Okay, okay! So, actually I had the best day on the planet!

I started with a hot stone massage, a speciality at our hotel’s spa. Of the different types of massage type I have tried, the hot stone variety is my absolute favorite. Flat stones are heated in essential oils and used, one-at-a-time, to rub tired and sore muscles in your back. After your back has been sufficiently rubbed, each of the hot stones is place on your back while your sit and bake a bit. I am perpetually cold, so I look forward to this part every time.

The next treatment on today’s hectic agenda was a Dead Sea mud facial, which starts with a hearty helping of mud. Due to its high mineral content, Dead Sea mud is believed to have numerous healing benefits. Many of the spas and pharmacies near the Dead Sea carry its mud or mud products.

While the aesthetician worked her magic, I tried my best to keep my eyes open so I could talk to the camera. This was a lot harder than I’d anticipated -- the only thing I wanted to do was disappear into a state of bliss!

Now, if this all sounds a bit too girly for some of you, remember that professional athletes from almost every sport use massage to recover from rigorous training schedules and competition. In Eastern cultures, massage dates as far back as ancient times making it one of the oldest known medical treatments in the world.

Science, history, and lots of relaxation -- why can’t every day be a spa day?

What’s next: Sun, Sea, and Sand.

Copyright © 2009 ProjectExplorer, LTD. All Rights Reserved.