Sleeping at the Spa

Q. I have a lot of trouble falling asleep. Will a massage help me or cause me to be more awake after?

A. Massage in general is relaxing but some elements of massage do increase circulation. There is a new trend in the spa industry catering to clients who suffer from insomnia or other sleep disorders. In these modern times most of us over fill our schedules and we often rob from our sleep time to add to our work time. In Europe and Asia many corporations allow their employees to take 15 - 20 minute power naps. Results show it increases afternoon productivity. The spa industry has jumped on board that concept and many spa services are being introduced that really do help with sleep issues. Even if you can’t find a spa that’s on board with this new idea you can use what they do offer in ways that will help you. First, let me fill you in about some new services that are specifically targeted to help induce better sleep. Spas use techniques that include the use of essential oils to help you relax. Most are a blend of chamomile and lavender. The scent from the oils stay with you even when you leave the spa and once relaxed you can go home and go right to bed and to sleep. Massage that is geared to help you sleep will concentrate on arms and legs, scalp and the face. The back is given a little less attention. Avoiding the trunk of the body helps keep the metabolizing effects of massage at a minimum. Many people have trouble sleeping due to leg pain or jumpiness or pain in the shoulder area. Massage of these parts directly before sleep can help. Massage of the scalp, head, shoulders and face is very relaxing and calming. When you add the essential oil element these services help a great deal. Jumping on board with the power nap trend many big city spas offer relaxation massage that cuts some of the massage time and instead offers the last 15 to 20 minutes for a power nap. The client is gently awakened after the nap time is over and allowed to sit in a peaceful waiting area, drink some juice or water and gradually wake up before leaving. My spa will soon offer what we will call the Night Cap, a relaxing massage given at the end of the day that will allow our clients to go home and get a great night’s sleep. We will also be offering the Cat Nap massage which will allow for the 15 or 20 minute power nap and recovery. If your spa of choice does not offer services like these you can create it yourself. You can opt for the last appointment of the day and request less time on your back with more time on your legs, arms, neck and face. If they don’t have essential oil bring your own. You can give yourself a power nap service too, after your massage take a 15 minute power nap in you’re warmed up car. Just be sure you are in a safe area to run your car so you won’t risk carbon dioxide issues. You can also bring home some great essential oil. We sell it at our spa and it’s very popular. Then you can have your husband or wife or one of your children give you a simple relaxing massage to the feet, hands and face and then slide off to sleep. Return the favor the next night, it’s Christmas after all... the season of giving.