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| - "The greater the expectation, the greater the disappointment."
Someone famous said this at one time, I'm pretty sure of it. I consulted Google and somehow they didn't know who or when it was said.
I had mediocre expectations at best for Bliss Spa in Scottsdale, thankfully, I was proven wrong! It is situated on the first floor of the W Scottsdale, about a 1/2 mile from the Fashion Square mall and the Waterfront. Bliss ( based in NYC) made a name for themselves years ago when they were approached by W Hotels to partner in all of them. That is one huge invitation and I believe that they are doing well with the partnership.
Anyway... I visit spas and massage businesses more often than most. Partly because of my profession as a massage therapist, but also because I have come to appreciate the process of allowing someone to help me feel better. Years ago, before learning about massage, I rarely had anyone touch me. In fact, I received my first professional massage when I was 30. Since then I've made up for it by getting a massage about once a month.
Stephanie checked me in for my 105 minute blissage massage and was courteous, professional and polite. She escorted me back to men's locker room and showed me where to wait for the LMT, the showers, the brownie/ cheese / cracker station and how to use the digital lock on the lockers. It is a boutique facility, 1 shower, about 10 -12 lockers, and 2 sinks. I'm mentioning this because it was perfect for me on a Tuesday afternoon. Pretty sure that weekends are another story, but I enjoyed having my own private lounge.
After a quick trip up to Shade Lounge for an adult beverage (Cool Mule) and a steam shower, I plunked down and waited for Monica to fetch me. I liked that there wasn't a TV on or magazines strewn about.
We walked back to the massage room and she confirmed my massage and inquired about what type of pressure that I like. I normally don't tell the massage therapists what I do, but I did with Monica. I asked her to do what she does, to work on me and connect me. I dislike someone trying to prove to me how strong they are or an LMT that gets lost with the rhythm or style. Monica did neither, she has a great touch and knows how work deeply without inflicting pain (similar to how I work).
I truly enjoyed the foot massage to begin and then the warm lotion or cream in a bag that is enclosed on my feet while Monica worked on my back. The sounds of people and business wafted in from time to time, although I was soon in the space between awake and sleep, a great place to be. I will definitely return again soon.
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