Heaven is a Spa in Cancun (And How You Can Recreate That Spa Experience at Home)
- Jonna Royer
- May 10, 2024
- 8 min read
How do you ensure relaxation on your vacation? I like to book a spa treatment on the last day of every trip because it leaves me ready to for the rigors of the trip home and this habit has allowed me to experience massages all across the United States and various corners of the world. When I recently visited Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa with a planned excursion across the Yucatan Peninsula to explore the ruins of Chichen Itza, I knew that following that all-day adventure with some spa time would be just the trick to put my body in travel mode for the trip home. But I was unprepared for the way I would be treated at this spa.
As a Preferred guest, the concierge took it upon himself to make the phone call to book the 50-minute deep-tissue massage I had requested. When he hung up, he informed me that my total treatment time would be two hours long because I would be undergoing an hour of hydrotherapy prior to my massage. I wasn’t sure exactly what that entailed, but if it takes place as the spa, I figured it can only be a good thing.
After a very long but fulfilling day of exploring the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza, taking a dip in Ik Kil Cenote, and then having a late dinner at Himitsu, the hibachi restaurant at our resort, I was exhausted, sore, and looking forward to the spa treatment scheduled for the next day.
The Spa's Hydrotherapy: Alternating Hot & Cold
I wore my swimsuit to the spa as instructed and was led into a locker room where I could store my items and don a luxurious robe. After I was ready, the hostess escorted me to the dry sauna and told me I could leave my robe on a hook outside, then spend 10 minutes on a bench in the heat. As someone who luxuriates in anything heat-related, this was all too easy to accommodate.
In no time, the hostess had returned and said it was time to move to the next part. She pointed to a vintage looking shower head with a pull chain and instructed me to stand under it for the cold portion of the hydrotherapy session. Wait just a minute. Cold? I don’t do cold. After a lot of cajoling, she finally got me to comply and I will confess I let out a sound between a yelp and a growl when the cold water dowsed me.
Immediately, she moved me to the next part which was a wet sauna. Again, we were back in my hot comfort zone. Surrounded by swirling clouds of steam, I breathed as deeply as the humid air would allow and allowed the heat to lengthen my muscles.
But, all too soon, it was time to go to the next part: a cold plunge in a walk-in dip pool. Taking a deep breath, I ran down the steps and crouched down so my shoulders were covered, then turn and ran out.
“No, no,” the therapist called after me. “You have to go all the way under.”
Seriously? Ohh-kay. I did it, but I didn’t enjoy it, even if it took less than five seconds. But I took comfort in the fact that the short cold treatments were always followed by luxurious lengths of time in some form of warmth like the next part of the experience: a wonderful soak in a hot tub with jets concentrating on the lower back region.
I was relieved to find out that we were done with the cold portion of the therapy as she took me to a large pool with multiple waterfalls cascading into it. I was instructed to stand under the waterfall and tuck my chin into my chest so the water would pinpoint my neck and shoulders region. The final step was to walk into a stand up hot tub with jets coming up from the bottom that concentrated the water pulses on my legs.
This whole process took an hour and I probably could have died in bliss, but now it was time for my deep-tissue massage. My masseuse was thoroughly skilled and I left the whole experience with a feeling I wish I could capture every day of my life. I wonder if I could move into the hotel and start every morning in the spa? That's probably not allowed and I'm guessing my husband wouldn't go along with it. But, if you’re planning a trip to Cancun, I cannot say enough good things about the Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa, especially their spa services, and highly recommend booking a treatment. With total body services from hair styling to skin exfoliation to massage, this spa can check every box on your list to achieving a relaxing vacation.
I love indulging in luxurious spa treatments during my travels, but there's something equally satisfying about bringing that same level of relaxation and rejuvenation into the comfort of my own home. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long week or simply craving some self-care, hosting a spa day at home is the perfect solution. With a few simple steps and a bit of creativity, you can transform your space into a sanctuary of tranquility.
Step 1: Set the Spa Mood
Creating the right atmosphere is essential for a successful spa day at home. Start by decluttering your space and creating a clean, calming environment. Dim the lights or use soft, ambient lighting to create a soothing atmosphere. Scented candles or essential oil diffusers can add a touch of aromatherapy to your space, helping to relax your mind and body. Choose scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or chamomile for their calming properties. Consider playing some relaxing music in the background to further enhance the spa-like ambiance.
Step 2: Prepare Your Supplies
Gather all the necessary supplies and ingredients for your spa treatments. You'll need items like bath salts, body scrubs, face masks, and moisturizers. I love having a big luxurious robe that’s different than my every day robe so I feel like I’m truly at a spa.
Step 3: Start with a Relaxing Bath or Steamy Shower
Personally, I like to kick things off with a massaging foot bath. Once my feet are relaxed, it sets the tone for the rest of my at-home treatment and I’m primed to fully let go once I get into the bath or shower.
Once your feet have been relieved of tension, you can begin your spa day with a luxurious bath to unwind and soothe your muscles. Fill your tub with warm water and add a generous amount of bath salts or bubbles for a fragrant and detoxifying soak. You can also enhance your bath experience by adding a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or rosemary, for their therapeutic benefits. Consider incorporating bath accessories like a bath pillow or bath tray to make your experience even more indulgent. Sink into the warm water, close your eyes, and let the stress melt away.
If you don’t have a bathtub, you can still create a relaxing atmosphere with your shower. Start your shower and run the water hot enough to create steam in the room and build that sauna like feel. Add a shower steamer to indulge in an aromatherapy experience. Once your shower is steamy enough, adjust the temperature and step in.
Step 4: Treat Your Skin
After your relaxing bath or shower, it's time to pamper your skin with some nourishing treatments. Start by exfoliating your body with a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, softer skin. For a deeper treatment, use an exfoliating mitt or brush. Once you've exfoliated, apply a hydrating body lotion or oil to lock in moisture and keep your skin feeling silky smooth.
Step 5: Indulge in Facial Treatments
No spa day is complete without a little TLC for your face. Treat yourself to a refreshing facial treatment to rejuvenate your complexion and restore your skin's natural glow. Begin by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities and makeup residue. Next, apply a facial mask suited to your skin type and concerns. Whether you're looking to hydrate, purify, or brighten your skin, there's a mask out there for you. Sit back, relax, and let the mask work its magic while you sip on a refreshing beverage like a kava tea or an adaptogen drink.
Step 6: Relax and Unwind
After indulging in your spa treatments, take some time to relax and unwind. Find a cozy spot to lounge in your robe and slippers (I love these memory foam slippers) and treat yourself to some well-deserved rest and relaxation. Consider practicing some mindfulness or meditation techniques to quiet your mind and promote inner peace. You can also engage in activities like reading, journaling, or listening to calming music to further enhance your relaxation experience. I love this book of badass affirmations for women or this book on how to stop doubting your greatness. Remember, self-care is all about taking time for yourself and prioritizing your well-being.
Step 7: Extend the Experience
Keep the spa day vibes going by extending your pampering session beyond the treatments. Treat yourself to a healthy and nourishing meal or snack to refuel your body and replenish your energy levels. Consider whipping up a delicious smoothie bowl or salad filled with fresh fruits and veggies to nourish your body from the inside out. Not sure what to have? Check out this recipe book for healthy desserts and snacks. You can also continue to enjoy the benefits of your spa day by practicing good skincare habits and incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine.
Creating the ultimate spa day at home is easier than you think. By following these simple steps and getting creative with your treatments, you can enjoy all the benefits of a luxurious spa experience without ever leaving your house. From relaxing baths to indulgent skincare treatments, there are endless ways to pamper yourself and prioritize your well-being. So, why wait for your next vacation to unwind? Treat yourself to a spa day at home and discover the true meaning of relaxation.
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