After more than a year of being hauled up indoors, with limited physical contact and social distancing restrictions, our frequent leisurely spa treatments have sadly taken a backseat too.
It’s no wonder that wellness and well-being have become two of the most popular Google search items (we’re not the only ones dreaming of a Covid-free world).
Luckily, as businesses start opening back up, we can once again pop in for that much-needed back massage or quick mani-pedi - albeit, the experience may be a bit different.
However, the need to be cautious is still imperative, and spas across the country are stringently following hygiene rules and guidelines to ensure guests are kept safe.
So exactly how does one kick back and enjoy a spa-treatment in the country’s current lockdown level? Experts, Melissa Askon at Amani Spa & Wellness, Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, and Peta Angela Carrera at The View Spa, Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton, have some tips:
Come ready to be pampered and spoilt
We may still be in the midst of a pandemic but that’s no excuse not to unwind. In fact, booking yourself a spa day or a treatment may be the best thing you can do for your body and mind during what’s already an incredibly stressful time.
To make the most out of your spa trip, arrive early so you can enjoy the facilities such as the steam room and sauna (if these are permissible to use at your spa of choice), as well as go through all the routine health and safety checks.
In addition to the usual forms requesting information about allergies, you’ll also be asked to complete a COVID-19 questionnaire, do a temperature check and sanitise.
Expect a more distant experience
Spas are all about the human touch, but in the current Covid-19 age, we still have to abide by rules such as keeping 1.5 to 2 metres away from other guests and wearing a mask in certain areas. Although this may not be practical for certain treatments, you can rest assured your therapist will be washing their hands regularly throughout your session, wearing a mask and, in some instances, gloves and a visor.
Treatment rooms will also be cleaned in-between each session and if the spa has a restaurant, it may be closed or have allocated times and tables. The View Spa offers light snacks and drinks during your treatment so there’s no need to fraternise with other guests.
Your favourite treatment may be a little different
Some spas may have adapted their offerings to align with Covid-19 regulations, but hands-on therapies are still available. You may be asked to shower before you arrive and certain treatments, such as facials, may come with a few minor changes. In addition, minimal-touch therapies such as reflexology and shiatsu will be more prominent. Try Amani Spa & Wellness’s signature Jewel of Africa Journey massage for long, deep-pressure strokes, deep-tissue manipulation, and Covid-safe relaxation.
But you can still take a timeout in the pool or sauna
With research suggesting that the coronavirus can’t survive in chlorine- or ozone-treated water, luckily for us, we can still take a dip in the spa pool - and the high temperatures of saunas and steam rooms also make it difficult for the virus to survive.
It’s important to bear in mind however, that some spas may only offer timed slots for these facilities, so always check beforehand.
