Your Prescription for Energy

Each of us has our own “fingerprint” when it comes to what relaxes and energizes us, says Manhattan psychologist Joseph Cilona. “It’s very personal and unique to each of us,” he says.

As a result, it can take some experimenting to figure out how to get the most from your spa visits, he says. “Think of it as a lifelong process that’s fun and interesting,” he says.

Here is his advice for spa goers on how to deepen their relaxation and leave feeling energized.

Keep an open mind. Try treatments you’ve never experienced before to see what works for you and what doesn’t, Dr. Cilona says. “Think of finding new ways to boost your energy and relax as being an infinite puzzle. Seek out new pieces and see if they fit for you.”

Plan ahead. Spend a little time trying to anticipate work and personal concerns that are likely to arise during your spa visit. Address what you can ahead of time and plan how you will deal with matters that you postpone until your return, Dr. Cilona advises. You’ll be able to relax more if you don’t arrive at the spa worried about loose ends. “Most people are willing to invest a large amount of time into the practicalities of trip planning like plane fares and location choice, but few will invest even a fraction of that time into a bit of planning to get the most out of their time away,” says Dr. Cilona.

Put yourself on an e-mail diet. “Set specific limits on things like checking emails and making phone calls (such as 30 minutes a day) and stick to them!” says Dr. Cilona. “A spa visit is a special time devoted to yourself, relaxing, recharging, pampering and enjoying being free from the stresses and demands of everyday life. Try to view the costs as investment – in yourself – and maximize your `return on investment’ as much as you can.” If you are visiting a spa with a friend or partner, help each other stick to your limits. “Sometimes, being accountable to someone else or a gentle reminder can help you stay focused on your goal of getting the most you can out of your visit,” he says.

Write it down. “A simple yet powerful tool to stay connected with the benefits of a great spa experience is keeping a daily journal of your stay,” says Dr. Cilona. “Write a few descriptive sentences about the beautiful environment, how you felt after a fantastic massage, the great people you met or anything that brought you joy, comfort and peace.”

Prolong your energy buzz. If you create a personal journal or album of your stay, don’t tuck it away. “Revisit all your entries and the images to bring yourself back to the time you spent there and the luxuries you experienced,” he says.