Every time I travel internationally I am always impressed and surprised about how much other cultures value self-care. Almost every other cultures make things like massages, spa’s and time for reflection a weekly and even daily priority. However, in the U.S. going to a spa, receiving a massage or lounging in a steam room seems like such a luxury that so many people put off or just simply ignore (myself included!). The reason these things are so important is not just because they feel amazing (which they do!) but also because they have very significant health benefits. When performed by a talented therapist massages can:
- Improve circulation
- Strengthen connective tissues
- Strengthen your immune system
- Improve mental alertness and productivity
- Reduce stress and inflammation
- Promote detoxification
However, oftentimes just making ourselves a priority is the hardest part so I was delighted when I had the opportunity to check out the new location of Spa Velia in downtown San Diego!
Spa Velia recently moved to a downtown location and is now located in East building of Harbor Towers. Quick note: do not trust your GPS system to get you there! Mine spent the majority of the trip trying to convince me to park on the tracks. Luckily I haven’t surrendered ALL of my common sense to technology.
The first thing that you will notice is that the spa is HUGE! There is a large reception area full of delicious products and friendly staff. They then directed my upstairs where I was greeted by Dana, the spa’s owner. She was absolutely lovely, which I have since learned is a trademark of all the staff at Spa Velia. She gave me a quick tour of the spa so I felt comfortable and understood where everything was. It’s always good to get a good lay of the land before you strip off all your clothes;)
The thing I was most impressed about was how they were able to create such a quiet and peaceful place in such a busy part of San Diego. You would have no idea that you were across from the Convention Center or things as crazy as Comic-con could actually be happening outside! It’s also much more of a full spa experience than I have found in the downtown area. Instead of being simply escorted into a room you are assigned a locker, given access to the steam room, relaxation room, beverages, snacks and fully stocked shower and grooming facilities. So you could certainly spend a few hours there enjoying the amenities but it’s also close enough to everything that you could stop in for a quick treatment over your lunch break.
I started out with a quick steam. Steaming opens the pores, increases the metabolism and causes the body to sweat and detoxify. After that I headed to the relaxation room where Dana had left me a pomegranate mimosa! Maybe not the best follow-up to my detox steam but it was absolutely fantastic and added a nice warmth to my day!
My facial was next and it was really one of the best facials I’ve had in a while (and that’s not the mimosa talking!). I had the Renewal facial and Melissa was very thorough and really took the time to examine my skin before doing anything. As a fair skin girl with freckles I get a lot of offers to bleach away my freckles or different ways I can make myself tan when I am having a facial. Instead, Melissa took her time and really tailored my treatment to my needs. She offered very thoughtful advice and answered all my questions. And then after that she allowed me to relax and enjoy the downtime!
My entire experience at Spa Velia was wonderful and I certainly plan on going back. They create a high-end spa environment at a price point where you can make it a consistent part of you self-care routine. They also have VIP membership programs and discounts on series so you can even save money taking care of yourself! If you are in the San Diego area I recommend you checking them out www.SpaVelia.com
Please note that I didn’t all photos were taken from yelp as I didn’t carry my phone with me around the spa. If any of these pictures are yours and you are upset I want you to know:
- You are an excellent photographer
- I will either take them down or give you credit once you tell me who you are – thank you:)
