#90 Don't Like Spas

Uncomfortable
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It's not that I dislike spas, really.  I just don't feel comfortable. Spas sound indulgent and I feel like I should spend my money in better ways. But when my daughter and I were looking for some fun ideas to celebrate her birthday together, one of Heidi's thoughts was facials at a nearby spa.  Suddenly I was giddy! This was something we both could do.  It's recommended that I not have manicures or pedicures during chemo, but at Viva Day spa, I could have a facial designed to my needs, using organic products.  And there was no guilt of indulgence. This was Heidi's birthday treat...that I just got to join in on. Yay!

Pre-Spa Nerves

​But I felt anxious the day before.  Do I walk in wearing my wig, even though It will have to come off. Same with make up... but I look scary without.  So, I put on a scarf and light make up and headed out on Sunday.

Heidi and I sat in this round calming room, sipping cucumber water as we filled out paperwork.  Yikes. Who would I even be dealing with?  In a private room I hoped? Stephanie came out and introduced herself to me. She was young and relaxed. I felt at ease.

The Room
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​The room could have seemed intimidating after months of examining/operating tables and equipment. But there was calming music and some peaceful artwork.  I wasn't sure if Stephanie had had time to read my requests.  

I told her I couldn't do the full treatment.  I told her I was undergoing chemo and I hoped she didn't mind dealing with a bald head, because I was dying to take my scarf off.  "No problem, " She said gently. "This is going to be all about love and healing." She smiled with enthusiasm and sincerity.  I loved her.

​Ahhhh!

She left the room and I settled into the heavenly cushioned bed.  The soothing music played  and Stephanie spoke softly making sure I was okay.  For an hour she used endless products with so many lovely scents. She worked those warm oils into my face, shoulders, hands and yes my head!  It was odd to suddenly have my head exposed to someone, but I quickly sunk down deeper into the cushions and felt like a trusting child.  Her fingers smoothed every worry from my brain. When the hour ended, Stephanie gently asked how I was feeling.

I could  barley open my eyes. I sighed.  "You have magic fingers... I laughed softly. "No, healing hands."  She smiled, back.  "Well, I did it all. I even pulled out my crystals and I prayed."  I didn't even know what that exactly meant, but it worked! "Thanks for dealing with my head. That felt wonderful."  
"You're so brave." She answered.  "You're going to be just fine."  

A year ago, I would have laughed at such a cosmic approach. I embraced it today and she embraced me before I left. 

I met up with Heidi and we shared about our totally different experiences.  I have to thank Heidi for sharing her birthday and allowing me to experience the most relaxed moment in the past 130 day.  What a treat.