Pampering yourself- Have you done it?

I am thinking about treating myself to a day of pampering---at a day spa--- as a reward. I can't afford it but my Visa card can handle it. I have never had a massage before due to being embarrassed over theidea someone would see my body. I have had one facial and pedicure - but only once. Has anyone else treated themselves like this as a reward for the weight loss? I got a birthday coming up next month- so maybe it will be a gift from me to me Any suggestions on where to go and what to treat myself to? I was thinking a mud bath or some of the more exotic things might be a bit extreme for me. Any nice days spas to recommend? Maybe i should do this more regularly- not just as a birthday treat. Who knows?! Karen

Hi Karen, Yes, I did give myself rewards....for the first 50 lbs I got my teeth professional whitened, for the 75 lbs mark I got my nose pierced.....and so on.... Anyway, I highly recommend treating yourself. As a former hairstylist and now a spa-queen....a full body massage is a LOT more personal than I am comfortable with...but...just so you know....the parts of your body that they are not working are on covered up....if you decide to do a facial or something, I highly recommend a hand and foot massage...it makes my ENTIRE body relax. Remember NOT to book your spa app't in between a bunch of other stuff....you will feel very relaxed after and don't waste it....enjoy the feeling. I am not in your area so I can't recommend a spot... Enjoy!! RAE PS Remember to empty your bladder BEFORE your service....the relaxation will make you have to go....

What a great idea! Yes, definitely treat yourself. You deserve it! I had a full body massage one time. I was very tense the whole time but it was wonderful just the same. I was so nervous about being naked in front of another man. My husband wasn't able to attend with me for couples session. It was pretty neat. The guy was very nice. Very soft voice, relaxing. He just exhuberated calm and peace. It was an aroma therapy session so I chose the lavendar scents. We chatted somewhat cuz he was trying to relax me. Come to find out, he was blind! No kidding. I actually thought at first "what a great line". LOL. But it is true, he lost his sight in an accident. Anyway, it was great and I would love to do it again. I would recommend him but he is in Pismo Beach, California. Just a bit too far for a day spa. I don't know of any here in MD. But I'll try to ask around. Enjoy treating yourself. Hugs, Robin Hugs, Robin

Suggestions are definitely needed. I went to Spa by Debbie in Perry Hall a few years ago and paid lots of bucks for facial, skin products, pedicure, manicure, and hair color/style- but i didn't really feel welcomed there. Maybe it was just my fat psychology taking over my mind but it just didn't feel right- the way the staff interacted with me. I definitely want to avoid the cliqish, snobby spas as they are getting good money and should be treating the client like a queen (not a peasant). What i really want is a day spa/salon that has some really EXPERT hairstylists- as I do not feel i have ever gotten a professional cut- even when I paid big money. Please let me know of any expert stylists you know. They are the type that look at your face and features and personality and suggest a cut, color, style that compliments you best. Anyone been to "about faces" in Towson? i guess I am going to have to do some research on these spa/salons and try something different. Karen

Hey Karen - Well, having never been to a spa, I can only tell you about the ones where I purchased gift cards. I used to buy my ex-SIL gift certificates at About Faces in Kenilworth. Pre-op, I wouldn't have set foot in there myself, but now, I don't know. Maybe it was my fat persona thinking, but they seemed kind of snobby to me. There's also Spa on the Avenue on the Avenue at White Marsh near Pier One. Keep thinking I want to go, but never do. As for hairs stylists, I go to Saverio's, in Perry Hall in the Joppa Corner Shopping Center, right behind the Double T Diner. The owner, John, has been doing my hair since I was 15 - about 6 years!!! hehehehe!!! Seriously, he does my hair, my brother's and my niece and nephew's. John is wonderful - if he ever retires, I am in serious trouble. He saw me when I was experiencing hair loss from wls, and finally talked me into a shorter cut, which was actually a little shorter than it is now. When I ask him about a particular hairstyle, he's really good at assessing it for me - is my hair too thin, too fine, etc. He'll look and feel your hair to determine what style would be best. I love John and his whole gang - believe me, for me to be going to someone for 24 years says a lot. Give him a call at 410-256-7004, and you can tell him I sent you. I promise he'll treat you right! Sorry we didn't get to chat at the support group meeting. Faye said you were stuck in traffic. Annabanana is the sweetest little thing - not a lick of Faye in her, though!!! She looks exactly like her Daddy! No harm there, though, he's a good looking man and seems really great! Hope to see you at October's meeting! Teresa

Hi Karen, Well...when I lost my first 50lbs I treated myself to a new car (actually didn't need the excuse but it justified the decision more in my mind). I have gotten facials and pedicures on a fairly regular basis for the past few years. They're great! I highly recommend them. I go to a place in Columbia (that may be a little far for you) but I'm sure there's a nice place on your side of town. As for massages or other body treatments, I can't say because I've always been too self conscious about my body to expose myself. I know of a woman who is very professional and she comes to your house. My sister has treated my Mom to these massages a few times and my Mom loves them! I was here while she gave my Mom a massage (although I tried to make myself scarce so I wouldn't ruin the mood), and she is very discreet and covers the victim...er, client with a sheet. If you'd like I can email you her name and number (I don't think OH goes for advertisements). HTH Take Care, Terry

Hi Karen, Sounds like a great way to celebrate the new you! There is a place called "Robert Andrews" in Waugh Chapel on Rt 3 just South of Rt 97 (near Bowie and Crofton) that might be just what you're looking for. My Husband and Son gave me gift certificates for a massage and facial and I really enjoyed myself. They have a whole menu of services...wrap this, massage that, color this, cut that, etc... I'm sure you'll find something you'd like to try. You can also ask for what you want in the way of the people doing the service. I would NEVER be comfortable with a male massaging any part of me nor one of those 20 something girls who are just too beautiful, so I asked for an older lady. I was so much more comfortable. Good luck and I hope you enjoy yourself Sue