Last week, Joscelyn, asked our Central Florida Latinas Bloggers Group if one of us could represent her and Mami of Multiples at a media event. I jumped at the chance…and yes, I did it because Joscelyn is awesome and I’d do anything for her but I will admit to you that I also did it because the media event was taking place at a spa.
I cannot remember the last time I took a day for myself. Usually my days off consist of someone watching the frog princess while I fight with myself over what I should be doing during that time other than decompressing. Oh and let’s not forget the guilt that one feels when you do decide to sit for like 5 minutes with a to-do list that’s a mile long.
Well, last week I was “working”. Let me tell you, it wasn’t easy. Showing up at the Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa and then being escorted to the 6th floor where the Reflections Spa-Salon awaited. I was alert and ready for note taking. Here was my first impression: woosaah!
From the minute I got off of that elevator, it was like someone flipped a switch. I still had a lot on my mind and I was still on the job making sure I remembered this and noted that but the calm that I felt in that place was palpable. And can I just tell you it was emanating from the staff?
I was escorted to the changing room and there, I slipped into a comfortable robe. I was then taken to this room.
The image looks bright but in reality, the lights are dimmed and there is relaxing background music playing softly overhead. I sat down and heard something I hadn’t heard in a while: quiet. And not just on the outside but my mind was slowly relinquishing its never-ending thoughts for this one moment and I was so grateful.
I had three treatments: a pedicure, a hot stone massage and hydrating island bath. When I stepped up to the chair to get my pedi, I got a chance to meet Krista. We bonded over the Opi nail polish “princesses rule” and books. Really? Could it get any better? The time flew by as we chatted about girlie things and what books to read. I left Krista’s station with pink sparkly toes, a smile and a promise to bring her some books that I’ve culled from my collection.
My next stop was a hot stone massage. Cathi came and got me from the waiting area and she pulled me along with the calming energy she was giving off. As she left me alone to climb onto the table I laid back, looked up to the high ceilings and had my spa-day epiphany. It was so simple: enjoy the moment. So, I stopped writing this post in my head, closed my eyes and waited the short minute for Cathi to step back in the room.
I have had quite a few massages. Hot stone is officially my new favorite. It felt like Cathi was taking each and every muscle individually and calmly untangling them one by one. First with her hands and then with the hot stones. I carry most of my stress in my shoulders and shoulder blades and this is the first time where I felt as if all of that tension was worked out of my system.
My day was topped off with the hydrating bath. I cannot remember the last time I was able to sit in a tub of water without fearing the knock on the door or the “maaaaammiiii!” calling from the other side. This time, I sat in a tub big enough for two with pure coconut milk from Fiji to hydrate, soothe and relax my body. It was perfect after the massage.
Looking out of the window I got a chance to see this:
It reminded me of the frog princess (my daughter) and I thought about how much fun she’d have if we were to come back and stay for a night or a weekend, which I most definitely will be doing. But first, I think another trip on my own will be necessary. You know, to make sure that everything is really, really, really as fantastic as I recall.
As a busy mami, student, entrepreneur, I try my best to take care of everything and everyone. I am always last on the list though I know that in order for me to continue to take care of others, I have to take care of myself. What is it that the flight attendants say? Secure your own mask before helping others?
I think it’s time I started securing my own mask on a regular basis. I don’t think relaxing is just an indulgence. I believe it’s a necessity. And, having a sanctuary like the Reflections Spa so close to me will make it that much easier for me to pencil in a mami day here and there.
How do you take time out for yourself and relax?
For more information about the Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa and Reflections Spa-Salon visit http://www.lbvorlandoresort.com
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Sili is a graduate of Rollins College with a degree in Psychology. She has been in corporate America for over 14 years where she held positions in category management, business analysis and more recently, IT project management.
Two years ago, she decided to chronicle her life as a new mom and the caregiver of a mom with cancer and called it My Mamihood (http://MyMamihood.com). Her blog has evolved to those things that she is most passionate about: community, technology, books, inspirational stories and of course, her frog princess.
After parting with her company last September and taking a little time to adjust to all of the changes that the previous year brought into her life, Sili decided to delve deeper into the world of Social Media. She is currently pursuing an MBA in Social Media from Southern New Hampshire University and has recently launched Mami Ink Media, LLC (http://MamiInkMedia.com).
In her new role as Chief Executive Mami Sili is providing a much-needed role as Dream Coach. There, she is empowering people (women especially) to leave their mark in the world by following their entrepreneurial dreams while having a hand to guide and hold. Providing social media management and writing and editing services brings balance to the business and all of the things which Sili is most passionate about as she lives out her life’s purpose.
This looks like a wonderful spa. We are visiting Orlando next month so we will check it out! Thanks.
I can so relate to this…as Moms we always feel guilty when we do something for ourselves. Its important that Moms take out time for themselves so that we can better help our family. Great post!