That’s right! Researchers give hands-on therapy a thumbs-up not only because it makes you feel relaxed, but studies suggest that a professional massage can also boost your immune system, make you more alert, prevent PMS, relieve low-back pain and some forms of chronic pain, promote healing and help alleviate insomnia.
Maybe that’s why I felt like a million bucks after visiting Belmora Spa in Basking Ridge. Once owner Claudia Georgescu got hold of me, this stressed-out editor became putty in her hands. (After a luxurious massage and also a Chroma-Lift facial, I easily could have spent the entire afternoon atop her magic table, burrowed under the soft, warm blankets.)
In case you haven’t heard of the Chroma-Lift facial, it’s a non-invasive oxygenating, detoxifying treatment that helps eliminate lines, improves elasticity and texture, and produces a visible lifting effect and a radiant glow. (My sweetheart actually noticed and he asked what I had done to look so refreshed!)
I would be remiss not to mention Claudia’s credentials. Over the years, working in Manhattan for Frederic Fekkai salon at Bergdorf Goodman as the salon’s chief masseuse and reflexologist, and during her time in other salons, her clients have included A-listers Julie Christie, Marcello Mastroianni, Sophia Loren, Demi Moore, Candice Bergen, Carly Simon, Maria Shriver, Farrah Fawcett, Linda Gray, Madonna, Anita Baker, Marla Trump, Faith Hill, Sharon Stone, Cher and even the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes!
Hmmm…why did it take me so long to discover the wonders of massages and facials? I can’t think of a better way to spend a couple of hours on Valentine’s Day…except maybe eating dark chocolate and sipping red wine…but that would be caloric.
Enjoy your well-deserved, no-cal massage and facial,
Susan