With dozens of great spas to choose from, Guam has it all when it comes to pampering — from corporate parties to ladies day out to after-work stress relief. These tips will help you enjoy the best spa experience possible.
Spa 101
Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes and arrive 15 minutes early for your appointment and enjoy a relaxing foot bath or hot tea, depending on the spa. If you are receiving massage treatment, don’t eat a heavy meal beforehand.
Insider Tip: Most spas are less crowded on Mondays or Tuesdays. Not only will you receive more personalized attention, but you may nab a complimentary foot scrub if you ask!
Types of massage
Aromatherapy – Aromatherapy is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, or balancing. Calming lavender is one of the most common essential oils used. Aromatherapy massage is particularly helpful in calming stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.
Reflexology – During this therapy pressure is applied to points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet. Ask your massage therapist which major organs and systems they’re targeting during the foot massage. If you haven’t already fallen asleep, you may be surprised!
Shiatsu – The Japanese word shiatsu means “finger pressure” each point is held for two to eight seconds on acupuncture meridians. Shiatsu calms an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which improves circulation, relieves stiff muscles, and alleviates stress. The therapist kneads muscles through a sheet covering your body, so it’s not necessary to remove any clothing. Don’t be afraid of a therapist who uses knuckles, elbows, and knees used to work out the kinks!
Swedish – This is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you’ve never had massage before, this is a good one to try first.
