Relax, renew, and rejuvenate

Are you feeling stressed and in need of R&R? Look no further than a spa day! Renchia Droganis, CEO and founder of Africology Spa, sees a spa day as an opportunity to relax while celebrating an event, having fun with friends, or bonding with a loved one. The cherry on top is how “spa treatments are a helpful way to reset the bodies and mind” and form part of a healthy lifestyle.

Insider tip: Most Sun International properties have luxury spas on-site, such as the Africology Spa at The Maslow, The Camelot Spa at The Table Bay and Boardwalk, Gary Player Health Spa at Sun City, Mangwanani Spa at Wild Coast Sun and Sibaya, and The Royal Spa and Salon at The Palace of the Lost City.

Many spas also offer treatments and services specifically tailored to teens and kids. So, your little ones can indulge in pampering alongside you. If you’re heading to Wild Coast Sun, then book a spa day at Mangwanani Spa for you and the kids. Mangwanani's Teen and Kids Spa Packages are specifically designed for the unique needs of growing tots and picky teens.

Relaxation planning 101

Droganis believes it’s important to plan your spa day with a specific intention. “Are you planning on having fun or experiencing the gift of health?” she asks. It helps the spa manager tailor the experience to your needs, especially if you’re seeking a bespoke spa day.

Here are some tips on enjoying the perfect spa day:

• Research and choose a reputable spa: Before booking, you need to research different spas in your area. You’ll get insight into the spa’s reputability and services.
• Plan ahead: Spas have a limited number of appointments available each day, so book in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Arrive early and make use of spa facilities: Arriving early for your spa day gives you the time to enjoy all the spa has to offer, from saunas to hot tubs – enjoy these amenities before your treatments start.
• Stay hydrated and nourished throughout the day: Be sure to stay hydrated and nourished during your spa day. It helps your body release toxins and promotes relaxation.
• Disconnect from technology: A spa day is a perfect opportunity to disconnect from technology and enjoy the moment.

Insider tip: If you’re new to spa treatments, Droganis says it’s best to “familiarise yourself by starting with reflexology, then a massage and finally progress to hydro facilities”. These treatments also happen to be suitable for people with special needs.

Nurturing your mind, body, and soul

In today’s busy and stressful world, it’s easy to place your wellbeing on the backburner in favour of other responsibilities. But this can lead to anxiety, burnout, and a host of other negative effects on your health. By prioritising self-care, you can live well and improve your physical and mental health, experiencing better management of stress, lowered risk of illness, and increased energy.

Insider tip: Droganis advises being open with your spa therapist about your needs to ensure the best treatment outcome.

Rejuvenation beyond the surface

Spa days offer a plethora of benefits for both mind and body. Taking the time to relax in a peaceful environment will help promote overall well-being, especially as “a well-designed treatment is invaluable in working with the body to release stress or unease”.

Here are a few benefits of a spa day:

• Stress relief: Mental health issues are part and parcel of modern life, but you don’t need to be another statistic. A spa day helps reduce stress and promotes improved sleep.
• Enhanced confidence: Whether you treat yourself to a facial treatment or laser hair removal session, you’ll leave glowing and feeling like the best version of yourself.
• Reduced muscle tension and pain: Massages are your best friend when it comes to increasing blood flow throughout your body, easing stiffness, aches, muscle tension, and pain. They also help “activate the lymphatic flow that is key to releasing toxins and building a strong immune system”, alongside improving your flexibility.
• Mental clarity and improved mood: Scientists say people experience increased serotonin and dopamine levels following a spa treatment, making it an ideal tonic for depression.

Domestic bliss

You don’t always have to go out to enjoy a spa treatment. Incorporate them into your regular self-care routine, if you’re struggling to find the time or money a spa day. Droganis mentions that Africology Spa often gives clients “spa at home guidance, from daily product rituals to relaxing home care options”.

With all these benefits of a relaxing, renewing, and rejuvenating spa day, why not indulge in some much-deserved self-care?