Harmony

Today is my birthday. If you didn't know better, you might think I would have gone shoe shopping. Let me explain, first, that my birthdays go on for days (lunches, coffees, cocktails, and get-togethers) on end. Today, my husband gifted me with a wonderfully indulgent gift which may have changed my life. Upon awaking, I was given a gift bag with a certificate for a Harmony massage at Burke Williams Beyond the Spa in Sherman Oaks, California. I am not a massage virgin. In fact, I was quite an afficionado of shiatsu and deep tissue; the stronger, the better. But, as I inhabit the forties, my workout and massage world has changed from kickboxing and shiatsu to yoga and aromatherapy massage.

Burke Williams in Sherman Oaks resembles a lodge with dark green rugs and dark wood. I checked in for my treatment and was given a delicious floral tea with a flower which opened as it soaked in the boiling water. I was greeted and shown to the locker room, complete with sauna, steam rooms, and jacuzzi. My only disappointment was that Burke Williams' water was no longer flavored with steeped lemon and cucumber because of health department ordinances. I finished my tea and changed into the requisite robe and slides. I hung my clothes and turned off my Blackberry. This morning would require my full attention.

My masseuse came to get me and guided me upstairs to my treatment room where I disrobed and slid under the sheets, face down. I was ready for an amazing experience which would involve almost all my senses, from the new age music filtering through the room to the scent of the scrubs and oils. I made a decision to practice yoga breathing to really be in the moment which brought this to a whole other level. The Harmony massage involves hot and cold stones, applied simulaneously, which is mind-altering, especially when coupled with cleansing breaths! Another component to the massage is the use of vibrations. I am not sure what kind of tool was used but it was interesting. The massage lasted 75 minutes. Massages are like slow dances. You never want them to end, provided you are with the right partner. I slowly got up and was given a square of dark chocolate and a glass of chilled water. Does life get better than this? I was guided downstairs where I spent some time savouring my square of chocolate in the quiet room before my return to reality. Or at least a lovely lunch with my husband.

I left the day spa feeling exhilarated and at peace. It didn't hurt that I met a 50-year old woman who shared my birthday. She was shocked when I told her my age! (She thought I was younger!) I suppose I should stop telling people how old I am and keep them guessing!

My approach to this birthday has been life-altering. I feel truly comfortable in my own skin. We go through life trying on different masks until we reach the moment when we are confident enough to shed the facade. I have rekindled dear friendships from the past and met some wonderfully supportive new friends. My spa visit was icing on the proverbial birthday cake.

I promise to return tomorrow with a witty post involving shoes. Thank you for the birthday indulgence.