Heading to a spa for the first time and the idea of going is making you anxious? You might be wondering, what to expect when you walk through the doors, which type of massage should you go for, do you have to strip down completely or is it a good idea to have a meal before getting there and so on. Worry not, because you can literally relax once you’re there!

Since you’ve got so many questions popping up in your head, we’ve got you a foolproof guide on how to spa, like a pro!

Let’s take a look!

Before you get to the spa…

• First things first! Make sure you choose the right spa and the one that fits all your needs. How do you choose the right spa? Well, here are a few things that you might need to take into account. Look out for welcoming and nurturing staff, right from the manager at the front desk to the massage therapists and of course, the spa therapies offered, whether they are exactly what you need.
• Make sure you book your appointment a day in advance as appointments tend to fill up quickly and while you are at it be sure to ask for a male or female therapist as per your preference, not when you arrive, as it’s likely too late to make a swap on the day of your appointment.
• If you’ve booked any treatments that involve exfoliation, do not shave less than 24 hours or more before your appointment.
• Yes, you can have a meal and your dose of caffeine at least an hour before you get to the spa but make sure you go easy with a small portion. You don’t want to be all jittery from caffeine and a full stomach as it’ll be difficult for you to relax.
• Skip the perfume! Yup, you read right. If you’re doing anything involving aromatherapy, the fragrance of your perfume may overpower the essential oils, depriving you of their benefit.
• Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your appointment so that you can be familiar with the spa’s environment.

Once you’re there…..

• Once you arrive you’ll definitely want to take a tour around the spa to see how relaxing the ambiance is or how clean the spa rooms are. Don’t shy away from asking the manager or staff at the front desk.
• You will have to fill out some paperwork before the massage so that the therapist has a heads-up about any medical conditions etc. Be sure to note down any products, essential oils or even natural ingredients that you might be allergic to, in case you feel claustrophobic, sensitive skin and any medical conditions.
• If you’ve not selected your treatments or the type of massage you want at the time of booking an appointment you can do it once you’re there. A Swedish massage is the best for a first-timer, as it will help you relax and get rid of muscle tension. A facial will deep cleanse your face and a body wrap or scrub will exfoliate and soften your skin. If you are still confused about which massage you should go for, worry not, as the staff or manager at the front desk will guide you in choosing the right therapy for you.
• Once you’re done with all the formalities the therapist will guide you to the spa room and give you a robe, disposable undergarments, slippers, and a towel.
• Be prepared to strip down. This is usually in the case of wraps, massages and scrubs. But even if you’re having a facial, the therapist may just ask you to remove your top so that she can massage creams on your neck and chest. Don’t worry too much as they will cover you with a towel throughout your service to preserve your modesty and not leave you lying there completely naked.
• Then the therapist will start off by giving you a relaxing foot soak followed by the treatment of your choice.
• Before the therapy starts, take the time to go over any particular areas of the body you’d like to target such as tense shoulders, tightness in your back or skin areas you’d like to clear up, so that the therapist can use the right amount of pressure and customize your treatment as much as possible.

Now it’s time to enjoy your first spa experience….

Now that you are all ready, the only thing left for you to do is RELAXXX! Take slow, deep breaths and just let go of all your worries. Communicate with your therapist, if you have any feedback on the amount of pressure, any pain or even temperature of the room, do let them know.

Your massage would generally go on for about 60 to 90 minutes depending on what you have chosen, followed by a facial, body scrub or wrap if you’ve chosen any once again.

After you’re done….

• Once your treatments and services are over take some time to slowly rejuvenate, let the essential oils used soak in, rather than rushing off. Use the spa amenities, take a refreshing shower.
• After the entire process, the therapist will serve you some energizing green tea and some date fruit.
• Drink plenty of water after your therapy drains out any toxins and avoid a vigorous workout.

Now that you know what it’s going to be like, sit back, relax and unplug from the chaos of the world.