5 Fun Fall Date Ideas

October 16, 2012 | By

As sad as we are to say goodbye to summer, saying hello to fall has its fair share of perks.

Apple picking? Pumpkin carving? There are endless ways to enjoy the new season — especially with a special someone.

Below we’ve given you some great fall date ideas, all paired with a massage deal to complete the day with some relaxation. Is there any guy out there who wouldn’t be impressed by that combo? We think not.

Go on a hike – The crisp air is perfect for a walk through the woods and is a great a leg workout. Plan an afternoon with your guy and bring along a picnic.

$50 for 60 Min Therapeutic Warm Bamboo Massage at A Touch of Clover Skin Care

Pick pumpkins – Hit up your local pumpkin patch and find one that is just right. You can eat it, carve it or both!

$50 for 50 Min Aromatherapy Integrated Massage with Paraffin Hand Treatment at Cape May Day Spa

Visit a vineyard – If there’s one place that makes walking around for hours worth your while, it’s definitely a vineyard (there’s wine at the end of the tunnel!). Tour one on a crisp day for a tranquil afternoon.

$50 for 60 Min Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage with Chocolate Oils at Achelois Wellness Massage Therapy Studio

Two-hand touch football game – Get a few more couples together and set up a friendly game of football.

$50 for 50 Min ‘The Ultimate’ Swedish Massage at Serenity Spa NY

Ride bikes – Hop on a bike and peddle away for an afternoon that will leave you nice and stretched out. The breeze will feel even better as you cruise around with minimal effort.

$50 for 60 Min Custom Massage and 15 Min Foot Massage at Bahn Sabai Day Spa

Check out all of our $50 massages and book yours today!

Filed Under: Good + Happy, Health & Wellness Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Grae Therapy: The Massage That Changed Everything!

May 31, 2012 | By

For two and a half years, I’ve been pleading with you to GO!!! Go to the spa! Try that new LED acne-fighting facial. Treat yourself to that 90 minute Thai Massage. YOU are worth it!

So, as spa-seekers tend to do, you browse through Spa Week’s Deals or $50 treatments, you fall in love with a spa service or twelve (shea butter and hot stone have a sneaky way of doing that), you choose a lucky winner or two or seven, and you schedule your appointments. When your spa day arrives, you get dressed, get in your car, stop for a small bite to eat beforehand, get there, get in your robe, get undressed, get spa’d, get back in your robe, get dressed, drive home, get undressed, get back in your own robe. PHEW, that’s a LOT of dressing and undressing! What if things could just be… more luxurious?

ENTER: Grae Therapy, a full-service mobile spa company serving the NYC/North Jersey area, that delivers the full, incredible spa experience to your very own home. No dressing and undressing, no transportation, no ma’am! You can schedule your treatment in advance or call Grae Therapy on a whim, 23 hours a day. They are superstitious about the hours of midnight to 1 AM, however: “Something always goes wrong during that hour.”

This isn’t just a man with a portable massage table. OH, no, not at all. Aromatherapy candles, freshly made flavored spa water, spa tunes, a beautiful massage table, hot paraffin and smiling faces with an exquisite sense of hospitality arrive at your doorstep! You don’t have to move a muscle. In fact, they will literally move your muscles for you. Want champagne? Gourmet food made by a top NYC chef? Owner Tim Grae is the star of the show, and in his world, his clients get treated like royalty in their own surroundings.

Grae Therapy also does corporate spa days (it’s 100% tax deductable – tell your boss!) and spa parties galore. Are you a chef and need a massage right this second? Be careful what you wish for - Tim Grae will be at your restaurant in 20 minutes.

I was lucky to have the Grae Therapy experience and share it with my two fantastic roommates, Tracy and Jess, who work just as hard as I do. After work last Wednesday evening, we all got home around 7pm and by 7:30 our Alphabet City apartment was transformed into a dim, cozy, zen den with all the spa trimmings. We changed into our robes and most comfortable clothes. The Grae team filled our Brita and wine glasses with tasty fresh strawberry-orange-mint spa water. Spa music with an R&B touch filled the room with a calm coolness.

And the night-o-pampering began.
THE MASSAGES:

Tim Grae’s hands are a highly skilled and intuitive pair, and his personality is up there with his extreme therapeutic talent! There are some massages where you can tell that your therapist is going through a routine, starting with A and ending with Z. But Tim Grae went into our massages, each its own personalized mission to invigorate and respond to our bodies.

 

Jess, Tracy and I rotated I watched as Jess was stretched and twisted, but for me he spent more time kneading out the knots in my back. The communication between his hands and my back was seamless. He uses a mix of modalities, with Shiatsu being his favorite. He massaged me into a near-comatose state. WHOAH, did that really just happen in my living room?

Grae Therapy also offers a couples massage which includes instruction on “loving touch” and massaging your partner. Interestingly, one of the reasons Tim Grae became a massage therapist was because he realized that when a man touches a woman’s body, most of the time it’s for the man’s pleasure. Learning the techniques and shifting the importance to what feels good to a woman is one of the best skills a man can learn. (Hint hint, gents!)

THE MANICURES:

Like I said, Grae Therapy is full-service. They do scrubs in people’s bath tubs, and facials and beauty treatments that aren’t even on the menu. Danielle is their top manicurist, and wow is she a gem. She works with Deborah Lippmann on Fashion Week and special events and uses only Deborah Lippmann polishes and products – by far the best nail brand on earth.

She also comes with a portable hot paraffin wax machine and individual-use mitts; 10 or 15 minutes of no-hands relaxation is a beautiful thing! Especially when you’ve been Instagramming all night.

I was overwhelmed by the color selection (Deborah Lippmann, seriously… how do you do it!?) so I let Danielle play around and pick for me. She loved this idea. The only requirement was that the middle finger needed to be a different color. Voila! It’s I Know What Boys Like as the base color with Today Was A Fairytale as the sparkle.)

After a few indulgent hours, Grae Therapy cleaned everything better than it was to begin with, and left me on the couch in a blanket and towel cocoon, a happy-pappy grin on my face, unable to move. They saw themselves to the door, and I didn’t even feel rude – that’s just how it was intended. A little while later, I slipped into bed and fell fast asleep. Glorious.

That night was one of the best we’ve had in our apartment to date . There’s something so magical about transforming your apartment like that. Your home begins to take on pieces of spa personality. You can be sitting in your living room, remembering that magnificent massage that took place just feet away. You recall the aromatherapy candle burning slowly on your coffee table. It reminds you to burn candles more often, and to treat your home as your own personal sanctuary – all the time. It really changes things.

So, maybe I’m not a spa girl after all? Maybe I’m just a girl who loves to feel luxurious… right in her favorite place in New York City.

Grae Therapy now accepts Spa & Wellness Gift Cards by Spa Week! See the Grae Therapy website for prices and packages.

Disclosure – this amazing experience was complimentary.

Filed Under: Home Sweet Home, Spas Tagged With: , , , , ,

Lose Weight By Accident: Massage, Your New Diet Pill

May 7, 2012 | By

By Sarah Jenks

Torture and deprivation seem quite fitting for the typical weight loss regimen. Images of treadmills, six pack abs and weights make us believe that torture is the only way to a hot bod, but what about relaxation and pleasure? That’s right, pleasure and relaxation are actually the most effective ways to lose weight.

And of course, one of best ways to relax and my favorite (ok, second favorite) source of pleasure is to get a massage. They may seem lavish, but they are completely beneficial to your health and weight loss goals (read about this extreme case where a massage therapist was able to tame his client’s thyroid). When you get a massage there are so many benefits that increase weight loss.

  1. Massage releases lactic acid from your muscles which increases flexibility and strength. This makes moving your body easier and more fun, prevents injury, and keeps you from getting sore and fatigued so easily.
  2. Massage increases blood flow to the body, especially to the skin and lipid layer under the skin which helps the body raise its basil metabolic rate. By keeping blood flow throughout the body, you ensure increased oxygen circulation to all bodily tissues, which helps you have radiant, tight and firmer skin.
  3. Massage truly relaxes the body and enables the body to relieve stress. And as you know, stress is one of the main causes for weight gain and retention. By keeping your cortisol levels low by keeping stress under control, your body loses weight more easily.

Massages aren’t just luxurious and fun – they’re a necessary part of the wellness lifestyle to help you lose weight… by accident. So next time you think the gym is the only way to get into that little black dress, maybe you should relax?

Sarah Jenks, founder of TheBreathtakingBride.com, helps women fall in love with their bodies and lose weight through exploring the emotional reasons of why we eat. Sarah believes that you can talk about the benefits of broccoli until you are blue in the face, but real change won’t happen until we pull back the veil of fad diets and calorie counting to reveal the true cause of our over eating. Feeling lost about weight loss? Visit her website to download her free guide: “What to do if you feel fat, hopeless and ready to give up.”

Filed Under: Health & Wellness, Spa Treatments Tagged With: , , , , ,

8-Step Guide To Finding Your Soul Mate Massage Therapist

February 7, 2012 | By


When it comes to finding your soul mate, there are no rules. When it comes to finding your soul mate massage therapist, however, there are some rules that can be documented. I tapped the woman behind the brand new website Bite Size Wellness, Talia Tugman (totally crushing on her sexy wellness interface and awesome content!) and invited her to blog for you here.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, let’s hear Talia’s 8-step plan to finding the soul mate that matters (almost) the most!

By Talia Tugman

Whether you are a massage newbie or a longtime bodywork patron, you want the same thing: a great massage. The problem is not all massage therapists are created equal, so while sometimes you leave the spa feeling like you died and went to heaven, other times you are wishing you could hit rewind and get your $100 back.

I’ve had quite a few rubdowns in my lifetime, but some have been major pampering disappointments because I was matched with a therapist that didn’t suit my needs. With thousands of therapists out there you need to know a few tricks on how to get kneaded by the best. Here is some massage wisdom to help ensure your next rubdown will be done by the hands of a dream therapist… or maybe even your massage soul mate. (Yes, they do exist!).

1. Know What You Want

Before you head to the spa ask yourself why do you want bodywork done and what do you expect to gain from your time. Are you going for chronic aches and pains? Do you just need an hour of relaxation? Do you prefer deep-tissue sculpting or a lighter touch? Consider things such as cost, massage style, therapist experience and certifications, personality/attitude and so on. One time I asked the manager who he would schedule a massage with knowing my list of demands, which made my choice much easier and worked out in my favor. Being attentive of your expectations is the first step in scheduling a therapist that fits your needs, so you are not matched based on availability, but rather with the right masseuse. You wouldn’t want to walk in expecting a relaxing massage and leave with a deep tissue disaster. Know what you want and express that accordingly.

2. Don’t Swear off Men

It is important to identify your preferences. My massage past has been mostly full of women therapists, because I didn’t know if having male hands rubbing me down was appropriate and, frankly, I was a little shy. After one too many a complaint about how my massages felt more like back tickles than deep tissue grind downs, someone recommended I try a male therapist. Despite my modesty I tried it out and (oh my gosh) it changed my perspective completely. Typically they have a stronger touch that makes all the difference. So, Dan the Man, if you are reading this, thank you for changing my life. Well, my spa life at least.

3. Ask Your Friends

A good massage therapist is always in the eye of the beholder, but if you have a spa savvy friend it doesn’t hurt to ask for some initial guidance. If anything, your dear companion can suggest a massage studio that is clean and welcoming. He/she may also divulge some personal experiences with certain therapists. Word of mouth is typically the best way to make an informed decision prior to spending your hard earned cash.

4. Test the Waters

Even with your specific questions and recommendations at hand, part of the great therapist quest involves lying on the massage bed and crossing your fingers. You may hit a few duds before you strike gold, but this is all a part of the experience in finding a good therapist-client match. With that being said, if you strike out with one therapist, that doesn’t mean the entire spa is a no-go. Use this information to make better arrangements for your following visit. It is normal (and understandable) to tell the receptionist why you don’t want to reschedule with so-and-so in hopes that they will be able to suggest a better choice. Or ask for a “test” massage with a different therapist — a 10-minute trial that some spas offer. If, after three attempts, you still didn’t find your masseuse match then move on to a new location.

Testing-the-waters Tip from Spa Week: Have yourself the ultimate massage marathon of $50 treatments during Spa Week this spring, April 16-22!

5. Keep a List of the Good, the Bad and the Never Again

Nothing is worse than getting scheduled with “that therapist” again because you blanked on the name when you called to schedule. I keep a small business card in my wallet at all times where I write down the great and not-so-great therapists. When I head back to the spa, I’m then prepared to steer clear of those I’ve already tested out and deemed unsatisfactory. Mental lists are never enough, so write those names down!

6. Speak Up (and Not Behind their Backs)

The number one mistake I used to make was suffering in silence. Some massage therapists may have the magic touch, but that doesn’t mean they are skilled at mind reading. If you are writhing in pain (and doing the silent scream through the face rest) or thinking that you could give a better self-massage yourself, then you MUST inform your therapist. It may feel weird to chitchat in an environment that is library quiet; however, your dream therapist may be one knot release away from getting an A+. They just need to know what you’re thinking. Speak up pre-massage and during the session about your needs and goals. Also, say something to management if your massage was below satisfactory, despite your efforts to communicate your expectations.

7. Try a Longer Massage

Sometimes it takes bit longer to get what you need out of a massage session than the standard 60 minutes. A common phrase of mine is “it’s already over.” No one wants to feel like you were shortchanged due to time constraints. An extended session allows the therapist to get more acquainted with your body and its problem spots. This may be the answer to your therapist blues.

8. Tip Generously When You Find the Diamond in the Rough

Show your appreciation and it is sure to be expressed during your next rubdown! Once you have a favorite therapist pinned, don’t let them slip away. It will continue to be an enjoyable experience if your long searched for therapist knows they are the “chosen one.” Purchasing a monthly massage package is a great investment for your body once you have your match. My favorite is that they know me, the activities I do and what body aches keep creeping up. Often my therapist is telling me what the massage focus points will be without me even having to say a word. They are right on point. Now that’s a keeper!

The goal is to find a therapist that you trust and have professional chemistry with so you can fully embrace relaxation, which may take a little time being picky. Once you find a therapist that is off the charts amazing, you will know that your search was worth the wait and your body will appreciate your hunt for the best. The right massage therapist is right around the corner. Now off to the spa for you!

Talia Tugman lives in New York City with her nearly new husband. In an effort to be in touch with living a healthy lifestyle in a new city, Talia is sharing enlightened wellness living information with others served in bite size portions on her blog BiteSizeWellness.com.

 

Photos via, via, and via

 

Filed Under: Spas Tagged With: , , , , ,

Travel Tuesday: Aboard The Queen Mary for the Royal Spa Treatment

December 20, 2011 | By

"I AM a boat!"

I’m on a boat! We’ve heard of some pretty unique spa experiences, but a historic floating hotel tops the list. We’re excited to welcome The Queen Mary ship to the Spa Week Gift Card Program! The ship was named after one of the Queens of Britain (can you guess which one?) and offers an experience like no other for spa go-ers. Step back into time when you board this fully restored historic 1930s cruise liner. The Queen Mary used to carry high-society elite passengers all over the world. But alas she had to lay down her anchors and retire. Now she is permanently docked in the harbor of sunny Long Beach, California. Let’s take a look at her in all her glory!

There are 314 rooms – 305 standard staterooms and 9 suites. No two rooms are alike as they each feature retro Art Deco inspired design and decor. Accommodations include 11 dining options – 3 signature restaurants, 4 casual eateries, and 4 bars. Proving there’s something for everybody – there is a main hall filled with over a dozen shops for you to browse.

And what ship would be complete without a spa? The Queen Mary Spa offers a wide range of  services and treatments. These include facials, massages, manicures, pedicures, waxing and chiropractic services. The ship also provides a beautiful backdrop, and weddings are permitted on board. Why not visit the spa for special occasion hair and make-up on your big day? You may use your Spa & Wellness Gift Card by Spa Week to enjoy these packages:

The Queen’s Royal Secret – A combination of the two most popular individual services into one irresistibly wonderful experience. It includes a one hour massage of your choice and the European Nobility Facial. Spend two hours with our specialized therapists and find the secret to relaxation and beauty.

Princesses Royal Day of Beauty – Features a one hour massage, European Nobility Facial, Royal Body Polish, and Royal Bath. This three-hour spa body package is designed for the busy Princess looking for the finer things in life.

Queen For a Day – A five hour glamour experience, which includes a 1 1/2 hour massage, the European Nobility Facial, Royal Body Polish, the Queen’s Royal Bath, and special occasion make-up and hair up-do.

There are even spa packages for your prince!

Ever want to get a massage with a ghost? Well fun fact, the Queen Mary is considered one of the most haunted sites in all of the US. They’ve fully embraced the paranormal and offer haunted tours. Go ahead, we dare ya!

Queen Mary Spa
1126 Queens Highway
Long Beach , CA 90802
562.499.1754

Filed Under: Spas, Travel Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,