Memorial Day weekend is almost here, but there’s still just enough time to plan a last-minute getaway—assuming you haven’t done so already. Consider this: the best use of those three days might be to spend them at a spa, particularly if you select treatments that emphasize relaxation and renewal. Trends like the increasingly popular forest bathing are geared toward helping you center yourself in a handful of hours, whether you practice your mindfulness in the woods or on a massage bed. Even traditional facials and massages will leave you glowing and noticeably less stressed. Whichever you choose, you really can’t go wrong.
Below, eight options that will leave you fully recharged for the week.
Nakierie Treatment ($320; 100 minutes) In the mood to create an aura of self-love and balanced thoughts? The Nakieri treatment promises to help you do both. Your spa therapist will begin by using an incense called Copal to promote mindfulness. From there, you pick your path: a hydrating Hakali massage or the Punta Mita treatment. The former incorporates a warm meringue made from cactus and pulque, while the latter uses tequila and sage oil. (Personally, I’d opt for the latter.)
Tatcha Crystal Luminous Facial ($285; 90 minutes) While I’d normally point you toward body treatments over facials when it comes to relaxation, I’ll make an exception for this pick from The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, which will impart the kind of enviable glow that signals you’ve just returned from vacation. The spa uses a potent combination of products from Tatcha: rice enzymes powders, hydration masks and renewal creams to brighten the face and nourish the body. To help you unwind, there are acupressure techniques, warm chamomile towels and a facial massager specifically designed to illuminate your complexion.
Island Bliss Ritual ($260; 100 minutes) Director of Island Discoveries Kristin Palant recommends this option if you’re looking “to send the body and mind on a journey around the world.” To be a little more specific about it, you’ll enjoy a customized massage, followed by an exfoliation with Fijian cane sugar and essential oils. Finish off with hydrating bath—the spa swaps out water for milk, which leaves skin revitalized and smooth.
Lavender & Vine Treatment ($250; 90 minutes) If your weekend travels take you to Napa, you might as well take full advantage of your surroundings. As the name suggests, Lavender & Vine begins with soothing lavender oil to loosen tight muscles. It’s followed by a gommage exfoliation—this one uses powdered lavender blossoms, grape skins and honey. Once your skin has been fully renewed, you’re slathered in a soothing layer of the spa’s lavender honey cream.
Ritual and Ceremony of Siam ($230; 80 Minutes) “The most popular treatments tend to be those that feature fresh, natural products,” says Claire Seneca, director of The Ritz-Carlton Spa New Orleans. Book this one, and you’ll receive a fragrant papaya scrub, which helps gently resurface the skin. I’m told that the Balinese massage that follows is meant to immerse spa visitors in a world of tranquility. It’s a series of pulling and stretching movements, performed so that your body ends up fully relaxing.
Watsu Massage ($190; 60 minutes) Make your way to the villas at the One&Only Spa for a view of the ocean and a dip in the Watsu pool. The treatment you want is a Shiatsu in-water experience, which is performed while you float in a mineralized pool, supported by your massage therapist. It’s more calming than it sounds; the water lulls you to sleep while your pressure points, joints and muscles are kneaded in a series of rhythmic, flowing movements.
Mauka to Makai Treatment ($145; 50 minutes) “Mauka to Makai” is so named for its use of ingredients from the mountains to the sea. Luxuriate in a warm body mask packed with minerals, seaweed and bentonite clay. You’re tucked inside a cocoon to help the ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin and work their rejuvenating magic. Afterward, ask for the Himalayan Salt Spa experience; it’s complimentary for 25 minutes with any treatment purchase.
Forest Bathing ($110; 120 minutes) Forest bathing is exactly what it sounds like—albeit with a luxury upgrade. The treatment takes place outdoors, geared toward guests who want their treatments with a side of nature. There’s a focus on mindfulness that’s meant to reduce stress, the end goal of any weekend spa getaway. You’ll notice an abundance of botanical ingredients; the cleansing is done with plant-derived lactic acid and then exfoliated with white peat enzymes and berries. There’s also a mushroom wrap and plant ionizing mist, finished off with a berry oil massage. It’s not a bad way to experience the great outdoors.
Extend your glow with these high-tech beauty gadgets and a $195 serum from La Prairie. Follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Forbes.
