|
Spa at Sea for Men
By Arie Boris
 |
| Judith Jackson Spa at Radisson Seven Seas Mariner |
For some reason, the "spa" on cruise ships has always seemed a mystical turf reserved exclusively for the woman. Aside, from "hair and nails", I have often wondered what goes on in there, why it is so popular and what the attraction is? I decided I would investigate and experience some of the therapeutic spa services available while on my seven-day stint on board the Radisson Seven Seas Mariner. The secret, as I found out, is more about the ultimate in hedonistic relaxation, than it is about getting a new haircut. No wonder, the women, have been keeping spas at sea to themselves!
Fortunately, the Mariner's on board spa is an extension of the prestigious Judith Jackson Spa in Westport, Connecticut. Ms. Jackson's philosophy is very much in tandem with Radisson Sevens Seas' approach to guests, male or female. "The Seven Seas spas have been created to care for the individual client or passenger in a way that delivers the ultimate in pleasure and well-being." Sounds almost too indulgent, doesn't it?
 |
| Getting a Facial |
Ms. Jackson's book, "The Magic of Well-Being" goes into great detail on the many ways in which human beings can learn techniques to transform the way one looks, feels and copes with the tension, fatigue and depression that can come with the daily stress of life. Her approach to a better sense of well-being, includes elements involving the five senses and "intuition", which she refers to as the "sixth sense." Massage, nutrition, exercise meditation, relaxation and Aromatherapy (treatment with fragrance) all play apart. The added attraction of being at sea made my "spa experience" all the more memorable... after all, what better environment than a cruise to promote relaxation and well-being?
Underlying every procedure is a well thought out premise that serves to justify, from a medicinal perspective, the value of spending time in the spa. My motivation to explore additional treatments came from how wonderfully relaxed every one made me feel.
I started off with a classic French "rejuvenating," facial utilizing methods of natural skin care including massage, cleansing and moisturizing with essential oils, sea plant DNA, vitamins and vegetable enzymes. It lasted an hour and felt so good, I was ready for the next appointment.
Two days later, I found my self totally submersed in a huge tub, literally, up to my neck in tiny bubbles. The Aromatherapy Hydro Bath is a therapeutic pleasure as fragrances rise and the total body is treated in warm swirling waters filled with a variety of bath oils.
The tub is filled with tiny jets that line its entire length. Timed jets of air, flow out and gently massage the body from head to toe. I must admit I was taken by surprise at one point, but I will spare you the details. Suffice it to say, those jets don't miss anything!
I returned a day later for a Micro-sea body mask, which I did find to be, well... weird. I was covered with a neck-to-toe mask consisting of a seaweed purée and then tightly wrapped in a foil blanket till done. Oops, thought I was in the "Recipes of the Month" section. The foil blanket does generate heat and you can't move for twenty minutes. I am sure my skin benefited, my system cleansed, but once was enough. Now I know how it feels to be the special on a sushi menu.
My final treatment was worth everything! The Gemini Massage was fantastic. For one hour, two massage therapists working rhythmically in unison seek and eliminate every inch of tension in this fourhanded massage. Using fragrant oils and with new age meditation music playing you must "prepare to surrender" as the Judith Jackson Spa at Sea Brochure recommends.
 |
| Jacuzzi & Champagne |
Spa treatments are additional. My package of four treatments cost $375 and as with all services on board Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, tipping is not required, nor expected. The additional expense I consider to be well worth the level of quality, service and attention... and guys, it really was great. But, if you don't feel like spending the extra money, you can always hop in the Jacuzzi with a glass of champagne to relax.
Judith Jackson Spas at Sea are available exclusively on The Radisson Seven Seas Mariner, Voyager and Navigator. For more information about Judith Jackson Spas, her book and products call 1-800-548-9928.
|
|
