Whether it’s your regular routine or your favourite gift to receive on Valentines Day, a visit to a salon or spa can truly elevate your look and mood. A professional haircut, mani-pedi or massage is more than a pleasant indulgence. Particularly in the deep freeze of winter, nine-to-fivers practically melt with relief when their feet submerge in warm saltwater. A hot blow-dryer blows troubles away. And after a battleground of traffic, snow and sleet, a lavender-scented steam room feels vital.
It takes special people to create a relaxing, soothing, and caring environment to put clients at ease and ensure a pleasant experience. Mind & Body Spa is a brand new facility in Burlington that offers a range of treatments, most notably head massages. The job is “not just about washing hair and doing massage,” says Manager Nancy Le. “It’s about giving good energy. You transfer your good energy to people and take their stress away.”
Halton region boasts a wealth of world-class salons and spas whose treatments relax, beautify, and invigorate. Don’t deprive yourself of these gifts from the wellness gods:
Manicure
Well-groomed nails are a small but important aspect of a person’s self image. Nails that look neat, clean and pretty are a great confidence boost… and that’s just the end result. The ritual of sitting still while someone nurtures your hands offers a healthy dose of relaxation and pampering. A good manicurist will also massage the hands, which improves circulation and flexibility, eases stiffness, and feels divine.
Pedicure
There’s something inherently soothing about foot-focused treatments. Our feet carry our full weight, day in and day out, so there’s tremendous pleasure in sitting in a massage chair, soaking your feet in warm water, and relaxing while the pedicurist exfoliates, clips, files, buffs, and applies polish.
A lovely foot massage with scented lotion is part of the experience. Writer’s note: I’m very ticklish and have to bite my lip during pedicures, but sometimes a loud giggle escapes. I’ve managed not to kick, so far…
A professional hairdo
Hair stylists don’t just cut hair. They listen, advise, and tailor a look that aligns with how a person wants to feel or be seen. Changing someone’s appearance is a delicate task. In fact, social anthropologist Grant McCracken compares hairstyling to “bomb disposal work” in his acclaimed book, Big Hair.
Transformations happen in salons. A trim, blowout, or altogether new look can have a powerful impact on a client’s mood and self-confidence. There’s nothing quite like it, especially during periods of stress or transition.
Massage
Massage is an immediate form of stress relief. It often features low lighting, the fragrance of essential oils, soothing music, and the gift of human touch. Even a single session can reduce muscle tension in the entire body, lower cortisol (the stress hormone), and promote better sleep.
Head massage originated in Asia but is gaining momentum in Canada. It involves a deluxe hair wash, scalp massage, and the massage extends to the face, neck, shoulders and neck. “Honestly, most people fall asleep,” says Jesus Rojas, Owner of Mind & Body Spa. “It’s our top service for relaxation.”
Facial
A facial involves gentle cleansing, exfoliation, and facial massage to increase circulation and support skin health. Aside from a healthy glow, this treatment delivers big psychological perks. Being cared for in a calm, sensory-rich environment provides an emotional reset that can boost feelings of self-worth. Everyone needs a little nurturing, though we don’t always realize we’re missing it until it happens.
Treating your body like a precious object is worth every penny, because the benefits radiate to your entire well-being. In the words of Le, “Leave your troubles at the door and let us take care of your soul.”
By Michelle Morra
