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How to Get Your Groove Back After Social Distancing

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 20:06:23 GMT

It might not seem like it, but social distancing will eventually end. We will finally— finally —reach the light at the end of the tunnel with everything being shut down. When it's over, we'll be able to crawl out from under our shelter-in-place orders with our roots showing, maybe a little extra meat on our bones and our eyes awkwardly adjusting to the sunlight again.

Okay, it’s most likely not that severe, but it certainly has been a lot of time and stress!

That being said, we want to share a few ideas on how to get your groove back when social distancing does eventually end.

Move Slowly Back to Normal

We’ve been isolated from our friends and families so long, it’ll be tempting to fill our schedules back up with interaction. While this can be great and exciting for many, it can also seem like a good idea and then feel overwhelming, fast. Remember in the land of pre-social distancing when you made plans and then prayed that they’d get canceled the day of?

Walk before you run back to your friends and families. Give yourself time to readjust to your social lifestyle again.

Work Out In a Group

With social distancing, we haven’t really enjoyed the chance to work out with our friends—or with a group at all. While some prefer it this way, others find working out with friends extremely helpful. Everyone could use an accountability buddy when it comes to the gym!

If there’s anything we’ve learned from COVID-19, it’s the importance of staying healthy. Not only will you feel better in general, you’ll also make your body stronger to fight off any future viruses.

Schedule a Spa Day

We might be biased, but to us, there is no better way to get our groove back than a spa day. When the day comes, release tension from your muscles—and body in general—with a massage . Replenish your skin from all of the stress with a facial . Add a pop of color back to your nails with a manicure or pedicure . There's no wrong way to go with any of this—just enjoy it!

We can’t wait to see you at Sewickley Spa!

It might not seem like it, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. We can’t wait to see you back at Sewickley Sp a when the time comes to reopen!

Tips for Coping with Anxiety

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 16:02:41 GMT

The heightened heartbeat, pressure in your chest and panic in your stomach—anxiety can feel debilitating. It sneaks up at the most inconvenient of times and makes itself at home way past its welcome.

Right now, many are feeling the effects of anxiety. We are living day to day in uncertainty about our jobs, future plans and ability to do much of anything outside of the house. That’s why we want to share our tips for coping with anxiety.

Be Kind to Yourself

You’re working through your to-do list for the day, and BAM, anxiety hits. The first reaction of many is to get angry at the fact they’re feeling anxiety, but it’s important to remember that it’s something everyone experiences. According to Medical News Today , it’s a normal emotion, as is joy and pity, for example.

With that in mind, try to be kind to yourself and even your anxiety. It’s easier said than done, but it’s really just trying to protect you from a perceived threat (even when it’s not there). Getting angry at yourself and your emotions will make you feel worse. Instead, try being kind to yourself.

Meditate & Focus on Breathing

Meditation is something everyone seems to recommend, so before you roll your eyes, hear us out. With anxiety, your mind and breathing can feel like they are running a million miles an hour. That’s why meditation is so helpful—it helps you focus on your breathing. If you can get control over your breathing, it can help you gain control over your racing mind.

A few helpful meditation apps include Headspace , Buddhify and Calm .

Practice Self-Care

Self-care means something different for everyone. Maybe for you it means a hot bath with a good book or applying a facial . It could mean a home manicure and pedicure or spending the day baking your favorite pastries. Do whatever makes you happy, just so you feel good. There’s no other reason you need to give, because giving yourself that happy fuel is reason enough.

Stay Safe, Stay Home

We can’t wait to see you at Sewickley Spa when it’s safe to reopen!

Motivational Quotes to Help Cheer You Up While Social Distancing

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 20:14:35 GMT

We are in week...who knows at this point...of social distancing. It’s getting redundant, frustrating and boring. Most of all, it’s disappointing.

We get it, and we feel it, too. People have had to postpone or cancel weddings, birthday parties and all kinds of special events. Schools are closing for the rest of the year. Some of us have had to take up working alone at our houses while others have had to juggle working while teaching and babysitting their children. Even worse, many have lost their jobs.

It’s been a lot, to say the least. That’s why we want to share a few motivational quotes to help you through this rough period of time.

Thích Nhất Hạnh

“Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today.”

Ellie Kemper as Kimmy Schmidt

“I learned a long time ago that a person can stand just about anything for 10 seconds, then you just start on a new 10 seconds. All you’ve got to do is take it 10 seconds at a time.”

Michael Gambon as Albus Dumbledore

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”

Michael Jordan

“Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.”

Dr. Seuss

“I learned there are troubles of more than one kind. Some come from ahead, others come from behind. But I’ve bought a big bat. I’m all ready, you see. Now my troubles are going to have trouble with me.”

Stay Safe, Stay Home

We can’t wait to see you at Sewickley Spa again when it’s safe to reopen!

How to Recreate a Spa Day at Home

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 21:20:58 GMT

Needless to say, we’re living in an extremely stressful time. Some of us are isolated working from home. Others are juggling having children at their place and working. There’s general stress about the economy and COVID-19 as well as what it means to us individually. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, but also know you deserve to take some time for yourself.

While we’d love to see you at Sewickley Spa, we’re staying closed to adhere to social distancing. In the meantime, we want to help you find relaxation at home. You’re usually so focused on everyone else's needs, but you need a bit of time to refuel before you keep supporting everyone else.

That’s why we want to share a few ideas for creating a spa day at home!

Make a Facial

As Jonathan Van Ness has shared several times while blessing our Netflix screens, making a homemade facial isn’t a complicated process. You can make one out of simple ingredients such as tomatoes, buttermilk, honey, eggs, almond oil, rose water, avocados, strawberries, yogurt and much more.

The reported benefits of facials include the slowing of aging, improvement of skin elasticity, decrease in stress, increase in blood circulation as well as oxygen flow and healthy-looking skin.

At-Home Manicures

Sometimes, feeling good on the outside can help you feel good on the inside, too. Even though you’re stuck inside with the social distancing, you can still make your nails look beautiful! Because, really, as long as you feel good, who cares if you don't see anyone else?

According to Glamour , the first step to a manicure is cleaning your nails with polish remover. After that, clip, file and buff them, and don’t forget the cuticle remover. Use a scrub to rid your hands of dead skin cells and replace them with moisture. Apply a base coat and then a coat of color. Finish things off with a second coat of color and a topcoat.

Essential Oils

As we’ve mentioned before , essential oils are calming because they activate receptors that send messages to your nervous system to relax. There are an array of essential oils that can help you recreate the spa experience, including lavender, lemon, ylang-ylang, chamomile and bergamot orange.

Stay Safe and Stay Inside

We can’t wait to see you at Sewickley Spa again, but in the meantime, relax and enjoy your at-home spa experience!

Why are Essential Oils so Calming?

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 21:24:39 GMT

The skies are blue, the temperature is warm and the day is peaceful. You are sauntering your way through the hours at a leisurely pace, and everything seems to be going right. Until it’s not.

Did you unplug your curling iron? Is the stovetop turned off? Why did you agree to go to that networking event? How on EARTH are you going to master that pitch by early next week?

Anxiety can come out of nowhere and feel absolutely crippling. It stops you in your tracks and can manifest itself out of thin air. There are a million and a half articles about managing anxiety, but today we want to focus on essential oils and how they help.

Back to the Beginning

According to Britannica , the first records of essential oils were from ancient India, Persia and Egypt. The Encyclopedia assumes that these oils were created by placing flowers, roots and leaves in fatty oils. However, during the Golden Age of Arab culture, essential oils were distilled using ethyl alcohol from fermented sugar.

Essential Oils and Calmness

Today, essential oils are used for a myriad of reasons, including aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is the practice of inhaling essential oils for your well-being. One such use is to aid in the calming of anxiety. But why do pleasant smelling aromas result in a calming effect?

According to h ealthline , there are a few possible reasons. One is that your nose has smell receptors (gasp!). These receptors send messages to your nervous system, which results in a “subtle” effect on the chemical and energy systems within your body.

Best Essential Oils for Anxiety

There are dozens of essential oils that can help relieve your anxiety. A few that Medical News Today highlighted include bergamot orange, chamomile, clary sage, lavender, lemon, rose, ylang-ylang and neroli.

However, while essential oils can help some ease anxiety, they are not an end all, be all. They can provide a little relief, but if you have severe anxiety, make sure to address that with a medical professional.

Stay Safe, Stay Home

It’s undoubtedly a stressful time for everyone, so it’s understandable to suffer from a bit of anxiety. While we’d love to see you at Sewickley Spa , we are currently closed for safety while COVID-19 is addressed nationally. However, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about essential oils!

How to Take Care of Your Mental Health While Social Distancing

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 16:38:14 GMT

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1. Keep in touch with friends and loved ones

Just because we’re limiting physical contact doesn’t mean we need to totally isolate ourselves from our friends and family. If you’re feeling particularly lonely, schedule video chats with your friends and family. There are tons of platforms out there to help you stay in touch with the ones you love. Google Chrome even has a plugin that lets you watch Netflix together!

A fun way to structure your online social gatherings is coming up with various themes. Try a remote cocktail party, organize a book club, or take turns sharing all the great new music you’ve been discovering. While nothing beats the real thing, virtual hangouts are a great way to keep your spirits up. We’re not alone.

2. Make time for yourself

Whether you’re at home with family or working remotely, it’s important to make time for yourself, too. Try to do something for yourself every day, whether that’s reading a few chapters of a book, watching your favorite TV show, taking a nice bath, or even taking a walk (with CDC recommendations in mind).

This is important for those taking care of other members of the household, such as your kids or elderly relatives. You’re not helping anyone if you’re not feeling great yourself. Conversely, those living alone might feel like they have too much me-time on their hands, but it’s important to devote some of that time to doing something fun, relaxing or stress-free.

3. Stick to your normal routine

If you’re not used to being home all day, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed. You can bring a little order back to the chaos by sticking to a loose daily routine. For instance, try to eat at the same time every day and schedule out what you’re going to work on that day. Try to keep your normal life’s routines going as much as possible. For instance, it can be tempting to stay in your PJs all day, but if your normal routine starts with a shower and getting dressed, stick to it. Furthermore, try to wake up and go to bed as you normally would. All of these simple activities can really help reduce stress and give you control over a very odd time,

None of us are pretending this isn’t a weird situation and falling into a routine can certainly help everything feel a little more normal. However, don’t go crazy with scheduling your day. Don’t try to plan out any more than you normally will. This will likely drive you and everyone else in your home nuts. Take every day as it comes.

4. Keep your body healthy

It’s no secret that your mental health is linked to your physical health. Staying home all day, every day can certainly take its toll on your normal exercise routine and diet. If you’re used to going to the gym, try swapping out your exercises for things you can do at home and keep to your normal regimen. It can also be really tempting to spend all day snacking, but try to keep your eating habits as normal as possible.

Of course, there are plenty of measures you should also be taking to avoid the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses. Remember to use caution when visiting public places such as supermarkets or pharmacies, avoid using public restrooms or touching too many surfaces, disinfect regularly touched items, and practice good personal hygiene at home.

5. Limit your screen time and find alternatives

This is good advice at any point in time, but it’s definitely a high priority for those of us working remotely or stuck inside all day. Blue light from our computer, phone and television screens can really take its toll on your eyes and your mental health. It can leave you feeling tired all day and make it harder to fall asleep.

If you’re looking at screens all day, try using some of your me-time or family time to unplug. Read a book for a while, try a new hobby like drawing or playing the guitar, or simply meditate for a while. Your eyes and brain will thank you!

See You Back at Sewickley Spa Soon!

Believe us, we’re getting lonely, too. We can’t wait for life to get back to normal and see all of our beautiful customers again! In the meantime, we want everyone to stay safe, healthy, and happy. If you’re daydreaming about that first trip back to the spa, start planning by checking out all of our amazing services .

Hand Washing Tips and Other Basic Hygiene

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 16:31:24 GMT

Now more than ever, it’s important to practice excellent personal hygiene. While it might seem simple, something as basic as keeping yourself clean could make a big difference both for yourself and those around you. In fact, medical professionals have frequently repeated that one of the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to simply wash our hands.

That’s why in this post, we will be sharing tips on washing your hands as well as other basic hygiene advice.

Best Way to Wash Your Hands

This is something we do each day—several times each day. We are taught to do it from a young age, but are you doing it correctly? According to the CDC , there are five simple steps to properly wash your hands: wet, lather, scrub, rinse and dry them.

What’s most important is to make sure you scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. You can count 20 “Mississippi’s” or sing (or hum) the Happy Birthday song through twice to keep track of the time. Make sure to also scrub your fingertips and underneath your nails!

Trim Your Nails

This is also something you’ve probably (hopefully!) done since you were young. But do you know why exactly it’s so important to keep up with their length? The CDC says longer fingernails can house more dirt and bacteria than shorter ones, contributing to the spreading of germs and even infection.

GQ recommends against cutting your nails straight across—doing so can cause them to bend and result in damage. In fact, the magazine says to cut each nail three to four times across the top. It also suggests leaving a little white at the top but not enough to peek past your finger.

Get a Good Night's Sleep

We know, we know—almost every article anywhere recommends sleeping well. But it’s especially important for your immune system. According to the Mayo Clinic , those lacking sleep are more susceptible to sickness when exposed to a virus. Eric J Olson, M.D., from the Mayo Clinic says that’s because infection-fighting antibodies and cells decrease when you don’t get enough quality sleep.

If you have a hard time dozing off, make sure you aren’t around bright lights before bed, including your phone and television set. Meditation also helps many relax into a quality sleep. However you do it, make sure you are getting seven to eight hours, but not more than nine to 10.

Stay Safe and Healthy. We'll See You Back at Sewickley Spa Soon

While we’d love to see you at the spa, we want to make sure you stay safe at home for the time being. In the meantime, be sure to plan your next visit by checking out all of our fantastic services .

Five-Minute Self Care Practices to Incorporate into Your Busy Life

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 20:59:49 GMT

Hello spa enthusiast, or idealist! We know you are busy, so first of all, we wanted to thank you for clicking into this article with the few precious free moments of your day. How do we know you are busy? Because we are all busy. Hustling is simply the status quo, no matter which stage you are at in your life.

That’s why we understand the eye roll you sometimes (or often) have when you read articles telling you to prioritize self care. We get the snort of exasperation that sneaks out when someone tells you to take care of yourself instead of everyone else. Who has time to take hours out of their day each day—or even a few times a week—to do something for themselves?

Sometimes it’s just not possible to take more than a few minutes for ourselves to rejuvenate and refuel from our busy schedules. That’s why we want to share our five-minute self care ideas.

Take a Quick Walk

Sometimes the outside world can crescendo into a loud, disruptive hum. It seems like everyone needs you at once—your boss, significant other, kids or even pets. While you have become a master multi-tasker, it’s understandable to need a dang break!

When that hum overwhelms you, get up and go for a five-minute walk. It’ll give you time to get out of the situation at hand and into some much-needed fresh air. This small break will create space in your head, physical distance from your problems and give you an opportunity to realign yourself to tackle the rest of the day.

Breathe Deeply and Meditate

Breathe. Such an original recommendation, right? There’s a reason this idea is repeated in basically every self care article. As naturally as breathing should come to all of us, in times of stress, we often lose control of it. When we are nervous and upset, our breathing quickens and shallows out, making everything seem more hectic and overwhelming. However, that process can be reversed to your advantage. If you slow down and deepen your breathing, you’ll be able to slow your body and mind to take on anything the world throws at you.

Meditation is another self care practice often shared in these types of articles. It has been scientifically proven to help with mood, focus, difficult emotions and simply helping navigate stressful situations.

Apply a Facial

We’re probably biased, but we love a good facial for some self care. Facials enhance skin appearance and simply help you feel refreshed. While we offer 50-minute professional facials , we know it’s not always possible to get one with everyones’ busy schedules and tight budgets.

However, homemade facials are also an option if you’re looking for something quick and inexpensive. Facials can be made from household items such as honey, oats, milk and even off-the-wall ingredients such as mayonnaise. A quick Google search will open up a world of possibilities if you’re interested in a quick homemade facial.

Contact Sewickley Spa for Your More In-Depth Self Care Needs

Much of the time, five minutes are all you have for self care practices. However, if you find yourself with extra time (gasp!), contact Sewickley Spa for your in-depth self care desires.

Daylight Saving Time And Your Sleep Cycle

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 20:54:23 GMT

Spring is sauntering in, the temperature is slowly increasing and the sun is rising earlier in the day. This Sunday is daylight saving time, so that means you get to set your clocks an hour forward. But why exactly do we do this? And how does it affect our sleep cycles?

The History of Daylight Saving Time

According to History.com , daylight saving time was not originated by Benjamin Franklin, but instead an Englishman named William Willett. He spent a chunk of his life advocating for this idea, but it wasn’t actually adopted until WWI, when the Germans decided they needed to conserve electricity.

In the United States, daylight saving time was extremely confusing throughout the 1900s. Various cities decided to and not to enact it, and travelers would cross through several different time zones between cities. Finally, in 1966, it became standardized with the Uniform Time Act.

How Daylight Saving Affects Your Sleep Cycle

Daylight saving time affects circadian rhythm . Not only will we lose an hour of precious sleep, we will also likely be waking up and taking on the world while it’s still dark outside. This will cause many of us to feel drowsy and as if we don’t want to wake up in the morning, let alone get anything productive done. You might have a challenging time focusing and feeling any type of motivation.

However, there is hope!

How to Minimize Disruption in Sleep Cycle

The number one piece of advice we have for those trying to avoid daylight saving time fatigue is: sleep! Go to sleep a little early if possible and make sure you are enjoying at least seven to eight hours. This will drastically reduce the feeling of drowsiness for most.

There are a few other tricks you can use, like making sure you exercise to tire yourself out for an earlier bedtime on Saturday. Also, make sure you expose yourself to the sun during the day but stay away from bright lights in the evening.

And of course, we might be biased, but a massage or any other form of relaxation can help you transition into an earlier sleep time on Saturday!

Spring Forward and to Sewickley Spa!

You might be losing an hour of sleep but that doesn’t mean losing an hour of relaxation. Spring over to Sewickley Spa for a day of rejuvenation, even when you feel fatigued!

The History of Massage Therapy

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 19:58:00 GMT

The relaxation, peacefulness, connecting with your body—who doesn’t love a massage? When it comes to self-care, massages are high on the list of recommendations. But how did massages come to be, and become so popular?

The history of the massage is as rich and complex as the soothing aromas you’ll experience during one.

The very beginning

According to Encyclopedia.com , the first known record of massage therapy dates back more than 4,000 years ago in medical texts in China. The Father of Medicine, Hippocrates, wrote about massage in the fourth century B.C., though he referred to it as “rubbing.” However, the modern version of massage we now know and love was introduced by the Swede, Per Henrik Ling, between 1700 and 1800.

Massage in the United States

Massage made its journey from Sweden to the United States in the 1850s via physicians and brothers George and Charles Taylor. After the Civil War, Doctor Baron Nils Posse and Doctor Hartwig Nissen each opened their own massage therapy clinic—one in Boston and another in Washington D.C.

Massage today

Since the 1960s, massage has become a popular way to find relaxation during our busy, demanding lives. Now there are dozens of different massage types including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, aromatherapy massage, pregnancy massage, hot stone massage, sports massage couples massage, de-knotting neck and back treatments and more!

No matter which one you choose, you’re sure to come out feeling calm and rejuvenated.

Book your massage at Sewickley Spa

From 4,000 years ago to present day, massage has helped with anxiety, sore muscles and a myriad of issues. Plus, it simply makes you feel good! Now that you know the history of the massage, make sure to call us at Sewickley Spa to book yours.

Ultimate Guide to Body Wraps

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 18:14:49 GMT

When you think of the spa, what comes to mind? There's relaxation, luxury and rejuvenation. Most people think of massages , facials , manicures and pedicures . But there’s another offering that doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves—the elusive body wrap .

There are several types of body wraps, each with its own purpose. In this post, we will explain the difference between seaweed botanical wraps, cellulite reduction wraps and paraffin body wraps.

Seaweed Botanical Wraps

It’s winter, which means it’s cold outside, and the heater is most likely running constantly inside your home. While this heat feels amazing, it can wreak havoc on your skin—causing it to dry and crack.

The purpose of the seaweed botanical wrap is to address issues such as this. It nourishes, softens and tones your skin. At Sewickley Spa, you’ll be wrapped from head to foot, and we’ll massage your head and face. You’ll be a cocoon of rejuvenation as the detoxifying agents purify your body!

Cellulite Reduction Wraps

Ah, cellulite. The kryptonite of anyone yearning to wear shorts or a bathing suit. While those little dimples are natural, it’s understandable if they bother you. You’ve worked hard for your body (and vice versa), so you get to decide how you want it to look!

That being said, our cellulite reduction wrap provides smoother, tighter and less dimpled skin. We use Egyptian techniques to wrap your body—and of course, provide a much deserved head and face massage. How exactly does it work? The wrap speeds up your metabolism and releases waste, excess fluids and toxins.

However, make sure you avoid alcohol and caffeine for 48 hours after this treatment!

Paraffin Body Wraps

The focus of this wrap is to experience pure luxury—and to also help with dry skin! You’ll become a cocoon of relaxation, swaddled in paraffin and cotton and wrapped. As with the other wraps, we will massage your head and face while your skin and senses are soothed.

Lie down, relax, and let the bliss begin!

Book Your Body Wrap Treatment!

Now that you know what a body wrap entails, book your appointment to experience everything this treatment has to offer!

Self Care Tips from Jonathan Van Ness

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 19:07:00 GMT

Jonathan Van Ness from Queer Eye is a national treasure. His pure heart knows no bounds, especially when it comes to helping others. What sets him apart from other beauty gurus is the fact that he cares so deeply about making those who are lucky enough to be his canvases feel just as good on the inside as they do on the outside.

With it being the dead of winter, it’s easy to start feeling a bit blue and overall tired. That’s why we want to share a few of his self care tips and tricks to make you feel amazing inside and outside.

“Slow down and nurture yourself”

Life is hectic, to say the least. Every day presents a new challenge that we must tackle. We take care of everyone and everything that needs our attention, and we do it well. That’s why when bedtime finally arrives, we’re often too exhausted to do much of anything for ourselves.

That was also the case for Deborah and Mary Jones in Queer Eye season three, episode three. They were so focused on taking care of their community and running their popular Jones Bar-BQ, they weren’t taking care of themselves. Van Ness was quick to right that wrong with a beauty day including a massage. He told them they’ll have extra energy for others if they take some time for themselves.

You deserve the same! Make sure to schedule a self care day for yourself (we recommend enjoying a massage !).

“Showing up for yourself, putting on a little moisturizer, can inspire so many different parts of your life”

Sometimes taking care of yourself can feel like a huge haul, and Van Ness knows this . On bad days, it can even feel a bit impossible to tackle the task. But on those days, the small things can go a long way.

The first step is often the hardest, but it doesn’t need to be. You don’t need a beauty or grooming overhaul every time you want some self care. If you can only manage something small like moisturizer or a simple manicure , that still counts! And once you take that first step, the next step becomes that much easier.

“It’s really meant to be fun”

Yes, grooming and taking care of yourself is another task to add to your probably extensive to-do list. But life is all about perspective. Van Ness told Men’s Health , "[Grooming] is an ongoing relationship, and it’s really meant to be fun.”

How often do you get the chance to just—wait for it—take care of yourself? Get that facial you’ve held off on for months. Bask in the luxury of getting a pedicure . Stop feeling guilty, and just have a good time! The world will be there when you finish, we promise.

Indulge in some much-deserved self care at Sewickley Spa

Self care is a luxury, but it’s also a necessity. How are you supposed to take on the world when you’ve run out of fuel? Sewickley Spa is here to help you fill up on self care with massages, manicures and pedicures, body therapies and more!

Why The Spa Is Your Ideal Galentine’s Day Destination

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 18:41:24 GMT

Ah, Valentine’s Day—a day filled with acts of love and affection between partners and spouses. But why should couples have all the fun? After all, love comes in many forms. Perhaps even better than Valentine’s Day is Galentine’s Day, which is the celebration of love and appreciation for your lady friends.

This Galentine’s Day, give the gift of a memorable, indulgent self-care experience. Here’s why you should treat your girl friends to a day at the spa!

Self-care is in style

Think of everything you push through each day. You wake up to the shrieking alarm, sit in traffic during your commute, work a long, draining day, go home, make dinner and do whatever else is required of you until bed. Then you wake up and do it all over again.

When was the last time you did something for yourself, just because? Your girlfriends are most likely in the same situation. Women are warriors, attacking each day with style, no matter how draining it is. But self-care is in style, too. Take the day to spend meaningful time with your ladies enjoying massages and/or spa manicures (or both).

You will all feel great afterward

Approaching Valentine’s Day without a date can feel anxiety-inducing and miserable, but there’s no need to feel anything but great when spending time with your girl friends! Spending the day at the spa is meant to enhance your overall contentment—increasing relaxation and encouraging rejuvenation.

At Sewickley Spa, we’ll focus on helping you feel your best physically. But during that, the much deserved time with your lady friends will be sure to make you feel your best emotionally and mentally.

Memories last forever

Flowers wilt after just a few days. Cute cards eventually get packed away or thrown in the trash. Chocolates...well, most of us are lucky if those last longer than a day. But you’ll carry the memories you build from new and exciting experiences throughout your life.

Remember that time your girlfriend sneezed while getting her facial ? How unforgettable was that heart-to-heart over spa pedicures ? While things decrease in value throughout the years, experiences and the memories that accompany them increase in value as time passes.

Celebrate Galentine’s Day at Sewickley Spa

Galentine’s Day is a special day for all ladies. It’s an opportunity to celebrate all the wonderful, important and inspirational women in your life. Spend your Galentine’s Day doing just that at Sewickley Spa!

Couples Massage: The Perfect Gift for Valentine's Day

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 18:12:27 GMT

At Sewickley Spa, we want to help make your Valentine’s Day special for you and your significant other. Material gifts are great, they’re exactly what some people want. But the gift of a massage experience can be so rewarding for you and your sweetheart. It will help relax them, improve their mood for the day and even longer, and help you be ever more close to each other.

Massages are a popular Valentine’s Day gift—and for good reason. Massages don’t just make people feel relaxed, there’s actually evidence they can improve your mood and more! Massages are shown to aid the release of oxytocin, often called the love hormone, which increases feelings of social bonding. It also helps to increase serotonin and dopamine, making it a perfect choice for your special someone this Valentine’s Day. Check out some of our favorite (and most romantic) options below.

What is a Couples Massage?

Each person gets a 50-minute Swedish Body Massage. You and your sweetheart will get the ultimate pampering as a skilled therapist massages away the tension, tightness and knots in your body. You and your partner can feel like you’re melting away together without having to do any of the work yourselves. You’ll want to give yourself an hour and a half so you have time to enjoy the amenities included and not ruin your chill vibe with feeling rushed.

A Romantic Experience for Both of You

This is a step up from a couples massage. It includes the Swedish Body Massage mentioned above, as well as a Moist Heat Back Treatment. This is perfect for anyone carrying heavy loads or sits hunched over at a desk all day. That’s followed up with a Signature Spa Facial including Puffy Eye Reduction Treatment and Heated Hand and Foot Treatments. This relaxing and rewarding experience will be the best 2 and a half hours of your day. This will help to start out your Valentine’s celebration and make it a wonderful experience for both of you.

Create a Perfect Valentine's Day at Sewickley Spa

Come to our oasis where you and your partner can feel pampered, soothed and radiant. This experience will go farther and last longer than any flowers or box of chocolates. It might be just what your special someone (and you) needs for the perfect Valentine’s. Check out our prices for the specials discussed here.

Winter Self-Care Tips

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 14:46:45 GMT

Well, here we are again. Winter in Pittsburgh. If you’ve experienced the season in western Pennsylvania before, you know it’s not the easiest few months. Bad weather, cold temperatures, cold and flu season and less sunlight can all drain our mental health. That’s why it’s so important to take care of yourself during winter. Take a look at some of these easy winter self-care tips to help you make it to spring.

Make Room for Some "Me" Time

The holidays are over—a relief to many of us. With all the stress of shopping, cooking, holiday parties and hosting relatives, you might be feeling a little worn down. Now that things are getting back to normal, it’s a great idea to find ways to take time for yourself. Whether it’s daily or weekly, try to carve out a little slice of time that’s just about you, even if it’s only for half an hour.

Adding a little me time to your schedule can help break up a dreary winter day and give you something to look forward to. Your me time doesn’t have to involve anything too extravagant, but it should focus on something that makes you happy, whether that’s going for a walk or to a movie, catching up on a TV show or reading that book you got for Christmas, or just soaking in the tub. Set expectations with your family and friends. Let them know your me time is exactly that—just for you. They’ll be fine on their own for a little while.

Take Steps to Stay Healthy

Being cooped up indoors all day can make it difficult to feel and stay healthy, and while it’s probably not realistic to quarantine yourself, there are a number of things you can do to help you stay healthier throughout winter. Try to eat well and limit your alcohol intake. Your immune system can be weaker in the winter, and junk food and wine won’t help much. Speaking of your immune system, make sure to get a flu shot to protect yourself and others.

If you do wind up getting sick, make sure you use your sick days! No one needs you to be a hero and try to come into the office anyway. Not only will you feel crummy all day, but you also run the risk of getting your coworkers sick. If you feel well enough to work and you’re able to, try working from home until you’re not contagious anymore.

Adjust Your Routine

Get up. Go to work. Pick up the kids. Make dinner. Go to bed. Repeat. It’s definitely important to have a routine, but like we said earlier, it’s also important to take care of your mental health. If you’re experiencing the winter doldrums, try adjusting your routine to include something new. Exercise or meditation are great additions, as are making sure to expose yourself to as much sunlight as possible. Making time for things like these can really help your mood and making the part of your daily routine allows you to make time for them.

A big part of a good wintertime routine? Your eating habits. We all tend to overindulge around the holidays. Hey, we’re only human. But now’s the time to get back on a good eating routine. You don’t have to go on a full-scale diet (unless you want to), but eating the right foods on a regular schedule can go a long way for both your physical and mental health.

Treat Yourself to a Little Pampering at Sewickley Spa

Adjusting your lifestyle is a great way to help you make it through another winter in Pittsburgh, but doesn’t mean we all don’t need a little pick-me-up from time to time. Book an appointment at Sewickley Spa when you need a little extra pampering. Our services are ready to help you feel great, inside and out, all winter long.

Five Tips to Achieve Your New Year’s Fitness Goals

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 17:44:53 GMT

You’ve made a resolution for this year to get fit. But where should you start, and how can you maintain success along the way? We have a few tips to achieve your New Year’s fitness goals and create positive, lasting change.

Know Your “Why”

No one suddenly wakes up one morning thinking, “I’ve never exercised regularly before. I’ll start that today.” Fitness is a well-considered choice with various underlying motivations .

Maybe the holiday sweets settled in your midsection, and you’ll feel more comfortable by shedding a few pounds. Or perhaps aches and pains have you feeling out of sorts, and exercise will give your muscles and joints the regular work they crave. Whatever it is, figure out your motivation and remember it.

Throughout your journey, if you feel down, think back on the good you hope to get out of this new change and keep going. And remember, your reason for fitness should be about you and your desire to be your best self, rather than about pleasing someone else.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Rushing into fitness plans never seems to pan out. Rigid goals like achieving a target weight in a short period can be unrealistic, too, if you’re not physically and mentally prepared. Dip your toes into the fitness pool to start. If regular exercise is new to you, consider talking to your doctor about your physical readiness.

Do what feels comfortable. Work your way up to a more rigorous exercise routine that you can realistically maintain. It could be as simple as walking to your morning bus stop. Or maybe you’ve casually walked on the treadmill, but want to get in the habit of jogging a few days a week. Work out at your own pace and celebrate the small strides toward achieving your ultimate goals along the way. This will build excitement throughout your journey.

Buddy System

No one said it would be easy to achieve your New Year’s fitness goals, especially at the beginning. This makes your challenge harder, but you can ease the burden of your new routine. Got a friend who wants to work out too? Create a personal support system with that person, working out together and sharing in the ups and downs.

Having an exercise buddy to lean on can make your chosen activities more fun just by having company. Additionally, doing this is a way to ensure accountability. When one person is feeling discouraged, a friend may provide the boost needed to keep going. Sometimes a personal cheering section is what you need to get past challenges.

Consistency is Key

To make a real change, fitness has to be more than just a start-of-year resolution. Make a commitment to positive change and stick to it by making it part of your life and routine.

It might seem daunting to hold yourself to a level of fitness moving forward. Keep your goal and fitness regimen front of mind by working out when and however often is right for you. This might mean that between work and family, you have to schedule time for fitness activities, and that’s OK. Early morning, lunchtime and post-work exercise are a few easy schedules to follow, at a healthy frequency.

Enjoy the Ride

“Aw, man. I have to go to the gym tonight.” Goals to exercise often fail because people just don’t like what they’re doing, instilling a sense of dread. Maximize your enjoyment and results by selecting activities you legitimately like to do.

Sports buff? Organize a game of pick-up basketball once a week. Enjoy the spirit of competition and the company of your friends along the way. Or maybe you like to dance. Follow along at home to a fitness program and dance your heart out without feeling self-conscious. Doing something fun will make you want to exercise and ultimately help maintain consistency.

Unwind After Your Workout at Sewickley Spa

No matter how entertaining or challenging your workout, one thing is clear: it is tiring. In addition to a new workout regimen, add in a monthly massage to unwind and refresh your muscles. Put in the time to achieve your New Year’s fitness goals and reward yourself with a massage from Sewickley Spa .

Four “Healthy” New Year’s Resolutions to Rethink

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 14:54:02 GMT

Scroll through social media. Amid the post-holiday photos, you’ll probably see more than a few mentions of New Year’s resolutions, and maybe you’ve even posted some. January is “New year, new you” season because it’s the perfect time to start fresh, but resolutions aren’t always realistic. Here are a few common “healthy” New Year’s resolutions and how to adjust them for success.

1. Quitting Cold Turkey

The new year did a sneak attack on you, and you’re scrambling to get started on your resolutions, so you might as well jump in head first...or maybe not. Whether your vice is a nervous habit or something else, it’s actually really important to get into the right frame of mind before you change your routine.

Instead of cold turkey quitting, tell yourself you will reduce how much you indulge in your vice. Once you’ve sorted your thinking, act accordingly and limit your actions. For instance, if caffeine is your daily energizer, switch to a half-caf coffee or have two cups instead of three. If you smoke a pack every day, try cutting down to half a pack.

Think about how you feel when you deprive yourself of something. You crave it more. If your end goal is complete cessation from a habit, start small and work your way down for maximum success.

2. Getting More Sleep

Optimum sleep is tricky business. If you get too little of it, you’re dragging all day, and too much leads to brain fog. If this year’s resolution is to get more sleep (after all, three hours a night isn’t working), consider adjusting to aim for the right number of hours instead.

So, what’s the secret recipe for adequate sleep? A study in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that 7-8 hours per night is ideal, as more or less shuteye is linked to cardiovascular disease. Adhering to a routine helps, too. Turn in at the same time each night, and wake up at a regular time every morning. With a consistent amount of sleep and a solid schedule, you’ll be more refreshed and your internal alarm clock will kick in , waking you before your mobile phone does.

3. Nixing Carbohydrates

There’s a common misconception that carbs are bad. So naturally, when a nutrition revamp comes in, the carbs usually get kicked out. This doesn’t have to be the case...not entirely. Instead, refine your resolution this way: “Cut out bad carbs.” Carbohydrates are sources of energy, which you need to live and thrive, so learn the bad to focus on the good.

Bad carbs are refined carbs. Think pasta, bread and processed foods. While it would be pretty darn hard to completely avoid these groups, you can cut down on them or replace them with positive alternatives. Beans, veggies and fruits not only provide energy, but contain vitamins and nutrients for a healthy body and waistline. And don’t fret about your favorite splurge carbs—whole grains are OK with proper portion control.

4. Exercising Daily

Thinking about going from channel surfing to treadmilling? Not so fast. If your resolution is to exercise, start small. Shifting from a sedentary lifestyle to aggressive daily workouts is asking too much of your body.

Why wouldn’t more be better to start with? Because your muscles, heart and lungs simply aren’t ready for it yet. Excessive exercise out of the gate will likely case severe muscle strain, or even injury. Aim for a manageable goal: light to moderate exercise twice a week. If you respond positively, increase difficulty and frequency.

Resolve to Feel Great at Sewickley Spa

There are plenty of “healthy” New Year’s resolutions to rethink in terms of the right approach to take. Losing weight could turn into anxiety or yo-yo dieting, or exercise could result in injury. Stop into Sewickley Spa for a luxury treatment before and during your journey to clear your mind, pamper your body and reward your progress. Schedule your appointment today.

Beauty and Style Trends for 2020

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 16:33:49 GMT

The hottest looks are changing all the time, and it’s hard to keep up. 2020 is no exception, and is set to take inspiration from decades past, popular colors and patterns from nature. Take a glimpse at popular beauty and style trends for 2020.

Hair

Let’s look at the 2020 style forecast from head to toe. Fashion-forward hairstyles are taking their inspiration from across the decades in a big way, especially the 80s and 90s.

Scrunchies - Your favorite puffy hair ties started making a resurgence in the last few years, and they’ll be in the limelight again this year and beyond. Wear your side ponytail with pride, adorned with either a traditional or supersized scrunchie, and party like it’s 1988.
Bob Haircut - “Mulder, it’s me.” Reemerging hairstyles may have you thinking about mid-90s pop culture this year, with short bobs taking center stage. A versatile look, bob haircuts can be styled with a simple center or slight side part, and take on a casual messy look or straightened and polished one.

Wait. What decade is this? It doesn’t matter where the beauty and style trends for 2020 came from, just enjoy breaking out your old gear to complement the new ‘do.

Makeup and Nails

2020 will see makeup and nail trends taken to extremes. From natural makeup looks to striking nails, make a statement this year.

Less is More - Because you’ll already be making your eyes pop and pulling in the focus of everyone around you, try for a simpler approach with the rest of your face. Sheer, natural highlighting products will provide a subtle glow for your skin, while lighter foundations give coverage without requiring too much product.
Blush - Maybe you’ve been wearing it all along, or perhaps it was too old school, but blush is officially popular again, so add it to your makeup arsenal. What’s fun about it is that depending on how you apply it, blush creates either flirty or dramatic looks, Take liquid blush for example: it’s easy to work with and is more subdued (and flirty) on its own. You can also use the combined powers of liquid and a powder blush overlay for a more dramatic look.
Snakeskin and Metallics - There will never be a shortage of manicure inspiration. 2020 will see an uptick in the popularity of divergent styles. For a funky flair, consider trying a snakeskin effect. Or for a subtle flash of brilliance, metallic hues like rose and platinum are winners, too.

Finally, an excuse to wear less makeup! Let your natural beauty shine in the new year, enhancing it with simple touches like a quality manicure .

Fashion

Fashion fortune tellers (i.e. designers) are telling us that puffy sleeves and polka dots are in our future, but so are a few other major trends. Color and material are certain to be major players.

Pantone Color of 2020 - Blue is the hue for you in the year ahead. Pantone selected classic blue as the Color of the Year, noting that it’s a shade associated with reliability and dependability. Style experts agree that the color will feature prominently across fashion—from tops and pants to accessories.
Leather - Gone are the days of the simple black leather jacket. In 2020, expect leather to take center stage as a choice material for shirts, pants and shorts as well as becoming available in a wider variety of colors.

Choosing the right wardrobe for the coming year is simple when you follow a few of the hottest trends.

Get on Trend at Sewickley Spa

Get styled with a new ‘do, stock up on this year’s makeup must-haves, and then pop into Sewickley Spa for a deluxe manicure. We love glitter and metallics, and might even get crafty with this year’s prized shade of blue, too. Get in touch today to book your spa day.

Easy Self-Care Strategies for When You’re Short on Time

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 16:01:19 GMT

Work, family, food and sleep can feel like the only things we have time for in our daily lives. At a go-go-go pace, it’s hard to leave time for self-care. If you’re short on time, these easy self-care strategies will leave you feeling balanced and relaxed.

Do What Meets Your Needs

Self care extends beyond simply making time to do something for yourself. Each of us has physical, psychological and emotional needs, few of which are being met when we’re constantly busy. Consider which needs hold the highest priority and choose an activity like these to satisfy them:

Physical - Practice yoga to support your physical fitness, enjoy a healthy snack
Psychological - Read a chapter or two of your new favorite book, write in a journal to declutter your mind.
Emotional - Chat with a friend to promote emotional connection, spend time in prayer if you’re religious.

“You-time” is meant to be personally fulfilling, so be mindful to take time to do things that are important to you. After all, you could clean the kitchen any day.

Schedule Time for Yourself

Have a demanding job or busy family life? Schedule time to unwind if you have to.. If you need more “you time,” pencil in time to indulge in a massage or get your hair done. To make self care part of your routine, schedule these breaks on the same days and times so the people around you learn to understand your needs.

Enjoy the Small Moments of Free Time

Seize the opportunity to reclaim time during each day. A 10-minute gap before a client call or before the school bus returns in the afternoon might be your opportunity on some days. While it’s not ideal, you should make an effort to grab hold of any free time available and use it wisely. Brief self-care activities meet a variety of needs and make it easier to recharge:

Meditate for a few minutes
Go for a walk
Have a cup of tea or coffee

It’s tempting to look at small gaps in your schedule and say, “That’s not enough time!” But you’d be surprised what just a few minutes of downtime can do for your mindset.

Say ‘No’ When Needed

It’s hard to put your foot down when someone wants something from you, especially because you don’t want to disappoint anyone. Finding balance is essential to your mental wellness, however. Practice saying, ‘No,’ when you’re overwhelmed, so long as doing so does not mean outright shirking your duties. Setting boundaries give you a little wiggle room to enjoy life, and doing so may earn you some respect.

Take Some Self-Care Time at Sewickley Spa

You don’t have to take an entire afternoon off to take care of yourself. In as little as 25 minutes (for a back massage), our skilled technicians will melt your worries away. Can you put aside a longer period of time for self-care activities? Try a spa pedicure or relaxing facial. At Sewickley Spa, there’s no shortage of easy self-care strategies for when you're short on time. Call today or book online .

Remedies for Dry Winter Skin

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 18:12:28 GMT

Winter is cold, dreary and might have you feeling a little blah. Shake off the wintertime blues and feel great with a few remedies for dry winter skin.

Humidify the Air

Hydration is the main thing you’re skin lacks during the blistering winter months. Humidifiers are super helpful in bringing back that moisture your body craves because they are designed to add moisture to the air.

You might think that lotions are sufficient, but that’s not always the case. The heat from your HVAC system dries out EVERYTHING, affecting your skin, eyes and breathing quality. Invest in a cool air humidifier (warm air units will compound problems) to improve your well-being, including your sinuses. For an added boost, regulate the dryness in the air further by keeping the heat at a lower temperature.

Cut Down on the Hot Showers

There’s nothing that feels better than a steaming shower when you come in from the cold, but it’s not always the best thing for you. Moderation is best.

Hot water increases the evaporation of your skin’s natural moisture, drying your body out. Sure, some personal grooming and hygiene regimens might take up more time (that’s a necessary evil). As a general rule, though, try to keep hot showers to about 10 minutes.

Moisturize All Day Long

While moisturizers are not the only line of defense against winter dryness, they are essential to skin health. In contrast to your warm season routine, wintertime calls for heavier moisturizers due to harsh conditions.

In the morning, shower normally (or rinse off) and pat your skin dry. From here, apply a thick moisturizer. Thick formulas are ideal to lock in ingredients to help dry, cracked skin. Moisturize again at night in stubborn dry spots around the cheeks and eyes for maximum results.

Exfoliate with a Facial

Exfoliation is good for you, because it removes dead skin cells. However, approach it with caution during the winter. Over-exfoliating during cold weather will dry out the skin, so limit facial washing to once a day with mild cleansers (i.e. cleansing oil or micellar water cleanser) for a gentle effect.

Because exfoliation is ideal on an occasional basis, make the most of it. Facials are perfect for wind-blown winter skin. Treatments hone in on reducing redness, improving elasticity, reducing pore size and and moisturizing.

Treat Your Skin at Sewickley Spa

Your skin takes a beating during winter keep it feeling and looking great with a spa visit. Our pampering facials will feel amazing and leave your skin feeling refreshed. Ideal for first-time treatments, as well as a hydrating boost at the start of the season, our spa rejuvenating facial will leave you feeling fabulous. Book today.

How to Host a Stress-Free Holiday Party

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 16:51:33 GMT

Lights, decorations, family togetherness and the spirit of giving are all hallmarks of the holiday season. Another mainstay of the holiday season is the large number of parties, which can be both thrilling and anxiety-provoking if you’re the host. Kick back, relax and make the most of your seasonal celebrations with a handful of tips on how to host a stress-free holiday party.

Easy Food Options

It is so easy to get swept up in the kitchen before and during holiday gatherings. You want the menu to be just right and maybe want to try out a few new recipes. It’s easy to say you’d like to make an extravagant sit-down dinner, but that involves pre-party prep and time away from your guests to cook during the festivities. Our advice? Keep it simple.

Quick and Easy Apps - Party food can be totally on point without having to strap yourself to the stove. Standbys like pigs in a blanket, dips, charcuterie and cookies are more than sufficient to please your closest friends.
Make-Ahead Items - If you’re set on having a larger, homemade meal, do the hard work ahead of time . Casseroles, soups and quiches can be assembled in advance, frozen and cooked/reheated on party night.

Time after time, hosts go overboard on the menu and wind up spending too much party time tending to the kitchen. Create time to mingle with guests by offering easy food options.

A Few Extra Gifts

Friends pop in unexpectedly and relatives come to town at the last minute. Your best friend bought you something even though you’ve agreed not to exchange. Save face when you’re handed a gift by stashing away a few extra presents. Here are few ideas with wide appeal to get you out of a gift exchange pinch.

Gift Cards - Who doesn’t love a free latte, a trip to the movies or maybe even a spa day? A gift card to a popular location goes a long way.
Candles - Brr! Winter is the perfect time to burn a scented candle anyway, adding both warmth and a pleasant aroma. Pick up a few jar candles as gifts that promote relaxation.
Ornaments - Ornaments are staple gifts for the holidays. Brightly-colored and beautiful, your friends will use them all season and think of you each year as they decorate the tree.

While gift exchanges are all about the spirit of giving, few things are more awkward than being handed a gift when you don’t have anything prepared. Keep a few options handy just in case.

Holiday Soundtrack

Good conversation and food are essential to any holiday bash, but so is music to set the tone. Play your holiday favorites to underscore your event.

Radio or Streaming - You don’t need to put the stereo on blast, but tune the radio to festive jams. To control the playlist, stream it from your phone or assistant device instead.
Holiday Flicks in the Background - Not feelin’ the music? Play a holiday movie on low to offer up additional entertainment while still fostering active conversation among guests.

Music and movies are fun ways to spice up any party, and at holiday time, they help guests to get into a festive mood. What will be your party vibe?

Self-Serve Bar

Just like you don’t want to play chef all night, you might not want to act as a bartender either. Let guests handle the drinks on their own instead of pouring on demand or preparing a holiday punch. Easy standby options include:

Beer and Wine - Provide your guests with a few varieties of wine, at least one red and one white, and do the same with different varieties of beer (domestic, IPA, light, etc). If stretched for space, keep a cooler of a few beer choices on the porch.
Spirits - Liquor gets expensive quickly, so be modest in your selections, unless you know friends will gravitate toward cocktails. A few bottles of medium-tier vodka, rum and gin will likely suffice.
Soda/Mixers - Friends with kids especially with appreciate a few non-alcoholic options, like juices and sodas. Of course, these and other mixers are also key ingredients to scrumptious cocktails.

A self-serve bar area provides both you and your guests with flexibility during the party. Just be sure to drink responsibly.

Open House Alternative

Does the evening-long party seem like too much? Host an open house instead. This is a fun and flexible alternative, because you can entertain throughout the day during a specified timeframe so guests can come and go freely.

Deck the Halls - For this type of “stop and visit” event, dress your home up in its holiday best, from outdoor lights to tree trimming. Offer a house tour if friends are interested.
Light Refreshments and Snacks - An open house makes food and beverage even easier because friends aren’t expecting a full meal. Make a few trays of appetizers that are best served chilled (veggie trays, deviled eggs, canapés) and take them out of the fridge as needed. And because guests might not stay as long, opt for spirit-free beverages, too.

Holiday parties come in various forms, and if a full house for four hours isn't your game, try something new!

Chill Out After the Season at Sewickley Spa

While the season is sure to be magical, it’s pretty tiring, too. Recharge after the holidays at Sewickley Spa. Detoxifying facial or soothing Swedish massage, we have a full menu of services to promote relaxation. We look forward to seeing you.

Spa Gifts for the Holidays

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 19:21:02 GMT

At Sewickley Spa, we know how to make your holidays magical. Our comprehensive services and first-class pampering are ideal for anyone on your nice list. Take a moment to browse our best spa gifts for the holidays, and give the gift of Sewickley Spa this holiday season.

Couples Experiences

The holidays promise to be busy, so wind down from the excitement (and maybe a little stress) with a pampering treatment next to your sweetheart. A couples experience is a unique way to share intimacy, and we have a few service options perfect for gifting.

Romantic Interlude for Two

Treat your love to a luxurious spa day, complete with massage and facial. The Romantic Interlude for Two features our popular Swedish massage for each of you, plus a moist heat back treatment to relax away any tension. Afterward, round out your experience with a signature spa facial, which includes puffy eye reduction and heated hand and foot treatments. You’ll both walk away in a state of bliss. For $379, enjoy this 100-minute experience as well as our many spa amenities.

Couples Massage

Our massage services are customer favorites for a reason. Total relaxation. Take this to a new level and bring your sweetheart in for a hand-in-hand Swedish couples massage. Lying side-by-side, each of you will reach a state of calm as our skilled massage therapists soothe away the worries of the day. For $190, enjoy 50 minutes of quality time and relaxation, and be sure to allow extra time to take advantage of our amenities.

Sewickley Spa Gift Card

Looking for a spa gift that allows for more customization? Giving the gift of pampering to a friend or family member? Sewickley Spa gift cards allow recipients to craft a personalized experience, from facials to pedicures (or, head to toe). Buy now for holiday savings on gift cards for anyone on your list.

$300 Spa Gifts for the Holidays

Our deluxe gift card special, the 2019 Holiday $300 provides big savings to enjoy more at our spa and put any experience over the top. For a limited time, pay just $250 for a $300 spa gift card. Need a solo pampering gift for your spouse? What about a surefire way to show mom that you care? This gift is a real winner.

$150 Spa Gifts for the Holidays

Our smaller-scale gift card special, the 2019 Holiday $150 is perfect for enjoying facial treatments and wraps at a discounted price. For a limited time, pay just $125 for a $150 gift card. Treat your bestie to a spa service or two, or surprise your favorite cousin with this thoughtful gift. Gifting made easy.

Team Building

Often limited to problem-solving activities or brainstorming sessions, team building can be so much more. Why not integrate it with your holiday gift? We offer pampering experiences to show appreciation and bring teams together.

Onsite Services

If coming to our spa isn’t ideal, we’ll be happy to come to you. After all, there should be no limits to showing your office team how much you care. Get in touch with us to discuss the best services for your needs, as well as personal touches to make it a personalized experience to remember.

In-Spa Services

Make a day of it with your team at the spa. We offer a wide variety of options to customize large group events, like experience-based team holiday gifts or holiday parties. For your convenience and enjoyment, feel free to rent out the entire spa for a private company party (and heavenly services to match). We’ll also take care of the catering, providing an all-in-one package.

Give the Gift of Sewickley Spa this Holiday Season

It’s tricky to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list, but we’d love to become part of your holiday tradition. Friends or family, colleagues or office teams, give the gift of Sewickley Spa to make the season brighter. Visit us online to explore more options.

Make Time to Relax During the Holiday Rush

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Thanksgiving is just days away, and the sprint toward the holiday season is on. This makes for endless excitement, but also means there’s plenty of prep to do. It’s easy to get overwhelmed this time of year, so take a step back and find ways to relax during this busy time.

Indulgent Pedicure

From exfoliation to nail polish, a luxurious spa pedicure is the ideal way to put aside the holiday to-do lists, clear your mind and enjoy being spoiled. Forget about the gifts you need to buy and get into zen mode as one of our specialists massages your legs and feet, softens any imperfections and perfectly shapes your toenails. Finish it off with a polish in a holiday hue that will last the whole season through.

An afternoon pedicure is a lovely girls’ day activity, especially in between holiday shopping trips. Grab your best gal pals, or make it a mother/daughter day.

Massage Made for Two

Relaxing during the holiday rush doesn’t necessarily mean time alone. In between chores like cleaning the house and stringing lights, grab your significant other for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. A Sewickley Spa couples massage is 50-70 minutes of uninterrupted bliss, including our popular Swedish massage, in a private room for two. Emerge refreshed and ready to immerse yourselves in the magic of the season!

Want to add to the experience? Surprise your partner with the session, and be sure to ask your therapist to incorporate soothing aromatherapy oils when you go.

Sewickley Spa Gift Certificates Simplify Shopping

Can’t brave the Black Friday lines this year? Sewickley Spa makes gift giving a breeze. For friends near and far, give the gift of pampering with a Sewickley Spa gift certificate . Quickly buy and print your certificate at home, send via email or ship it directly to your chosen recipient. Amounts are flexible, and these certificates may be used for any of our services, so your loved one can craft a personalized experience.

Pro tip: Spa pampering is a welcome gift for significant others as well as mothers.

Take a Break from the Holiday Bustle at Sewickley Spa

From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, the holiday season is a magical time of year. But it does sometimes get hectic. Take the time to relax during the holiday rush and make the most of the season. Let Sewickley Spa help. Book your favorite service or give the gift of pampering today.

Achieve a Stunning Holiday Look

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 17:35:51 GMT

Festive family gatherings and winter celebrations among friends are nearly upon us. From prepping meals to shopping for presents, there’s so much to do. But it’s important to feel and look your best, too. Follow a few tips for creating a stunning holiday look that will impress.

A Touch of Sparkle

A staple for a reason, holiday attire with some extra pop is a surefire winner. From sequins to glitter, there’s a number of ways to light up a room with your holiday ensemble.

Sparkle Meets Neutral - While an elegant sequined gown is certainly an option at formal events, today’s fashion is just as much about function as it is appearance. Marry the two by mixing mediums. Try a sparkly pant with a neutral top for bold, yet balanced look.

Let Your Hands Do the Talking - While there are countless designs to choose from for your holiday manicure , few are quite as classy as shimmery polish. Use the holidays as your inspiration and use the colors of the season—metallic silver, glittery gold, piney green or candy cane red.

Amp Up the Accessories

From head to toe, the right accessories for your holiday look go a long way. Don’t be shy about showing off.

Patterned Headbands and Statement Bling - Just like the fanny pack, headbands are experiencing a resurgence. From multicolored stripes to pearl beaded accents, there’s a headpiece for any outfit. Pair it with shimmering jewelry, like a long and flowing necklace, and you’ll certainly have one stunning holiday look.

Fancy Heels - To elevate your holiday look, elevate yourself. Fancy footwear, from strappy block heels to classic pumps, complements any outfit, allowing you to stand out from the ordinary. Go for refined black or ensemble-enhancing hues.

Minidresses and Basic Bags

You don’t have to dress to the nines to achieve a fashion-forward and festive holiday look. Sometimes all you need to do is get back to basics with a simple minidress and sensible bag.

Voluminous Minidresses - Ruffles, tiered layers and flowing fabrics all create larger-than-life (yet flattering) minidress profiles. Add in bold colors and fun fabrics like tulle and you have an easy-to-wear look with a touch of class.

Totes and Bags - Contrary to popular belief, purses don’t necessarily have to be a major investment and your don’t need one to match every outfit. In building your holiday look, aim for a bag that will be easy to carry during your celebrations. Functional options like totes, crossbody bags and shoulder bags will easily fit your essentials without being cumbersome, like tough-to-carry clutches.

Get Holiday Ready at Sewickley Spa

Step away from the planning and the bustle of the holiday season with a trip to the spa. Indulge in a relaxing massage or manicure treatment to ready yourself for the excitement that awaits. Call or book online. We can’t wait to pamper you.

Benefits of a Heated Massage

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 14:23:43 GMT

A soothing massage can make you feel like you’re in heaven. But what about adding another element to the standard treatment? Hot stone massage works by placing smooth, flat, heated stones along the muscle groups in your body (near the spine, stomach, palms and feet) to provide several benefits. Learn more about the benefits of heated massage and whether the treatment is right for you.

Relaxation

Relaxation is the primary reason most people get a massage. And it’s not just because the 60-90-minute session is uninterrupted “me time” (though it’s a definite perk). The massage itself promotes mental relief.

Sedation - Hot stone massages actually have a sedative effect. After all, what else could you expect from an experience designed to soothe the body?
Stress and Anxiety - As your body relaxes, so too does your mind. Because of this, hot stone massage is effective at reducing stress and anxiety.

Symptom Relief

If you or a loved one suffers from a chronic condition or disease, heated massage can be highly effective. Hot stone massage has been studied in both cancer and autoimmune patients.

Cancer Relief - According to a three-year study in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management , hot stone massage can relieve not only the pain and fatigue associated with cancer, it may also combat nausea from treatment. Researchers aren’t 100% sure of the connection, but have attributed some relief to the comforting use of human touch
Fibromyalgia - An autoimmune disease which causes widespread pain, fibromyalgia generally can respond well to heated massage. Research demonstrated that a 30-minute massage can reduce substance P (which sends pain signals), as well as decrease the number of trigger points on the body and allows for more uninterrupted sleep.

Blood Flow

Healthy blood flow makes for a healthy you. Heated massage, like hot stone therapy, can improve blood flow and circulation, helping you to feel your best.

Blood Vessels - Heat therapy has a physical effect on your blood vessels. The heat from the stones used in hot stone massage serves to open up or dilate blood vessels, improving overall flow.
Chronic Pain and Injury - Healthier blood vessels promote healing. When you’re soothing a painful injury via heated massage, oxygen more readily reaches injured tissues through those dilated vessels. This allows you to heal faster.

Muscle Tension

From sitting at your desk all day, to more debilitating causes, muscle tension happens quickly and fairly often. Heated massage therapies, like hot stone massage, could help with chronic issues.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Another autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis causes pain, tension and swelling all over. Luckily, as noted in a 2013 study , therapies like hot stone massage are making the disease manageable, and can possibly reduce pain and reducing tension enough to enhance grip strength.
Carpal Tunnel and Spasms - Ever feel like you just can’t move right? These problems inhibit comfortable movement, but heated massage can both reduce inflammation and improve range of motion.

Quality Sleep

Having trouble sleeping? Regular massage might help you to retire the counting sheep and finally rest up.

Insomnia - Insomnia becomes more and more prevalent with age. That said, indulging in regular massage can be helpful in promoting restful sleep due to its relaxing and sedative effects.
Back Massage - To really hone in on sleep benefits, tell your massage therapist to focus on relaxing your back. Research shows that back massage in particular may promote deeper, restorative sleep.

Enjoy a Hot Stone Massage at Sewickley Spa

From tension and pain relief to improved sleep, hot stone massage can be a helpful remedy for so many issues. Schedule your appointment with us for a hot stone massage, or explore our heat treatments for arms and legs.

Cold Season Prevention and Self Care

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 17:20:42 GMT

Cold season. We look forward to it every year (said no one ever). Let’s be honest, though: most of us want to avoid getting sick, or at least figure out how to feel better quickly when we do catch a cold. While there’s no magic pill to protect against the pitfalls of the common cold, it’s not out of the question to feel your best during the germy season ahead.

Ways to Avoid Getting a Cold

Most of us come into contact with a number of people in a day and do a fair bit of running around. From the daily work routine to errands, there are countless opportunities to pick up germs. With a little mindfulness and enhanced hygiene, however, you can reduce your chances of catching a cold.

Keep Your Hands to Yourself

Germs have a domino effect: when one person has them, they spread those germs around. It’s easy to do, too. Have a new client coming in for a meeting? Handshake time. Consider swapping the classic greeting with a wave or a fistbump instead.

Aside from our hands, we spread germs by touching different surfaces. Steer clear of germy surfaces–ranging from refrigerator door handles to shared supplies–or at least grab hold of them with a paper towel or handkerchief. Your body will thank you later.

Stay Squeaky Clean

It’s impossible to avoid touching everything around you, so be mindful of what you touch during the day and keeping clean afterward. Habits like washing your hands after a restroom trip and habitually using hand sanitizer throughout the day are solid preventive measures to avoid picking up unwanted germs. On a similar note, your nose and eyes can collect germs like crazy, so make sure your hands are clean before touching your face for any reason.

Treat Your Body Well

The last thing you want when the risk of catching a cold is looming is a weak immune system. Cold prevention starts with how you treat your body. While it might be tempting to indulge in pizza and burgers, try to work in more fruits and veggies instead. They’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals, supporting a healthy body. In addition to the types of foods you enjoy, pay attention to how you eat them. Don’t eat off of your spouse’s fork when trying their meals and steer clear of communal snacks like bowls of chips at the office.

Eating right is only half the equation for treating your body right during cold season. Staying active is pretty essential, too. Whether you walk the treadmill at home or engage in a full workout at the gym, make exercise part of your routine. Exercise helps to boost immune system function, readying your body to fight cold-causing germs.

How to Deal Once You’ve Gotten a Cold

If you lose the battle and catch a cold despite your best efforts, it’s not the end of the world (thought maybe it feels that way). Amid the uncomfortable symptoms is light at the end of the tunnel for feeling better faster and preventing others from getting sick.

Keep It to Yourself

While most people battle on and go to work when looking down the barrel of the tissue box, priority #1 should be getting well. Try not to focus on the sick days you’ll be using, and instead take a few days off to rest. In addition to the healing benefits of adequate sleep, you’ll be taking advantage of the often-overlooked benefit of staying away from the office: preventing your germs from spreading throughout the entire team. Along with preventing colleagues from catching your cold, take care not to infect those whose immune systems are weaker, like younger children or the elderly.

Go All Natural

We’re conditioned to rely on medication when something is physically wrong, but this is only one strategy. Natural remedies often replace, or at least supplement, medicinal ones. For instance, humidifiers are highly effective for clearing congestion, while vitamins like vitamin C and zinc provide immune support. Have a sore throat? Try a warm salt water rinse. Can’t stop coughing? Hot tea will relax that cough reflex.

OTC When Necessary

Colds are nothing if not persistent. When natural remedies alone can’t handle the job, over-the-counter medications may be in order. Cough drops provide moderate relief throughout the day with soothing ingredients like menthol, which decongestants clear out the gunk in your nose and throat. For maximum effectiveness, look for a decongestant containing pseudoephedrine, as it is the only proven congestion remedy.

Rebound at Sewickley Spa

Colds are long and lingering, and it takes a lot to recover. Once you do, why not spoil yourself a little? Turn to Sewickley Spa for a rejuvenating facial, or detoxifying body wrap to round out your recovery. Get in touch to book your pampering experience.

Halloween Makeup and Beauty Tips

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 15:12:02 GMT

Halloween is near, and last-minute costume prep is underway. It’s easy enough to decide who or what to be, but what about the makeup to complete the look? Costume makeup is all over the shelves of every local store, but it might not be necessary, much less healthy, for your skin. Follow our Halloween makeup and beauty tips to achieve a frightfully fantastic look for the spookiest night of the year.

Keep it Simple

Halloween makeup doesn’t have to be complicated. Aside from unique components like prosthetics (which may well be needed for your costume), keep the makeup routine as simple as you can.

Start by taking inventory of the products you already have. Everyday products like eyeliner or artificial lashes will go a long way toward crafting your Halloween alter ego, after all. Don’t have everything you need? Create a small makeup kit inclusive of all the colors to make your costume stand out. This kit will also come in handy for touch-ups throughout the night, so keep it small and compact.

Of course, it’s a special night, so you might still be tempted to try a new product or two. No problem. For your safety, do a quick skin test of any new products at least one day before your festivities. Wouldn’t it be a shame to find out about a makeup allergy the hard way, when you’re already out and about? Use the product test to ensure that you don’t experience any allergic reactions.

Invest in Quality

It goes without saying that better quality makeup will yield better results. If you find that you have to buy makeup to supplement your existing collection, aim for quality. The local pharmacy might be stocking fake blood and pale-white foundation, but what’s all of this really made of? If you have to buy makeup, avoid cheap party section products.

For higher-quality results, as well as a better idea of product ingredients, aim for FDA-approved products. These are the familiar name brand products that have undergone strict testing for user safety, and they’re probably just a few aisles down in the same pharmacy. Want to make sure your makeup is party-proof? Use a primer or setting spray for maximum longevity for a night of adventure.

Remove Makeup and Condition Your Face

Flash forward to the end of the night. It’s time to remove the facade and get back to everyday life. Makeup is stubborn, though! Simple household products make the process easy.

Petroleum jelly is a staple for chapped lips and dry skin, but it’s also an amazing makeup removal product. Simply spread a thin layer of it over the skin, then take a tissue to remove it. The petroleum jelly will take your makeup along for the ride. Sound a little too sticky? Another alternative is to use a light micellar water. But don’t forget to rejuvenate. Consider applying a nighttime facial oil before bed to cushion skin and prevent breakouts.

Treat Yourself at Sewickley Spa

Use these tips to make a Halloween look that’s uniquely yours, but treat your skin with care. When the night of fright has passed, stop into Sewickley Spa for a revitalizing facial . Choose from our menu of services for the right treatment to detoxify and delight.

Physical Benefits of Massage

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 17:18:26 GMT

Stressed out? A little achy? Individuals indulge in massage for a variety of reasons, because it brings so many benefits to the table and just plain feels good. We like to look at massage therapy from a holistic perspective of helping both the mind and body. Let’s look at the latter, and explore some of the biggest physical benefits of massage.

Posture

The slouch. The slump. The hunch. It’s important to take care of our bodies and their muscles, but sitting and standing up straight isn’t always the easiest thing to do. Do you work in an office? Odds are high that you strain your back and hip muscles by leaning over a computer keyboard. Over time, you start to ache because your body isn’t aligned correctly and those muscles are working overtime. What’s more, all of this extra tension pushes down on your organs, too, messing with healthy digestion.

The good news is that aside from a concentrated effort to do what mamma always told you (“Sit up straight!”), massage is a viable relief option. Massage therapy helps with posture in a few ways, too.

Get Loose - Massage treatment, from deep tissue therapy to Swedish massage, loosens the very same muscle groups you’re stressing out while hunching over your desk at work or leaning over the kitchen stove.
Return to Natural Movement - In working strained muscles and joints, your massage therapist relieves various pressure points, permitting you to move more naturally without pain and return to a healthy posture.

Headache Relief

Whether they’re dull and achy or constantly pounding, headaches are, well, a pain. It can be especially taxing when you not only suffer from the occasional headache, but rather intense migraines or tension headaches. Who wants to rely on pain relievers every day? Massage provides a medicine-free solution to chronic headache pain.

Release the Endorphins - What actually allows pain relief? Our bodies produce “feel good” hormones called endorphins to create a sense of calm and relaxation. By massaging the neck, shoulders and scalp, therapists release these hormones to allow headaches to subside.
Reduce Flare-Ups - If massage has helped with migraine pain once before, it probably will again. In a proactive approach, making massage part of your regular routine will help to dissolve stress, reducing headache flare-ups. As an added bonus, if you have a frequent muscle spasm in your eye or forehead, regular treatment will settle this down.

Flexibility

Head, shoulders, knees and toes...Can’t do that dance anymore? As we get older, and as we spend more and more time at our desks, movement deteriorates. While it won’t create the sudden ability to do the splits, massage may restore flexibility to the extent of toe touches and basic stretching.

Let Us See You Flex - In addition to loosening muscles and joints, massage therapy provides the benefits of working the individual tendons, ligaments and connective tissue throughout your body. In stimulating all of these different areas of the body, you experience enhanced flexibility and improved range of motion.
Prevent Injury - Tripping over your own two feet or taking a fall are not pleasant. However, greater flexibility makes you less susceptible to significant injuries in scenarios like this. And if you suffer from an inflammatory condition like arthritis, pain might seem like a part of life. The good news is that massage keeps symptoms from worsening.

Enjoy the Physical Benefits of Massage at Sewickley Spa

From those headaches that just won’t quit to limited mobility and flexibility, massage therapy can provide relief. Get in touch with us to discuss your pain points, talk through our services and choose the right service for you.

Five Health Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 20:31:04 GMT

It’s universally known that getting out and being active is preferred over a sedentary lifestyle, but it’s not just a general recommendation. Real benefits back it up! From reduced inflammation to lower stress levels, we’ll look at the leading benefits of spending time outdoors.

Reduces Inflammation

Spending time in the great outdoors can make your body feel better overall. Inflammation causes muscle and joint discomfort, for which we seek a variety of remedies, from ibuprofen to chiropractor visits. A much simpler strategy is to spend time in nature.

A 2012 study out of China tested 20 subjects, divided into two groups—one sent to the city and the other to the forest for a weekend—and discovered that inflammation levels were lower in the nature group. While more evidence is sure to emerge over time, just think about the potential for this if you’re coping with an injury.

Improves Immune System

Do you suffer from the annual winter flu? Maybe drawn-out colds affect you more. Worse, serious illnesses are tough to manage. Mitigate these issues by making outdoor time part of your routine.

Qing Li, a scientist in Japan, studied the effects of outdoor activity on immune health. Li pointed out the white blood cell benefits of getting out and getting active, reporting that hiking twice a day for three days boosts white blood cells by 40%, with at least a 15% boost still being present a month later. It’s not realistic for all of us to be on the trail this often, so a key takeaway: make a more extensive nature trip once a month, and visit a park once a week.

Another perk? Being one with nature may help your body to produce more anti-cancer proteins . The effect lasts up to seven days after, which is promising because outdoor therapy could reduce cancer mortality rates.

Results in Better Vision

Mom and dad were right when they said to put down the video games and go outside. Your eyes develop from a young age, so it’s essential to take care of them. Actively engaging with the outdoors can help protect your vision, from youth into adulthood.

Researchers in Taiwan studied the link between nearsightedness and outdoor activity in children at two schools—one promoting outdoor recess and the other avoiding it. The kids who stayed indoors were over twice as likely than those who played outside to be nearsighted.

From an adult perspective, the effects are still pronounced. Do you use a computer for work? Computer Vision Syndrome causes eye redness, headaches and blurry vision, which may be helped by the occasional break outside the office.

Promotes Clearer Thinking

Stepping away from a task in favor of a walk outside to recharge isn’t just a stall tactic. Getting out into the sunshine or even nature can help you to refocus.

The University of Michigan examined the impact of taking a brief walk in the park as a way to get refreshed. The study found that an hour spent outside in nature—versus on city streets—improved memory and attention span. Weather conditions don’t really matter, either. 25 degree winter or 75 degree summer, the study re

Helps to Destress

Stress comes from all corners of life, from physical wellness to family and work issues. Why not take advantage of easier ways to obtain relief? Getting outside is proven to settle both your mind and body.

For one thing, being outside promotes the feel-good serotonin in your body, activating feelings of empathy and emotional stability. There’s no doubt about this helping to melt stress away. But just as important, if not more so, are the physical markers of stress. Time and time again, spending time outdoors has been shown to decrease heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels (impacting cholesterol).

Boost Your Relaxation at Sewickley Spa

Clearer mind and healthier body. The outdoors do us wonders. So does relaxing body pampering. Stop into Sewickley Spa for a rejuvenating facial or luxurious massage to put yourself at ease. Schedule your spa visit today.

Swedish v. Deep Tissue Massage

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 20:50:42 GMT

New to massage? Just never quite understood the different treatments? You undoubtedly want to enjoy a day of pampering as much as possible, because busy schedules being what they are, these opportunities don’t come around every day. That’s why it’s so important to find the best service for you. To help in your quest, let’s compare two of the most popular treatments: Swedish v. deep tissue massage.

Swedish Massage Techniques

Effleurage - A major component of Swedish massage, effleurage encompasses long, gentle strokes to distribute massage oils which make your skin easier to work with. Here, the therapist also begins to feel for the condition of your muscles and identify tight spots.
Petrissage - A more common technique, your therapist will incorporate kneading strokes, or petrassage. These strokes manipulate the tissues of your body to promote relaxation and flush metabolic waste
Friction - Improving blood flow is a key goal during Swedish massage treatments, and friction strokes are essential. The friction of these short, quick strokes creates heat, promoting blood flow and soothing muscles.
Vibration - Some therapists may incorporate vibrating strokes. Rather than stimulating a particular region, vibration strokes are used all over to create an overall sense of calm and relaxation.
Tapotement - Who knew that a karate chop felt so good? These mild blows to areas like your back are effective in promoting muscle relaxation.

Swedish Massage Benefits

The gentler and more common massage technique (so much so that some call it “classic massage”), Swedish massage is highly beneficial. Aside from feeling absolutely amazing, these treatments do your mind and body a world of good.

Get Your Relaxation On

A major hallmark of the Swedish methodology is that the treatment is a good way to achieve relaxation. This is because the variety of strokes combine to relieve physical and mental tension, helping stress to dissipate.

Wake Up Those Nerves

Our bodies are made up of a seemingly limitless supply of nerve endings, allowing us to feel positive and painful sensations. Swedish is a common choice for mild muscle tension and flexibility issues. When you begin a treatment, tell your therapist about any trigger points that might need extra attention, such as tight shoulders.

Deep Tissue Massage Techniques

Think of deep tissue massage as a graduation from the moderate approaches of Swedish massage. The treatment utilizes the same strokes of Swedish massage, but pulls in additional strategies to achieve deeper muscle and tissue penetration.

Your therapist will put more of their own body into a deep tissue treatment, using pressure from their fingers, fists, elbows and forearms. Sound aggressive? Deep tissue massage is a common pain management treatment, so it focuses heavily on stretching and soothing the fascia, or deeper layers of connective tissue within your body. Incorporating a series of slow and deliberate strokes, deep tissue treatments are effective for issues with posture and chronic pain.

Deep Tissue Massage Benefits

The average person probably doesn’t need deep tissue therapy. Because of the intensity of the treatment, it is by nature geared toward certain individuals, like athletes, individuals suffering from fibromyalgia or those with chronic pain due to injury.

All the Way Down to the Core

Using highly deliberate strokes, your therapist aims to relieve chronic muscle tension and adhesions. Penetrating so deeply, the treatment has the benefit of being able to affect your body all the way down to the tendons and tissue.

A Little Bit of Pushback

What’s interesting is that the technique takes it queue from individual muscles. Your therapist will “hook in,” slowly stroking individual muscles as they allow, while avoiding excessive force by feeling when each muscle pushes back in resistance. With proper pressure (avoiding creating pain), these muscles will naturally relax and release, allowing your therapist to move along them and provide a sense of soothing.

Unwind with a Massage from Sewickley Spa

That spa day is so close you can touch it. Which service wins out for you in comparing Swedish v. deep tissue massage? Whether you’re in need of the calming strokes of the Swedish technique, or have a lingering issue to address with deep tissue therapy, we’ll customize a massage experience that will put you in a state of complete bliss. Schedule your service today.

Fall-Themed Manicure Ideas

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 16:22:09 GMT

Now that fall is finally here, it’s natural to want to make it feel that way (even if the forecast disagrees). Some folks do this with their food and drink (Comfort food and pumpkin spice, anyone?), but we like to do it with trending and seasonal styles. Celebrate fall with a few fresh manicure ideas.

Fall Colors

The easiest way to put your fingernails on-theme with the fall season is with the right splashes of color. Classic natural fall hues, as well as deep tones, create striking looks.

Orange, Red and Yellow

When the leaves change, these are the most prominent colors surrounding you. Why not take advantage and rock that fall theme on your digits? Colors along these spectrums, like copper (orange), rust (red) and gold (yellow), set the stage for enjoying the brisk season ahead. Grab your favorite seasonal latte to enjoy after, and you’ll be in full-on fall mode!

Dark Green, Purple and Black

More intense shades have their place during the fall season, too. These hues are striking and unexpected, but also complement your cooler weather wardrobe. Shades of green (emerald, forest), purple (plum, cranberry) and black really pop on longer nail lengths, while accentuating your best features, too. Makeup isn’t the only thing that can make your eyes sparkle, after all. Bonus: darker shades are easy to customize into a spooky vibe for Halloween.

Color Accents

Color itself is just one element. To achieve a look that’s truly out of the ordinary, use colors in different ways. You can do this by alternating colors between fingers, adding pop with a single accented fingernail on one or each hand or even by creating a two-toned look.

Alternating Colors

One Accented Fingernail

It’s been a hot trend for a number of years now—that one fingernail that stands in contrast from the rest. Maybe it’ll be your pointer finger or a thumb. The most popular option? Accenting the ring finger. One thing’s clear: this nail color strategy gets attention. Try a basic solid, like black fingernails with an emerald green left ring finger—so striking and sure to attract attention to your bling if you’re married or engaged.

Two-Toned Nails

To jazz up your nail color without going all out with intricate designs, find a middle ground with a two-toned approach. Whether stacked or side-by-side, pairing two colors on each fingernail is sure to create both a unique look and give a hat tip to the season you adore. Possible pairings: burnt orange and gold or forest green and black.

Rock a New Fall Manicure from Sewickley Spa

Whether you’re all about the colors of nature or lean toward cold weather hues, Sewickley Spa can help. Our Spa manicure comes complete with full nail bed treatment, shaping and the polish of your choice from OPI and CND Vinylux. Want to take things to the next level? Add a pedicure to your day of pampering, incorporating the scents of fall with Pumpkin Spice and Vanilla Chai body products by Hempz. Schedule your appointment today.

Fine Tune Your Cold Weather Beauty Routine

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 18:44:00 GMT

Beauty regimens are confusing, and they change depending on the season because our skin behaves differently. Should you exfoliate? What kind of makeup is best? Demystify cold weather skin care with a few simple tips.

More Moisture, Less Exfoliation

Cooler weather months bring with them lower temperatures and dry air. Because of this, we start to notice that our skin becomes flaky, stiff and dry. How do you deal? Bring that moisture back in.

During the fall and winter months, add heavier moisturizers to your daily routine. Mother Nature will do her best to sap your skin’s natural moisture away when you venture outside, and moisturizers will lock it in. Depending on your skin type (sensitive, oily, etc.), the thickest products might be best suited to areas like your cheeks, as they naturally produce less oil than the T-zone regions of your face, whereas dedication eye creams could help the region around your peepers. Additionally, make hand and body lotions part of your daily care for soft and supple skin.

Of course, for the best results, try to also cut back on exfoliating tools and skin care products during cool months. Exfoliating is essential to remove dead skin cells, but should be limited to 2-3 times a week at this point because your skin is prone to drying and becoming sensitive. During off days, use a gentle cleansing butter or cream, and consider an occasional at-home facial for purification.

Time for Better Lip Care

Some folks are tied at the hip to their lip balm regardless of the season, creating healthy and kissable lips. For the rest of us, cold weather signals a time to get serious about lip care. Have you ever gone out for an hour on the first cold weather day, only to return with dry, burning lips? Ouch. Our skin doesn’t like that kind of shock, and it fights back by chapping our lips.

Try to get into a routine with lip balm application, not only to get into a rhythm but to protect your lips. Choose a product that you’re comfortable with (from the biggest name brands to a simple petroleum jelly), and apply it at specific times. For instance, lipstick and lip gloss sometimes dry your lips, so use a bit of lip balm prior to applying this makeup. Additionally, protect yourself from the elements before going outside for the day, and lock in moisture by applying lip balm before bed.

Heavier Makeup

During summertime, less is more in the makeup world. That’s because our skin is naturally more oily, so we don’t have to add an artificial glow to our complexions. When fall and winter arrive, flip that practice and turn to heavier foundations and powders. The heavier products will provide even coverage to the contours of your face, all while creating the soft and smooth finish our skin craves during dry months.

This time of year is also ripe with color inspiration, so why not take advantage? Take your queue from the deep, dark colors of fall! Try a deep red lip or dark blue smokey eye color for a bold new look.

Visit Sewickley Spa to Jumpstart Your Cold Weather Skin Care

From moisturizers to makeup, it takes some work to get a solid cold weather skin care regimen in place. Simplify the transition with a visit to Sewickley Our full menu of massage services and facials prime your skin for relaxation and the worst weather conditions. Choose your favorite service and book your appointment today.

Fall Allergies and How to Deal

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 17:31:55 GMT

“Yay, fall allergy season!” Said no one ever. We hear a good bit about spring and summer allergies, but raise your hand if fall is a bigger challenge. The autumn season brings with it new irritants like ragweed, mold and mildew and dust mites. So, how do you cope? Send your itchy eyes and stuffy nose packing with a few tips on how to fight fall allergies.

Ragweed

The #1 allergy pest this time of year is ragweed, as well as the pollen it produces. The yellow flowering weed blooms in August, wreaking havoc on allergy sufferers well into fall. Typically the first frost of the year will wipe out this troublemaker, but that might not be until November. So what can you do about it now?

Take Prescribed Allergy Meds and Plan Outside Time

The last thing you want is to be blindsided by allergy symptoms. If you know you’re prone to discomfort and have been prescribed allergy medication, take that medication before outdoor activities. Pro tip: If possible, plan to go outside after 10 a.m., as pollen levels are highest in the early morning hours.

Leave Allergens at the Door

Don’t bring those pesky irritants inside with you. After work and play, leave shoes and jackets on the porch if possible, or at least by the front door. This will limit the spread of allergens in your home.

Scrub-a-Dub

Daily activities result in dirt and allergen debris clinging to you. To mitigate this, take a shower at night, complete with a thorough wash of your hair. In addition to feeling better, you’ll avoid bringing allergens to bed with you, where they’re likely to get on sheets and pillows.

Mold and Mildew

Growing indoors and out, mold and mildew thrive in damp areas. A leaky basement, as well as an outdoor pile of leaves are both fair game for these spores to grow and multiply. Mold spores spread through the air, so simple chores like raking leaves or sweeping the basement may exacerbate the issue—both during the act itself and wherever the affected elements land. What is an allergy sufferer to do?

Wear Protective Clothing and Equipment

Because mold and mildew are easily spread through the air, it’s wise to dress appropriately when you engage in messy chores. Wear a mask while raking leaves to prevent breathing the spores into your lungs, as well as gloves and old clothes for housework.

Clean it Up

Mold and mildew thrive in just about any damp environment, not just your basement. So, keep an eye on the cleanliness of both your kitchen and bathroom. Bathrooms especially are prone to this gunky buildup in tubs and showers, as well as tile grout. If you spy mold forming in these places, clean it up with a vinegar mixture or mildew cleaner, or replace grout and sealant.

Keep it Low

Allergy treatment can sometimes be a balancing act, because irritants don’t behave the same way. That said, even though it might help symptoms occasionally, try to keep humidifier use to a minimum. The pros recommend keeping home humidity below 50%, so you might actually be better off with a dehumidifier. Consider adding one to allergen-prone areas, like bedrooms, bathrooms and the kitchen.

Dust Mites

They’re around all year, but dust mites present bigger problems during cooler weather. These bugs love to nest in upholstered furniture, so as your indoor time increases, so does your exposure. And when you spend more time on the couch, they’re being fed a steady diet of skin cells, too (We know, gross). It’s tempting to crank the humidifier to combat dry air and allergies, but dust mites thrive in humid environments. Sounds inescapable, huh? Don’t surrender your house just yet.

Tidy Up

Dust mites like upholstery, right? This should be a big focus of your weekly home cleaning routine. Run the vacuum on carpets regularly, launder the curtains and run a hand vacuum over seat cushions to avoid these critters.

The Right Bedding

We track so many unintended pests to bed with us (Pleasant, right?). Luckily, our bedding can actually help. Select a set of hypoallergenic sheets and blankets to use on your bed during allergy season. You still have to launder them regularly, but hypoallergenic sheets will neutralize allergens.

Clean Those Vents

The heat will soon be on regularly in our homes. Do yourself a favor and clean up the air vents before firing up the furnace for the first time. Not only will this ensure that the system is primed and safe for use, but you will also spare your sinuses the effects of stray dust mites. Win-win.

Feel Your Best at Sewickley Spa

Fall allergies are rough, but manageable. From monitoring in-home humidity to regular cleaning regimens, you can easily manage the effects of irritants like ragweed and mold. When allergies hit, turn to Sewickley Spa to feel your best. Our comprehensive wraps remove toxins, while aromatherapy decongests and relaxes the body. Schedule your chosen service to feel your best today and every day.

Health Benefits of Facials

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 15:02:06 GMT

Massages are pampering for your body, but facials do the same for your face. Facials are pretty well known to provide moisturizing and exfoliating benefits, but there’s so much more to it. Did you know that facial treatments provide substantial physical and mental boosts? Let’s explore the lesser-known health benefits of facials.

Combat Acne and Associated Scars

Reduce Your Stress

Ahh. Watch your stress melt away. Facials provide stress relief because of the techniques used and elements incorporated into the treatments.

Facials begin with a face massage, which relaxes your face muscles by stimulating pressure points. Throughout the process, your sympathetic nervous system settles down and acts as a mood booster. Additional potential benefits to this stress relief: organ function and health. Who knew?

Experience Sinus Relief

Our sinuses seem to be gatekeepers to physical health. They impact how our head, ears and nose feel, so sensitivity and pain relief are major concerns when we’re less than 100%. Facials treat these maladies in a few different ways.

Your sinuses mainly get a pick-me-up because of the massage part of facial treatments. The attention to pressure points stimulates sinus drainage. This is because of the combination of movement and warmth around the sinus cavities, which allows mucous to break up. Of course, you can boost the effect even more with the aromatics in the creams and moisturizers used in your treatment.

Trust Sewickley Spa for Your Facials

From skin health benefits to mental ones, nothing beats a facial. Are you in need of a refresher? Check out our menu of services and give us a call. We’d be happy to take your pampering to the next level.

Wearing White After Labor Day and Other Weird Style Rules

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 16:11:41 GMT

With Labor Day soon behind us, that old adage is back. Why can’t we wear white after Labor Day? Who made that rule? At Sewickley Spa, we want to help you look and feel your best. That means something different to every single person who walks through our doors. All of us have our own unique style and preferences that shouldn’t be held back by weird style “rules.” Here are a few common faux pas you shouldn’t feel bad about breaking.

Wearing White After Labor Day

This one isn’t strictly adhered to, but someone’s definitely bound to comment (hopefully as a joke) when they see your white jeans in late September. So, why can’t you wear white after Labor Day? This “rule” goes all the way back to the late 1800s. At the time, families with old money resented those who had just come into it—the nouveau riche.

As a way of distinguishing their families’ legacy of wealth, many decided they would not wear white at the end of summer as a way to identify those who recently became rich. In other words, those still wearing white were to be excluded from “high society.” Sounds petty, huh? So, go ahead and wear that cute white dress all winter long

Clashing Colors

Putting two bold colors together is a definite no-no for many fashionistas, but this rule is going out of style. If you’ve got a colorful flair, you should feel free to pair any colors you’d like. The most common “faux pas” we hear about is pairing blue and brown with black. Sure, an all-black look can be sleek, but sometimes you just need to break it up with a nice pop of color. Darker blues and tans help you achieve this while still maintaining a more subdued look.

There are other color combos that get put in the crosshairs: red and green, yellow and purple, orange and navy blue. All of these pairings can work and you should feel free to do so. Check out some of these stunning examples. As all style and beauty, go with what you like and don’t worry what others think!

Wearing the “Wrong” Patterns

Just like with colors, wear whatever patterns and designs speak to you. Mix all the prints you want! In fact, many stylists encourage mixing patterns for a fresh, modern look. They even recommend using leopard print as a neutral and contrasting it with other patterns. Maybe your style’s a little more reserved. That’s perfectly fine, too. Just don’t be afraid to let your penchant for patterns fly whenever you want.

Let’s talk about stripes, too. How many times have you heard that horizontal strips aren’t flattering? This is a tired “rule” that simply doesn’t hold up. Sure, there might be a little bit of visual trickery if you’re wearing a skintight dress, but if you wear clothes that fit your body, you won’t look any wider than you are.

Look and Feel Your Best at Sewickley Spa

We may not be fashion consultants, but our staff of experienced professionals can help you look and feel your best, giving you the confidence to wear whatever makes you feel like yourself. From manicures to massages to body wraps, explore all of our treatment options to receive the pampering you deserve.

Start the Semester Off Relaxed

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 19:09:11 GMT

It’s hard to believe summer vacation has come to an end, but new adventures await during the fall semester. You might be nervous (especially if you’re a freshman), and that’s understandable, but the transition doesn’t have to be difficult. Ease into the new term with a spa day to help you start the semester off relaxed and refreshed. What kind of mental and physical benefits can a day at the spa offer? Keep reading.

Confidence

Some people prefer to wear little to no clothing during a spa service, which can be intimidating to individuals who have never tried it. As a result, you go in feeling self conscious. The thing is, the experience actually tends to make you more comfortable in your own skin, having taken the risk to be exposed and vulnerable. Beyond this, treatments like massages, mani/pedi and facials make your features and your skin look good—and as the adage goes, “When you look good, you feel good, too.” That rejuvenation provides a springboard to propel your success and positive attitude as the new semester begins.

Happiness

Heading into a new academic year brings social and academic challenges. Face them head on with an improved mood and outlook! Aside from the confidence boost, spa services can enhance your happiness as you look to the upcoming school year. Don’t believe us? Services like massages release serotonin—the brain’s happy hormone—creating that chemical response which produces those happy, hopeful and positive mental vibes. You’ll be better able to settle in and enjoy the high school or college experience.

Energy

Relaxation and energy. Mutually exclusive? Not necessarily. If you’re the type who feels most at ease when there’s a bit more fuel in your mental tank, the invigoration provided by wraps, massages and aromatherapy will leave you centered. Citrus oils like orange and lime, as well as herbs like rosemary and thyme, supercharge energy levels so you can tackle anything. Who needs to drink coffee in college? Just hit the spa once in awhile for that boost needed during exams and big projects.

Physical Wellness

Of course, we can’t ignore the physical benefits of spa visits because that’s a prime reason why folks visit us each day. Massages and facials just feel good, enhancing your wellbeing simply by engaging with the service. But add another layer to it: are you recovering from an injury or illness? Massages increase circulation and provide a means of pain management and tension reduction, helping you feel better faster. You can also get a bit of an immune boost during spa experiences, because massages increase white blood cell production. You’ll already be dragging with a rough courseload (and maybe a few too many parties), so cut yourself some slack with a spa visit.

Head to the Spa, Then to Campus

Are you thinking of a massage or therapeutic wrap? College is a challenging time, so take advantage of opportunities to relax when you can. You’ll enjoy this part of your journey so much more. Book your appointment with us and head back to campus on a high note.

Anxiety Reduction Remedies

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 19:39:14 GMT

You get nervous, jittery and your heart races. Maybe you worry about past interactions, or even future ones. It’s anxiety, and it happens to everyone in varying degrees, but it can be unbearable sometimes. Therapy may have been suggested at some point, or even medication. But you want to be your best natural self. So what are the best natural anxiety reduction remedies? Let’s take a look...

Exercise

Have you ever heard that running makes you feel good? It’s not just because of the physical health benefits, but the mental ones as well. Vigorous exercise releases endorphins, those feel-good hormones which provide a natural and emotional high within our brains. So, when you’re anxious, get moving!

In addition to releasing those “happy” chemicals, getting active provides a release for the worried mind because it distracts you. Your muscles naturally stop tensing up, and your mind has something else to focus on, like breathing, heart rate or the tunes in your earbuds. Other awesome workouts: bike riding and yoga.

Aromatherapy

Ah, the sweet smell of relaxation. Aromatherapy uses the ol’ sniffer (aka your nose) to provide a sense of calm. Essential oils are hugely popular right now, and can be used in different ways to produce calming effects. The natural oils from various plants are known to reduce heart rate and blood pressure as well as providing other unique benefits when inhaled directly or through oil diffusers. Popular options: bergamot, sage and lavender. If pure essential oils aren’t for you, pick up a body wash infused with the same aromatics and wash your worry away in the shower.

Healthy Sleep

When anxiety creeps in, it’s hard to go to sleep. You’re thinking of what you did today, and what you’ll do tomorrow. You need sleep to function! If that aromatherapy idea sounded good, one additional perk is that oils like lavender promote restful sleep. Natural supplements are also viable options. Melatonin, for instance, helps to regulate your sleep/wake cycle. It may help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and packs a few antioxidant benefits as well.

Of course, to really improve your quality of sleep, a relaxing routine is essential. Lower the lights, turn off the TV and set the tone for a calm night of shut eye. It works wonders to establish a regular sleep schedule (i.e. when you turn in and wake up each day), as well as to make the bedroom a tranquil place which is cool, dark and lacking in distractions. Without the burden of dragging from fatigue all day, you’ll be free to be your best self.

Destress at Sewickley Spa

Overcoming anxiety is a process of trial and error to find what works for you. Small lifestyle changes, like exercise and regular sleep, can make a world of difference, too. Sometimes you just need to get out of your own head. When you want to zone out and enter a state of zen, massage is a tried-and-true strategy. Book an aromatherapy or hot stone massage with us and experience the benefits of total body relaxation.

Sewickley Spa: An Award-Winning Experience

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 20:09:41 GMT

When you’re in search of a luxurious spa experience, one thing is essential: expertise. Since 1998, we’ve been providing only the best in massage and body services, which hasn’t gone unnoticed by the community. We’ve been recognized with 80 awards during our 20+ year history, so our guests can count on a first-rate experience during each visit.

Best Day Spa

We’re thrilled to have earned this recognition from the Pittsburgh City Paper by winning first and second place awards, as determined by those who matter most to us—our customers. Local companies are voted on via reader’s poll in various categories ranging from best seamstress to—you guessed it—best day spa, which is a tremendous way for us to obtain positive guest feedback. It’s definitely one of our favorites!

Pittsburgh 100

Because industry-specific expertise is just one piece of the puzzle, it’s also gratifying to know when your business is succeeding from a growth perspective. That’s why we are flattered to receive recognition from the Pittsburgh Business Times’ Pittsburgh 100 Fastest-Growing Companies awards. Dorothy and the team were recognized from 2001-2004, and look forward to additional milestone year. The award criteria measures year-over-year financial growth, so we have our outstanding customers to thank for these achievements.

Best Day Spa

Our most recent awards come from various corners of the community. Our happy customers have named Sewickley Spa the 2019 Best Day Spa (Sewickley/West division) in the Trib Total Media Reader’s Choice Awards. About 100 business categories are chosen by Trib Total Media each year, with local residents voting on top-performing businesses. We love that we hold a special place in your hearts.

See Why Sewickley Spa is the #1 Spa Destination

We don’t provide exceptional spa services for the recognition. We do it to make YOU feel your best, and our customers enjoy each experience. Turn to Sewickley Spa for your next massage and discover the meaning of relaxation. Call or book online for your pampering experience.

Habits for Healthy Sleep

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 19:52:31 GMT

Tossing and turning. Blankets on. Then off. And on again. Why can’t you sleep? From the stresses of the day to poor diet, we experience insomnia for a variety of reasons. The important thing is knowing how to cope with it in order to have a restful night’s sleep. Fortunately, there are a few simple habits to get into so you can saw logs instead of counting sheep.

Stick to a Schedule

Most of us are guilty of interrupting a healthy sleep routine. Maybe you spent time at a neighbor's bonfire or stayed out late for a weekend concert, suddenly pushing bedtime to 1 a.m. instead of your normal 10:30 p.m. Then you wake up late the following morning. This is horrible for our bodies. If insomnia frequently comes knocking, trying sticking as close to a schedule as possible. Define your bedtime and wake up, and make it the same everyday—even weekends. Your body will adjust to states of energy and rest for each day, and you’ll be guaranteeing yourself a set number of hours of shuteye (eight, ideally).

Limit Stimulation

When approaching your ideal sleep time, limit anything that’s overly stimulating, from activities to what you ingest. This means television, computers, tablets and cell phones should all be off limits, as they increase both eye strain and brain stimulation. If screen time is absolutely necessary, be sure to activate the blue light filter on the device.

Flip through a magazine or use the 30-60 minutes before bed to relax. One idea is to use the time for a nightly beauty regimen, complete with a soak in the tub or moisturizing facial.

Just as important, try to avoid snacking and put the caffeinated soda back in the fridge in favor of water. These give your body fuel and will make sleep difficult (and increase bathroom trips).

Stage the Room for Relaxation

You might not put too much thought into it, but the bedroom should be a peaceful oasis. Similarly, you should limit your time there to only restful and intimate activities, rather than watching TV or talking on the phone.

Create a dream-worthy escape by making a few simple aesthetic changes to the room. The most obvious update, if it’s feasible, is to invest in a comfortable and high-quality mattress. The right mattress for your body (firm, ultra soft, contoured, etc.) can have tremendous impacts on sleep quality. Dress the bed with lightweight sheets and blankets to avoid overheating, and put some love into the ambiance. Blackout curtains will keep the bedroom nice and dark, creating an optimal sleep space, and putting the ceiling fan on a medium setting will keep it cool. Dim the lights just before bed to tell your mind to wind down.

Melt into Relaxation Mode at Sewickley Spa

When you develop healthy sleep habits, everything falls into place, like mental clarity and energy levels. Still working on learning how to wind down? Stop into Sewickley Spa in the evening for a calming scalp and shoulder massage and let the troubles of the day drift away.

How to Look Good in the Blistering Heat of Summer

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 18:33:45 GMT

Running mascara, wildly frizzy hair...summer heat and humidity can be a real drag in terms of how it makes you look and feel. You don’t have to fight with the brush in the morning or with makeup that doesn’t look right, however. From simplifying your makeup regimen to using a few key beauty products, your summer vibe will go from “not” to looking hot.

Makeup Tips

Primer

Achieving the ideal makeup look is tricky, even in perfect conditions. But in the summer, makeup may not even sit on your face correctly, much less last the whole day. A quality primer can fix both problems. Simply smooth on a light layer of liquid primer to your face prior to applying makeup, and your makeup will apply more smoothly and last longer. For additional protection regardless of how much you sweat or touch your face throughout the day, try adding a finishing spray at the end.

Lighter Makeup

Step up your makeup game during the rest of the summer by stepping back. Warm weather makeup should be fairly basic, because our faces are naturally more oily and makeup doesn’t spread as smoothly. Experts recommend avoiding extra heavy powders and foundations, which clog pores and cake up on the face, leaving a sloppy and uneven look behind. Instead, consider a light layer of cream foundation or tinted moisturizer along with liquid eye makeup to create a mild and natural-looking shine.

Waterproof

In the summertime, you’re going to sweat more, there’s just no way around it. As a result, your makeup runs down your face, destroying your morning effort. That’s why it’s so important to use makeup products that stand up to moisture for all-day longevity. Waterproof makeup is a must for your summer beauty bag. Stock up on eye products in particular, like mascara, eyeliner and waterproof eyeshadow for a flawless summer look.

Personal Health and Hygiene

Deodorant at Night

Surely you want to feel good all over during these warm months. Have you ever noticed that the deodorant label says to apply it at night? That instruction isn’t just for those who shower in the evening, or for folks who have nighttime social plans. There’s actually a reason for it: absorption. When you apply deodorant and antiperspirant before bed, your pores have more time to absorb it before you start to sweat or, well, stink.

Anti-Frizz Products

Humidity is so unpredictable. Hot days are unbearable, but the humidity also wreaks havoc with your hair! It might be limp and lifeless, but could instead become frizzy and unmanageable. In the latter case, you feel helpless to achieve a first-class look. Why not try an anti-frizz serum or shampoo to tame your tresses? Simply use and then style for a look unaffected by the elements.

Moisturizer

Because of summer sweat and increased shower frequency, we’re hydrating more rigidly but also losing moisture at a rapid pace. The result? Dry and flaky skin. That’s why skin products become essential to maintain a healthy glow. Choose an effective moisturizer and apply it once or even twice a day to combat dry skin from long days in the sun.

Body Wash

Oily skin is unpleasant, but you don’t want to strip oil completely. Hot showers and aggressive cleansers are two of the biggest culprits when it comes to dry skin. One solution here is to be mindful of the shower products you’re using, which could make things worse. Try a moisturizing body wash to balance the effects of the scorching sun and leave your body feeling smooth and refreshed.

Look Good, Feel Great at Sewickley Spa

You’ve got your summertime makeup A-game going and the health regimen up to par for the season. You’re looking good, so why not feel great? Healthy skin is so important this time of year, so try one of our first-class body services to get into top form. Massages are always soothing, but how about the sea salt glo ? This exfoliating treatment brings out the best in your skin by removing impurities, leaving it smooth and silky. Book your treatment today!

Family-Friendly Summer Activities

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 13:50:37 GMT

Your kids have a fair bit of remaining time off, and with their endless energy, it’s tough to keep them entertained with just the daily pool visit. Rest assured that there’s no shortage of engaging activities to choose from. On a budget? Try a few of the free events in your community. Okay to spend some cash? Take the kids out for a day trip. Check out a few family-friendly ideas for a day of fun.

Free Family Activities

Family time doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, it doesn’t have to cost anything. Get out into the world, or spend a leisurely evening at home. A few of our picks:

Outdoor Fun
Whether it’s in the front yard or on your favorite trail, get out into the open air! Remember the bygone days of lemonade stands? Help your child make something to sell to the neighbors. Both fun and a lesson in the value of hard work. If that’s not your scene, take the family on a morning hike before setting up camp under the stars. Still more to love, several communities like Hartwood Acres and South Park offer free outdoor concerts.

Farmer’s Market
While you could end up with a few purchases along the way, heading to your local farmer’s market with the kids can still be an inexpensive outing. Some offer free activities, like face painting, crafts or fruit picking. Use the day to simply browse, or take advantage of the freshest produce of the season without grocery store markups.

Game Night
Family game nights have been popular for years, and you can easily establish the tradition at home. If you’re old school, break out a few favorite board games. Tech-savvy families could instead go head-to-head with favorite video games. A heaping bowl of popcorn and a pizza would put it over the top.

Low-Cost Experiences

Somewhere between a day at home and a full vacation, low-cost day trips are fun for the whole family. These activities will keep you fairly local, but provide the feeling of a day away. Top choices:

Amusement Parks
We heard that there was a new roller coaster in Pittsburgh this summer. Pittsburgh area amusement parks offer something for all ages and preferences. Thrill-seeking adults and (height-appropriate) kids alike will enjoy the many adventurous rides, while waterpark adventures often appeal to younger audiences. We’ve got three major parks to choose from, so you won’t be disappointed.

The Zoo
Lions, tigers and bears...There’s something magical about being able to see nature’s majestic creatures up close. Even better, Pittsburgh’s zoo has an aquarium, too! The kids are sure to get a kick out of the waddling penguins, friendly seals and larger-than-life elephants (Cool to see: an elephant taking a bath). Unwind in the learning areas, too, where kids can color and have hands-on fun.

Sporting Events
He swings and misses. We’re at the peak of the MLB baseball season, an activity especially popular with families. Head to PNC Park for a ballgame (and, on Sundays, kid-friendly giveaways and activities). The excitement of the game and the crowd is the perfect opportunity for your child(ren) to get out some energy. Not into baseball? We’ll have exhibition football on the Northside soon, too.

Wrangle the Kids, Then Relax at Sewickley Spa

Summer is thrilling (and exhausting) for families. Quality time, fun in the sun and a break from rigid routines energize all of us. At the end of a long day, take advantage of some quality “me time.” Facial, massage or wax treatment, settle into a pampering experience like no other at Sewickley Spa. Call us today to book your favorite treatment.

A Beginner’s Guide to Meditation

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 18:54:30 GMT

Ooohm. When you think of meditation, you probably picture someone cross-legged, eyes shut, repeating a mantra. But the truth is that there’s so much more to meditation. We’ll look at common methods of meditation, how to practice it and the benefits you could start enjoying by making it part of your life.

Types of Meditation

There are two primary types of meditation, complete with various subtypes: concentration and mindfulness meditation. The chosen practice depends on your unique needs.

Calming/Concentration

Concentration meditation might sound complicated, but the point of it is quite the opposite. It doesn’t involve super-deep thinking, as the name might suggest. Rather, concentration meditation revolves around focusing on a singular object or idea. The principle behind it is to train your mind to go back to that base thought when distractions arise, boosting overall concentration. A few strategies include:

Mantra - Focus on repeating (aloud or internally) the same word or sound.
Breathing - Turn your attention to your breath sounds and heartbeat.
Point of focus - Choose an object such as the flame of a candle or a pen.

Insight/Mindfulness

Deeper meaning comes from practicing mindfulness meditation. Think of it as appreciating the small things and understanding thought patterns. In this mode of meditation, your goal is to transform your mind and ways of thinking. Take a breath. Notice the sounds of your own body. Observe that you’ve been stressed. Determine thought patterns as predominantly positive or negative.

In mindfulness meditation, you observe the small physical and mental things surrounding you in order to gain self awareness. The important thing here is that this mode of meditation is centered on observation, not overthinking or judgement. So, if you note that you’ve been stressed, don’t ask why or think about how to change it. Let the simple fact wash over you and move on to a new observation.

Practicing Meditation

How you practice meditation is unique to your needs, level of experience and even how much time you have available. One of the first questions to ask yourself is whether to go it alone or follow a program, that is to say unguided or guided meditation. The former allows flexibility in terms of how the session unfolds, while guided meditation is usually with a recording or in-person trainer following a specific path. The rest of the process falls in line with what you want and can feasibly get out of the session, like when and how long to meditate.

Time of Day

Daily meditation time is impacted by your schedule and energy levels. Practitioners often find morning to be ideal, as the day’s demands haven’t begun and meditation is a positive way to start the day. If this doesn’t work, afternoon or evening are perfectly fine, but try to stick to a schedule in order to better remember your commitment and get into a solid routine.

Meditation Duration

Just like time, duration for meditation sessions is a matter of comfort and room in your schedule. Because doing it requires practice to tune out (or tune in, depending on the method) the outside world, pros recommend starting your sessions at about 10 minutes and working up to 20 as time goes on. Try it two or three times a week before eventually integrating the practice into your daily routine.

Benefits of Meditation

Meditation is unquestionably good for you, with science backing up the claim. You already know that practicing meditation leads to enhanced concentration and awareness, but practitioners are dedicated to it because of so many other physical and mental benefits. For instance:

Decreased anxiety
Improved circulation
Improved relaxation
Decreased heart rate
Increased positivity
Decreased impulsiveness and better emotional control

What’s not to like? Better focus at work, positive thinking and appreciation for your world all enhance your being. Bonus points: it’s safe and easy to do.

Relax with a Massage at Sewickley Spa

Enter a complete state of zen with the help of Sewickley Spa. Round out your relaxation with a soothing Swedish or aromatherapy massage and watch your stress melt away. Give us a call or schedule your favorite service online today!

Beauty Tips for Travel

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 18:54:45 GMT

Summertime means a vacation is on the horizon for many. While you’re bursting at the seams over a week at the beach or that international trip, you still have to take care of yourself. From beauty prepping beforehand to in-flight relaxation and daily care, it’s easy to look and feel your best while traveling. Here are a few tips to help you look beautiful throughout the entire trip.

Pre-Travel Health and Beauty Tips

If you’re traveling by plane, think about how to best take care of yourself before and during the coming flight. Most flights are at least an hour, and way longer when flying internationally. That takes a toll on your energy level, appearance and physical wellness.

Prior to takeoff, be mindful of your diet. Consider avoiding excessive sugar, caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods. Travel is exhausting, and each of these things messes with quality of sleep. Instead, opt for lighter foods to help you rest. Pacifying snacks like oatmeal, bananas and yogurt are just a few great choices. Intermittent fasting may also get your circadian rhythms in check, fight jet lag and “jet bloat”—intestinal discomfort resulting from increased cabin pressure.

Additionally, even if your goal isn’t to glam it up on the plane, some pre-flight pampering could be beneficial. Facials are a favorite beauty splurge among many travellers. This bit of pre-flight pampering oxygenates the skin and clears pores by removing impurities, leaving you feel clean and invigorated. Make an appointment a day or two before your trip for best results. Furthermore, skip the makeup the day of travel. You’ll feel good and look great during and after the flight.

In-Flight Care

Health and comfort are priorities during flight and each is simple enough to achieve. For one, it’s important to stay hydrated. A general rule of thumb is to drink one glass of water for each hour of the flight. Restroom trips aside, you’ll feel better and be less prone to muscle cramping.

Let’s face it: you’ll be sitting in the same spot for potentially hours on end. That gets boring and awkward, so you might as well make the most of it. Snuggle with a travel pillow to combat the stiff seating, pop on a pair of headphones with mellow tunes and get some shut eye. Have a hard time resting during a flight? Practicing meditation or using your favorite relaxation app could be a great way to arrive well-rested to your destination.

Day-to-Day Self Care while Traveling

You did it! You’ve arrived (and no doubt look rested and refreshed, thanks to proper travel care). Vacation inherently throws your routines and habits off, affecting health and hygiene, but there are a few ways to manage your daily care. Pro tip: Don’t stray far from your normal routine.

The hotel probably has some fancy new toiletries to sample.Take them home to try later. Our bodies are used to certain things, like the regular products we use. Where possible, try to use the same shampoo and conditioner, facial cleanser and other products that your would at home. The fact is, you don’t know if a new product will make your skin oily or if it contains allergens Do you really want to learn the hard way on vacation?

Use everyday hygiene products that you trust to keep your body feeling good with some TLC. Skin care is essential if your vacation destination is sunny and warm. Be sure to use a quality moisturizer for general care and an SPF lotion during fun in the sun. Likewise, hot weather is cruel to our hair. Use a dry shampoo to stay fresh and absorb grease if you’re on the go. Sunbathing? Run a few drops of Moroccan oil through your hair to tame frizz. Of course, if your trip involves a few late nights, eye redness and puffiness may also be concerns. Eye drops and cold gel packs work wonders and wipe out looks of fatigue.

Turn to Sewickley Spa for Your Beauty Needs

Lifelong memories are made during vacations with family and friends, and nothing ruins the experience like being ill prepared or just plain exhausted. Look and feel your best for your upcoming trip. Get in touch with Sewickley Spa to book a day of pampering , and kick off your trip in the right way.

The 1700s: A Hair and Makeup Revolution

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 15:23:37 GMT

White complexion, big hair...Elvira? Bride of Frankenstein? Actually, we’re talking about the hottest looks of the 18th century. This time in history has become well known for style trends--a hair and makeup revolution that may leave people today scratching their heads--which were often marks of social status. With the Fourth of July right around the bend, why not flash back to the looks that were popular at the start of our nation’s history?

Contrasting Colors

While men and especially women are envied for golden tans today, the sought-after style in the 1700s was fair skin. Notably applied to the face and shoulders, products like creams to bleach the skin and white face paints created fairness denoting wealth (because such individuals would not work in the fields and get sunburned) and covered imperfections.

To provide contrast, individuals added rouge to their cheeks and dark red lip coloring. Women were even known to draw veins over their neck and chest areas to enhance the effect! The problem with frequent makeup use was its composition--face-whitening makeup contained copious amounts of lead, while rouge and lipstick featured equally-toxic vermillion and mercury.

Flawless Faces

Makeup signified status and concealed imperfections, but one additional method was to use beauty patches. Generally made of materials like silk or taffeta, the bits of fabric were often cut into shapes like stars or hearts, glued onto the skin and covered unseemly smallpox scars. Over time, they took on a life of their own, as the placement of each took on social meanings, such as passion (patch at the corner of the eye) or playfulness (patch on a dimple).

Styled with Purpose

The hair and makeup revolution of the 18th century was equal parts form and function, which included hairstyles and products. A popular trend throughout much of the century was powdered hair. On one hand, the powder served to absorb oil on the scalp. It also allowed people to somewhat dye their hair with colored powders to cover signs of aging, or on the converse, make hair appear white (a status symbol of the time) instead of purchasing rare and expensive white wigs.

Serious dedication came into play in terms of hairstyling. The most common of colors were preferred--black, brown and blond(e), and with some shape! To show off one’s own locks, the expectation was to have curls, or at least moderate waviness. The early-to-mid-1700s favored short, tight styles, but citizens of the time are arguably better remembered for the big hair of 1760-1780. To achieve the look, artificial hair and cushioning made from fabric were used to add height. These elaborate hairdos were adorned with feathers and pearls, and reflected social commentary, such as à l’inoculation (vaccine) and ballon (Montgolfier balloon experiments).

Revolutionize Your Look at Sewickley Spa

Hair and skincare are essential to looking and feeling our best. While we don’t recommend bringing back the lead-based products of a bygone era, we can help you to achieve healthy, hydrated skin. Sewickley Spa’s invigorating facials will bring youthful, healthy skin to the surface. Explore your options today.

Relaxing Recreation in Pittsburgh

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 17:03:28 GMT

As summer begins, we are all eagerly looking for a chance to calm down and unwind. However, sometimes it can be hard to break out of the stereotypical routine of just relaxing by the pool. While that's a tried-and-true option, you will surely want to switch it up. Read on for some recommendations on how to relax this summer.

Yoga in the Square

Beginning in late May and running through September 29th, you can take free outdoor yoga classes thanks to the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership. These one-hour classes take place in Market Square every Wednesday evening (5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.) and Sunday morning (10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.). Just bring your own mat and allow yourself to enter a state of blissful relaxation!

Take a Walk Through Phipps

One of the best parts of summer is seeing flowers in full bloom, and there is no better place than a stroll through Pittsburgh’s own Phipps Conservatory. This botanical garden features 23 distinct gardens within its 15 acres of land, and is an amazing place to relax amongst nature. While you’re there, you can even explore nearby Oakland or Schenley Park.

Explore New Parks

It is easy to fall into a routine, making it more likely to feel like you have a lack of options. So just get out there and explore what the Pittsburgh landscape has to offer! Whether it be Schenley or Frick Park, Pittsburgh has endless scenic destinations. If you are feeling energized, you can even take on some of these parks by bike. Who knows? You may even discover a new favorite place!

Take Your Relaxation to the Next Level at Sewickley Spa

While all of these experiences are relaxing escapes, sometimes you just want to be pampered, and we can help. Let us do the work, pampering you from head to toe. Check out our full menu of services and book your appointment today!

How to Handle Summertime Sweat

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 15:58:57 GMT

It’s hard not to love summer. The picnics, pool parties and ability to soak in some sun are invigorating. But each of these brings something we all dread: sweat. Everyone sweats (and it’s vital to regulating our body’s temperature). But it’s sticky, often stinky and uncomfortable in so many ways. Luckily, by following some simple tips, you can learn to how to handle your sweat and fully take on the summer.

Finding a Good Deodorant or Antiperspirant

Depending on your body’s odor and sweat levels, you’re going to want to invest in either a good quality deodorant or antiperspirant. Before you make a choice, however, you should understand the fundamental difference between these products.

Deodorant is meant to combat body odor. Sweat itself doesn’t actually have a smell. Body odor forms when odorless sweat mixes with bacteria on your skin. Deodorant helps with odor but will not prevent perspiration.

Antiperspirant, on the other hand, stops sweat from forming. It does this through an active ingredient known as aluminum. Depending on your sweat levels, you can purchase normal antiperspirant or a clinical strength variety. If you want to combat both odor and wetness, some companies make products that are combination deodorant and antiperspirant.

Opt for Lighter Fabrics in the Summertime

The type of clothing you decide to wear in the summer not only impacts your style, but also your comfort level. If you want to minimize summer sweat while maximizing comfort, a few breathable fabrics may help:

Cotton: A natural material that is famously breathable and perfect for both day and night looks.
Linen: This is another popular choice that is used for flowing, loose pants and light tops.
Chambray: A perfect alternative to heavy denim, chambray allows you to embrace the denim look without having to sacrifice comfort.

In general, we recommend avoiding synthetic fabrics which impede breathability.

Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate.

Our bodies are 60% water, so hydration is necessary for our bodies to function properly. The summer heat causes each of us to sweat a lot of this water out, making it vital to rehydrate. Quantity needed varies by age, weight and activity level, but an easy rule to follow is 8x8. This means eight glasses of at least eight ounces of water per day.

Come to Sewickley Spa to Reinvigorate Body and Mind

Despite the perks of the summer sun, our bodies can really take on some wear and tear. Enter Sewickley Spa. From fantastic facials to rejuvenating body wraps, we have the perfect way to give yourself the extra TLC you need this summer. Interested? Check out all of our offerings and book today !

How to Handle Your Hands

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 17:48:48 GMT

Our hands go through so much every day and it can really start to show. With the inevitable wear and tear our hands experience, it’s vital that we show them a little bit of TLC. Check out these tips to restore your hands to their peak health.

Dryness

Due to constant exposure, your hands can be prone to dryness. However, there are a few ways to tackle this issue. If you are already experiencing dry, rough hands, exfoliate with a hand scrub. To do this, run your hands under lukewarm water and scrub the product onto your skin in small, circular motions. This will restore your hands to a soft and healthy state.

To maintain this softness, it’s important to invest in a quality moisturizer. Great ingredients to look for are shea butter and natural oils. Apply this lotion in the mornings and evenings, or whenever your skin begins to feel dry.

Cuticles

The cuticle is the thin skin around your nail bed. Sometimes cuticles can grow out and become somewhat unruly. A cuticle remover, along with a cuticle pusher, can be used to keep them neat. Apply the remover to soften the skin so that you can easily push them back. Note: Never cut your cuticles－this can lead to infection.

Fingernails

Depending on the length, there can be a lot of dirt build up underneath your nails. This grime can be hard to remove with normal hand washing. So while washing your nails, use a good quality nail brush to scrub underneath the nail to remove any stubborn debris.

It will be easier for you to keep your nails clean if they are kept trimmed and shaped. Use nail clippers to cut the nails to your preferred length and a nail file to achieve the desired shape.

Visit Sewickley Spa for the Best in Hand Care

At Sewickley Spa, we can give your hands the full rejuvenating experience they deserve. Whether it be a simple manicure or our decadent Hand Paraffin Dip, we are sure that there is an experience you and your hands will love. Be sure to check out all of our services to find your favorite!

What is Collagen?

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 16:57:05 GMT

Collagen is one of the hottest topics in the world of health and beauty, and specifically, in skincare. But what is collagen? How does it affect us? Luckily we will answer both of these questions and more below.

So, what exactly is collagen?

Collagen is a major protein found in the body that helps give our hair, skin, nails, ligaments, and tendons its structure. Because of collagen, we are able to move, bend and stretch. In addition, it helps our skin glow and make our nails strong.

However, as we get older and put more stress on our bodies, our natural collagen starts to break down. Having a balanced, healthy diet can help combat this and regenerate broken down collagen. While collagen is essential to many of the body's functions, its health and damage are most easily seen through the skin.

How does collage affect skin?

Making up 70% of its proteins , collagen is an essential building block for skin. It not only helps skin stay toned, but also keeps it supple. The main source of collagen in the body is the dermis. As the foundation for the skin, the dermis is closely involved with skin’s elasticity and flexibility. That noted, having enough collagen ensures your skin sustains its glow and beauty.

What can damage collagen?

To keep the collagen supplies in your body healthy as well as protect yourself, it might be a good idea to avoid the following:

Sugar & refined carbs - Sugar tends to interfere with collagen’s ability to repair itself.
Excessive sun exposure - Ultraviolet radiation can damage the skin and reduce collagen production.
Smoking - Clearly, smoking is bad for a lot of reasons. In terms of your skin, it reduces collagen production, impairs wound healing and leads to wrinkles.

Let Sewickley Spa Help You Prioritize Your Skincare

At Sewickley Spa, we offer a variety of services to ensure your skin’s health. Maybe you are looking for a rejuvenating body wrap, or possibly, a nourishing facial. You can explore all our services here.

Sunscreens and Bug Repellants that Won't Hurt Your Skin

Tue, 28 May 2019 15:48:17 GMT

As much as we all love spending summer enjoying the beautiful outdoors and sunshine, it puts our skin at risk to sun exposure and bug bites. Luckily, sunscreen and bug repellant can take care of these issues. However, it can be difficult to choose the best and safest products for your skin. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when selecting sunscreens and bug repellents that won’t hurt your skin.

Tips for Finding the Right Sunscreen

Everyone needs sunscreen, period. It’s a common myth that those of us with darker skin don’t need to wear sunscreen. Even if you’re not prone to getting sunburn, going without can still leave your skin vulnerable to other issues down the road. Keep these factors in mind when selecting your sunscreen to keep yourself and your family safe all summer long.

- Make sure your sunscreen has broad spectrum protection. While all sunscreens protect against UVB rays, only broad spectrum products protect against both UVA and UVB rays. This will ensure that you are protected from not only sunburn, but from other skin-related issues.

- Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater: The SPF number tells you the level of protection the product provides against UVB rays. As you increase the SPF number, the smaller the difference in protection becomes. For example, SPF 15 products filter out 93% of rays, SPF 30 products filter out 97% and SPF 100 products protect from about 99%.

- Keep in mind that “water resistant” does not mean “waterproof.” No sunscreen is actually “waterproof.” If a product is labeled “water resistant,” make sure to note how often you should reapply. In general, sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours and even more often if you are sweating or swimming.

What's in Your Bug Repellant?

In terms of effectiveness, repellents that include DEET or Picaridin are the gold standard. However, these chemicals may be toxic or harsh on your skin. If you want a more gentle skin product, consider products that use the following:

- Synthesized Plant Oils: While still considered chemicals, they are potentially less harmful than products like DEET or Picaridin. Some examples of these chemicals include lemon eucalyptus oil and IR3535—a synthetic based on a natural amino acid.

-Natural (Nonsynthesized) Plant Oils: It’s important to keep in mind that these oils are not regulated for safety or effectiveness by the EPA. In general, they are considered less effective than their chemical counterparts and must be reapplied far more frequently. They’re a good option if you want an organic approach to bug repellants, but be careful.

The tips provided above a general advice and may not account for your specific needs. If you’re uncertain about the best sunscreen and/or bug repellant for your situation, consult your dermatologist or doctor.

Explore Sewickley Spa therapies and facials

Protecting your skin is important, but sometimes using a lot of product can make your skin feel not quite at its best. Consider resetting your skin with our rejuvenating facials or luxurious body wraps. Check out a full menu of our services here .

Flowers Used in Spa Treatments

Mon, 20 May 2019 18:24:49 GMT

In the world of spas and skincare, aromatic flowers have been prized for their healing and rejuvenating properties. Keep reading to learn more about the beautiful, aromatic flowers you’re likely to encounter on your next trip to the spa.

Orchids

The orchid is a very fragrant flower that comes from a diverse family of over 22,000 species. It thrives in diverse environments from cloud forests all the way to the Arctic Circle. In terms of skincare, orchids are known for their regenerative and protective benefits as well as moisture-retention.

Jasmine

This flower has incredible anti-aging properties and naturally contains a high level of antioxidants. In addition, jasmine is known for its ability to detoxify, soften, and moisturize the skin. As if that isn’t enough, it also has the ability to fade hyperpigmentation and scars.

Ylang Ylang

Historically, ylang ylang has been associated with romance due to its sweet, delicate scent. That being said, the flower has long been a staple in perfumeries. With similar properties to jasmine, the flower is also known as a skin balancer that reduces inflammation and controls acne. When applied topically, ylang ylang can also help reduce stress.

Frangipani

Highly regarded in skincare for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, frangipani is one of the most well-known flowers in spa care. It has the ability to calm and detoxify oily and blemish-prone skin. As a fragrant tropical flower, frangipani truly provides the feeling of an exotic island retreat.

Lotus

From even ancient times, the lotus flower has been a symbol of purity and beauty. Full of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals the lotus flower nourishes, smoothes and purifies the skin. A massage using lotus oil truly provides a harmonizing experience that delights the senses.

Ready to have your own healing and purifying experience?

Using only the finest products, our body wraps and massages really allow you to just escape while also working wonders on your skin. Check out a full list of services here.

DIY Skincare When You're Between Spa Visits

Mon, 13 May 2019 21:01:59 GMT

Just because you’re in between visits to the spa doesn’t mean skincare stops. If you want to keep your skin glowing and at its best in between visits, check out our simple DIY treatments below!

*Note: As with any DIY product, conduct a patch test on your wrist to ensure you don’t experience any adverse effects to the ingredients.

Hydrating Avocado Mark for Your Face

What You’ll Need:

½ ripe avocado

1 tsp. plain yogurt

1 tsp. honey

1-2 tsp. virgin olive oil

First, mash the avocado to remove any large chunks. Mix-in the remaining ingredients and blend until a uniform paste forms. After application, leave the mask on for about 10-15 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water and enjoy your instantly softer and smoother skin.

Exfoliating Sugar Scrub for Your Whole Body

What You’ll Need:

1 cup granulated white or brown sugar

½ cup olive or coconut oil

Essential oils of your choice (optional)

This DIY is super simple. All you have to do is mix all the ingredients together and then store the mixture in an airtight container. That’s it, you’re done. Use the mixture as needed while in the shower and say hello to silky, smooth skin.

Softening Cinnamon Mask for Your Feet

What You’ll Need:

1 tbsp cinnamon

½ cup warm olive oil

4 drops lemon essential oil

In a bowl, combine the cinnamon and lemon oil with the warm olive oil. Blend together and then proceed by covering both feet in a thick layer of the mask. Cover your feet with plastic wrap in order to seal in moisture and let the mask sit for 10-15 minutes. Wash off and experience beautiful and supple skin.

Visit Sewickley Spa when You Need More than DIY Treatments

DIY skincare is great when you’re in between spa visits, but when you’re looking for professional treatments, Sewickley Spa is here for you. With our wide array of services , we are confident that there is a spa treatment that you and your skin are sure to love!

3 Spa Treatments Your Mom Will Love

Mon, 06 May 2019 18:22:03 GMT

With Mother’s Day quickly approaching, it’s important to celebrate and recognize all the amazing things moms do for us. One great way to show your appreciation is by spoiling and pampering her with a wonderful trip to the spa. Take a look at some of the most popular treatments your mom is sure to love.

Swedish Massage

As one of the best-known massages, the Swedish massage utilizes a technique that truly relaxes the entire body. This is done by rubbing the muscles with long gliding strokes in the direction of the blood returning to the heart. It is exceptionally beneficial for increasing levels of oxygen, improving circulation and flexibility, decreasing muscle toxins and easing tension. It’s all about keeping mom relaxed, right?

Hot Stone Foot Treatment

We all know how often moms have to run around. This might be the perfect way to get her to slow down for a little. Highly effective at relieving stressed and tight muscles, a hot stone foot treatment uses heat therapy to soothe sore legs and feet. By applying smooth, heated stones on the top and bottom of the foot, pressure points are stimulated which sends the body into a state of total relaxation. This treatment also encourages better circulation and allows one to experience an overall enhanced sense of well-being.

Seaweed Botanical Wrap

For those who are prone to dry, cracking skin, a seaweed body wrap can provide ultimate relief. This treatment can also be effective in tightening the skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It does this with a synergistic combination of minerals and extracts to completely tone while nourishing and softening the skin. In addition to the wrap, the body is massaged from head to toe.

Visit Sewickley Spa this Mother's Day

At Sewickley Spa, we can provide all these treatments and more to make sure you and mom have a day of pampering you’ll never forget. If you’re looking to treat your mother, or maybe even yourself, feel free to explore our full range of spa treatments .

Get Your Feet Ready for Sandal Season

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 21:10:40 GMT

One of the great things about spring and summer is being able to trade in our winter boots for chic, fun sandals. However, this also means our feet are now on full display. That being said, after being hidden all winter, our feet may not be looking their best and could probably use some love and care. No worries though. By following our tips below, you will surely be on your way to pretty and sandal-ready feet.

Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate

Ridding your feet of its dead, dry skin is the first step to getting them ready for sandals. Plan to exfoliate about once every two weeks to treat mild calluses, or more often for heavy to severe cases. Depending on your personal preference, this can be achieved with either a pumice stone or an exfoliating scrub.

Try a Heavy-Duty Moisturizer

Now that your feet are exfoliated and primed, it’s important to retain your feet’s moisture to prevent your skin from drying out. When applying lotion, make sure to focus on areas prone to cracking or forming calluses (like your heel). If you find your skin requires some extra attention, try covering your feet with socks after you apply your moisturizer. This will ensure you really lock in that moisture.

Invest in Nail & Cuticle Care

This step is especially essential if you plan on rocking a bright summer polish. Using a nail clipper and file, shape your nails to their desired shape, whether that be square, round or somewhere in between. After, you can further prepare your nails by pushing your cuticles back. Note: It is important not to actually trim your cuticles because this can lead to nail fungus or even infection. Instead, moisturize the cuticle with an oil or cuticle cream and gently push them back toward the base of your nail.

Explore Foot Treatments at Sewickley Spa

You are now on your way to sandal-ready feet. That said, if you find that your feet need a little extra TLC this spring and summer, or you just really want to indulge in some pampering, stop by Sewickley Spa for the perfect pedicure or much-needed massage. Explore all of our services today!

Benefits of a Pregnancy Massage

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 15:03:34 GMT

Studies have shown that a massage during your pregnancy can help relieve muscle and joint aches, reduce anxiety and possibly even decrease feelings of depression. Apart from these clinical benefits, a pregnancy massage offers the indulgence and pampering every mommy-to-be deserves!

What is a Pregnancy Massage?

This body treatment is all about helping you relax and helping your circulation. Pregnancy massages are relaxing and easy on your body, making them perfectly safe for you and baby. What a great way to get off your tired feet and into the hands of a massage therapist!

A pregnancy massage is one of the most recommended treatments for pregnant women. One reason is because it directly addresses many of the common discomforts caused by a shift in your body’s hormones. Your hormones change during pregnancy and, among other things, can affect your skeletal and circulatory systems.

How a Massage Helps with Pregnancy Hormones

Pregnancy puts a lot of stress on a woman’s body and her daily life, and a safe way to help her relax can be significantly beneficial to an expectant mother’s overall health. A pregnancy massage can improve moods and cardiovascular health. Women who get bi-weekly massages for just five weeks of their pregnancy have shown reduced stress hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol, and increased dopamine and serotonin levels that help fight depression.

The decreased stress hormones for the mother also contribute to less complications for the newborn and an easier birth process.

Reducing Stress While Pregnant

Normal aches and pains are associated with most pregnancies. These often include a stiff neck, backaches, headaches, leg cramps and swelling. Regular pregnancy massages can ease pressure and pain on weight-bearing joints as well as decrease nervous tension, which can in turn promote a better sleep. Pregnancy massages can also have a positive impact on blood and lymph circulation.

Sciatic nerve pain is one of the things that plague many women later in their pregnancy. This can stem from the uterus putting pressure on the pelvic floor and lower back. That pressure then affects the upper and lower legs which can swell and put an increased amount of pressure on other nerves. Massage can help ease the tension on affected muscles leading to a decrease in sciatic nerve pain.

Nearly all women experience swelling in their joints, aided by the lower circulation and increased pressure on blood vessels around the uterus. A pregnancy massage can help stimulate affected soft tissue which in turn reduces fluid collection to decrease swelling.

Precautions Before Pregnancy Massage

As with all medical and therapeutic treatments during pregnancy, a woman should discuss getting a massage with her prenatal care provider as well as with the massage therapist. If your doctor signs off on a massage, you want to make sure you’re going to a therapist who can work with your condition. Be sure to mention it when booking your appointment, not when you get there. You want to have the best experience possible and being prepared can help with that.

Book Your Pregnancy Massage at Sewickley Spa

Take advantage of our Pregnancy Massage at Sewickley Spa and let us help you have a peaceful pregnancy!

Look and Feel Your Best for Easter

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 22:08:55 GMT

The Easter holiday comes at one of the best times of year. The spring is warm, the days are sunny and the season just doesn’t carry the kind of stress that Christmas does. Whether you host a big Easter dinner with family, take the kiddos to a public egg hunt or just plan on sipping martinis with friends, you’re going to want to look your best for Easter Sunday. There’s a lot of fun ways to look good for Easter.

Looking Great on Easter

Spring clothes? Yes. It’s time to break out skirts, dresses and maybe even shorts (although who knows it Pittsburgh). Show off those legs, ladies! And if you want to be fully confident with your smooth legs on display, take advantage of our waxing services .

You can also try one of the facials we offer so you can put your best radiant face forward. Check out our Ultimately Indulgent facial if you really want to treat yourself. It’ll help you look and feel refreshed and tranquil and your positivity will spread to your guests.

Once that’s out of the way you’ve got to pick a perfect outfit. It’s time to break out of the winter blahs and into a more festive palette. It can be classy and polished, playful and fun or whatever you’d like. Pastels are popular in springtime, of course, but that doesn’t mean you have to feel like a pale colored egg. Mix up your pastels with bright and bold colors. Add a large piece of statement jewelry or some show stopping shoes. Feeling like spring will help you appreciate the season and the holiday that much more.

Feeling Fine for Spring

Are you in charge of planning an Easter event? Don’t forget a little self care along the way. You want to be calm and collected when you greet your guests, family or friends. Now is a great time to take advantage of one of our many different massage services that can help you relax and feel like your best self.

Once you’re nice and relaxed, try to think of a few ways you can stay that way throughout the day. Like any holiday or get-together, your focus should be on your loved ones. Set distractions aside to spend time with friends and family. Focus on those quality connections. Maybe leave the cell phones in another room when it’s time to eat. Electronics can weigh on our minds.

Visit Sewickley Spa to Help You Feel and Look Your Best

To learn more about how we can help you throughout the year, take a look at the virtual tour on our website.

What is Cellulite?

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 17:28:03 GMT

Many young women have the benefit of smooth skin, free of the dimples and other marks often caused by cellulite. But, as we get older, we start to see the lumpy appearance in our thighs and other areas. While this is a natural part of aging for many women, it’s often an unwelcome change. Keep reading to learn more about what exactly cellulite is and how you minimize its effect.

What is Cellulite Made Of?

Most often appearing in the buttocks and thigh area, cellulite is the result of fat deposits pushing their way through the connective tissue of your skin. The fat is naturally stored beneath your skin, and with things like time and weight gain, it can expand. The collagen that binds your fat and your skin begins to stretch and tear, creating dimples in the skin's appearance.

Why Do I Have Cellulite?

We know ladies, we know. It can be a hard pill to swallow, but a certain amount of cellulite is natural. Hormones can play a large role and there are some signs of cellulite being hereditary as well. While the exact cause of cellulite is undefined, specialists have determined various contributing factors to its development. One of the major reasons cellulite occurs more often in women than in men is because of the connective tissue structure. A woman’s fat cells and connective tissue are arranged vertically, whereas a man’s cells and tissues have a criss-cross structure, making cellulite less likely. Just one of those happy little genetic quirks.

However, we can’t blame it all on our genes. There are several external factors that could possibly contribute to cellulite’s appearance. Smoking and lack of exercise, as well as an excess of fatty foods in one's diet, are all thought to contribute to cellulite. Whether cellulite is passed down through genes or brought on by a person’s lifestyle is still unclear. Regardless, it’s important to remember that approximately 95% of women have at least some cellulite, so it is not necessarily a sign that you are unhealthy or have “bad genes.”

How Do You Get Rid of Cellulite?

There is no “cure” or way to completely eradicate cellulite. However, there are several ways to minimize its appearance. At Sewickley Spa, our personal favorite is the Cellulite Reduction Wrap . Our wrap uses ancient Egyptian techniques combined with a head and face massage to help kick start your metabolism. This releases water, excess fluids and toxins from your body to give you smoother looking, tighter and less dimpled skin.

It’s also highly recommended to increase your physical activity while decreasing salty and fatty foods in your diet. In other terms, a good way to reduce cellulite and the fat that causes it is diet and exercise when you're able. Of course, these are good suggestions for your overall health, too!

Visit Sewickley Spa for a Cellulite Reduction Wrap

We know looking your best can help you feel your best. For more information on the Sewickley Spa cellulite reduction wrap, explore our Body Therapies and call and make an appointment today!

Looking Good with Spring Allergies

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 12:09:24 GMT

If you’ve lived in the Pittsburgh area for a while, you probably know spring means one thing—allergies. Between all of the pollen and dust in the air, many of us dread what should otherwise be a pleasant time of the year. Springtime allergies can make us feel and look less than our best. Here are a few tips that will help you look your best throughout the pollen season.

Keep Your Skin Glowing

We have some great facials that can help with keeping your skin aglow. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you may be susceptible to blotchiness or other skin irritations. Our Spa Rejuvenating Facial is the perfect choice for early spring. It helps you determine the best treatments to keep your skin happy and healthy for the season and throughout the year. It also opens and cleans your pores while gently exfoliating dead skin cells. As an alternative, you can also use a sheer highlighter with mica to add some life to your cheekbones when you’re out and about.

Alleviate Red and Puffy Eyes

Eye irritation is a big problem for many allergy sufferers. As our immune system works harder, our some of our bodies’ normal behaviors are thrown through a loop. Puffy eyes are often caused by water retention, and any of our facials that include a gentle massage can assist with that. You can also do this at home by gently and quickly tapping under your eye with your weakest finger as well as minimizing your salt intake.

Our Calming Result Remedy Facial will help soothe red eyes and skin. You’ll still want to do some make up magic though. Use a flesh toned shadow on the inner rim and bright colored shadow on the lids. This cancels out the red as well as highlights the whites of your eyes.

You’ll also want to use eye rewetting drops if you notice your eyes getting dry from repetitive use of antihistamines. Prescription free, non-medicated drops work fine for this.

Got the Red Nose Blues?

Constant sneezing and nose irritation can lead to a red, dry, flaky nose. Make sure to use thick hydrating lotions on your nose, eye cream actually works very well. Look for intense moisture lotions, with humectants and essential oils.

You could also try another of our facials, such as our Skin Renewal Result with Collagen for intense and customized hydration. This helps revitalize your skin with impressive and immediate results. With all of our facials we work with your skin to find the perfect regimen and help you understand what to do at home as well.

Try One of Sewickley Spa's Great Facials

We have a variety of options we couldn’t get into here. All of our treatments help enhance the appearance and health of your skin. We work with you to create a skin regime that’s personalized with high quality and often medical grade ingredients. Contact us for an appointment today.

Recreate a Spa Experience with Essential Oils

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 17:29:03 GMT

Part of the spa experience is the wonderful and relaxing aroma. You can recreate that sense of tranquility right at home with essential oils. If you’re unfamiliar with these aromatic oils, keep reading for a few of the basics!

Benefits of Essential Oils

The popularity of essential oils today is more than just a fad. There are proven therapeutic uses of many essential oils. They are a great way to help you relax and give you that spa feeling from home. We even use them in some of our spa and in our products. You can try them at home with diffusers, in skincare and many other ways to help get the same effects.

Soothing Essential Oils

There are many, many different “flavors” of essential oils. Here are a few of the most popular:

Lavender
One of the most popular and easy to find essential oils, lavender is known for relaxation. It slows the central nervous system and soothes anxiety. It gives you a calm and peaceful feeling.

Eucalyptus
It’s known for its antimicrobial properties and its ability to kill and ward of insects. Not a bad oil to have around this time of year! But one of the best things about eucalyptus is its benefits for respiratory health. Eucalyptus can help alleviate coughs and congestion as well as cool and soothe nasal passages.

Chamomile
A much beloved oil, chamomile is often noted for its ability to help us relax, especially when it’s time for bed. Its scent promotes a mild sedative that soothes anxiety and helps prepare your mind for sleep and relaxation. It’s also known for being anti-inflammatory.

Stimulating and Relaxing Essential Oils

While some scents help us unwind, others are better-known for their ability to energize. Here are a few essential oils to keep in mind.

Peppermint
Peppermint can be great for relaxation, but not in the quiet, sleepy way of chamomile. Peppermint actually stimulates healthy brain functioning which can alleviate stress and anxiety. If you want to feel relaxed but keep moving, peppermint oil is a great choice!

Jasmine
This is another oil that manages to relax you via stimulation. It has been used as a sleep aid in the past, not because it makes you sleepy, but because of the effect it has on your mood. It can increase your breathing rate and alertness. This in turn will elevate your mood. It’s easier to sleep or be active when your in a better state of mind.

Learn More About Essential Oils at Sewickley Spa

For a really relaxing time, let Sewickley Spa handle all the work! We have a knowledgeable staff who will take the time to discuss with you any concerns about our products and essential oils used to make sure we give you the perfect spa experience. Learn more about our services today!

Get Ready for Spring!

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Spring is the precursor to summer. Now is the time to start thinking about how to get your body ready for the spring season and the upcoming warmer weather and sunny days!

Think Healthy

If you want to have more energy for summer, don’t wait until June to get started. Start adding healthier foods back into your diet. We tend to steer away from them in favor of comfort food during the colder months and that can add a few unwanted pounds.

You also want to rethink your skin care routine. The winter months are much dryer and we have to use more lotions and creams to compensate, but you may be able to cut back in the spring. Too much product will clog your pores and could lead to more breakouts. We offer a variety of facials that can help you get your skin spring and summer ready.

You’ll also want to pick up your physical activity. Even if you’re the active, healthy type we all tend to get a bit sluggish over the winter. Try to get outside on nice days and do a little bit of walking. Go to the park and take some pictures of the budding flowers!

Think Smooth Skin

Once you’ve gotten some healthy steps back into your routine, you also want to think about the upcoming swimsuit season. Parts of you that have been comfortably covered for several months may soon see the light of day again.

Look for exfoliators to smooth out your legs in addition to lotions. Get one of our pedicures to make sure your feet flip flops and sandals ready! And make sure to look at all our waxing options! We all hate shaving, we all want to be smooth and hair free for the upcoming season. We can help you with that with our easy and affordable waxing options.

Let Sewickley Spa Help You Get Ready for Spring!

Sewickley Spa wants to help you be smooth and hair free without worrying about razor bumps and irritations! Come check us out and see how we can help you get your body spring ready!

Irish Spa Treatments

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 16:42:14 GMT

As Saint Patrick's Day approaches, we thought we’d spend some time exploring popular Irish spa treatments. The Emerald Isle has a rich tradition of combining natural resources and a little Irish ingenuity when it comes to beauty regimens—some of which we’ve even adapted here at Sewickley Spa! Whether you’re a fair-skinned Irish redhead or not, read on for some great ideas. Sláinte!

Thalassotherapy (Seaweed Therapy)

Being an island and all, Ireland boasts almost 2,000 miles of coastline. That means a lot of materials washing up on the beach, especially seaweed. Seaweed is one of Ireland’s favorite spa go-to treatments, and with good reason. There are over 500 kinds of seaweed that can be found along the coast of Ireland. Each contains so many beneficial vitamins, like A, B12, C, B6 and more. It’s also rich with minerals that are good for your body inside and out, like iodine, magnesium, calcium, potassium and copper.

There are various body treatments using seaweed , but detox wraps are especially popular. There are also seaweed baths and facials. The seaweed helps to replenish your body with vitamins, minerals and oils after detox. Seaweed revitalizes cells for a impactful anti-aging effect. It’s also anti-inflammatory so great for sensitive skin.

Irish Beauty Tips

Protecting your skin was always a priority in Ireland. Even if you have a little more color in your cheeks than the average Irish lass, there’s still something to be learned. One quick DIY beauty mask favored in Ireland is made from a finely ground oatmeal and beaten egg whites. Mix up the dough, spread it over your face and leave it to dry. Once dry, gently remove with soft towels wrung out in warm water. If you feel that your skin is greasy afterwards dab or spritz some lemon juice!

Visit Sewickley Spa for a Seaweed Botanical Wrap

We use a synergistic blend of pure minerals and sea extracts to nourish, soften and tone your skin. You’re wrapped from head to foot while detoxifying agents aide in purifying the body. You also get a head and massage! Come find out what it’s like to blissfully relax. Learn more !

How to Take Care of Your Feet

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 22:19:49 GMT

Your feet help carry you through the world every single day. They are constantly exposed to pressure, rubbing, and often a lack of oxygen. Make sure you pamper your feet and let them know you appreciate what they do for you! You deserve healthy and beautiful feet!

Keeping Feet Smooth

Feet have a rough, job but that doesn’t mean they have to feel rough. Make regular use of a pumice stone or foot file on damp heels and calluses. This should help relieve some foot pain as well as keep them looking pretty when sandal season comes around.

Soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes in a warm bath or foot soak. You can add your own essential oils or black tea for fragrance and additional benefits. Once your feet have softened, go to work with the pumice stone. You can also use moisturizing foot scrubs to help remove dry skin.

Moisturizing is Key

If you have particularly dry heels, you can get medicated heel pads over the counter to soften your calluses as you walk. For creams you want to look for one with petrolatum, which is an emollient or humectant that draws moisture into your skin. You should be moisturizing your feet everyday.

There are tons of products out there, many that smell and feel amazing. Balms with shea butter or cocoa butter can make you feel particularly pampered. They’re great for using right after a good foot scrub.

Prevent Foot Complications

No one likes to think or talk about foot fungus, but it can happen. One of the things that contribute to it are dark and damp conditions. You want to make sure your feet are clean and dry before you moisturize, put on shoes or any other foot activity.

If your feet tend to sweat use a medicated powder or spray. These should contain aluminum chloride to help keep your feet dry. If you have the opposite problem look for antifungal lotion for your feet.

Get a Pedicure at Sewickley Spa!

To really take care of your feet, let the professionals help you! We have several foot pampering options, like aroma and paraffin pedicures. We also have hot stone foot treatments and massages. Check out all of our services here !

Common Skincare Mistakes

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 14:42:26 GMT

Taking care of your skin is important throughout the year. Healthy skin makes us look and feel great, but there are more than few common skincare mistakes many of us make without even realizing it. To ensure your skin stays healthy, make sure to avoid these common issues.

Over Moisturizing and Exfoliating

Keeping skin hydrated and clean is an important part of any skincare routine. However, many people overdo it without realizing it! When it comes to moisturizing, you want to go with quality over quantity. In other words, it can be tempting to really glob on a moisturizer if you don’t think it’s working. Instead of adding more, try to find a creamier moisturizer. When we apply thick layers, it can actually clog our pores. This wastes your moisturizer and suffocates the skin.

The same goes for exfoliating. Everyone wants to have clean skin, but this should be tackled within reason. When it comes to your exfoliation routine, just a dab will you do ya. People tend to think that if their skin isn’t burning by the time they’re done exfoliating that it must not be working. In reality, over-exfoliating can actually damage your skin, causing it to lose moisture and crack. A simple treatment is all you need.

Not Wearing Sunscreen

As Baz Luhrmann once said, “everybody’s free to wear sunscreen.” This is probably the most well-known item on this list, but people still don’t always take the advice to heart. Premature skin aging is directly linked to the amount of sun you get. Even if you’re not at the beach or outside, even if it’s not sunny, applying sunscreen on a daily basis a great way to protect your skin.

UV rays from the sun can do more than just age our skin. They can damage it and lead to serious problems down the line. Keeping your skin covered or applying sunscreen is a great way to avoid unnecessary risks. Again, you don’t have to be outside on a sunny day to feel the effects of the sun’s rays. Driving in your car or even sitting by a window can all result in getting too much sun.

Washing Up the Wrong Way

Believe it or not, the way you bathe could potentially do more harm to your skin than good. For one thing, using water that’s too hot can be extremely harmful to skin. It might be tempting to crank the heat, especially in the colder months, but keep your skin in mind. That’s because the heat can dry out skin and irritate existing issue. This could leave your skin blotchy or red, undoing all of that great skincare work you’ve been doing.

Another important tip is to use the proper kind of soap when washing up. The worst thing you can do is wash skin directly with bar soap. It doesn’t matter how much you paid for that boutique bar, it can still harm your skin. That’s because bar soaps are held together with a sealant that’s really acidic. This acid can kill skin cells and undo all of your carefully thought out skincare routines.

Supplement Your Skincare with a Visit to Sewickley Spa

No matter what your routine looks like, show your skin a little extra TLC with regular visits to Sewickley Spa. We offer a number of skincare packages and treatment to suit your specific needs and challenges.

View our full line of services today.

4 Ways to Make Your Home as Relaxing as a Spa

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

There’s nothing like a trip to the spa. Just stepping through the front door can be enough to melt away all the stress and worries of everyday life. But how do you carry this sense of tranquility and relaxation with you once you leave? With a few simple tricks, you can recreate the relaxing feeling of a spa right in your own home!

1. Calming Scents

Scents are strongly tied to emotion and even our memories. Taking a moment to really think about the candles or other aromas you bring into your home could have a huge effect on your levels of comfort. You don’t even have to keep a candle lit. Essential oils are a great way to boost beautiful scents without a flame. If you’re really going for the relaxation vibe, try calming scents like rosemary, jasmine, vanilla, lemon or sandalwood.

2. Relaxing Sounds

Wireless room speakers are a great gadget to help you recreate the relaxation you feel at the spa. Placing these speakers in various rooms of your home such as your bedroom, bathroom and living room help you carry your favorite sounds throughout the house. Music has been proven to help people relax and even focus better. You can create your own playlists or search music streaming services for spa playlists to really get into the vibe.

3. Revitalizing Natural Light

Access to natural light has many benefits for your wellbeing. Sunshine can help improve your physical health as well as your sleep patterns. Bringing in natural light to your home doesn’t require much. You don’t have to cut holes for skylights (unless you want to), or remodel any rooms. Some simple things you can do include using sheer white curtains to let light in throughout the day and placing mirrors around the room to reflect even more sunlight. These tips work especially well in rooms painted in light, airy colors.

4. Soothing Greenery

We spend a lot of time indoors—especially in the winter months. This can leave the air we breathe inside the home a little stale. Adding some houseplants is a proven way to clean and purify your air. Furthermore, plants and flowers can help lower anxiety and even boost your creativity. Plants offer us a certain tranquility and connection to the natural world, so they’re definitely a must if you’re going for a spa vibe in your home. The best part is, you can find plants and flowers to suit any aesthetic, decor or personality.

Explore Treatments at Sewickley Spa

Your home spa can only take you so far. For the full experience, make sure to visit us at Sewickley Spa! Explore more of our treatments, or contact us to learn more!

What Facial is Right For Me?

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 14:25:00 GMT

Facials are a great way to rejuvenate your skin and help you retain that youthful glow. But it’s not just your appearance that benefits! Regular facials help keep your skin healthy and perform at its very best and give you the knowledge you need to take care of your skin at home. Each facial is specially created to fight the effects of everyday elements, your lifestyle, and even your genes. But which facial is right for you? Keep reading to find out!

Rejuvenating Facial

This is a great treatment for those new to the world of facials or spas in general. If you’re looking to start a home skincare routine or are committed to healthy skin, a rejuvenating will definitely meet your needs. We start with a full skin analysis to determine the best approach to helping you reach your goals. Next, we get to work opening and closing your pores, gently massaging your face, exfoliating dead skin cells, all topped off with a customized masque to suit your needs. We recommend coming in for this treatment at the beginning of every season.

Skin Renewal Facial

Skin renewal facials do exactly what they say they’re going to do. The give the skin around your face a refreshed feeling that keeps you looking your best. We offer two types of skin renewal treatments. Skin renewal with AHA visibly reduces your fine lines, age spots, and scars. We use a combination of various acids and vitamins to restore your skin’s glow. Collagen treatments, on the other hand, layer collagen with a unique cocktail of nutrients that are customized to suit your skin’s needs. It’s an intense treatment mean to revitalize and hydrate your skin. We recommend this treatment for dehydrated or aging skin.
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Purifying Facial

Purifying facials are wonderful for those looking to rid their skin of all the toxins and dirt it acquires throughout the day, week, or month. Our Active Pureness Facial targets oily or impure skin that is prone to high levels of sebum production. This facial reduces the shininess of your skin with a mix of grapefruit, pineapple, and lemon extracts that help your skin maintain hydration and rebalance your sebum. We also offer a purifying facial for those suffering from acne. AHAs get to work to un-situate stubborn sebum and release all of the debris clogging your pores.

Explore More Facials and Other Treatments at Sewickley Spa

These are just a few of the facial treatments we offer here at Sewickley Spa. Explore more of our treatments, or contact us to learn more!

Taking Care of Yourself Between Spa Visits

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 14:39:35 GMT

Regular visits to the spa are a great way to keep feeling your best. Continued pampering and indulgence recharge our batteries and make sure we’re ready to face our day-to-day lives. However, there are very few of us who can visit the spa every single day. But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways you can care for yourself between spa visits to make sure you always feel your best!

Hands and Feet

A good mani-pedi is hard to beat. Feeling good about your hands and feet is a great way to boost your confidence at work and out with your friends. Most people schedule a mani-pedi every two to three weeks. The only problem is maintaining your spa-quality appearance between regular visits.

Luckily, you shouldn’t have to do too much to maintain the look of your mani-pedi between spa visits. The best thing you can do is get some nail-strengthening oil and apply it to your nail beds and cuticles. If you need to trim your cuticles, make sure to let your nail beds recover a little before applying a new coat of polish.

Skincare

Our skincare treatments are meant to rejuvenate and refresh your entire body. From wraps to massages, your body deserves to feel its best. When it comes to maintaining this feeling between your spa visits, you don’t have to switch up your beauty regimen, but simply add another step.

We recommend a lotion with collagen be applied every morning and evening. You can use this on your body as well as your face and neck. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein and helps to strengthen your cells and keep your skin looking tight and wrinkle-free.

Generarl Tips

As you can see, maintaining that great spa feeling between visits doesn’t take a whole lot of effort. To add to these specific tips, it’s always a great idea to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps your skin stay moisturized, reduces puffiness around your eyes and just help you feel better. Additionally, try to eat foods with lots of Vitamin A and C to help your skin retain its natural moisture.

Visit Sewickley Spa for Your Next Spa Treatment

Whether you’re looking for skin treatments, a great mani-pedi or just need to relax for a while, Sewickley Spa has you covered. View our complete list of services to start planning your perfect day of pampering.

Valentine's Day Spa Treatments

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 12:18:06 GMT

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Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is only a few weeks away. If you’re stuck trying to think of the perfect gift for that special someone, boy do we have some ideas for you. What better way to show the one you love that you really care than through a day of pampering, relaxation and togetherness? Keep reading for a few of ideas to get you started.

Couples Massage

Can you think of anything more romantic than treating your special someone (and yourself) to much-needed massage? You’ll be treated to a room built just for two for a traditional Swedish massage. If you or your partner have never had a massage before, a Swedish massage is the perfect way to start. This is a very gentle, relaxing experience that will serve a great introduction to the world of spa treatments.

Looking for something more? Consider the Sewickley Spa Romantic Interlude for Two. You’ll still receive the Swedish couples massage, but also a luxurious facial and heated hand and foot treatment. No matter which option you choose, make sure to give yourself extra time to enjoy all of the amenities Sewickley Spa has to offer.

On-Site Massage

Looking for a gift that hits a little closer to home? We’ve got you covered...literally! With a home or on-site visit, we can bring the pampering right to your door. These visits usually entail a Swedish massage, but we’d be happy to talk about other options?

This is the ultimate, customized experience and a great way to show your special someone how much you love them. No matter if you want a home visit or want to come in, we want to make sure you have the best experience ever and can easily customize any package to meet your exact needs.

Spa Gift Certificate

From specialized treatments to personalized gift certificates, Sewickley Spa has everything you need to give your special Valentine a day they’ll never forget! Explore all of our treatments or purchase a gift certificate to have the best Valentine’s Day ever!

3 Spa Treatments Men Will Love

Fri, 18 Jan 2019 21:04:50 GMT

Let’s be honest. It can be difficult for men to realize how amazing a day at the spa can be. In an earlier post, we talked about why men need spa days, too . Today, let’s take a look at some of the great treatments every guy is sure to enjoy.

Gentlemen’s Hot Towel Facial

A hot towel facial is just like a trip to the barber shops of yesterday, but with a little more flair. This is the classic treatment for every man. If you’re not accustomed to skincare, this facial serves as a great introduction. We even educate you on how to take care of your skin between spa visits. The hot towel opens up your pores to help get rid of dead skin and other gunk that builds up.

This is the perfect treatment if you work outside, deal with acne, or just want to look and feel better before your next meeting. Along with the hot towel facial, you’ll also receive a neck and shoulder massage, making sure you leave feeling totally relaxed and rejuvenated.

Deep-Tissue Massage

A day at the spa doesn’t mean you aren't tough. In fact, we don’t recommended a deep-tissue massage for the discomfort intolerant. A lot of jobs take a big physical toll and, after time, these aches and pains can become unbearable. What better way to deal with a tough job than with a tough massage?

This intense massage includes trigger-point therapy. That means we find all of those annoying knots and knead them out. While it’s not the most comfortable experience, you’re sure to feel much better afterwards. Think you can handle it?

Hand Paraffin Dip

Hand treatment is a great way to treat yourself on a budget. This inexpensive dip is perfect for hardworking hands that need a little rejuvenation. Whether you’re handling tools and equipment all day, or if you’re constantly typing, our hands take a beating.

You can help them feel better by treating yourself to a paraffin dip. This treatment goes to work on all of those cracks and hardened parts of your skin to soften them up and help your hands feel as good as new.

Visit Sewickley Spa to Start Feeling Better

So fellas, what do you say? Are you man enough for a day at the spa? View our full list of treatments and services and book your appointment today.

Weird Spa Treatments of the Past

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 14:06:57 GMT

In last week’s blog post , we talked about unique spa treatments from around the world. This week, we thought we take another journey through time. Beauty standards and methods of relaxation have shifted throughout history, but these treatments from the past are just plain weird!

Warning: Don't Try These At Home!

Lead Facials

If you’ve ever seen a portrait of Queen Elizabeth I, or watched a movie like Amadeus, you’ve probably noticed the facial complexions are rather pale. In the Elizabethan era, this was a serious look and a must for all beautiful women. However, the way they achieved it wasn’t so glamorous.

To gain that super-pale l complexion, that was so in vogue, women and men would apply a foundation containing lead directly onto their faces. The lead created a pure white pigment that many went crazy for, as it was thought to make someone look younger. Unfortunately, lead is extremely toxic and probably caused more than a few deaths during the height of the fad.

Bloodletting

You may have already heard of bloodletting. It was a widely practiced medical procedure meant to “balance the humors” of the body and restore vitality to those feeling sick or tired. It was a pretty simple process. A doctor would nick you with a knife and you’d bleed for a little bit. All better!

Obviously, this treatment made no sense, but that didn’t stop women of the 17th and 18th century from pursuing it. In fact, it became a popular part one’s beauty regimen. While many thought it was simply good for your health, women not wanting a lead facial used it to, you guessed it, make themselves paler. Those Elizabethans sure did love to be pale.

Hair Removal with Arsenic

You know all those warnings we have on beauty product labels? We might take them for granted, but back in the day, there was very little oversight as to what you could put on your body. For example, arsenic, which is poison, was used to get rid of unwanted hair.

Sure, today we just go in for a regular waxing, or we keep a razor in the shower, but people of the ancient world didn’t have that kind of time. Mixing quicklime with arsenic seemed to do the trick. People applied it right to the problem area, and the hair came right off.

Fun fact: those are the same ingredients used to make cement!

Visit Sewickley Spa for a Relaxing (and Safe) Experience

If just reading about some of these treatments stressed you out, come visit us at Sewickley Spa. All of our treatments are completely safe and will leave you feeling pampered and relaxed. View our services to start planning your visit.

Unique Spa Treatments from Around the World

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 12:36:08 GMT

Massages, wraps and pedicures are all wonderful treatments. What better way to spend the day than by relaxing and being pampered? However, a day at the spa can carry a very different meaning depending on where you are in the world. Here are some rather interesting, if not a little strange, treatments from across the globe.

Chinese Cupping

You might already know about cupping. Celebrities are jumping on this trend more and more. This practice began in China and involves placing around 3 to 7 cups on your back. These cups can be made of glass, bamboo or even clay. After a few minutes, they create suction, causing your skin and flesh to lift. It’s not the prettiest site in the world, but many people swear by it.

This ancient practice is said to help with all sorts of issues including blood flow and inflammation and is even sought out for relaxation. That may sound strange, considering they often use fire to start the suction process!

Turkish Hammam

Hammam is a popular treatment in Turkey and the Middle East. It’s like going to a steam room, but cranked up to 11. Some are more intense than others, but the basic formula involves a steam bath followed by a massage. Traditionally, the steam bath is in a very large public room that requires a very rigid etiquette. The massage is a little less dignified.

Unlike a relaxing massage you might enjoy, the hammam massage is an intense experience that bends your body in ways you may not have thought possible. Many have described it as an lesson in contortionism and say it takes a few days for the soreness to go away. What a way to spend a vacation, huh?

Irish Seaweed Bath

A seaweed wrap is one thing. Using the natural properties of kelp to rejuvenate the skin is common in many spas. However, the Irish take it to another level. Instead of wrapping your body in the seaweed, they plunge you right into a tub full of the stuff. It’s usually plucked right from the Atlantic Ocean.

While the principles are the same as a wrap, the seaweed bath is simply a more...immersive experience. And what better way to experience a new culture than through total immersion?

Book Your Spa Treatment at Sewickley Spa

The treatments we talked about above might be a little out of your comfort zone, but at Sewickley Spa, we offer a wide array of familiar services designed to help you look and feel your best. Book your appointment today!

What Body Wrap is Best for Me?

Mon, 31 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Now that the holidays are winding down, you’re probably in need of a little TLC to rejuvenate and unwind. A full body wrap is a great way to help restore both body and mind and tackle a new year with confidence. There are a number of different body wraps and choosing the right one can feel a bit tricky. We’ve broken down the benefits of three different wraps to help you find the one that best suits your needs.

Seaweed Botanical Wrap

The biggest benefit of any body wrap is to your skin. With a seaweed botanical wrap, you’ll experience the wonders of nature and the restorative powers of the sea. It may look a little odd, but the benefits more than make up for it. This full body “cocoon” wraps you up from head to toe, and relies on the detoxifying agents and extracts to purify your skin.

This process helps restore skin’s elasticity while also moisturizing to leave it smooth and healthy. On top of the restorative powers of a seaweed wrap, our treatment also includes a head and face massage to help you relax and enjoy your pampering experience to the fullest!

Cellulite Reduction Wrap

The dry air of winter and constant running around during the holidays can leave your skin looking less than ideal. A cellulite reduction wrap is the perfect remedy for tired skin that needs a little help to getting its luster back. A cellulite reduction wrap can leave your skin looking instantly tighter, smoother and dimple-free.

We use ancient Egyptian techniques to wrap you up from head to toe while we massage your head and face. But don’t worry, you won’t look like a mummy when it’s over! In fact, this process does just the opposite. It helps speed up your metabolism and releases waste, fluid and toxins to leave you feeling like a modern-day Cleopatra.

Paraffin Body Wrap

If you’re looking for the ultimate in-spa day indulgences, a paraffin body wrap will certainly fit the bill. This is the best way to start a new year feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. We start by swaddling your entire body with warm paraffin and cotton, wrapping you up like a baby to completely soothe your skin and senses. As with our other body wraps, you’ll also be treated to a head and face massage while you lavish in your treatment.

A paraffin body wrap is perfect for those who truly want to experience the pinnacle of luxury. While this treatment is a great way to remedy dry and parched skin, a paraffin body wrap can provide anyone with the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and enjoy the ultimate bliss a spa can offer.

Book Your Next Wrap at Sewickley Spa

No matter what wrap suits your needs, Sewickley Spa is ready to help you feel your best. Book your appointment today to start your journey to total relaxation and pampering.

Healthy Resolutions for 2019

Mon, 24 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

With 2018 coming to an end, it's a good time to reflect on what we want to change in the coming year. For many of us, that means taking better care of ourselves, both inside and out! Here are few easy and healthy resolutions you can try to help you feel your best throughout 2019!

Taking Care of Your Skin

Winter is an especially hard time for our skin. The air is generally dryer, and this lack of moisture can hurt or damage our skin. As the new year approaches, try getting into a routine to not only help your skin through the winter, but to start off the new year with good health in mind.

Starting a skincare routine doesn’t have to be difficult or involve a lot of expensive products. In fact, there are a number of habits you can adopt that won’t cost you a dime. For one, make sure you’re stay hydrated. Water helps our skin stay moisturized and, obviously, has other health benefits as well. Conversely, limit your shower time, and try not to use as much hot water. This is hard to do during the colder parts of the year, but hot water can really dry out your skin.

Finding Ways to Destress

We all live crazy, hectic lives. Between work, family and other responsibilities, there are a lot of stressors we all have to deal with. Stress can lead to headaches, upset stomachs and other problems. A big part of self-care is dealing with this stress in a healthy way,such as a hobby, exercise or watching TV. The important thing is to reserve time for yourself that allows you to wash away the stressors of your day.

There are also plenty of daily activities you can incorporate to help deal with stress. Simple things like taking a walk around the block, breathing exercises and getting a good night’s sleep can all help you destress.

Making More Time for Yourself

You do so much for other people, why not do something for yourself, too? When you make room for a little “me-time,” you’re allowing yourself a valuable opportunity to unwind.. Whether you’re dealing with stress, or just want to show yourself a little love, making time for yourself is important..

Again, this doesn’t have to disrupt your daily routine, but it should allow you the opportunity to spend some time on yourself. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a nice long bath, or even taking a 15-minute nap, doing something for yourself can really help your mood, and help you get through the more hectic moments of your day.

Sewickley Spa Can Help You Keep Your Resolutions

Whether you want to show your skin a little love, destress, or just want to escape for a little while, Sewickley Spa can help make 2019 your best year yet. Browse our services and therapies to find the one that’s just right for you!

How to Make Your Home More Relaxing

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 15:14:24 GMT

The holidays are a stressful time of year. Between shopping, cooking, cleaning and hosting friends and family, there’s always something to do. While a day of indulgence at the spa is always a great way to get away and relax, we know you need some way to unwind between spa visits. Here are a few ways to bring a relaxing atmosphere into your home until your next session at the spa.

Home Atmosphere

Your home’s atmosphere can set the tone for your mood. Simple things like keeping the home tidy and neat can do a lot to reduce stress and make your home more inviting. Other things you can do include using lamps or low wattage overhead lights. Lights that are too bright can leave us feeling tense and on edge. Dimming them down creates a much cozier and relaxing space.

Don’t be afraid to splurge on some comfy pillows and blankets, either. After all, you want to be as comfortable as possible when you’re relaxing. Finally, try to limit your screen time. The harsh blue light makes it harder to relax. Try spending some time reading or just talking with your family. You’ll all feel better for it!

Find Space Just for You

If your home tends to be on the chaotic side, finding a place all your own can provide a wonderful retreat. Even if it’s only for 15 minutes, taking some time away from kids, your spouse or any of the other attention-grabbers can help you recharge.

There’s no wrong way to set up space for yourself. It could be as simple as spending time alone in your bedroom, living room or bathroom. The important thing is you have the time you need to decompress away from the stressors of your home.

Turn Your Bathroom into a Sanctuary

Bathrooms can be a great retreat, and they don’t have to be spa quality. Even the simplest bathroom can become an oasis of relaxation with the right preparation. Load up on your favorite candles, bath bombs, wine and a trashy romance novel and escape into your own little world.

If soaking in the tub isn’t your thing, a hot shower can be just as nice. You’ll be surprised at how refreshed you’ll feel. The important thing is you feel comfortable and relaxed, so be sure to do it your way!

Sewickley Spa Can Help Even More

Now that you’ve turned your home into a relaxation haven, let’s carry that outside. Visit Sewickley Spa for one or more of our numerous sessions and services so you can return home feeling refreshed and pampered!

The Benefits of Waxing

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 14:23:34 GMT

Looking and feeling your best is important throughout the year. However, the holidays always seem to carry a lot of stress, and making the time for ourselves can be difficult. That’s why waxing is such a great option. Through regular sessions, you can cross off at least one item on your beauty routine. Waxing sessions offer you time to yourself, and a refreshed feeling you can hang onto throughout the holidays!

How Does Waxing Work?

Waxing is a fairly straightforward procedure. We apply the wax to the part of the body we’re focusing on, and then apply a strip of cloth or paper pressed firmly against the skin. We then quickly pull off the cloth or paper, leaving smooth, hairless skin behind! It’s a quick process with instant results.

The best part about waxing is that it can be targeted to your most troublesome areas, often places where a normal razor cannot reach. Waxing services are available for a number of areas, including:

Face - mainly eyebrows, lip, chin and sideburns

Under arms

Upper and/or lower arms

Bikini line

Lower legs

Thighs

Back

Through continuous waxing, hair follicles in targeted areas begin to weaken. This means the hair that grows back will become finer and finer over time, making it less noticeable. Furthermore, unlike traditional shaving, waxing leaves no razor burn or stiff re-growth of your hair.

Visit Sewickley Spa for Your Next Waxing Appointment

Whether you have experience with waxing or you’re ready to try it for the first time, you’re sure to have a wonderful experience at Sewickley Spa. Our team of specialists is ready to help you look your best! Book your appointmen t today to prepare for the holidays.

What are the Benefits of a Sports Massage?

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 14:30:53 GMT

Every athlete puts their body through its paces. A hard day working out, training or competing can leave us feeling quite sore. Your body is a temple and you ask a lot of it, so isn’t it time you show it a little TLC? With a sports massage, you can rejuvenate your muscles and hit the field or court feeling refreshed.

What is a Sports Massage?

A sports massage is best for those involved in rigorous athletic training regimens every single day. This puts a lot of strain on your muscles and ligaments, and it’s important to allow yourself some time to relax. A sports massage targets your core muscle group, stretching and working them back to their peak-performance capabilities.

Typically, sports massages are tailored to an athlete’s specific sport or training regimen, making sure they’re back to fighting fit the next time they compete. The massage focuses on the most stressed and overused muscles and ligaments that endure constant use and movements.

Benefits of a Sports Massage

Sports massages have been gaining popularity more and more. Many athletes are making them an integral part of their training schedule because of its restorative capabilities. Perhaps the greatest benefits of sports massages include pre-competition preparation and a possible reduction in your overall recovery time.

One 50-minute session every one or two weeks has been shown to improve overall flexibility and movement in many athletes. Combine this with less muscle soreness, and you’ll be able to perform at your best every single game, match or meet. Additionally, many athletes have noted that a sports massage helps limit overall fatigue, boosts endurance, and even helps prepare their minds for their next event.

Sports Massage at Sewickley Spa

With a team of specialists and licensed therapists, Sewickley Spa offers quality sports massages for working athletes of all ages. Book your appointmen t today to continue performing at your very best!

Sewickley Spa Gift Ideas

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 15:57:24 GMT

Finishing your holiday shopping list is easier said than done. For those trickier folks you need to shop for, consider an experience they’ll never forget. A trip to Sewickley for a day of indulgence and pampering is the perfect way to show you care and there are plenty of ways to do it!

Sewickley Spa Gift Certificate

The simplest way to give someone the gift of relaxation is through a Sewickley Spa gift certificate. You can customize the amount and even print them out right from your own computer. Better yet, you can fill out, choose a design, and email right to your recipient with a personalized message. Or, if you’re old school, we can print it out and snail mail it for you.

Our gift certificates can be redeemed for any of our services, or you can preselect a service or package based on your recipient’s tastes. Choose any of our services, including facials, manicures, massages, pedicures or waxing. You can also select as specific package such as the "Magnificent Pamper" or "Divine Day."

Group Events and On-Site Massages

Another great way to go is booking a group event. This way you’ll get to indulge yourself in all of the wonderful relaxation right alongside your friends and family. Just like with our gift cards, you can customize your package or service to taylor to you and your lucky friends’ desires.

If you’re looking to really wow those on your gift list, an on-site massage can’t be beat. These make a great surprise as our trained massage therapists show up exactly when and where you want them to. Your gift recipients will surely be in for one of the best, more relaxing experiences ever.

Spread the Holiday Cheer with Sewickley Spa

No matter how you choose to treat your friends and family, they will be sure to love it. Treating the ones you love to a day of complete relaxation and pampering acknowledges how much you appreciate what they do every single day. Start planning your Sewickley Spa gift certificates here or learn more about our group experiences .

End Your Black Friday with a Trip to the Spa

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 14:26:00 GMT

Shopping on Black Friday requires a good deal of patience, attention to detail, and strategy. Everything involved with the year’s busiest shopping day is downright stressful. Sitting in traffic, waiting in line, hunting down those spectacular deals—they all take their toll. After all of that, you definitely need a way to unwind, and what better way than with a trip to Sewickley Spa?

Treat Yourself to a Massage

After a full day spent buying presents for your family and friends, it’s ok to do a little something for yourself. A massage is the perfect way to show yourself a little love. Lie down and let the stresses of the day melt away, allowing you to return home refreshed and calm.

With numerous options, there’s a massage for everyone. From a full-on Swedish or deep tissue massage than can really help you unwind, to a simple shoulder massage to help you work out the tension you’ve acquired throughout the shopping day. We even offer couples massages, so you and your partner can relax together!

Bring the Whole Squad

With a group package, you and your entire squad can get the relaxing treatment you need. It’s the perfect way to end a stressful day of shopping and running around. This is a perfect option for folks with family sticking around throughout the weekend, or just a nice way to cap off a busy day with your friends.

With a number of options available, we can help you plan your perfect spa visit that will leave your entire party feeling pampered and relaxed. What better way to kick off the holiday season?

Explore All of Sewickley Spa's Services

No matter what treatment you’re looking for, no matter what day of the year, Sewickley Spa has the perfect way to help you unwind as we go into the holiday season. Explore all of our services and book your appointment today!

Holiday Group Events at Sewickley Spa

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Your team works hard all year long. Rising to every challenge and tackling every problem, these people make your business run smoothly. As the holidays draw closer, you might be deliberating on the best way to reward your staff’s hard work. With a trip to Sewickley Spa, you can not only reward your staff, but treat them to the pampering we all know they deserve.

Employee Spa Trips

As mentioned above, your team works hard throughout the year and every job is stressful in its own way. There’s no better way to acknowledge this stress and reward hard work than through a day of comfort and pampering. It’s an experience you and your staff are sure to remember for a long time. You can choose from one of our spa packages or customize your own.

Showing your staff your appreciation through a spa day can also serve as a great team building experience. Spas come with a level of intimacy and experiencing that with your team can do wonders for workplace morale and the way your teams relates to one another.

No time to get everyone to the spa? No problem! Sewickley Spa can provide on-site massage therapy right in your office.

Spa Packages for Clients

Just as your business would be nothing without your hardworking staff, so it goes for your loyal customers or clients. Let’s be honest. The gift baskets, boxes of chocolate or cheap bottles of wine are getting a little old when it comes to holiday gifts. Treat your valued clients to a holiday experience they won’t soon forget.

We can send massage therapists right to their office or help you design a customized package just for them. If you prefer, you can even go with a gift card and allow them to pick their favorite treatments.

Book Your Group Event at Sewickley Spa

Employees and clients help your business stay afloat throughout the year. Show them your gratitude and book your group event at Sewickley Spa today!

Look and Feel Your Best for the Holidays

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Once we turn those calendars to November, it feels like there’s a million things to do and no time to do them. The holidays can surely be a stressful time, with all the shopping, cooking and entertaining that comes with them. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and not take care of ourselves, but with a visit to Sewickley Spa, you can get the recharge you need to help you look and feel your best through all the happy holidays ahead.

Hands and Feet Deserve Pampering

Treating yourself to a nice manicure or pedicure is a great way to escape the stress of the holidays. Come in on your way home from work, or stop by between shopping trips or running errands. You deserve to rest for a while and you’ll feel great when it’s done. Our hand and foot treatments use all-natural shines and polishes. No harmful chemicals here. We believe that this is part of the relaxation process and your nails, lungs, and heart will thank you for the natural finish.

A Facial Helps You Look Your Best

Whether you just want to unwind for a little, or need a little help looking your very best this holiday season, Sewickley Spa has you covered. From rejuvenation and skin renewal to acne and collagen treatments, there’s a facial treatment for everyone. A facial treatment isn’t only about looking your best, it’s about feeling your best and taking a little time for yourself. With all of the shopping, cooking, cleaning and other preparations, pausing for a moment and allowing yourself a little pampering it well deserved.

A Massage to Feel Your Best

As mentioned above, the holidays come with a lot of stressors and it often feels like the list of errands never ends. What better time to pause for a little self love? With plenty of options and styles available, there’s a perfect massage treatment for everyone. A good massage will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Better yet, you’ll feel renewed and ready to start your holiday season with newfound energy.

Book Your Holiday Appointment at Sewickley Spa

No matter what you’re looking for, find your day of pampering at Sewickley Spa. Contact us today to book your appointment.

Taking Care of Your Skin This Winter

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

We hate to admit it, but the warm weather is officially over. The Pittsburgh area now braces itself for a chilly fall and freezing winter. As we start bundling up, it’s important to remember that our skin needs a little extra TLC this time of year. The colder temperatures tend to dry it out and irritate skin. Here are few things to keep in mind.

Moisturize Your Skin

Like we mentioned above, cold air tends to be much drier than warm air. This causes the skin to crack or inflame. Make moisturizing a part of your daily routine, especially for areas that are the most exposed like your face and hands.

If you’re new to moisturizing, our team at Sewickley Spa can help you settle on a skincare regimen that’s unique to your needs. With a little help, you can make through the winter well-hydrated, beautiful skin.

Humidifiers are Your Friend

On top of moisturizing, using a humidifier at home can go a long way in helping your skin stay smooth all winter long. Humidifiers pump moist air into your home, helping to combat the dryness brought on by winter.

Additionally, humidifiers can help keep you congestion-free and fight sickness. As we breathe in dry air, our bodies have to work harder to fight infections and other airborne illnesses. So, as you can see, humidifiers are really our best friends during the colder months.

Good Foods for Healthier Skins

Omega-3 and other fatty acids are great for promoting healthy skin, and can really help out during the cold weather. Remember, your skin is actually an organ and needs just as much attention as other parts of your body. Luckily, most of these foods are pretty common and tasty/ In fact, you could plan an entire meal aimed at helping your skin!

For meat or protein, opt for fatty fish like salmon or herring. Eggs are another great source of these vitamins You can add plenty of yummy side dishes, too. Fruits and vegetables like avocado, tomato, broccoli, and bell peppers. After dinner, opt for dark chocolate and a glass of red wine. Green tea is also great for your skin. As you can see, there are plenty of options for every diet.

Let Sewickley Spa Take Care of Your Skin All Winter Long

While there is plenty you can do throughout the winter at home, a few trips to the spa can really help keep your skin feeling great. Browse all our skincare treatments or set up your appointment today!

How to Prepare for Your First Spa Day

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Visiting any spa for the first time can be unforgettable experience. You might just ask yourself why it took you so long! While we do all the work on our end, we wanted to offer a few simple tips to help you get into the right mind before visiting the spa. Here are just a few things you can do to prepare for your first spa day.

Come to the Spa with an Open Mind

This might be the most important thing you can do. A spa day is all about relaxation, pampering and focusing on your mental and physical well-being. There’s no need to stress or feel uncomfortable here. We understand that new experiences can be stressful for many of us, but we want to ensure you that you have nothing to worry about.

If you’re worried about some of our treatments like a massage, we want you to rest assured that our staff of professionals have worked with every body and skin type out there. There’s nothing to be nervous or embarrassed about. A massage is designed to be a positive, pampering experience. It’s your special time. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you relax.

What Should I Wear to the Spa?

This is a question that comes up a lot. The simple answer is, it doesn’t really matter. We provide each guest with a soft robe and slipper for the duration of their visit. However, we want your comfort to start as soon as possible, so we recommend wearing whatever makes you comfortable upon arrival.

We do recommend that you not wear excessive jewellery during your visit. If you are coming in for a facial, we will remove all makeup before we start. Other than, come as you are and ready to relax.

Special Accommodations at Sewickley Spa

If you have any special requests or needs during your visit, please make sure to let us know. We want you to be as comfortable as possible while you’re with us, and it helps us to make sure that’s the case.

For instance, if you have sensitive skin, we can definitely accommodate that. We even carry products for specific needs and conditions. We can even help set you up with a home skincare regimen.

Experience Your First Spa Day at Sewickley Spa

Let our experienced, professional staff show you what you’ve been missing. You can view all of our services or contact Sewickley Spa with any questions.

Convincing Your Partner It's Time for a Spa Day

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

You love spa days. You know how wonderful a day of pampering and relaxation can be for your mind, body and spirit. The only thing missing? The person you love most. Sure, you’ve told them all about the spa, how amazing you feel when you get home. They’re happy for you, but you know they’d be even happier if they just came along.

Explaining the Benefits of a Spa to Your Partner

If your partner has never been to a spa before, they might be picturing nothing more than mud masks and cucumbers over your eyes. Now, we know there’s so much more than that. Explain to your partner all of the options awaiting them! Sure, there are skin treatments and facials, but what about a soothing couples massage or a refreshing manicure?

Maybe your partner has preconceived notions about the spa and never really saw him or herself there. This can be hard to argue, but doesn’t your partner see how relaxed you are when you come home? Explain how you want that for them, too! Help your partner understand everything available at the spa and work together to plan your perfect day.

Put Their Worries to Rest

For some people, that first visit to the spa can be a little stressful, and something we definitely need to fix! You know a day at the spa means serenity and relaxation. The spa is a place for all of your woes and stressors to melt away, if only for a day. However, if your partner still has some apprehensions, here are few talking points to help sway their opinion.

I've Never Had a Massage Before

Many people are nervous about their first massage because it’s a new experience and they don’t know what to expect. Remind your partner that a massage is designed for comfort and that there is nothing to worry about. Massage therapists are professionals and trained to work on all body types.

Will I Be Out of Place at the Spa?

We hear this concern from a lot of people, mostly men. The truth is, everyone is welcome at the spa. Man or woman, all body and skin types. Our staff are all professionals who truly enjoy helping each and every guest relax and enjoy their time with us. If you or your partner is more comfortable with a male or female technician, we can certainly accommodate that!

How Should I Prepare for a Spa Day?

The most important thing is to come with an open mind and to be ready to relax. Additionally, make sure to wear comfortable clothing and minimal jewelry. We request that you turn off your cell phones while receiving treatments in order to truly immerse yourself in the experience. Again, the best way to prepare is to simply come in and enjoy yourself.

Book Your Couples Spa Day at Sewickley Spa

Now that you’ve answered all your partner’s questions and addressed their concerns, it’s time to book your spa day. At Sewickley Spa, we offer everything from massages to seaweed wraps to pedicures—and everything in between. Visit our full list of treatment options .

Why Men Need Spa Days, Too

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Many men’s idea of relaxation and rejuvenation might not include a day at the spa, but it should! Sewickley Spa offers many services specifically designed with men in mind. Whether you have some preconceived notions about a trip to the spa, or you think you’re just too busy, we’ll show you some options to help you look and feel your best.

Learn How to Take Care of Yourself at Home

If relaxation and skincare aren’t your strong points, we’ll teach you the basics. We offer treatments specifically tailored for men’s needs, such as our Gentlemen’s Hot Towel Facial. For fifty minutes, you’ll experience a deep facial, neck and shoulder massage as well as a full exfoliation to help you look your best. The best part is, we’ll teach you how to continue your regimen at home. Just ask your specialist!

Don’t forget about grooming. Sewickley Spa offers plenty of waxing services to help you look even better. Get your eyebrows and sideburns under control, or finally do something about that hairy back your partner is always complaining about.

Finally, when’s the last time you cleaned under your fingernails? We thought so. You’ll be amazed at what a simple manicure can do to help your confidence, especially before an important work or social event.

Spa Days Are Great for a Couple's Outing

We firmly believe men have as much to gain from a spa day as anyone, but that doesn’t mean you have to come alone! Maybe you’ve treated your spouse or significant other to a spa day in the past, but can you imagine how thrilled they would be if you came with them? There’s something incredibly intimate about sharing a spa day with the person you love. Sitting for the same treatments, let the stress of the world wash away as you spend time with your favorite person.

You can take advantage of such treatments and packages, including a Couples Massage, which allows you and your loved one to share in the relaxation of a Swedish Massage, and even extend the time for the most luxurious experience ever.

Book Your Spa Day at Sewickley Spa

Whether you’re an experienced spa-goer or a first-time visitor to a spa, we look forward to making your visit to Sewickley Spa one you’ll never forget. You will love your day at the Sewickley Spa. The spa is staffed and designed to make sure you do. B ook Now to schedule your next spa appointment.

What to Expect from Your Experience at Sewickley Spa

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

If you enjoy a luxurious pampering experience, you will love your visit to the Sewickley Spa. This is a place that has been designed from top to bottom to make you feel relaxed, comfortable, and treated like royalty – as you deserve.

At the Sewickley Spa, you can choose from 46 different luxurious spa treatments provided to you by a skilled staff of experts. Both male and female staff members are available and you can request either one if you have a preference. The Sewickley Spa has been voted Best Day Spa numerous times by several independent publications in the tri-state area, and with good reason. Every client is treated with gentleness and respect, where needs are recognized and met. The spa was even featured as the cover story for Spa Management magazine in August 2003 recognizing its outstanding business model.

With a soothing ambience that will make you feel like an ultra-wealthy supermodel for a day, you will find that everyone at the Sewickley Spa are committed to providing superior services to achieving your ultimate satisfaction. They want you to enjoy your visit, and to come again whenever you need a pick-me-up, or an afternoon getaway. When you arrive, you will be provided with a spa robe and slippers to wear during your visit, and, of course, you can take your purse with you into any treatment room. You may be asked to remove jewelry for some treatments, so bring a box or a pouch for them that you can put in your purse for safekeeping. It is better to arrive wearing comfortable clothing and with as little jewelry as possible.

If you get hungry or thirsty during your visit, you will find a wonderful variety of teas, juices, lemon water, pastries and fruit available merely for the asking.

The spa provides facials, massages, manicures, pedicures, waxing and a variety of body therapies, such as wraps and scrubs. Gift certificates are available if you decide to treat someone special to a day of pampering. You can choose one service for your visit, or a variety of them. Create your own spa package experience, or arrange for a group spa day for a wedding shower, bachelorette party, or a special birthday or anniversary.

Schedule Your Spa Day at Sewickley Spa

5 Health Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Do you play sports, or suffer from pain caused by injuries, aging, or tense muscles? Have other kinds of massages, like Swedish massage, failed to deliver the pain relief and relaxation that you hoped for? If so, you should explore the benefits of deep tissue massage.

Why Consider a Deep Tissue Massage?

If you've already experienced a Swedish massage, you will notice that deep tissue massage consists of slower and deeper motions. This firmer touch allows your therapist to target deep into your muscles and connective tissues in order to release and lengthen tight muscles and relax connective tissues. It's not that deep tissue massage is always better than other kinds of massage, but it has been proven to provide benefits for people who suffer from certain issues.

To decide if a deep tissue massage will help you, explore these five advantages:

Relieve chronic back pain without medication : Multiple studies have demonstrated that deep tissue massage had a better outcome than using both typical massage and NSAIDs used concurrently for people who suffered from chronic back pain.
Lower high pressure : Adults with chronic pain and high blood pressure enjoyed both pain relief and a lower blood pressure and pulse after a deep tissue massage session in one study.
Reduce stress and muscle tension : Massage releases a relaxation hormone called oxycontin and reduces levels of the stress hormone called cortisol.
Alleviate arthritis symptoms : The Arthritis Foundation found that deep tissue massage helps alleviate such symptoms of arthritis as joint stiffness and pain, limited joint motion, and problems sleeping.
Improve performance : Athletes and their coaches rely upon deep tissue massages to help reduce injuries, enhance muscle memory, and speed recovery.

Is Deep Tissue Massage the Best Massage Therapy for Everybody?

Certainly, deep tissue massage can offer benefits that other kinds of lighter and quicker massages may not provide to the same degree. While the end results appear beneficial, some people find the deeper pressure less comfortable than a Swedish massage. So if you're not sure which kind of massage you would enjoy the most, you can always speak with our massage therapists for advice. The best kind of massage may depend upon your personal preferences and the reason that you sought a massage in the first place.

Schedule Your Deep Tissue Massage at Sewickley Spa

We look forward to making your visit to Sewickley Spa one you’ll never forget. B ook Now to schedule your next spa appointment.

5 Tips for the Perfect Spa Day Experience

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

So, you’ve been thinking about checking out The Sewickley Spa--either as a treat for yourself or with your partner, friend or loved one. Well, we look forward to giving you the experience of wellness and pampering. However, we know that if you’re better prepared, you’ll have an even more enjoyable time. And that’s why we’ve put together these five tips for a perfect spa day experience!

Have Someone Join You - Spa day is more fun if you have company. Talk your spouse into joining you for a great way to relax and unwind together, or treat your mom to a special day out. You’ll be able to relax more and have someone to chat with while you’re just hanging out.
Check Out the Options - A spa day can include many different things. Do you want a massage, a facial, a pedicure, waxing treatment, or one of our specialized body therapies? Perhaps you want to mix and match a few of these options for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Don’t Worry About Dressing Up - We’re going to put you in a comfortable robe to make your spa experience easy and enjoyable. Wear comfortable easy-to-maneuver clothing and don’t worry about dressing in your very best!
Speak With Us About Your Concerns - Do you have sensitive skin, allergies or other concerns? No problem. We can work with your issues. Our technicians are dedicated to making your experience enjoyable, no matter what, so don’t be afraid to speak up about any concerns you may have.
Take Advantage of the Refreshments - Spa treatments, like massages and facials, can actually be quite taxing on your body. We provide snacks and drinks such as fruits, pastries, flavored waters, and teas to help you replenish the energies your body is utilizing. Take advantage!

Contact Sewickley Spa to Start Your Experience

Whether you’re an experienced spa-goer, or a first-timer, we look forward to making your visit to Sewickley Spa one you’ll never forget. B ook Now to schedule your next spa appointment.

How Regular Spa Treatments Increase Overall Skin Health

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Spas aren't just for luxury; they're also a healthy way to treat your body inside and out. Regular spa treatments can improve the overall health of your skin, which is the largest organ of your body. Here's how.

The Benefits of Healthy Skin

Your skin is the first line of defense you have against illness. As you go through your day, you'll encounter bacteria, viruses, and even microscopic pests. When your skin is at its best, it is able to deter all of these threats.

When your skin is dry, broken, or dehydrated, it can allow dangerous microbes direct access into your body. Over time, you'll find yourself being generally less healthy, feeling like you have less energy and being less active.

Spa Treatments and Healthy Skin

Spa treatments are centered around both pampering you and improving your overall health. The following spa treatments can be used to improve upon the health and appearance of your skin:

Exfoliating. Exfoliating removes rough, dead skin cells to reveal more youthful cells beneath. Removing dead skin cells prevents them from building up like a crust, potentially leading to drier, cracked skin. However, it also has to be done by professionals; at-home exfoliation can actually create microscopic scratches in your skin, damaging it.
Extractions. Extractions remove blemishes manually, such as blocked pores. If extraction isn't completed from time to time, pores can become much larger and acne can become worse. When left unchecked, acne can lead to issues, such as scarring and infection, both of which will eventually lead to less healthy and potentially at-risk skin.
Massages. Massaging your face and body encourages blood flow throughout your tissue, including your skin. Higher blood flow is linked to better regenerative capabilities. More oxygen and blood cells will be distributed throughout your body to keep it healthy and active.
Masks. Hydrating masks are often used to reintroduce missing moisture into your skin, thereby making it less likely to crack and bleed, while also reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. These masks are often fortified with vitamins and minerals that are known to increase the health and the appearance of your skin.

Many of these spa treatments can be bundled under a facial or body pack. Not only will they improve your skin's health, but they'll also make you feel great. But don't take our word for it; you can experience the difference yourself. B ook Now to schedule your next spa appointment.