Taking a Break

So much to do, so little time …

There’s daily work, home, school and volunteer responsibilities. School and athletic clubs are in full steam. The has a number of activities for children and adults. The outdoors beckons to the adventurous with skiing, sledding, ice fishing and snow shoeing.

In addition to all that, we’ve recently had the Packers Super Bowl excitement and now we’re getting ready for Valentine’s Day – making cupcakes and valentines, preparing for date night.

Sometimes, though, we all need some time to not do anything.

Recently, I had the good fortune to spend a weekend away with some girlfriends at a Wisconsin resort. Although we had grand plans to be active and sightsee, we never left the hotel, kept hostage by the calm atmosphere, soothing spa treatments, and blanket of snow outside.

Re-entry to the real world was difficult. As my friend said, “It’s nice to know you’re needed!”

Seeking to import some of that spa calm into my daily life, I remembered that Waukesha was once known as a resort town, famous for its "healing waters" and spa atmosphere.

Waukesha isn’t a resort town anymore but pockets of "spa" activity still exist. To see what’s available, I visited four local spas. This is not an endorsement of any spa in particular or a comprehensive list, just a short overview of some services in the area.

Signature Salon & Spa, 1424 Big Bend Rd., offers spa services such as massages, facials, body treatments and wraps, manicures and pedicures, waxing and makeup, in addition to their hair services.

Serenity Day Spa,2120-D E. Moreland Blvd., offers massage therapy, body treatments and wraps, skin therapy and facials, manicures and pedicures, waxing and cosmetic services. They also offer an aromatherapy whirlpool mineral bath.

Dayspring Spa & Wellness Center, 124 E. St. Paul Ave., offers natural health care, anti-aging, weight loss, de-stress and detoxifying services using biofeedback, massage therapies, acupuncture, nutritional and hormonal balancing, an infrared sauna, and an ion foot bath.

The Spa at West Wood,  2900 Golf Road, is open to non-members (at an additional cost) and offers massage therapy, aromatherapy, body treatments, facials, waxing, manicures and pedicures. The spa also offers services customized for men.

Here are a few tips to choose a spa:

1. Ask your friends and family for recommendations. Keep in mind, though, that what works for one person may not work for another.
2. Know your budget and what you’re comfortable paying. If this is going to be a once-a-year splurge, budget your time and money accordingly.
3. Compare prices. Take into account the length of time for the service and the experience of the service provider. Know what you’re paying for.
4. If you have sensitive skin or medical concerns, talk to spa personnel about which products they use and about any medical concerns you may have.
5. Don’t rely on the Internet for your sole information about a spa. Check out the places yourself, either by phone or in person, before making a commitment. Some place may just feel right and another may not.

One last note, for anyone who may be thinking that a spa treatment would make a great gift for Valentine’s Day: Let your significant other choose the place and, more importantly, don’t tell them they look like they need a spa day!