Recession R & R: local spas offer stress-less specials.

• Author: Ingoldsby Whitesides, Hilary
• Position: Executive Getaways - Report

Irritability, chest pains, headaches and lack of energy can all be symptoms of one underlying problem: stress. The country's financial climate has more Americans than ever feeling stressed to the max. In fact, the American Psychological Association reported in October 2008 that money issues now tops the list of stress factors for 80 percent of Americans. In addition, 73 percent reported they experience physical or psychological problems due to stress.

Utah's spa industry is aware that the need to cut spending is wide-spread, but with it comes the need to de-stress and combat stress-induced physical and psychological problems. The industry is responding, offering state-of-the-art services that won't break the bank.

Red Mountain Resort and Spa

Nestled in the red rocks of Ivins, Utah, the Red Mountain Resort and Spa not only has spa treatments, but amazing scenery as well. The resort says it's responding to its clients' physical and financial needs by providing more options.

Tracey Welsh, general manager, says the spa's most popular treatment is a simple massage, but that's only one among many unique treatments that keep guests coming back for more. The Four Directions Treatment is inspired by southern Utah's desert surroundings and native heritage. It includes American Indian rituals using sacred herbs, plants and stones, a full body cornmeal and tobacco exfoliation, a cedar wood full-body massage and a sweet grass herbal wrap. The combination, Welsh says, brings peace, good spirits and healing--a benefit for anyone feeling stressed.

"These trying times require you to assert more energy than ever before to be successful in whatever you do," she says. "Taking time to care for yourself through massage, personal training, health assessments and even manicures and pedicures are the things you can do for yourself to refill your energy tank and de-stress."

Zermatt Resort

A Swiss resort tucked away in Utah's mountains, the Zermatt Resort draws national attention. In light of today's economy, spa director Michelle Howard says more Utahns are escaping to the resort to enjoy "mini-vacations."

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