The holiday season is officially in full swing, and no matter whether you adore the season, kind of put up with it, or just go into full stress mode — taking some “me time” to care for ourselves during this hectic time of year is an absolute must.
While you’re decorating, cooking, making the social circles, and on the quest for perfect gifts for loved ones — don’t forget to take the time to recharge yourself and practice some self care. I’m a big believer in this all the time, but especially around holiday time. In fact, I actually have a tradition with myself: just before the holidays get going full-tilt, I treat myself to some pre-emptive nurturing.
Recently, in mid-November right before Thanksgiving week, I did this with an afternoon at Hiatus Spa + Retreat. This is a fantastic, soothing and very affordable day spa in my hometown of Austin (with locations throughout Texas). All of their therapists have been top-notch in my numerous experiences at Hiatus, and it’s just a haven of relaxation and pampering.
Monthly Retreats
One of my favorite things about Hiatus is their Monthly Retreat. Each month, they offer a special themed care package with treatments such as body scrubs and massage using seasonal ingredients, always combined with their Vichy shower, and ending with a specially crafted cocktail of the month. For example, the November Monthly Retreat with the theme of “Abundance” featured a pumpkin scrub with ginger and carrot, and a spiced bourbon pumpkin punch to top it all off.
I don’t know what their December Monthly Retreat will be (but always look forward to discovering them!) — but as an example, the one I did last year was called “Magi” and featured ginger, cinnamon and clove with a final drizzle of frankincence and myrrh.
Membership
As I mentioned, though Hiatus has all the perks, ambience and treatment professionals of the most upscale spa, it is also very affordable. Especially if you take advantage of their membership program, which means you can get a one-hour massage, for example, for $69.
Special Seasonal Offerings
Check out the special holiday service packages that Hiatus has going right now:
- The Merry & Bright
Two is better than one. Pick any two Essential Services–The Signature Massage, The Tailor Made Facial, The One & Only Mani-Pedi, The Body Glow, or The Body Wrap–and make a day of your getaway. 2 or more hours, $179 (up to $220 value) - The Mistletoe Kiss
Right place, right time. Start with a reinvigorating Monthly Retreat and after your cocktail, settle in for The Best Facial Ever. Kiss your worries goodbye. 3 hours, $319 (value, $380) - The Peace, Love, & Joy
Our three most in-demand services —The Signature Massage, The Tailor Made Facial and The One & Only Mani-Pedi — are bundled up and tied with a bow, for your sugar plum 3.5 hours, $269 ($320 value) - Let It Glow! Let It Glow! Let It Glow!
The Body Glow, The Spotlight Massage (30 minutes) and The Sparkler Facial (60 minutes) will combine their magical powers to warm you up and give you a rosy glow to fight off even the chilliest winter days. 2+ hours, $239 ($290 value) - The Warm & Cozy
The Hot Stone Massage (90 minutes) is paired with The One & Only Mani-Pedi for some serious self-care, feel-good me-time. A nap and a hot toddy? Score. 3 hours, $219 ($275 value)
Hiatus has a lot of great offers right now to take advantage of — for either necessary self-care, or also as fantastic gifts for others. For example, you can get a $125 holiday gift card for only $99.
Don’t live in Texas or have a Hiatus close to you? Head over to Spafinder.com to find a great place near you to get some self-care going for the hectic holiday season!
