Spa Etiquette

By Tanya M. Williams, L.M.B.T.

Dear Tanya, I want to treat my grandmother to a day at the spa for her 75th birthday. What kinds of treatments would be appropriate?

A: Not knowing the spa you've got in mind or the general health of your grandmother, I would recommend a Swedish massage and perhaps a gentle, moisturizing facial. Scrubs and deeper massage modalities might be too stimulating and intense for her, since our skin becomes more thin and delicate as we age and our bones often become more fragile. Contact some spas in your area to see if they have any treatments or packages designed for this age group. If she's in good health and is reasonably nimble, a soak or a wrap might be appropriate, although if she's very modest, she may find these treatments too revealing. If modesty is a concern, you might try hand and foot treatments, or head massage. Reflexology, which works the reflex areas of the feet, hands, and sometimes the ears would also be an excellent choice, and she wouldn't have to remove any clothing. If you'll be making the appointment(s), I'd recommend requesting a therapist who has experience working with seniors. Getting the right practitioner will make her experience extraordinary.

Send me your spa etiquette questions! Email Tanya at: editorial@healinglifestyles.com

March/April 2006