Are Spa Treatments A Luxury?
Like a lot of other people, I'm trying to be more careful about my spending. So I just went through my credit card bills looking for things to cut. The two things that jumped out at me as substantial "discretionary" spending were books and massage. So, I've cut back on books by making friends with the local librarian. But I'm still budgeting for a massage every two weeks. To me, it's not a luxury. It's taking care of my health.
What I've found from hard experience is regular massage has substantial health benefits. If I put it off until I'm hurting, then my body is a mess and it actually takes more treatments to get back to normal.
Here's how I'm coping: I'm spending my spa dollars at a small local spa with affordable prices ($80 for a 75-minute massage). I work with one or two therapists who really know me and my body. It's not as exciting as checking out a new place, but I love the relationship I've developed with these therapists, and I know I'll have a good experience. So my massage dollars are never wasted.
How about you? Are spa treatments a luxury you're cutting back on? Or something that's part of the monthly budget?
Hi Anitra – I don’t get “regular” massages or others treatments, so I can’t say I’ve really cut them out of my budget.
I guess I’m among the school of “irregular” treatment schedules…and these I have not cut. For example – I always get a spa treatment when I travel to a place that has an interesting spa. In fact, I look to travel to locations where I can check out a new place. Or if I’m reviewing a spa that is new to me, I’ll sometimes spring for a treatment. But every once in a while, I’ll just need a massage fix and when I do, I go for it. So to me, spa treatments are not a luxury – but a necessity. There are so many things i’d rather cut out of the budget in favor of getting a good massage.
But I like your tactic! I just may have to become a regular someday!
Anitra, I’d have to say that yes, some spa treatments are luxuries. But when it comes to a massage, the answer is, “No.”
I agree with you on how good a proper massage can be for one’s overall health. It very much falls into the preventative health are in my mind, though it certainly has a immediate results as well.
I think you are right on target when by having a therapists who know you. Developing a good relationship is key to a good experience.
Hi Anita,
Loved your article. It has been a warming experience as a massage therapist and business owner to see more and more people choosing to maintain their wellness by coming in for massage on a regular basis. I love what I do as an LMT and as a business owner, I’ve done my best to make massage, yoga and acupuncture an option for everyone…especially during these stressful times. Please check out my website for more information about our services. If you are ever in Maine, I would welcome you to Soma Massage & Wellness for a session! Our signauture massage is $39.95. Peace, Julie
A good way to cut back and continue to receive massage is to find a good massage school that offers student massages to the public. You can ask for an advanced student who is getting ready to start working at a pricey day spa. You won’t get any amentities, just a good massage for under $40.