for me Stress, Spa-ing, and Spirituality and very much related. Are they for YOU? Spa how you feel!

Until next time! Recommend a friend or pass my blog to those who you think can benefit!

Ciao!

Monday, April 2, 2012

Stopping to smell the cherry blossoms?

Hola!

It's been a minute since my last entry and there is no review here but rather some practical advice for all those who are always on the go. I'm away at a business conference in the DMV area (DC,Maryland,and Virginia) for those who don't know, and have spent some quality time by myself. However I had dinner with an old high school classmate who I haven't seen since high school. I was reminded simply to just "be" which is often difficult for some to do. (yeah including me..)

I was reminded that it really is the simply things in life that bring us joy. So my lesson tonight was to simply "be". I wonder how often do we actually do this? In your quest to be pampered.. Stop and just "be". I know your thinking.. Who has time for that??

To truly pamper oneself really starts with allowing yourself to do you. Do what you love..what makes you happy. I was reminded just during casual conversation why I do what I do. Always grinding means it's easy to forget to be grateful, thoughtful, spontaneous and appreciative. I left dinner thinking there are some who don't have friends and I realize I treasure all mine.

Whatever you do.. Learn to Just "be".

Spa updates next time!

Ciao!

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Valentine's Day..Last Minute Steals and Deals!!

Greetings!

I couldn't resist another entry before the BIG day!! There are 4 days left until the biggest love holiday of all..Valentine's Day!! It's a day that many don't care to think about for a variety of reasons...I know...I know..you're single...you're the side piece (ok my bad..but ya'll do know you won't see your "man" this day right??) or you're the dude who can't stand spending the money 'cause you think it's a frivolous holiday - or worse yet the dude that gotta figure out how to tell the side piece that she won't see him...come on...we all know someone that fits these categories...:)

But for those of you like me who actually think it's not a bad holiday - and probably should be practiced all year long..for those who spend the other 364 days a year not knowing how to articulate those special feelings...this is the perfect time!

I got an email last night for a link that is fitting for this holiday so I decided to share it ...all things chocolate! If you've never indulged yourself in a chocolate massage,body wrap, or facial, you simply must try it!! My bestie loves all things chocolate and has had a chocolate body wrap...I've had a chocolate facial..and the smell is simply incredible!

http://www.spaweekblog.com/2012/02/10/chocolate-covered-spa-deals-and-where-to-find-delicious-chocolate-nearby/

Please check out my one-stop-shop for spas and there are specials acres the country offering all things chocolate...

www.spaweek.com


In the NYC area - Oasis Day Spa still have fabulous specials available for Valentine's day..Couple's Side by Side Massages, Romance Packages which offer gift cards for dinner...:) This spa is often noted as the best spa in NYC....try for yourself and see!

Oasis Day Spa
1 Park Avenue (between 32 and 33rd St)
212-254-7722

Oasis at the Affinia Dumont Hotel
150 East 34 Street ( between Lexington and 3rd Avenue)
212-545-5254


www.oasisdayspanyc.com/specials/valentine2012


Whether married,"boo'd" up, seriously single or somewhere in between...remember you can still enjoy the holiday at home spending very little and pampering yourself or each other!

Drop me a note, subscribe, and let me know what you think!

Happy Valentine's Day!!



Ciao!

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Love is in the Air!!

Greetings!

It's the month of Love! In honor of the month of February and the biggest holiday to many, this post is for all the lovers looking for something different to do for Valentine's Day! Don't get me wrong ...I love flowers...roses specifically and I hope next week I get my share (hint..hint..) yet there is still time to woo your "boo" with not the usual flowers, candy or dinner but something the two of you could enjoy together. Why not try a couples massage?

There are several places that offer wonderful services and theres time to book!
At www.spaweek.com there are a host of specials offered that you and that special someone can take advantage of!

And of course if you are single - you can enjoy the spa services just as well!

Have a great Valentine's day and do a little pampering for you or someone else!


Ciao!

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Happy New Year!

Greetings!

Happy New Year to one and all! I hope the day finds you blessed and highly favored :) It's a new year and the Spa Diva has a whole new set of goals that I wish to share and impart to all who follow.

I'm building a website to expand my concept but in the mean time, thank you for following and being a part of my little journey! Gratitude is important in whatever you do!

So over Christmas break I went to my favorite spa, Eden Day Spa in downtown in Manhattan. I've yet to go to a more relaxing or fabulous spot! I had a facial and a hot stone massage....no deals during the week but well worth it! I hadn't had a facial in quite some time and the winter weather wreaks havoc on my skin - so I treated myself!

Eden Day Spa
388 Broadway, NY NY 10013
212-226-0515
www.edenspany.com

I find that I have so much going on - trying to be all things to everybody (sigh- I promise that will NOT be a goal this year...). While I was off work between Christmas and New Year's, I focused on me. I slept. I read. I played with my new MacBook Pro :) I know the whole concept of my blog is just that - relaxation and being pampered - and I certainly realize I don't do it nearly enough. Who else doesn't?? Raise your hand.....:)

My last post was a little serious concerning depression during the holidays. The truth is depression can strike anyone at any time. More often than not - too much to do and not enough time help to contribute to this. (I'm not trivilizing those who have a treatable disease who have actually been diagnosed as such - yet it is important to note most depressive symptoms go unreported and undiagnosed.)

Take the time out in the new year to set realistic goals. No resolutions. Who keeps 'em anyway? :) Goals that are S.M.A.R.T. (specific, measurable, attainable, realsitic, and timely). Try looking at goals as a "To Do" list. Start where you feel comfortable. But start. For me- this is the mental. The spiritual and the physical are also part of my regime of taking care of me this year. Know that you are no good to anyone else if you can't take care of you!

Learn and practice that taking care of yourself is a goal. Men - this includes you too! I know far too many men on their "grind" who are not slowing down and some who have passed away before the age of 50. Spiritual, Mental and Physical health are all part of the same equation. We must actively begin to treat our health (in all aspects) like the "things" we have. Like the cars, the gadgets, the shoes, clothes and what ever else our disposable income allows us.

Slowing down doesn't mean stopping. It does mean acknowledging when you need "me" time. I've always said - "you don't have to spend money to feel good". You don't need a spa to be pampered - but it sure feels good!

If I never recommend another spa - EDEN is truly a slice of heaven in the city....

Until next time! Recommend a friend or pass my blog to those who you think can benefit!

Ciao...

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Spa Away The Blues?

Hola !

It's been a minute and I'd like to wish everyone a a wonderful holiday season. Holidays are filled with love, fun, family, partying, drinking....all of the festive things that mark this season of indulgence. The season is almost over , yet the biggest party is about to happen...New Year's Eve!

No review of a spa service here ...rather some practical advice as this is also the season where depression and suicide rates increase.

With the flurry of activity during the season, it's hard to recognize depression. Often those who are depressed may not know it and tend to pull away from others either deliberately or not. The holidays are a time of togetherness, yet one can be in a room full of people and feel alone.

This is the season of S.A.D. Seasonal Affective Disorder which is a form of depression that affects people around the same time each year - generally the winter. A lack of sunlight seems to be one of the causes.



This is not to suggest that anyone who is depressed during the winter has S.A.D. yet it is very real. Depression is very real. Recognizing it in oneself or others is also very real. There are a variety of other types of depression some are long term in duration and others quite sudden. Unchecked depression can lead to suicide.

Women seem to suffer more than men with S.A.D. Women are nurturers and often are taking care of others to the point of not taking care of themselves. Since this blog is about that very thing - take the time during the holiday to TAKE CARE OF YOU.

Appreciate and take the time for the little things. Find out what's really important to you. While I know spending time alone is a luxury for some -take the time for yourself this season. Give the gift of free time to someone else. Sometimes helping others can lift our spirits tremendously.

As the year closes, be thankful for all the things accomplished - and even the things not accomplished and pray for the ability to have another shot at getting it right.

Whether you are struggling with financial issues, health issues, relationship issues a holistic approach is one option in addressing those issues. Yes you can spend money and head to the nearest spa, but the reality is spa-ing is a wonderful relaxing way to de-stress but also is quite temporary.

Realizing you may need help and reaching out to others is always the first step. For those who are more adept at dealing and recognizing the signs of depression in others - assist if you can. Sometimes all people need is to know you care.

National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Depression resources : National Institute of Mental health

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml


http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-symptoms-and-types




Hopefully this information is useful to you our someone else you may know. Have a healthy and prosperous new year!

Ciao!