Orlando's Spas Encourage Newcomers with Helpful Hints
If you've never been to a spa before, the thought may seem a little intimidating, especially if the treatment you desire requires you to be, well, "in the buff."
Rest assured, there's nothing to fear. There's no better time than a business trip to take the first step toward relaxation and rejuvenation, so we've put together a few tips to ensure your visit to one of Orlando's 16 destination spas is absolutely heavenly.
Niki Bryan, owner of Niki Bryan, Inc., which operates Walt Disney World's full-service spas and health clubs, including The Spa at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort, Disney's Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club and the Disney resorts' many fitness centers and salons, offers the following tips for spa neophytes:
Picture the outcome: Decide what you want out of the treatment. Do you need help overcoming jetlag? Got aching convention feet? Simply want to relax and pamper yourself? The type of massage or treatment and the amount of pressure can vary greatly depending on your desired outcome. Also, be sure to mention if there are any areas in which you would like the therapist to pay special attention.
Consider your allergies: If you have any allergies, particularly nut or sea-based allergies, be sure to tell your therapist before beginning. Many products used in spa treatments contain these products.
Plan ahead: Many spas may be booked days, if not weeks, in advance, so plan far enough ahead so that you can reserve the ideal date and time of day for you. Be prepared to hold your reservation with a credit card and be sure to ask about the spa's cancellation policy.
Arrive early: Be sure to arrive early to make the most of your experience. Depending on the type of treatment or package you purchase, many spas allow you to use the sauna, steam room and showers, as well as their "relaxation" or "meditation" rooms, before your treatment. Arriving late will cut time off your treatment and make it difficult for you to fully relax.
The Canyon Ranch SpaClub at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center also offers a fool-proof guide to getting a massage:
Avoid the Sun: Try to avoid exposure to sun for a day or few days before your treatment. Sun-burned skin may be more sensitive to some treatments, especially body scrubs. If you can't avoid the sun, or simply have sensitive skin, Canyon Ranch offers a gentle Mango Sugar Glo.
Warm up: Before your massage, use the steam room or sauna, followed by a warm shower. Warm muscles respond better to muscle work, and the shower will wash away any dirt, lotions or impurities on your skin that might clog your pores when mixed with massage oils.
Don't be shy! Unless the service description specifies that your massage will be received clothed, undress completely and wear the robe provided. Once you are taken to your treatment room, you'll be able to disrobe in private and you'll be draped with a sheet throughout your service.
Speak up: Even if your question seems silly, chances are, you're not the first to ask. Be sure to tell your therapist if you feel any discomfort.
Relax! Close your eyes and allow your mind and body to be quiet. Breathe deeply to help release tension, and remember this time is just for you!