Are you one of those people who go to the spa only for special occasions or when you have a some extra money on hand? Perhaps because you hold the perception that spas are meant for superficial grooming benefits only, or as a luxury pastime for the rich and famous. But we’ve discovered that this isn’t the case at all. Find here a list of 10 reasons to list spa visits right under your basic needs when making your monthly budget. Yes, it’s time to reconsider that notion and prioritise me-time at the spa the same way you would prioritise your hair appointments or gym sessions.
1. Relaxation and stress management
There are four main components to a successful wellness routine: Exercise, nutrition, spiritual practice and last (but certainly not least); rest and relaxation. It’s not news how badly stress takes a toll on our bodies. And though it’s a tall order to live stress-free in Nairobi, we can at least do what it takes to reduce it’s effects. A visit to the spa will always offer a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle and help you refocus yourself.
2. It’s great for your health
Spa treatments are not just about pretty nails and other superfluous luxuries, many of them offer remarkable health benefits. Treatments such as body scrubs and massages have been proven to boost immunity, remove toxins from the body, improve blood circulation and reduce blood pressure. And don’t forget, healthy people tend to be happier and live longer.
3. Improves sleep patterns
Do you remember the last time you had some wonderful, woke-up-feeling-like-a-million-bucks sleep? What would you give to feel that rested more often? Well, it could be as easy as scheduling regular spa-day. The relaxation benefits of spa treatments, particularly massage, will help you to sleep better at night.
4.Improves breathing
Do you find that your colds tend to linger longer than expected? Well, next time you find yourself reaching for a tissue to blow your already raw nose with, consider seeking some effective, relief at the spa, free of side-effects. Spending some time in the sauna and other heat related treatments such as a ‘Rasul Chamber’, can do wonders for your respiratory system.
5.Learn more about your skin and body
Going to a spa gives you the opportunity to have your skin cared for by a skin care professional who will be able to make a skin diagnosis, address your skin concerns with specific treatments and give you advice on how to care for your skin’s needs and what ingredients are most suited to its needs. If you’re over 25 and you want to love the skin you’re in, make this a regular appointment!
6. Anti-ageing benefits
If we can’t stop time, we can at least try to slow it down! Taking proper care of one’s skin has a direct impact on its ageing process. Treatments like facials and body masks are great for skin rejuvenation, while many spas offer specific anti-ageing skin treatments. Make these a regular thing and wear sunscreen daily. The older You will thank you!
7. Helps with pain management
Those with muscular pain issues can benefit greatly from treatments offered at spas. Doctors recommend massage therapy to people with arthritis and nerve problems, and oncology massage has become a growing area of study for pain management in cancer patients. However it doesn’t need to be severe or chronic to consider a visit to the spa; a massage is also great for mild aches and pains, which we all get from time to time.
8. Relieves PMS
Studies have shown that massages reduce a variety of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) symptoms such as cramps, water retention and mood swings. Not forgetting how helpful the relaxation benefits of spas can be to women at that time of the month. If your partner is not biting into the idea of a spa-cation, this is the card to pull!
9. Gives you a chance to connect with loved ones
Spas are a wonderful place to spend quality time with your loved ones. Try a destination spa if you’re looking to rekindle your romance, or arrange a girlfriend getaway for the ultimate fun experience. Mother’s Day is just around the corner, a spa-day for you and Mum would be a treat for her and a chance for you both to spend some quality time together.
10. Someone takes care of you…for a change
Lastly, if you’re often so tired that even applying a face mask a few times a week seems impossible, the spa was made just for you. Making regular appointments to a spa takes care of your beauty chores and has you looking your best with the least amount of effort. Just sit back, relax and let someone else pamper you!
Words: Wambui Muriithi Illustration: Nzilani Simu