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| - Given the Sewickley Spa's stellar reputation, I expected an outstanding spa day. I had won a $100 gift certificate from a local newspaper contest and was considering indulging in a hot stone massage. I'd never had one before, so, after carefully reading the spa's description of the massage and being convinced by a few friends who had experienced this type of massage at other spas, I made my appointment for my annual birthday massage in early October, 2012.
When I go for a massage, I like to have the whole spa experience of changing into a cozy robe and slippers and relaxing with a cup of tea before and/or after my treatment. Check and check. It was just the middle part that I wasn't thrilled with.
My therapist (whose name I can't remember, but she was a women perhaps in her late 40's or early 50's) led me to my massage room, which let in too much outside light, despite the blinds being drawn and was quite chilly, since it was a large room designed for couple's massages. She confirmed that I chose the hot stone massage and told me there was no muscle manipulation with that massage, just the placement of hot stones on certain points of my body. I was confused. I've never had a hot stone massage before, but I was sure their brochure lead me to believe the hot stone placement would be in addition to a traditional Swedish massage. Not wanting to be completely disappointed, I asked if I could "downgrade" to a Swedish massage instead and she said of course, and that she wanted to make sure I was satisfied.
Well, I was not. My entire massage just felt like having lotion gently rubbed on me for an hour. I know massage therapists often tell clients to speak up if the pressure is too intense, but the idea of asking her to rub me harder just seemed weird. Plus, I figured my massage was free, so it was better than nothing. I definitely did not walk away with that "ahhhh" feeling one expects after spending a morning at a spa.
To conclude, a chilly and too-bright massage room, plus a lackluster and overpriced massage means that I won't be going back. Not even to spend the remaining $20 of my gift certificate.
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