Robin Prastien
Often people see an ad, talk to a friend or read about a spa in a magazine and come to me sold on a specific place. Each of these places is wonderful in its own way. But my job as an expert is to ask the important questions and ensure that we’ve thought everything through.
The first question I always ask is: what is your goal? Are you simply looking to decompress? Do you have a specific issue or problem such as weight loss or depression that you’re trying to address? Are you viewing this as an opportunity to bond with friends or family?
Each of those answers will drive you towards a different type of spa experience. For example, you might want to de-stress by simply laying on a beach, getting massages and other treatments and enjoying cocktails without ever leaving the resort. On the other hand, if you have a serious issue you want to deal with, you may want a spa that offers personal consultations along with classes and lectures.
Time constraints are another determining factor. If you’re really intent on making changes in your life, it’s important to allot enough time to do it properly. When time is short, often I can suggest a nearby spa within driving distance so you don’t spend a lot of time going in and out of airports. And if you do decide to fly, we can look for destinations that have convenient non-stop flights to minimize your travel time.
When I lived in New York City, I went to a health club and I used to watch a woman doing reps with ten-pound weights, flailing her arms around. I used a one-pound weight but focused on using my muscle. Guess who was getting better conditioning? By focusing on what you are trying to accomplish, I can arrange the wellness retreat that is right for you.