Thursday, October 23, 2008

Bewildering Spa Moments Explained


When you go in for your facial or some body treatments, you'll likely encounter some form of product pitch, so be prepared. If the aesthetician starts mentioning products during your service, just say, "I'm happy to hear your recommendations, but I'm really here to relax, so please save them for the end."

After your service, if you don't want to purchase anything, ask the aesthetician to write down the products she's recommended and let her know you'll think it over. Once you say you're not interested right now, she shouldn't say another word. If they push it, you should consider telling the spa manager.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Bewildering Spa Moments Explained


It's hard to feel completely liberated from stress if you're facing a set of new dilemmas, like whether you're overdressed for your massage or under tipping your therapist. Sidestep these little land mines so that nothing sabotages your spa experience.

Take it all off (or don't)

For massages and body treatments, ideally you disrobe completely (that means underwear too). Know that you'll never be completely exposed; spa therapists are well-trained in the art of draping, so they'll uncover only the areas that they're working on. If you’re still uncomfortable, try a Thai massage or shiatsu, for which you wear your own loose-fitting clothing.

And don't be afraid to ask for a same sex therapist when you make the appointment if that makes you feel more at ease.

For a facial, take off your bra, (or at least the lower straps) before you slip into a robe so it doesn’t interfere with the neck and shoulder massage.

Friday, October 10, 2008

Fit to Eat


There are hundreds of varieties of this tiny fruit, but their nutrients remain largely the same. Compared to other fruits, the fig contains copious amounts of iron, potassium, and magnesium. It has nearly two grams of fiber per bite-sized fruit, and a half-cup serving contains as many milligrams of calcium as an equal amount of milk.

Abandon the forgettable blandness of the dried fig, and opt only for the fresh variety. The downside: fresh figs appear on early summer for a few short weeks, and later in the season of a longer, but still all too brief, spell.

Saturday, October 04, 2008

5 Tips to Keep You Energized


3. Focus on one thing at a time. Multi-tasking eats into productivity and you'll feel motivated when you cross something off of your list.

4. Take a break from the same old routine- go to a different lunch spot, explore a new store, or spend an hour sitting at the park. Change does a body good.

5. Pack something essential for the office- citrus essential oils (lemon, orange, grapefruit) help energize, so keep a mist or candle handy.