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FeedTwist on Tradition
A Main Line spa adds interactive workshops to the menu.
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Who among us can’t extol the magical abilities of our favorite massage therapist or the healing powers of that in-demand esthetician? Facials, massages, body treatments and nail care have made up the backbone of the spa experience for years—and for good reason. Each treatment is a mini-retreat, a vacation for the body and an indulgence for the soul. When we do discover that special service or employee, we make them as regular on our calendars as work-status meetings—scared to let such a good thing go.
But there’s much to be said for the new. Sure, these good old standbys are dear to us, but what harm is there in opening the door a bit and seeing what else might be out there? As one Main Line spa is showing, adding new and unusual offerings to the menu doesn’t just mix things up—it actually creates a stronger spa experience for clients.
Ilona Csaky, owner of Harmonia Healing Arts Spa in Wayne, is a bit of a pioneer in the practice. For more than a year, she’s been hosting workshops that complement more traditional treatments. From yoga to Qigong, the sessions last a few hours, and they can be included as part of a spa package or serve as a visitor’s only experience.
“We want our clients to be as healthy as possible,” says Csaky. “These workshops support our other treatments, and the clients learn enough to use the teachings at home, too.”
Inevitably, these classes—which focus more on inner beauty and relaxation—promote overall well-being and help clients become happier, healthier people.
One of Harmonia’s most popular workshops is belly dancing. “It’s an intense workout and it’s fun at the same time,” says Csaky.
By using everything from the shoulders to the hips, focusing on proper posture, and working in fun touches like silk veils, the dancing delivers a core-concentrated workout. The workshops also review the culture and history behind belly dancing, giving visitors a full education. It’s a “great way to feel beautiful, feminine and strong,” says Csaky.
Another well-attended workshop, Qigong speaks to the natural, healing aura with which Csaky has infused Harmonia. An exercise from China that’s similar to tai chi, Qigong includes stretching, meditation and the harvesting of energy. “You’re extremely relaxed when you’re done,” says Csaky. “At the end, the chi (energy) is in your hands and it’s burning; it’s like a heavy heat you can feel, and you leave with all that energy.”
Qigong can lower stress, improve immunity, flexibility and balance, and help maintain even emotions. It’s been known to alleviate hypertension, fatigue and digestive disorders.
