VIP Treatment at The Sanctuary Day Spa

The amenity perks are endless at large, full-service resort spas. Head in early to hit the gym, stay late to take advantage of the sauna, pool, and Jacuzzi. You’ll never find me complaining about a luxurious afternoon of resort spa lounging, but when I’m craving personalized VIP service, custom built treatments, and a serene setting, I never follow the crowd to an oversized establishment. Rather, I handpick an intimate, boutique spa big enough to meet my needs, but small enough to check all distraction at the front door.

The Sanctuary is a private spa in Ocean Beach that puts service first, and only hosts one person at a time, giving you undivided attention for the ultimate results. The Sanctuary is a top choice among celebrity clientele for these exact reasons, but owner Tracy Duhs and her team of health and wellness experts ensure that everyone is treated with the same quality of service and respect.

In stark contrast to a large hotel atmosphere, The Sanctuary is housed in a quaint beach town cottage that perfectly fits the Ocean Beach vibe, while offering a contemporary, polished spa interior within. Inside, The Sanctuary radiates with the crisp and soothing flow of the ocean, from the water features and local artwork to the imported aqua marine Italian glass tiles that line the craft tea bar.

Last week I revisited The Sanctuary to test drive two new treatments, the Arcona Enzyme Peel and Reflexology Massage within the Clarity Room. But first, I was greeted with the complimentary “welcome” foot bath and a warm cup of wild craft tea. During the foot bath, Lavender and Peppermint essential oils are infused in the bath water, and feet are then gently exfoliated with organic sugar and coconut oil, and gently massaged with an essential oil aromatic shea butter.

The Arcona Enzyme Peel is an activating treatment that cleanses and restores your skin to its natural balance, providing cellular renewal for sun damaged, aged and dull looking skin. Organic fruit enzymes dissolve dead skin and cleanse pores, thereby stimulating the dermis to manufacture more collagen and elastin. Regular Organic Enzyme Peels continue to help your body to produce new, strong, healthier and younger looking skin, without the harsh side effects of a chemical peel. During the facial treatment, the master trained massage therapist simultaneously performed a Reflexology Massage on my hands and feet. During this add-on service, the therapist works on reflex points in hands and feet that directly correspond with organs in your body; helping to relieve stress, detoxify, and create harmony in the body systems.

If your idea of a relaxing spa day is a private VIP experience with custom treatments designed for your health and wellbeing, visit The Sanctuary Day Spa. More featured services include Med Spa, Massage, Facials, Waxing, Make-up Artistry, and Packages. I recommend the Synergie Cellulite and Toxin Reduction Treatment and the Lover’s Bliss Couples Massage Package with two 55-minute Swedish massages, two aromatherapy foot massages, and chocolate for two, now offered in the newly remodeled couple’s suite, a beach bungalow that can be rented out for spa parties of any kind. For more information, please visit The Sanctuary in Ocean Beach.

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