Penny's Day at the Spa

Good evening folks:
Many of you know that Penny was on a SPA-ing assignment today. Penny took advantage of Spa Week and tried out the Veria (Ver-ria) Wellness Center in Bethesda, MD. The experience was great!

Although Penny prefers a full service day spa with the experience of private lockers, dressing rooms, showers, and relaxation rooms; for a small center the services and staff were excellent. The size of the rooms were standard; you undress in the room; they put your belongings in a copper basin to transfer from room-to-room, and they offer you a robe and slippers (if you're going for more than a facial). (Read full story)

I first had the pleasure of a facial, shoulder and hand massage with heated mitts from Nhan. She was very pleasant, knowledgeable and did a fantastic job of providing a relaxing facial. At no point was the experience uncomfortable. She answered all my questions sufficiently and asked the right questions to better understand my skin. Nhan showed me the products she would use on me and actually allowed me to smell them to make sure they would not bother me (since I listed allergies on the form I filled out upon arrival). She gave me advice on how to formulate the proper regimen for my skin, and never once pushed the products that are sold there...or criticized the products I currently use. The advice on what I should do with my at-home regimen was most valuable. (Gold star for Nhan!). LOL!

Next I got a fantastic back & foot massage on a heated bed from Marie. She was conversational, but so was I, so it was not a problem. Penny asks questions so she can share these reviews...and because she hates surprises. LOL! Marie is well trained and gave an excellent massage. She asked me if there were any areas in particular that I wanted to focus on, so we started there. Marie applied the right amount of pressure and technique for a relaxing massage and actually took her time to work out the knots I had in my shoulders. Most importantly Marie gave me a take home technique to help relieve the pain in my shoulders and the knots I often get. (Gold star for Marie!) LOL!

What I liked most about my Veria experience is that each technician "customized" their services to meet my needs (as advertised). Nahn was supposed to give me a Vitamin C Anti-aging Facial since I requested the spa week special, but because I mentioned that I sometimes react to citrus based products, she changed a few of the products to meet my needs. Marie did the same thing with the Veria Signature Massage once she found all of the knots in my shoulder and added some "Swedish massage" techniques to the relaxation massage, which includes hot towels on the back and feet; and a foot massage that help with my circulation and lymphatic issues (swelling in my ankles). The only thing advertised that I did not experience is the customization of the oils she used. She did tell me what it was and it did not cause any discomfort or unpleasant odor, so it was fine. (I like that Aveda creates an aromatherapy oil just for you based on a consultation before your massage). Although the session was 50 mins long, I did not feel rushed or uncomfortable at any time.

The convenience of Veria is also a plus (since its less than 2 blocks from my job) with ample parking (paid about $3.25 for 3 hrs in the Municipal lot). Penny is interested in facials, and maybe trying their yoga, and meditation classes. For my massages and body treatments, I prefer a full service spa (unless the price is right during spa week). LOL! Penny will most certainly visit Veria again and recommends it for those looking for convenient and professional spa services.

Be blessed. Be beautiful.
Penny