How does a monthly massage sound? Great, right?! I partnered with Hand & Stone this spring to experience their monthly lifestyle program. It’s been a huge benefit to my mental health, and my appointment day quickly became my favorite day of each month. For $59.95 a month you receive a one hour massage or signature facial. Members of the lifestyle program receive a low member rate on additional services throughout the month, including gift card purchases for friends and family (restrictions apply.) Members are also enrolled in Hand & Stone’s Member’s Rewards program where you earn points you can redeem for free services.
Over the past few months I received a one hour massage, facial and chemical peel. I’m a sucker for massages, so for my first treatment I went with the one hour massage and it was heavenly. My massage therapist was so knowledgeable and asked me questions before my service, then checked in after she started to make sure my massage was exactly what I wanted. The next month I did a rejuvenating facial. It was one of the most relaxing facials I’ve ever gotten. I wasn’t sure if I would love it as much as my massage, just because I seriously LOVE massages so much, but the facial was the best of both worlds. It was both relaxing, like getting a massage for my face, and my skin was glowing afterwards! For my most recent treatment I did a lactic acid peel, which is an upgrade from the signature facial included in the membership. I had been breaking out and wanted to do something a bit stronger. It’s a moderately aggressive treatment that’s good for removing sun spots and skin discoloration. My face was red afterwards, but didn’t actually peel, so it’s a good peel if you don’t want a lot of downtime. I noticed a difference in my skin a few days later. I’ve done peels at other medspas before and they can often be no-frills (no face massage etc). I loved this treatment at Hand & Stone because it achieved the same results, but was also relaxing and a full hour treatment of massaging your face and applying serums and lotions after the peel.
I’m someone who’s guilty of not taking time for myself. Working fulltime and running this blog on the side leaves me with little downtime, so I tend to not prioritize self care. I’ve loved having the lifestyle program as a built-in way to guarantee I have at least one hour a month to myself. It brightens my entire week and makes getting through a long workday so much easier! I’ve shared a few more ways to take time for yourself below:
Five Ways to Take Time for Yourself Lexington Massage
- Obviously number one has to be getting a monthly massage or facial via Hand & Stone’s Lifestyle Program!
- Take short activity breaks throughout the day. My coworkers and I have recently started doing one minute exercises three times throughout the workday. We’ll do 10 squats then 10 pushups, or a 30 second bicycle followed by a 30 second plank. It’s a great way to break up the work day and sneak in a little time for yourself without having to take a drastic amount of time away from work. I feel re-energized going back to the computer after a little movement! And the experts say short breaks throughout the day actually help you be more productive.
- Listen to a favorite podcast, book or music while completing necessary household chores. I really hate folding laundry. It’s maybe my least favorite household task.. But folding laundry while listening to Heather McMahan’s podcast? It’s an absolute treat!
- Wake up 30 minutes early. This may sound counterintuitive, because I know sleep is sacred, but I find it’s the best time to really have time to myself with no interruptions. If you get yourself in the routine, I swear you’ll love it! I use the time for a devotional and prayer, but you could also meditate, journal, read a book etc.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help or communicate your needs. That might mean delegating when you have too much on your plate, saying no to plans or having frank conversations with friends and family. I’m what you call an “extroverted introvert”. I love to overcommit myself with fun plans that I actually really enjoy, then end up feeling overstimulated. I often feel guilty saying no to plans, but have learned that I need time to refuel alone every now and then. Have honest conversations with your partner/friends/family about needing time to yourself. Maybe that means you and your partner each have one night alone a week. Or if you have kids you each have one night off. Or maybe you are full extrovert and need to make sure you take the time to see the people that fuel you! Just be aware of yourself and your needs and don’t be ashamed to advocate for them.
If you’re interested in Hand & Stone’s monthly lifestyle program, you can learn more here. Hand & Stone also offers gift cards that would make a great Father’s Day present! You know I love experience gifts and a massage is one that everyone loves. Feel free to leave any questions in the comments below!
Biscuits & blessings,
Leels
