"People need the spa experience now more than ever and the slow economic times present great opportunities for spa lovers," said Terry. "As consumers become increasingly discerning about how to spend their discretionary dollars, businesses are looking for ways to enhance the value of the spa experience, while rewarding and incentivizing their loyal customers. It's a great time to score a deal on relaxation!"
With current projects spanning the globe from
— Capitalize on Slow Times — look for the best deals between Monday and Thursday when business levels are lowest.
— Buy Local — your small day spas and nail salons are great for manicures and pedicures, and while you probably won't lounge around in a robe and slippers while sipping tea, you'll still leave with great looking nails.
— Massaging Massage Costs — there are cost-effective ways to find the perfect rub. With locations throughout
— Bundles of Joy — many day spas offer price breaks on treatment "bundles." For example, buy 10 massages, get one free, or buy three services or more in a day and receive 10-15 percent off.
— Education on Wheels — when staying in urban hotels, Terry likes to hop in a cab and ask the driver where to find the best spas. She has been pleasantly surprised with the recommendations, particularly those found in
— Ommm Online — spa Web sites and e-mail blasts offer last-minute deals on products and services as well as monthly specials, so be sure to sign up. Blogs, e-letters and webinars also provide great tips and techniques for coping with stress and dealing with the pressures of daily life.
You may also want to opt for creating a spa-like living environment at home. Sure, it's not as glamorous and you have to do the work, though it's convenient and free …
— Raid the Pantry — Terry has the perfect recipe for creating your own scrub. Take some sugar in the raw and mix it with honey (honey helps moisturize and calm the skin). After reaching a consistency that you like, put a couple drops of essential oil in the mix (Terry loves orange). Microwave for five seconds and take it into the shower with you. Use your hands to slather it all over and rinse. Don't worry; the shower's steam will help the honey become less sticky.
— Take a Breather — when you feel stress or anxiety coming on, disconnect from the world for a few minutes with this exercise: Close your eyes and take in a long, deep, belly breath. As you inhale, visualize fresh oxygen flowing through your nose and filling your lungs. Then use your diaphragm to push out the air and, while doing so, imagine all stress, tension and impurities being forced out. Try this ten times and you'll be enveloped in calm.
— Yoga on the Cheap — yoga cards provide excellent tips for those who want to do it themselves. Check out "OM Yoga Flash Cards" by
— BlackBerry Massage — take a break from the electronics and give yourself a quick hand massage to increase circulation and lessen fatigue. You will be surprised at how much tension the palms of your hands hold and how much better you feel after this quick rub.
— Cuticle Coaching — nice nails don't always require money. While in the shower, push back your cuticles while the skin is softer because of the water and heat. Keep a nail file in your purse for shaping while commuting on the train or sitting in traffic (though, don't attempt while driving!) In addition, always have a clear polish on hand to keep nails looking clean and well-groomed.
— Living the Spa Lifestyle Every Day — mix Epsom salts with a couple drops of your favorite essential oil for a great and inexpensive way to enjoy a therapeutic relaxing bath. Need to lift your spirits? Focus on your favorite piece of art or photograph while practicing deep breathing techniques. Have extra facial moisturizers lying around with only a few drops left? Don't throw them out, instead use as a quick hand treatment.
About
SOURCE Creative Spa Concepts