As health and wellness continue to grow in importance, more people are taking advantage of the services offered by their local day spas. People who have never been to a day spa may wonder what to expect and may also want to know how a day spa differs from a medical spa. The answer is clear! Day spas are all about relaxation and rejuvenation. Many people consider a day spa to be a place to go to unwind and forget your worries for a few hours or even the entire day. In fact, according to Healthline, 59% of women who had a facial massage reported feeling fresh and rejuvenated. And that's just after one treatment!

Unlike a medical spa that offers injections and intense body treatments, a day spa is there for pampering. Depending on the facility, you can expect to enjoy services like massage, facials, hydrotherapy, and other restorative body treatments. There may be a steam room, sauna, or pool that are also available for use during your visit. Day spas are geared toward comfort, and every need will be addressed while you are there. Day spas often partner with nearby restaurants or have their own in-house lunch options, so you usually don't have to worry about food while you're there.

In addition to restorative treatments, you can also unwind in the spa facilities. If you are feeling burned out and in need of some serious pampering, a day at the spa may be just the thing! Visiting a day spa for the first time? Here's what to expect.

Checking In at the Spa

For your first visit, it's important to arrive a little early. You'll need to complete some paperwork prior to receiving any services. If you're visiting a full-service spa that has pools, saunas, and whirlpools, you'll want to get there well before your first treatment in order to enjoy these amenities.

At check-in, you'll be given a robe and slippers to wear during your visit. Remember that for any treatments you should disrobe to your level of comfort. Many people enjoy receiving their treatments fully nude, while others like to keep their undergarments on. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable, so do what you want to do! You'll also be assigned a locker to store your belongings. It's advisable to leave any jewelry at home rather than storing it in your locker.

Relaxing Before the Treatment

Before your treatment, you'll be directed to a relaxation room. This is the space where your esthetician or massage therapist will come to get you for your treatment. If you're using other amenities, be sure to be back in the relaxation area a few minutes before your scheduled service. These rooms typically offer comfortable seating, magazines, light snacks, tea, and even wine or champagne.

Getting the Treatment

Before your treatment begins, your service provider will ask you a few questions about your preferences and what you hope to get out of the treatment. Don't be shy! This is also a good time to bring up any issues that you may have. For example, if you're getting a massage and have some soreness in your calf, you'll want to bring that issue to their attention so they can help. Likewise, if there's any area on your body that you would like them to avoid, you can mention it now.

Some people enjoy chatting with their massage therapist or esthetician during their treatments, others like to remain silent, and most people fall somewhere in between. A good therapist will follow your lead and talk more or less based on the cues that you provide. Don't be afraid to speak up if there's anything that they can do to improve your experience. If your face cradle isn't positioned properly, or you'd like a blanket or bolster, just let them know. You're the most important person at a day spa and the staff is there to meet your needs!

Spending the day at the spa is a wonderful and effective way to recharge your batteries. Many people love to spend a full day at their favorite spa once a month, while for others it's a special treat. Visiting a spa is a fantastic way to take a break from the daily stresses that we all face. Massage, hydrotherapy, facials, and mud treatments are all effective ways to increase your well-being. Don't wait until you're fully stressed out to take some time out for yourself. A day at the spa is just what the doctor ordered. Are you ready for your first day spa experience? Book your appointment today and let the relaxation begin!