Tuesday, March 10, 2009

In Defense of Pampering

Last weekend, I treated myself to a chair massage at my favorite nail spa, Dashing Diva.

After 20 minutes of enjoying TLC for my back and shoulders, I couldn’t help thinking about pampering – and how it’s more important than ever in times like this to make room for it.

In a recent survey by the American Psychological Association, 80% of respondents said the economy is a significant cause of stress. Not surprisingly, the recession has many people cutting back on pampering rituals, including one of my favorites, travel.

Travel Therapy: The title of a new book and one of my favorite things

A feature in last Friday’s USA Today talked about the increasing trend of consumers feeling so guilty about taking trips that they’re not even talking about it. More consumers still are holding off on getting away and, with a government-endorsed dropoff in business travel as well, the industry is feeling the pinch. Commerce Department data predicts the loss of 247,000 travel-related jobs this year.

Stimulus package or not, our economy won’t get moving until people get moving with the business of spending, even if it's spending in recessionary fashion. And as someone who works in travel PR, I’m seeing firsthand the flurry of great deals available in the U.S., Caribbean and beyond.

Looking for inspiration for your next vacation? Check out Karen Schaler’s new book, Travel Therapy Travel Therapy.). Whether you’re planning a girlfriends getaway or seeking spa-infused solace, this is a great guide to get you there.

With spring right around the corner, I’m already looking into potential trips. Because sometimes, a change of scenery is exactly what you need to feel at home again.

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