Sego Lily Spa

Reflexology

Posted on 04. Nov, 2010 by jodi in Blog

Reflexology

When Sego Lily called to inform me that my next treatment would be Reflexology, I nearly did a back handstand!  I was going to say a “footstand”, so it tied in with the post, but since that is my regular position it wouldn’t have been anything remarkable.  And this treatment calls for remarkable!

I’d had a taste of Reflexology on my very first treatment, the Sego Lily Sampler, that I received after I won the contest.  Ever since that, I’ve been looking forward to the full monty.   It may partially be because I am a huge fan of foot rubs, massages, and long hot soaks (or for that matter,  anything at all related to pampering my feet.)  Or possibly because I am a runner and put a lot of miles on these poor feet of mine and they just can not get enough of any type of tender loving care.  But mainly because after a little foot pampering, I feel like a new woman!  All I know is that I was anticipating this treatment possibly more than any other.

I am a sucker for a foot rub.  I have even resorted to paying my boys to rub my feet since they don’t seem to want to do it voluntarily anymore.  There was a time when they did so willingly and happily, but that was before my oldest son’s friend told him he could become a rich entrepreneur if he started to charge me for simply rubbing my feet.  Yes, charging his own mother.  The woman who suffered through nine months of morning sickness and hours and hours of intense and very painful labor in order to bring him into the world.  Yes, his own mother, who risked her very life so he could become an entrepreneur at her expense.  And of course, the tradition flowed down to the other four boys.  My youngest has now found it a great way to barter with me and make deals while basically getting anything he wants if he is willing to give my poor footsies a rub down.

Whatever it takes.

I love foot rubs that much.

I was even more excited when I heard I got to have the full blown 60 minute treatment that also includes the hands as well.  Hand massages were foreign to me until my first treatment with Sego Lily.  But now I’ve discovered they are one of the best kept secrets in the massage world.  They are almost as wonderful as the feet, not quite, but almost. The longer treatment also includes an application of mineral rich heated (yes heated!) seaweed that stimulates the reflex zones and draws toxins out of the body through the feet.

I must make it clear that Reflexology is not just a massage for the hands and feet.  At least not a massage in the typical sense of the word.  It is an ancient Asian art that was practiced 5000 years ago and it is done by applying pressure to stimulate reflex points in the feet that correspond to specific energy zones and organs of the body, in order to restore health and harmony.

I was thrilled that my therapist was Jeff once again.  His hands can sure work wonders on the feet!  He also did a great job in explaining the underlying theory behind Reflexology is there are “reflex” areas on the feet and hands that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body. Reflexologists call these ”maps” and use them to determine which body systems correspond with one another. For example, the tips of the toes reflect the head;  the heart and chest are around the ball of the foot;  the liver, pancreas and kidney are in the arch of the foot; and the lower back and intestines are towards the heel.

Reflexology has a number of benefits.  At its most basic level, it is an amazingly relaxing experience that doubles as a great stress-reliever.  It’s pretty hard to feel any stress while someone is rubbing your feet.  Trust me on that.  Many claim that if the specific reflex points are targeted correctly, the benefits can be remarkable, including relief from migraines, circulatory and digestive issues, sinus problems and more.  I would be more than a willing participant to volunteer for any studies in this field!   In general, the theory is that any organ of the body with a correlating reflex point can be improved through regular reflexology treatments.

A more scientific explanation (as if it could get any more scientific!) is that the pressure created may send signals that balance the nervous system or release chemicals such as endorphins that reduce pain and stress.

Whatever is going on, I don’t care.   All I know is that it feels wonderful!  It puts me in my zone.  Takes me to my happy place.  Makes me feel like the world has vanished for the time being.  The only thing that could even compare to it, would be to be locked up in a chocolate factory overnight.  In fact, this w0uld even beat that, because if you were in a chocolate factory you still have to use your feet to go find the chocolate.  And if you were using your feet, then they wouldn’t be getting massaged.

This treatment is definitely undefeeted in my book.  I highly recommend it.  It’s heads and shoulders, (I’d even go as far to say feet and calves) above the rest!

Thanks Sego Lily for rubbing me the right way once again!

BEFORE

OKAY, SO MAYBE IT WAS MORE LIKE THIS...

DURING... Ah...

AFTER~~~ Good luck getting me out of here!

♥Jodi♥

Sego Lily Essentials Pedicure

Posted on 01. Sep, 2010 by jodi in Blog

The Sego Lily Essentials Pedicure description on the menu reads:

Your nails are expertly shaped, cuticles tended, and hands or feet exfoliated and lovingly massaged, then polished to perfection. For those who receive regular pedicures and are in need of a pick-me-up.

You had me at “pick-me-up” Sego Lily. After a long winter of wearing socks and boots and sneakers and heavy shoes, I was in desperate need of a pick-me-up!  My toes were begging for some air and flip flops and a pedicure was mandatory and essential before that could happen!

I love Sego Lily’s pedicures!  They are the best I’ve ever had.  There is nothing quite like being made to feel like a pampered princess while someone else beautifies your feetsies and toesies!

How often do you get to just sit back and relax in an over-sized comfy chair with your feet soaking in lemony hot sudsy water while you listen to spa music and catch up on People magazine?  Not often enough in my world!

My cute esthetician was Janell, whom I love.  I’ve had her before and she is so fun to hang out with while I sit back , relax, and munch on the most delicious frozen red grapes and lemon poppy seed scones.

Janell gave me a sample of color swatches to choose which color I wanted.  They have every color under the sun (including that color!)  I narrowed it down to a metallic shimmery light pink or a deep red.  I decided to be adventurous and go with the serious red nail polish this time.  I almost always go with a boring French manicure or something purple.

It took some deep thought, but once I decided I went for it!  Red is power and my toes needed to feel powerful after such a long winter.

I could tell my toes were happy and were on board for some serious adventure.

I told Janell how the last time I had a pedicure, I somehow smeared my polish on two of my toes as I was leaving.  Luckily I discovered it before I left and they had me go back to the pedicure room and have my esthetician fix them.  Yes, I was embarrassed.  I told her that this time I took every precaution so that wouldn’t happen again, including not wearing the robe so I wouldn’t have to put my Levi’s back on with wet toes.

I was extra careful in the dressing room and kept my bag away from my toes since I think my bag brushed up against them last time causing the smears.  We joked about how funny it would be if she got a message that I was waiting back in the pedicure room because I smeared them again.

Well, the joke became reality.  Just as I was leaving, I looked down at my toes to take this picture and sure enough…I had smeared my big toe!

Really?    Really.

They called Janell from the front desk but she was in another room.  They had me go back and wait for her in the pedicure room.  As she came in, we both just burst out laughing.

She was more than a good sport about fixing it.  We were just glad it was only one toe.  I promised and offered her my first born if I did  it again before I got home.

This pedicure is accurately named.  It was ESSENTIAL for me!

Thanks Sego Lily once again from the bottom of my sole(s)!

♥Jodi♥

Ionithermie Algae Detox

Posted on 01. Sep, 2010 by jodi in Blog

Ionithermie Algae Detox

When Sego Lily called and told me I was scheduled for the Ionithermie Algae Detox treatment, I had absolutely NO idea what that even translated into or what I had in store.   I quickly did some research and learned that it is one of the newest and most popular spa treatments now offered at spa’s throughout the United States.   It claims to reduce the appearance of cellulite by giving skin a smooth, healthy appearance.   It’s main boast is that it removes toxins while improving your skin condition and firming up your muscle tone, as well as helping you lose inches.  Thus, the explanation for it’s popularity.  The claim is that it can do all this in just a little over an hour.  Shocking, I know.  Literally.  But more on that later.  It was invented over a century ago by a French biochemist and is being used all over Europe and the United States.

Entering the beautiful Midvale Sego Lily Spa

Sego Lilycurrently offers this treatment only at the Midvale location.  No problem for me since I always enjoy going to the Midvale Sego Lily not only because  it is beautiful inside and out, but I always love indulging myself for a bit in the steam room.  There is nothing like relaxing in a hot steamy mist that just pierces through your body and soul to release your tensions and stress.  Ah…  Make that a double ah.  Ah… ah…

Once I arrived, I got changed into one of their purple robes (which I love!) and waited in the absolutely beautiful and relaxing meditation room for my therapist Katie. Katie is one of only two Sego Lilytherapists that is specifically trained to do the Ionithermie treatment. She took me back to the room and began asking me some questions while answering the many that I had for her.  She then gave me a very thorough explanation of what the treatment would entail and showed me everything that she would be doing.

Katie also warned me that this treatment isn’t your typical relaxing spa “take me away” kind of procedure and to not expect feeling too relaxed during it.   So, if you are going into this treatment with the mindset that you are in for a wonderful relaxing experience to calm your nerves, then you need to re-think things before signing up.  This was not a relaxing treatment by any means.  In fact, it was “shockingly” uncomfortable at times.

The detox begins by first deciding which part of the body will be treated.  In my case, I requested  the outer thighs and caboose area.   Next Katie exfoiliated my body with a brush that was a little too coarse for my liking, but I just kept reminding myself that there is a cost for beauty, right?  She also used a vile of a very expensive golden formula, that I decided to call Liquid Gold.    Then a cleansing mixture that consists of seaweed, amino acids, and algae that claims to induce a chemical reaction that decomposes cellulite while releasing the toxins in the fat is applied.  It also claims to stimulate the blood circulation in order to help remove toxins as well.

Once that had been applied, Katie then wrapped the selected areas with cheese cloth and then applied an algae-infused clay over the top.  It would have been much more enjoyable if the clay had been heated.  I do not like anything cold touching my skin! Several electrodes are then placed on the clay, which serves as a conductor for the electricity. 

Katie did a great job explaining the science of it all and how one color was the galvanic current and the other was the faradic current.  She is specially trained in all this and I may have just totally shredded what she said, but suffice it to say, she knew her electrodes!  The galvanic stimulation uses positive and negative ions to remove toxins buried deep in the body while the faradic stimulation exercises the muscles to improve tone and appearance.

She warned me that the electrodes would be producing an electrical  stimulation to my system and that it might  be a little uncomfortable.  She was right.  Every four seconds or so, I would get a real shock that wasn’t really what I would call enjoyable.  I wouldn’t say it was pain per se, but not something very pleasant either.

Katie was able to control the intensity of the stimulation and so we experimented a bit to see what level I was okay with.  I had her crank it up a bit, but immediately had her turn it back down.  A little too shocking for my liking!  It would send a shock through me for about two or three seconds and then give me a break for about four seconds or so before it buzzed me again.  This part usually lasts about 30 minutes, but after about 15 minutes I was ready to be done.

The final step is to remove the clay and materials and apply a soothing lotion all over the body.  Then, if you are intersted, the therapist will usually check to see if you lost any inches.   I didn’t have her do measurements before, so it made no sense to do them after.   I wouldn’t be surprised if I lost a few inches though because my muscles were still tensing up very tightly after all that electrical stimulation!

This is definitely not your typical spa treatment.  I did not leave the room feeling relaxed like I usually do after a spa visit.  Luckily, I had the steam room waiting for me which always puts me in a very relaxed state.  That was the best part of the whole thing.  Heat!  Steam!  Warmth!

This is also a rather costly treatment at $140 per session.  Since results are likely to be better after a series of continual Ionithermie sessions, rather than just one, the overall cost may be quite high, depending on how many treatments you need.  As for me, I think I will stick to a wonderful pampering massage that leaves me feeling relaxed and rejuvenated afterwards.  But since this is a popular treatment, the cost to some is worth it for the confidence and self-esteem boost it may provide.   Losing a few inches after only one treatment is not unheard of.  But according to the research I did, the effects are short term.  It’s not uncommon for the inches to come back, but as far as the other changes, such as increased muscle tone, better skin and balanced hormones, many claim those are long lasting.  I personally had no side effects, though some people do experience skin irritation or redness. 

I left feeling "shockingly" relaxed and ready for a great day. I am sure the steam room had something to do with that!

I do have to add that when I arrived at the spa I had an intense headache, but by the time I opened that door to leave, it had completely vanished.  That was an added bonus. It must have shocked it right out of me!

Thanks Sego Lily for a very stimulating visit!

Aromatherapy

Posted on 23. Aug, 2010 by jodi in Blog

Aromatherapy.

Even the word smells nice.

One of the greatest blessings of life to me has always been the wonderful aromas that surround us each day.  I have always been a fan of yummy scents of all kinds.  Maybe my olfactory receptors are just a wee bit more sensitive than others because I can become easily addicted to certain smells.  I used to love to sniff magic markers and model glue when I was a little girl.  That explains a lot I know.  And to this day, I love to take a big whiff of gasoline as it’s going in the car.  Okay, okay, so I know those aren’t exactly the most healthy things to inhale (though I can think of plenty worse!) and luckily I have learned to control the urge…usually anyway.  But anything from cotton candy, to fresh bread right out of the oven,  from a bon fire while camping, to fresh cut grass, can get me all giddy and happy.  Spring has always been my favorite season for one reason…the wonderful aromas in the air.  There is nothing quite as healing after a long hard winter than the scent of lilacs breezing through the air.

There is definitely a power in certain scents.  The science of aromatherapy has become a very useful practice in helping to heal and restore so many aspects of our physical and emotional well being.  It’s amazing how just inhaling a certain aroma can do so much to change how we are currently feeling.  There are scents that produce a deep calming effect and those that totally energize.  I imagine the power of aromatherapy is vastly under used in our world today.

When I call it a science, I mean a science.  I was amazed at the in-depth studies and vast information there is regarding each essential oil and what it has the ability to do.  It’s nice to realize that each essential oil is completely derived from nature.  There are no artificial oils.

When I arrived for my Aromatherapy massage, my therapist Sarah gave me a choice between four essential oils that I had to choose from.  I honestly could not decide because each one had such a great effect on me as I sampled each scent.

I tried to decide not only on how much I loved the particular aroma and it’s immediate effect on me, but also on what it’s therapeutic properties were, which Sarah explained in detail.

I finally narrowed it down to two and thankfully Sarah said she could implement both of them during the treatment.  That was a relief because I would still be there today sniffing one then the other, trying to decide which I liked best.

The massage was beyond wonderful, but the added bonus of the great aromas permeating the room throughout the treatment was very relaxing and healing.  I felt like I was able to relax even more than usual which is always a bonus during a massage.

After I got dressed, I decided to try out some of the other essentail oils that Sego Lily sells.  They were seriously ALL amazing!  I had a very hard time deciding on only one.

Sarah informed me that the oils are great to use in baths, as a diffuser, or to add a drop on your pillow at night before bed, or to mix with water in a spray bottle and use it as a mist in your rooms.

Eenie Meenie Miney Mo...

Thanks Sego Lily once again for an amazing and healing experience!  It was beyond scent-sational!

♥Jodi♥

Detoxifying Foot Bath

Posted on 18. Aug, 2010 by jodi in Blog

I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect on this particular treatment.  It was a very simple and quick (30 minute) procedure.  My wonderful therapist Mary, led me to the pedicure room and had me place my feet in a foot soak that she had already prepared. 

Inside the foot spa is water, a saline solution, and an electro magnetic device called an array.

The plan was to soak my feet for a specified amount of time while it does its detoxing and then see what color the water changes.

The shade of color the water turns to, is supposed to be an indicator of what specific part of my body is in most need of detoxing. There was a whole list of organs and body parts, from the gall bladder, to the joints, to the liver, each having  a different color to indicate which one was being detoxed the most.

Now for the more “scientific” explanation.  Put on your Einstien hats with me for a minute.

Basically the Aqua Detox system produces a charge which stimulates the cells within the body.  The positve and negative charges in the water allow the body to attract and use negative ions to rebalance and release toxins.  The most convenient and effective way to release those toxins is through the 4000 pores on the feet.  Following a treatment the body will continue to detoxify for up to 48 hours.  Research has shown that those who receive this treatment have had increased: vitality, circulation, energy levels, sense of well being, and nutrient absorption.

Did you get that?  Good.

I was ready to put it to the test.  However, I was a little worried what the water was going to look like when I was done, but also eager to learn how “toxic” I was.  I hadn’t had my chocolate for the day yet, and so it could be ugly!  Unless of course, chocolate is considered an impurity and then the water could be ugly.

The water was very warm and relaxing.  It was nice to just sit and do nothing. I was in detox heaven.

Mary brought me some magazines and some delicious treats to munch on while I waited for the aqua detox to do it’s thing.  It didn’t appear to be ”doing it’s thing” very quickly though as the water really didn’t change color.  It got a little bit of a yellow hue to it, but not much.

Mary said she had never seen anyone’s water stay that light in color.  I asked her what that meant and she explained that it meant that I didn’t have a lot of impurities in my system.  Hallelujah!  I was hoping that’s what she was going to say.  I was afraid it was going to be pure black like some of the pictures I had seen.  Or…maybe ”chocolate” brown?   :)

She added some more saline solution and we waited again.  It got a shade darker, but still didn’t change much.  Guess that is good news for me!

Does this mean I’m pure?  Well, of course!  At least that’s what I am going with whether it is true or not.  I know I felt much better with clear-ish water than if it had come out dark and black.

I do have to add that there seems to be some controversary over this treatment on the internet.  Some people swear by it and others swear at it, or at least at the promoters of it.  I personally prefer to stay controversial free, so I’ll let YOU be the judge.  Easy way out I know, but hey, I get to write what I want.

Whatever the case, I have to say I throughly enjoyed those 30 minutes of that hot and luxurious foot soak while relaxing  in a big comfy chair, munching on yummies, and catching up on People Magazine.

Thanks Sego Lily for another detox!

♥Jodi♥

Mini Refresher Facial

Posted on 18. Aug, 2010 by jodi in Blog

I am always up for a facial!  This particular one is unique in the fact that is only 30 minutes long, but you feel like you experienced a full 60 minutes or more. 

I was looking forward to this not only for the facial, but for my esthetician Haley. I had met Haley the first time when all the blog contest finalists were on TV to promote the contest and then again on the day they gave me the surprise party to announce I had won.  I thought she was just darling and told her I hoped I would be able to have her as one of my estheticians at one of my treatments.  I finally did!

She’s as knowledgeable as she is cute and I learned a lot about the products Sego Lily uses for their facials and why.

The Mini Refresher is a shortened version of a regular facial consisting basically of a cleanse, exfoliation,  mask, and a moisturizer.   The products used are determined specifically according to what your skin is best suited for.  Just so you know, extractions are not included with this particular mini treatment.

Since my first facial, I have really developed a love for the facial steamer and could just sit there the whole time with that wonderful hot steam on my face and leave it at that while I take a nap.  But I doubt that alone would do much good for my skin. :)  It is somehow just so relaxing!  I would love falling to sleep each night with the hot steam misting over my face. When they turn it off, I feel like I have been thrown into the cold, cruel world and want it back on.

Haley used a raspberry/peach combo scented mask on my face and it smelled luscious!  The only problem is it made me hungry and my stomach started to growl!   It smelled that good!  She also used several Rhonda Allison products.  I have been completely sold on that line and the Essence line due to results of other facials and suggestions from other estheticians.  Those products are amazing.

Haley told me about Rhonda Allison’s Growth Factor product that would be helpful for my skin.  She used it on me as part of my treatment and I could tell it really is a great product.  I have been using it since this facial and have loved it.

Even though this mini facial was pretty quick, I felt that I got the full benefits of a longer version.  I can see how this would be just perfect for someone who hasn’t got a lot of time but still wants to get a quality treatment.

It may be called a Mini Refresher, but I left feeling hugely refreshed!

Thanks Sego Lily once again for refreshing me even in a mini kind of way.  I have never once left your spa feeling anything less than refreshed!

Doing my Vanna White impression showing the wonderful display of Rhonda Allison products

♥Jodi♥

Honey Body Polish

Posted on 07. Jul, 2010 by jodi in Blog

When I learned the Honey Body Polish treatment was in the vichy shower room, I couldn’t wait!  I had already experienced the Ultimate Body Cure in that room, and so far that has been my all time favorite treatment.  I LOVE the vichy shower.  It is one of those things that you really have to experience to appreciate.

After I arrived at the Layton Sego Lily Spa location, I got dressed in my spa robe and then went and sat in the beautiful meditation room.  I was feeling just like a little kid on Christmas morning, waiting to see what Santa had left!  Shortly after, my therapist Mary, came and escorted me to the room.  I was so excited to experience a treatment in this room again.  Oh yeah, I already mentioned that didn’t I?  

Once inside, Mary explained the procedure and I became even more excited.  After I got positioned on the massage table under my towel, she came back in and began with an exfoliation using a blend of sugar, honey, and scented oils.  It smelled wonderful.  The steam was already going and the room was very pleasantly warm. The true epitomy of relaxation in my world includes warmth of some kind!   The sound of the steam helped me feel completely able to let go of all the cares and worries I brought in with me.

Once Mary, (who was wonderful!) completed the exfoliation, she turned on the vichy shower with it’s many heads.  I love that sound even more.  There is something about the sound of steam and water coming  from a shower that takes me to my happy place.  I felt like I was in a warm tropical rain forest.  I was able to just zone out and enjoy each and every moment of this pure pleasure.  I knew that this time I was only getting 30 minutes of bliss compared to the Ultimate Body Cure which is a 90 minute treatment.  So I truly savored every moment.

I have to say one of my favorite things in life is a rainstorm.  The ultimate rainstorm is a warm rainstorm.  This treatment was the ultimate!  I felt that comfy cozy feeling I get when it starts to rain and then just pour.  In my mind I was caught in a very warm and blissful rainstorm, only with the added bonus of a little massage too.  Does it get any better than that?

Not in my world!

I was very amazed afterward how soft my skin was.   I don’t remember my skin feeling that soft and smooth in a long while.  And even though I really hated to see it end, and I was wishing I could stay for another hour or more, I am grateful Sego Lily offers this 30 minute shortened version for those days when that is all the time you might have.

The best part afterwards was not just the extremely soft skin, but taking that feeling of warmth with me into a very cold world and having it linger with me all day.

If you are in need of a little piece (or peace!) of paradise but can’t afford to travel that far, then try out this treatment.  It’s truly like escaping to a tropical paradise for a mini vacation. Loved it!

♥Jodi♥

Native American Body Balancer

Posted on 02. Apr, 2010 by jodi in Blog

The name of this treatment was very intriguing to me.  Native American Body Balance. I know that  massages are definitely good for the body, but as far as restoring balance, I’ve always associated that with the mind.  It seems our minds tend to get out of balance very easily these days. There is always so much going into them that we need to either process or spew.  Therefore, massages really balance my mind every bit as much (if not more so) than my body.  I think it’s because I am almost forced to relax for a time and shut out the rest of the world.  Of course, mind, body, and spirit all go together and it’s hard to have one out of balance without it affecting the other two.

It appears the Native Americans have always understood this. I have always admired their ancient art of healing, and my curiosity got me wondering how important massage was to their culture.  So, I did a little research on their beliefs in healing and restoring balance, wondering if massage really was a part of it.  To my delight, I learned that it played a very prominate role in their practices.

Their traditional healing art uses a variety of techniques, including laying-on hands (massage).  According to Native American medicine,  health means restoring the body, mind, and spirit to balance and wholeness.  Massage and healing touch are still practiced by Native healers throughout North and South America. The use of their hands plays a big part in the healing power.  Cherokees warm their hands over coals and circle their palms on an affected area.  Sometimes the muscles are rubbed in a manner similar to Western massage, and to increase the healing effect the medicine person massages specific therapeutic points. (Ken “Bear Hawk” Cohen, MA. “Native American Medicine).

Sounds like a day at the spa to me!

They were (and still are) very wise.  And we have finally realized the importance of it as well.

Some people may feel that “pampering” oneself is selfish and it tends to creates guilt in them when the time and money is taken to do it.   But the ancients define pampering (balancing one’s mind, body, and spirit)  as a demonstration of self-love and self-service, not as a selfish, self-serving act.  We always contribute to society and others much more fully when WE are feeling balanced and healed first.

I must say I had really been looking forward to this treatment.  Mainly because whenever anyone from the spa asks me what treatments I have had so far, after my reply, they always respond with, “Have you had the Native American Body Balancer yet?”.  When I answer in the negative they usually follow up with, “Oh, you’re going to love that one!”

I finally understand why.  The primary purpose of this treatment is to exfoliate and soften the skin while leaving a smooth, more supple appearance (who doesn’t want that?).  Aromatherapy is also used to help to calm and reduce stress.  The best part of it though has to be the the steam shower that helps to cleanse and detoxify impurities.

I had this treatment done at the Midvale Sego Lily Spa with Aaron as my therapist.  The first part of the treatment is a body exfoliation using a Desert Mineral Salt that is gathered from Utah’s high-desert region.  Probably the same stuff the Native Americans used!  These fossilized (guess that means they are really old!) salts are rich in complex minerals that draw from deep within the skin’s layers to eliminate toxins and remove internal (stress and poor diet) and external (pollution) pollutants.  The salt, combined with herbs, organic botanical extracts, and a pure essential oil blend makes for a wonderful therapuetic effect. The salt is very coarse, nothing like table salt.

My only advice would be, if you have sensitive skin at all, do NOT shave your legs right before this treatment.  Can we say sting?!  My legs are hyper sensitive after shaving anyway, but I’ve never exactly tried a salt mixture on them after a shave.  Oh mama!  Kind of like swimming in the ocean right after shaving.  Take my advice…shave after!

The best part of the whole thing was the steam shower….well, next to Aaron’s amazing deep massage, and the heated neck wrap, and the wonderful scented lotion, and the heated table, and the…  Okay, so it was ALL wonderful!  But the steamer in the shower was delicious!  There’s nothing quite like hot steam pouring out, totally encompassing your body in humidity and warmth.  It instantly relaxes every muscle and cell in your body.  I would really like one of those in my own home.  I can only imagine what that would be like to come home to every morning after a freezing cold run.  Think how fast of a runner I would become just because I knew what was waiting for me.  Sounds like a great training plan to me.

I also must add that I didn’t flood the room this time with my shower retardedness. I am finally getting the hang of those shower nozzles!

After about 10 minutes of the steam (not near long enough!) and rinsing off the salt, I retreated back to the table.  Once Aaron returned, I received one of the best massages I have ever had.  I totally and completely relaxed.  So much so, that I don’t have a lot of details to add about that part because I was pretty much zoned out.  I did love the Shea butter he used that had a very yummy scent.  All of the products Sego Lily uses are top of the line.  That is obvious in the end result.   My skin felt the smoothest it has ever felt, with the exception of maybe when I was a newborn.  Guess we would have to ask my mother to be sure on that one.  I am sure it would be a toss up though.

Feeling very "balanced" afterwards.

Loved this treatment!  It’s amazing how smooth your skin can feel (and for such a long period of time) after being completely exfoliated.  And I finally figured out the “body balance” part!  Normally only our faces, hands, and maybe our arms are exfoliated, leaving the rest of our body deprived.  With this treatment however, legs, elbows, ankles, stomach, back, neck, and even toes get in on the fun.  Thus balancing it all out.  After this, I was so balanced I could have walked a tight rope backwards while blindfolded.

Thanks once again Sego Lily for balancing not only my mind and spirit, but also my body.  That’s a balancing act if there ever was one.

♥Jodi♥

*Harvest Facial*

Posted on 25. Mar, 2010 by jodi in Blog

Sego Lily Harvest Facial. Sounds yummy!

Well it was, though not for my tummy, but for my face.  It was fed and nourished and hydrated and served a buffet of wonderful fruits, vegetables, and herbs!  Mmm…

It did smell good enough to eat though!

This facial is a deep cleansing session enriched with a custom blend of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs to nourish the skin.  A wonderful and relaxing face, scalp, and arm or foot massage makes it complete.

My darling Esthetician was Alicia.

She was very good to inform me about each step and product used along the way.  As the “blogger”, I tend to ask a lot of questions so I will be able to write about it later.  Since taking notes is not exactly conducive to what I am doing while at the spa, sometimes I forget and ask the same question more than once.   The Sego Lily therapists and estheticians are always so patient and sweet about it.  Alicia was no exception.

I truly appreciated the personal care she gave me and how individualized the products were she chose to use on my skin.  I always leave Sego Lily feeling much more educated about what my own personal needs are and what products are best for my age and skin type.

As a typical facial goes, my face was given a deep cleansing with amazing products and then exfoliated using a berry mask. This was the first facial I was able to experience what an extraction feels like.  Not bad at all.  A little pinch, but since I only needed one or two, it was no big deal. 

I really loved the feeling of the steamer as it penetrates deep into my skin to open up my pores.  And the moisturizing products Alicia used (mostly Rhonda Allison with some Eminence) were so hydrating that my face felt like it was getting a big drink of water after being in the desert for a week.  I think it slurped them up instantly!

I’ve said it before, but the hot wash cloths placed on my face during the treatments are one of my favorite parts of a facial.  The ones placed on my feet are even better!  Oh, what a sensation.  I love the heat that penetrates deeply through the cloth, feeling like it goes directly into my soul!  That, coupled with a face and scalp massage, along with a foot (or arm) rub is the ultimate in bliss.  My only complaint is that they don’t last longer.  Maybe they need to offer a three or four hour facial? Okay, totally unrealistic, but I would sign up!

I absolutely LOVE the Rhonda Allison products that Sego Lily sells and they have now become part of my daily skin care regimen.  I believe they are the best products I have used on my skin, and I have run the gamet when it comes to trying new products.   Alicia informed me what products would work best for my particular needs, which becomes such a time and money saver because I don’t have to guess what I think will be best for my skin.  Which, of course, saves a lot of waste and money since I get the right product everytime.  That is one of the best things about having a facial with a master esthetician.

Facials have a way of making you feel about 10 years younger as you step out the door.  It doesn’t matter if you necessarily look 10 years younger (though they definitely make you look better than before!), it just matters that you feel younger.  Feeling younger puts a little skip in your step and makes your whole world seem better.

The best part of all is knowing that you are doing something very good for your skin and that it will hopefully thank you with results.  That is, of course, if you continue to pamper your face at home as well.

As far as facials go, this is one of the best.  I absolutely loved everything about it (even the extractions!)

♥Jodi♥

Couples ♥Valentine’s♥ Package

Posted on 02. Feb, 2010 by jodi in Blog

This is the treatment I have been looking forward to the most since I found out I won the Sego Lily Blogger Contest! The day they told me I had won, I was able to take a tour of the Sego Lily Layton Spa. The room I couldn’t wait to try out was the COUPLE’S ROOM. Inside are two massage tables placed side by side, along with an enormously deep jacuzzi tub, and a comfy LOVE seat! The whole room just screams romance. I was also informed on that day, that my husband and I would get to experience that room around Valentine’s Day for the couple’s massage treatment. I’m pretty sure a little scream of my own slipped out upon receiving that news.

Was I excited?

Do the stars come out at night? Are massage therapist’s relatives the luckiest people alive? Is the true meaning of life spelled C-H-O-C-O-L-A-T-E? I believe all of these questions are to be answered in the affirmative. So, YES… I was excited! It was six (long) months ago I learned that my husband and I were to be the lucky recipients of this great and romantic adventure and the anticipation has been building ever since..

The day finally arrived! It was a raging blizzard outside when we left our home. But that didn’t stop us from traveling over the river and through the stormy woods. The only thing that possibly could have stopped us from our long awaited pampering for two, was a vehicle without four wheel drive. But, since all of our vehicles are 4×4, we were in business! I’m not sure when I have appreciated four wheel drive more!

We got on our plush robes and waited in the beautiful waiting area until our therapists, Amanda and Cassi came and escorted us to the couple’s room.

Once inside we were able to choose what scent of oil we desired for the Swedish massage. This was a first time visit for Dave to a spa. He has never had a real professional massage to speak of either. That was about to change! Bring on Amanda! We were very happy to be able to introduce him to the wonderful world of massage therapy. He was actually happier than we were about this. Of course, if he wasn’t, I would be a little worried about him. I mean after-all, WHO in their right mind wouldn’t love a Swedish massage complete with aromatic oils, soothing music playing in the background, a dimly lit room, and your sweetheart enjoying it along with you right by your side? Once again it appears I enjoyed my massage a little too much…

Cassi and Amanda waiting very happily outside the door after our massage to hand us our glass of lemon water. I think Cassi enjoyed it as much as we did! What great professionals they both are.

BUT WAIT! The fun and romance is not over yet. If you read the title, then you noticed it said ♥ Couple’s Valentine Package ♥. Yes, there’s more! The package deal is not only a couple’s Swedish massage, but a couple’s pedicure as well.

Okay so the word “pedicure” did not give Dave warm fuzzies all over. He wasn’t real thrilled about the idea of himself having a pedicure. Even though I explained how wonderful they were and how much his feetsies and toesies would thank him afterward (he wasn’t real fond of the words feetsies and toesies either), he still was not sold. Come to find out, many men are not fond of the word pedicure. The juries still out on the words feetsies and toesies. After much persuasion, (and informing him treats were involved), he consented to do the pedicure as a couple instead of him just watching me be the pampered goddess alone.

I’m almost positive just relaxing and kicking back in the very comfortable chairs would have been enough for him. But in came Gisselle and Jessica to add some spice to the mix.

When I say “spice”, I literally mean “spice”. The water was loaded with some wonderful cranberries and spicy orange slices and we were served the most amazing and delicious warm apple sections spiced with cinnamon and sugar, along with a trail mix including CHOCOLATE! Oh, and let me not forget the hot cocoa! It was supreme!

Sego Lily certainly knows how to add a little spice while warming you up!

Contrary to what you make think, that is NOT a boa constrictor around Dave’s neck. Even though Sego Lily knows how to spice things up, I’m pretty sure they wouldn’t go that far. It’s actually a neck warmer. Just another one of their many little perks that makes the experience here so heavenly and perfect.

I think even Dave finally warmed up to this. What a guy!

My esthetician, Gissele, was very entertaining to talk to. Dave and her both speak Spanish and so they were having a lot fun talking even though Jessica and I had no idea what they were saying. That’s okay Jessica and I had our own fun trying to translate a word here and there.

I was the only one that got to choose my favorite shade for my nails. Dave decided to pass on a color.☺ For those of you that know me, it’s a total no brainer that I went with a deep rich purple shade. Of course, Gisselle had to apply it twice because in keeping with my track record, I smudged a couple of my toes before I left the building. She couldn’t have been kinder or more understanding about it.

This was the most elaborate and pamper-ish (is that a word?) pedicure I have ever had (and I can guarantee it was the same for Dave – since he’s never had one before!) Sego Lily goes all out to make sure this is an experience of feeling ultimately pampered and Queenly – or of course, Kingly in Dave’s case.

This ♥Valentine’s Couple Package♥ was all and even more than I hoped for. What a great way to spend some time together with your sweetheart!

If you are a man reading this, then by all means hurry and call Sego Lily and get this scheduled for you and your honey NOW. You will score BIG! Trust me on this one. And if you are a woman, then you can either hint around by forwarding this post to your man OR you can call Sego Lily yourself and schedule it for you both. After the experience you will probably receive lots of chocolate from your man thanking you for “making” him be pampered. They all love it, they just don’t want to admit it!

Once again, THANK YOU Sego Lily for a wonderful Valentine’s Day treat! We ♥LOVED♥ it!

♥Jodi♥