Paradise Spa at the Inn at Mazatlan. Que Bueno!

Vacations are wonderful! Especially the ones that find you on a beautiful beach in Mazatlan, Mexico. This was my first time in Mexico and I must say that I don't think I could have asked for a better experience to introduce me to the best this country has to offer. The Inn at Mazatlan was a great place to stay. It was right on the beach near peddlers of fresh oysters and also close to a main street where many wonderful kinds of tacos could be found to eat. For those who aren't adventurous, the hotel's on-site restaurant offered high quality food, but I guarantee if you didn't try the locals' quesadillas al Pastor, Sinaloa style ceviche, or smoked Marlin tacos, you were missing out!

Besides eating tacos, exploring Mazatlan's old town, and relaxing on the beach, visiting the hotel's Paradise Spa was definitely on the agenda. After all, what's a vacation without a little professional pampering? I was delighted to find that the prices for spa services were very reasonable! They offered me a package that included a massage, manicure, and pedicure which I immediately snatched up. A woman named Cuca did all three starting with the massage which was wonderful. Often when I visit a spa, I don't book a massage because they can tend to be too light and "foofy." Not Cuca's! She gave a nice firm and very thorough massage that seemed longer than the 50 minutes allotted. When my body was sufficiently "noodled out," I sat down in my robe for my manicure and pedicure. My fingers looked all neat and clean and my toenails shimmered a bright coral color when she was finished. What a fabulous afternoon!

After the good experience I had with the massage package, I couldn't resist booking the Mayan Chocolate Therapy for the next day. Who wouldn't want to be covered in chocolate from head to toe? My friend Kristen(pictured above) and I arrived together, she for the massage/manicure/pedicure experience and I for the chocolatey body wrap and we were escorted to the steam room where we relaxed and chatted while our pores opened up in preparation for the pampering. Then it was on to our separate treatment rooms where we would experience true bliss.

My treatment started with an ex-foliating rub-down where the rich chocolate aromas began. My skin tingled with delight and I deeply inhaled to enjoy the sweet smell. When my skin was properly buffed, I was instructed to hop into the shower to rinse off. Then the real fun began. Cuca began painting my body with thick, dark brown chocolate. When hardly any white patches remained, she wrapped me up in a heating cocoon of blankets to allow the chocolate to absorb into my skin. She gave me a nice scalp massage before leaving me for a while to relish my choco-tranquility. This was all incredibly relaxing and I found myself dozing off into a dream-like state. Another shower to rinse the chocolate off was then followed by a nice massage done with a chocolate/hazelnut scented lotion. Total treatment time: 90 minutes.

So why would chocolate be good for the skin? Well there are two reasons. First, chocolate has moisturizing properties that soften the skin. This is most likely due to the cocoa butter. Second, the anti-oxidants in chocolate are great for fighting free-radicals and may result in smoothing wrinkles. My favorite reason to be covered in chocolate is that I get to smell like dessert for the rest of the day. Yum!

I would certainly recommend the Paradise Spa at the Inn at Mazatlan to anyone who enjoys such indulgences. They were friendly, clean, professional, and offered an incredible value! I have spent a lot more for less in other spas and felt that the quality of the experience in Mexico surpassed some the more expensive treatments I have received here in the States. I am grateful to the staff for being a part of what was a wonderful Mexican vacation and I hope to visit again soon!

Review courtesy of Massage by Jenni, LLC massagebyjenni.com

Summer "Bounce Back" Special Returns!

Summer has returned to the Salt Lake Valley and so has the "Bounce Back" Special! Enjoy all of your summer activities knowing that you'll get a great deal on a quality massage to rejuvenate you after all that hard playing!

During the month of July, purchase a full-priced massage and receive a "Bounce Back" coupon good for 40% off your next service.* You'll have 30 days from the date of purchase to redeem your coupon. So buy as many as you like!

Have a fabulous summer and I look forward to seeing you soon!

Jenni Curtis, LMT
801*879*4173
massagebyjenni.com

*Receive a 40% off coupon for every full-priced massage 1 hr or longer you purchase during the month of July. Coupons must be redeemed within 30 days of purchase date on a service of equal or lesser value not to exceed 2hrs.

Support Me in the Bike MS 150 Benefiting the Multiple Sclerosis Society

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic and very often disabling disease that attacks the Central Nervous System and interferes with the brain's ability to communicate with the rest of the body. Symptoms vary depending on the amount of damage and which nerves are affected but can become severe enough to cause paralysis, blindness and even cause a person to lose their ability to walk or speak. The disease is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 20 and 40 who must learn to cope with the disease for the rest of their lives.

This frustrating disease has baffled doctors and patients for years. In the 1940's research was almost non-existent and there was a horrible lack of treatment options. Since the Multiple Sclerosis Society was formed in 1946, they have fueled research projects in pursuit of prevention, treatment, and a cure. We have come a long way, but still have a long way to go in understanding and conquering MS.

As a Massage Therapist, there is only so much I can do to help those who suffer from MS and I would like to do more to help them by riding with Team 24 Hour Fitness in the Bike MS 150 in Logan, Utah June 26th and 27th, 2010 to support the Multiple Sclerosis Society and help fund their research projects. But I can't do it alone! I need your support! I will be accepting cash, check, and online donations from now until the day of the ride. Make all checks payable to National MS Society and email me at jennilmt-bikems@yahoo.com for the mailing address. To make online donations, visit my personal page at bikeutu.nationalmssociety.org Remember that even the smallest donations will help me reach my goal and they are tax deductible, so don't hesitate. Do what you can!

For more information on Multiple Sclerosis and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, visit their website www.nationalmssociety.org

Thanks for your support! Jenni Curtis, LMT massagebyjenni.com

"The Smile on My Forehead: Memoir of My Life With a Brain Injury" by Jennifer Mosher

When I first encountered Jennifer Mosher, she was just another woman in my classes at the gym. I'd see her most every week and we, along with several other gym members, would sweat out an hour of weight lifting and an hour of spin class. I had no idea that there was anything different about her until the teacher announced one day that her book, a memoir about her brain injury, had been published. I was intrigued because I had no idea she'd had a serious injury in the past and as someone who enjoys reading and writing, I can appreciate the work that must have gone into it. I knew I was interested in purchasing her book not only to read it, but also to show my support.

As I began to read Jennifer's memoir, I was taken into her world; a world not unlike my own. She was a good student and a hard worker on her way to a bright future. There was no warning that a horrible car accident would take place while she traveled from her home in Minnesota back to school at BYU in August of 1994. Those few quick seconds would change her life and take her beyond the familiar into a world I have never before stopped to contemplate. All those everyday abilities we take for granted were things Jennifer had to fight to regain: walking, talking, sleeping, remembering things that had happened only moments before. The frustration and the determination she must have had, I can only imagine.

I was struck by the incredible things Jennifer was able to achieve in the short years after her brain injury. She threw herself headlong back into her life doing her best to makes things as close to the way they were before her accident as possible. I thought about how devastating it would be to remember the person you were before a brain injury and have that person just vanish, replaced by someone less able. Jennifer was compelled to accept what had happened to her, and rather than force herself to go back to the way she was she instead had to learn to live with her disability.

We can all learn from her experience. Those who have suffered a brain injury will relate to Jennifer's story and gain insight into to what it takes to recover and live a full life. Those who haven't can gain understanding into what challenges those with brain injuries must face and a greater appreciation for the things we all take for granted in life.

If you are interested in reading Jennifer's book, The Smile on My Forehead: Memoir of My Life With a Brain Injury, please visit JenniferMosher.com. Jennifer will also be featured in the Local Author Showcase at The Kings English Bookshop Tuesday April 6th, 2010 at 6:30pm where you can meet her along with other local authors. More information available at KingsEnglish.com

On the same subject, check out another great book called Tour De Life by Saul Raisin, an up and coming cyclist who suffered a brain injury during a race and struggled to return to his goal of riding in the Tour De France. Check it out here Tour De Life along with Saul's personal website SaulRaisin.com where you'll learn about his foundation Raisin Hope.

Review by Jenni Curtis, LMT MassagebyJenni.com

Winter's End Survival Special!

March is here and you've nearly survived the winter! But it's not over just yet! I've got your Winter survival solution. This month choose between a free Hot Stone upgrade for your 90 minute or 2 hour massage to get you warming up to Spring or add a full body organic scrub to your massage for just $15 and shed that lizard skin you've been struggling to properly moisturize these past months.*

Both options have their charm! The Hot Stones add a detoxifying element to your massage perfect for getting your body to its maximum healthy state so that you can enjoy an active season once the weather warms up. The 100% Pure organic body scrubs exfoliate that layer of dead, dry skin and give you a healthy glow along with the confidence to bare those shoulders and legs.

Call Jenni at 801*879*4173 to schedule an appointment today!

*Choose one special per visit. Enjoy as many visits throughout the month as you'd like!

Social Networking at Tahoe's Snowcial

MySpace, Facebook, Twitter were all once nothing more than a twinkle on the horizon. Now they are household names and even Grandma has a Facebook account. Some might say these are nothing more than new ways to waste a lot of time, like playing Solitaire or Bejeweled. But business people are beginning to see Social Networking sites as an incredible resource and a powerful tool for not only marketing themselves and building a professional network but also for feedback and a way to have direct access to consumers.

As a massage therapist running my own practice, I have definitely discovered the value of using social networking as an inexpensive way to promote myself in my community. It works well for me because all I really have to do is be myself and engage with people. When someone needs a massage, they feel more comfortable choosing someone they know over a random person from a directory or Craigslist ad. When I run a special, I can post it and link through Twitter and Facebook to instantly reach hundreds of potential clients. The important thing is to refrain from spamming and be real. People don't want to pay attention to a cyber robot who spews about the products it's selling. We will pay attention to someone who seems to have something of real value to offer us and won't just be more white noise for us to tune out.

All of these ideas and more were openly discussed in January at the 2010 Tahoe Snowcial. Snowcial is a gathering of all kinds of professionals interested in technology, social networking, and snow sports. Hosted by Heavenly Resort and Harrah's Hotel and Casino we were treated to a variety of events designed to get us to network with each other, talk shop, and have a little fun in the process. We enjoyed a half-day conference with speakers who broadened our understanding of how to use social media and the internet to our best benefit. The keynote speaker was MC Hammer who surprisingly had a wealth of knowledge to share with us. Beyond that, we also did a little partying, saw MC Hammer perform live, and spent our days on the slopes of Heavenly Ski Resort even doing a scavenger hunt which was a riot! Not only was the weekend fun, but I found it to be very valuable to my business. It was a wonderful experience and a good use of my time. I not only recommend Tahoe Snowcial to business professionals who enjoy playing in the snow, but I also recommend that small business owners like me look into utilizing social networking sites and building an online presence. This is certainly the way of the future.

For more information on Tahoe Snowcial visit their website. TahoeSnowcial.com

Peace and Calming in San Francisco

I'm not really a city girl unless the city is surrounded by mountains, but now that I've visited San Francisco twice and spent some time there, I find myself falling in love with the place. The tall buildings are more comforting than claustrophobic and the fresh crab on the wharf is the most perfect food known to man. What I found tucked between the towering buildings in a space in the heart of downtown where people hurry past most of the day never thinking to stop was a pleasant surprise and a wonderful bubble of serenity I was happy and relieved to find after my previous day's adventure which led me to walk the entire way across the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Spa Bar is a full service spa located on 2nd Street near Lombard with a classy yet unassuming storefront that, once inside, opens up into a spacious upscale retreat complete with an oxygen bar, salon, and quiet treatment rooms enjoyed by entering through a private door at the rear.

I had an appointment with Paula for a 90 minute Thai Massage, something I'd never tried before. I've heard it's like assisted yoga done on a mat on the floor and have been curious about it for quite sometime. Paula is actually from Thailand and received her massage training there and she explains to me that she has developed a Thai massage hybrid where she incorporates Thai style techniques with traditional Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Sports Massage which I am more familiar with. I will be on a massage table rather than on a mat on the floor and I will be undressed and draped with a sheet rather than remaining clothed as is typical with a traditional Thai Massage. She says she likes doing it this way better. Should be interesting!

The combination proves to be magic. Paula uses luxurious warm oils and gliding strokes fused with deep muscle manipulation and clever movements of my limbs I've never experienced before. She drapes my body effortlessly with the sheet, often using it to position my legs and arms in various stretches while leveraging my limbs against her own body to apply pressure to my muscles and traction the joints. I am aware of her climbing on and off the table many times throughout my massage as she artfully composes her native Thai style into a complete stress reliever with the aggressiveness to really work out all my kinks. I'd say she beat me up in a good way and pampered me all at the same time. There were moments I wondered, "How did she do that?" when she'd use her petite body to move mine into a position. At one point she was actually underneath me on the table stretching my entire body into an arched position. I have no idea how she got there, but it was seamless.

When the massage was over, I was given tea and sent to wander back out into the city in my blissed out state. With a calm smile on my face, I walked to the nearby Museum of Modern Art, ordered a spinach salad and a glass of wine at the cafe and then strolled peacefully through the sculptures, paintings, and photographs on display there. It was ones of those days in the city where you think to yourself, "I could get used to this." And I really think I could get used to all the fine art, culture, and food mixed with the grittiness and raw humanity that is the city of San Francisco.

Special Holiday Pricing in December

Happy Holidays! It's that time of year again. Time for Christmas shopping, tree trimming, baking, and all sorts of activities guaranteed to tire and stress you out. You've got loved ones on your gift list and you have to think of what to get them that will put big smiles on their faces.

Not to worry, I've got you covered! Enjoy a reduced rate of $50 per hour for all massages and massage gift certificates during the month of December.* Come in and de-stress and while you're at it, pick up a few gift certificates for the special ones on your gift list. It's a great way to keep both yourself and those you care about healthy, happy, and balanced through the Holiday Season.

To schedule appointments and for more information visit my website www.massagebyjenni.com or call me directly at 801*879*4173.

Peace,

Jenni, LMT

*Reduced rate valid during the month of December 2009.

Black Friday Massages for Christmas - One Day Gift Certificate Special!

The scramble to find the perfect Christmas gift has begun! Friday is the big day where everyone looks for all the best deals and attempts to finish their shopping ahead of the game in more ways than one! I've never offered a "Black Friday" special before so I thought I'd give it a whirl.

Do I really need to tell you that massage gift certificates make fabulous gifts? Well, if for some reason you are unaware, allow me to point out that a therapeutic massage is not only incredibly pampering and enjoyable, but also an amazing health practice for all those who want to feel better and increase the quality of their lives. For those who need to manage pain, it can even be a saving grace! I've been giving massages for over 10 years and I've seen the smiles of thousands of grateful souls who were happy to have a good therapist come into their world. I've even been known to say that spreading massage to all the corners of the earth could very well be the answer to world peace.

So now you know and you'll be happy to find that for one day only, I'm offering my 1-2 hour massage gift certificates for 1/2 price.* That's $30 for an hour, $47.50 for 90 minutes, and $55 for 2 hours. Limit 4 certificates per customer.

I'll be accepting orders via email from 12am through midnight Friday November 27th, 2009. Send orders to jennilmt-blackfriday@yahoo.com and be sure to include ALL of the following information. Incomplete orders may be rejected.

First and last name

phone number

mailing address

Certificate quantity and length of each massage

Desired method of payment

Payment options are as follows:

Check/money order mailed to

Jenni Curtis, LMT
1550 E. 3300 S. Suite B
SLC, UT 84106

Visa, Mastercard, Amex - You can include your credit card number and expiration date with your email or give your information to me over the phone by calling 801*879*4173 (be sure to leave a voicemail if there is no answer)

PayPal - you will be told where to send money in your confirmation email

You will receive an email confirming your order within 5 days. Gift certificates will be mailed to one address (your mailing address) during the first 2 weeks of December providing payment has be received.

Now get busy shopping!

*Orders will only be accepted between the hours of 12am and midnight Friday November 27th 2009. Limit of four ½-priced gift certificates per customer. Orders placed early or late will not be accepted. Orders must be complete and payment must be received prior to mailing of Certificates.

Massage in 3-D!

This month I would like to spotlight my unique 3-D massage! Because people aren't paper dolls, I've started offering a 3 hour long 4-sided massage. This massage is hands down the most complete massage I've ever given and it has become popular among many of my clients who feel that devoting 3 hours of their time to a massage is well worth it!

In the last year or so, I've started turning clients on their sides in order to be able to work the body from another angle. I have found this to be very effective in working a variety of muscle groups more thoroughly. Specifically, work on the legs and hips from a side posture has produced incredible results for many of my clients who need extra attention paid to those areas. In fact, I haven't found a better way to work the adductor muscles of the legs (inner thigh muscles) or the IT band (Illiotibial fascia band of the outer thigh). Feedback so far has been amazing! Especially from runners, bikers, hikers, and skiers. I've also found that men who complain of pelvic pain associated with prostate issues have been able to enjoy some relief as a result of detailed work in the hips and upper legs.

Although you don't need a 3 hour massage to enjoy these new techniques I now offer, you will find that a much longer time frame will allow you to receive a full body massage from all angles which I always recommend over spot work on specific areas only. Every part of your body works together and if we address it as a whole, you will find you get better, longer lasting results from your massage. You'll be surprised to find out how quickly a 3 hour massage flies by!

For the month of November 2009, please enjoy $20 off all 3-D massages! That's only $140 for 3 hours of good body maintenance and pure enjoyment. Call me at 801*879*4173 for an appointment or book online at massagebyjenni.com.

Office Warming!

It's official! I am now practicing at Millcreek Wellness at 1550 E. 3300 S. Suite B. I look forward to welcoming all of my guests to my new place and I'm doing it with a little gift for everyone! During the month of October, purchase a one hour massage or longer and receive 30 minutes extra at no charge.* Come on in and help make my new office a home!

Call for an appointment at 801*879*4173
or book online at www.massagebyjenni.com

I'll see you all there!

*Receive 30 minutes free with the purchase of a full priced one hour massage or longer ($60 min) during the month of October 2009.

September Weekday Special!

During the month of September 2009, I am offering a special rate good every Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. During those hours enjoy $50 for your first hour and $40/hr thereafter.* So a 1 hour massage will be $50, 90 minute massages will be $70, 2 hours for $90, and so on. If you're a first time client, please take an additional one-time $10 off your total.

Call me for an appointment at 801*879*4173 or book online at MassageByJenni.com

*Special good for the month of September 2009. Regular rates apply nights (after 5pm) and weekends. Can be combined with first time client discount.

Jenni Curtis, LMT

Eileen Keiser, LMT also offers a special weekday rate. Call her at 801*574*1325 for details.

Change is in the Air

It's the season for change and Salt Lake's Premiere Massage Therapy Team™ will be seeing a lot of it in the next month. That's ok, we've been undergoing much change in the last year with Tiffeny moving to Boise and Eileen stepping in. Now it is time for us to turn a page and start a new chapter.

On September 30th, 2009 we will be saying goodbye to our studio at 1694 East 3300 South. We've really loved having our practice here, but due to circumstances beyond our control we will not be able to put our roots in like we'd hoped. As a result, our Team will be moving on and going in separate directions. This turn of events will not take away from our dedication to providing a quality service for our clients, however, and you can rest assured that the spirit of what Tiffeny and Jenni began will live on.

So what can you expect? During the month of September, we will be practicing in our old studio and gearing up for the move. Come October 1st, you'll be able to visit both Team members in their new separate locations which will be in very close proximity to our current one. We expect the transition to be seamless and Jenni and Eileen will be working together supporting each other through the move as well as in the future. That includes filling the demand for Four-hand Massages by guesting at each other's practices when needed.

Where are we going? Jenni has been invited by Dr. Cerami, a well respected chiropractor in the area to move her practice to a suite in his wellness center. Millcreek Wellness is located at 1550 East 3300 South within walking distance of the old location. Those of you familiar with Diva's coffee shop (the building with the greenhouse dome) will know exactly where it is as they share a parking lot. Jenni's office will be located downstairs in Suite B, accessed by a door on the west side of the building. The space is quiet and serene and has a shower for the use of clients. She will also be training to begin performing Frequency Specific Microcurrent therapy which will be offered to patients of Dr. Cerami. Jenni is excited about this opportunity and anticipates this change to be a positive one. In addition, Jenni will continue to offer the same menu of services her clients have come to enjoy.

Eileen will be moving her private practice to an office plaza located at 970 East and 3300 South. She will be occupying a suite of two rooms (#G and #I) which will serve as her office in Hallway 7 of the plaza. She is happy to be able to offer her clients the same great bodywork and affordable rates in this convenient location. Give Eileen a call if you have any questions about her transition at 801*574*1325.

Thanks to all of our clients who have made Salt Lake's Premiere Massage Therapy Team™ such a great success! We hope you will continue to "Experience Quality Massage" in our new locations and we look forward to new horizons!

Relay for Life a Success!

First of all, let me take a moment to thank all of you who have donated to support me in the Relay for Life benefiting the American Cancer Society. I had no idea how much I'd be able to raise and have been amazed at the generosity of friends, family members, and clients who have stepped up to the plate. I have exceeded expectations and reached several goals only to aim higher. It seems so many of us have been affected by this disease and so it really hits close to home.

For those of you who have yet to donate, you'll be happy to know that I can still accept donations through Monday August 31st, even thought the Relay is over. Please go to my personal page and donate whatever amount you are comfortable with. http://main.acsevents.org/goto/jenni_lmt

The Relay itself was a great experience! I recommend getting involved next year if you haven't done so. The event itself is a lot of fun. As a team you can choose to walk, run, or ride in the Relay. It's not a race, just take turns going out on the courses and enjoy the day. As Team Sugar, we chose to ride our mountain bikes on the course laid out for us in Round Valley near the Quinn's Junction recreational complex. The course wasn't too difficult, but we all got a good workout and had a lot of fun riding it. We each did about 2 or 3 laps of the course.

When we weren't out on the course, we enjoyed the live music, great food, and the events inside on the ice rink. We could mingle with other teams as well as each other and just enjoy being outside working together for a good cause. I set up my massage chair and did some 10 minute massages to benefit the American Cancer Society as well. After sunset, there was the Ceremony of Hope and the lighting of the luminaria which were all decorated by individuals who wished to honor the memory of someone who had succumbed to cancer or to celebrate those who have survived as well as support those still battling the disease. It was very moving to see the lighted bags along the walkway for us to wander past and acknowledge.

I am so happy to have been a part of this experience. I hope that my efforts will help in some small way all of those who have been diagnosed with cancer or will in the future. May our struggles honor those we've lost and give hope to those still here on the battle field.

Relay for Life Benefiting the American Cancer Society

I'm really excited to be joining Team Sugar August 29th in the Relay for Life in Park City to benefit the American Cancer Society. Cancer is a disease that has affected all of us in some way, including me so I encourage anyone who can to support Relay for Life.

There are several ways to get involved. The simplest way is to donate. Even $5 will help, so go to my personal Relay for Life web page and click "donate" to give an online donation. My Personal Page. If you'd prefer not to donate online, there is an "offline donation" form you can print out located at the bottom of my page which will allow you to mail a check. If you're feeling frisky, join our Team and run, walk, or ride the course with us on August 29th.

If you have a loved one you'd like to honor, the luminaria may be a good option for you. There will be a Luminaria Ceremony of Hope at sunset where illuminated bags will honor those who have either fallen to or survived cancer. For $10 you can dedicate on of these luminarias which include a personalized message for the person you want to honor.

If nothing else, join us at the Quinn's Junction Recreation Complex in Park City for a day of fun. The day's events begin at noon and go until midnight and include figure skating performances, a public open skate, hockey games, and Skating with the Stars featuring legendary 5-time Olympic speed skating gold medalist and professional cyclist Dr. Eric Heiden, plus USA Hockey Level 4 coach and Brown University Captain/All Ivy Team superstar Bob Devaney.

I would like to dedicate my efforts to long time client Nancy Roush who passed away recently after battling cancer for 10 long years. She will be remembered and missed.

Visit my Relay for Life page to get involved. http://main.acsevents.org/goto/jenni_lmt

Double the Therapy, Twice the Relaxation!

It's August and time for a brand new special! This month we're lowering the price on our "Pure Luxury Four Hands" massage. This is one of our most decadent treatments and for this month will only run you $80/hr (reg $100/hr). Your session can be as long as 90 minutes which would be the equivalent of receiving 3 hours of bodywork in half the time.

The "4-Hands" massage has long been a favorite among our clients who love to find better ways to relax and is a must try for every fan of massage. It features both members of our Team working in unison on the body to create a massage experience that will blow you away! We combine both targeted and focused work with soothing tandem strokes that send you into another world. You'll have your scalp and feet massaged simulaniously along with elements of Aromatherapy, Reflexology, steamed towels, and a taste of Hot Stone massage which are all a part of making this experience sublime. We invite you to put yourself in our hands and let us lull you into a state of bliss with a symphony of bodywork.

Call either Team member to schedule your appointment...

Jenni Curtis 801*879*4173
Eileen Keiser 801*574*1325

*Pure Luxury Four Hands special good for the month of August 2009. Can be combined with our first-time client discount ($10 off) but not with any other offer.

Women on Wheels!

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of joining Team Sugar of White Pine Touring in Park City for a "women only" mountain bike ride on Utah's Wasatch Crest trail. What a great way to spend a Saturday! I'm so happy to have been introduced to this awesome group of ladies.

I started mountain biking last summer and have really enjoyed picking up the sport. It's challenging, fun, and gets me out into the beautiful nearby mountains for some great exercise and a regular attitude adjustment. Thus far, I've ridden mostly with men. I've pushed myself in keeping up with them which has doubtless improved my skills, but when I heard about a group of women who don't mind getting dirty on the mountain bike trails and encourage other women to learn to ride, I was excited to be a part of it!

Team Sugar is dedicated to promoting the sport of mountain biking among women and they provide a great service in helping women get out and ride and improve their riding skills. Every Tuesday night during the summer, women of a variety of skill levels meet at White Pine Touring in Park City. They are divided into groups based on those skill levels and lead by more experienced guides who seem to really enjoy helping to promote the sport among other women. From beginners to intermediate and advanced levels, there's a ride for everyone and an evening of learning and fun for all. The women support each other, wait for each other on the trails and enjoy the social aspect of the rides as well. What an awesome resource for active women in Utah!

The Crest Ride on Saturday was for level 2 riders and above and included a shuttle to Guardsman Pass, guides for the ride, and a BBQ afterwards. It was well worth my $15. We were also provided with Cliff bars and energy goo along with name tags to help us get to know each other. I found the women to be friendly and full of energy. We were ready for a great ride!

From Guardsman Pass which can be accessed from either Big Cottonwood Canyon near Brighton and Solitude ski resorts or from Park City above Deer Valley and Park City Mountain resorts we began our ascent on the Wasatch Crest trail. The trail starts out pretty mellow. It rolls through trees up and down to a crossroads where you can choose to ride into Jupiter Bowl of Park City Mountain Resort or ascend "Puke Hill" to the top of the Wasatch Ridge above Big Cottonwood Canyon and Park City. "Puke Hill" is an infamous portion of the Crest trail and can be considered a great accomplishment if you can ride it cleanly, without stopping, all the way to the top. It's steep with loose rocks and the altitude is considerable about 9,900 feet at the top. I was impressed at how well every member of our group rode that climb. Especially the last and steepest part which presents itself as you turn the corner thinking you've almost made it only to find that the worst is just before you and you're almost out of breath.

As a reward for that long, horrid climb, the views at the top are spectacular! You can see down onto Brighton and Solitude as well as Park City. You are on the top of the world. In fact, riding the Crest trail feels like that the whole time you're on it. The views of the Wasatch peaks and canyons are all around you; one constantly trying to outdo the next. It makes me so happy to be living here in Salt Lake City where I have easy access to such beauty.

So we continued on the Crest trail as it rolls along the ridge. There are two more significant climbs nicknamed the "Red-headed Step Sisters." The red dirt trail is very deceiving and ends up being a much bigger climb than it looks as you approach it. After that it's on to the "Spine." The Spine is a rocky ridge if shale above Desolation Lake in Big Cottonwood Canyon and The Canyons ski resort near a lift knowns as "Ninety Nine Ninety." It takes a skilled rider to ride down the Spine without walking. Several of the ladies rode the Spine. I look forward to being able to ride it in the future.

From the Spine, your options open up. You can drop down towards Desolation Lake and the Mill D trail head of Big Cottonwood Canyon, the route I took the first time I rode the Wasatch Crest. Its a blast and I highly recommend it. You can also veer right where you can either descend into Millcreek Canyon via the Big Water trail or into Park City and The Canyons ski resort where there are a variety of trails to choose from. We headed down into Park City onto trails called "Rob's" and "Collins" and out into the Sun Peak neighborhood.

The downhill was really fun with a few technical challenges and plenty of switchbacks. One section was like a roller coaster through the trees and we all had huge smiles on our faces as we finished it. I think I even caught a little air here and there! Weee! At the end of the ride we were impressed at how quickly we'd finished it. I was glad I hadn't slowed anyone down. I may still be new at the sport, but I did pretty well keeping up with all the lady rippers! We were all hungry for our BBQ and set out to ride the highway back to White Pine Touring and our cars

The BBQ was at a great little house not far from the bike shop and the spread was incredible! There were chips and veggies with salsa and hummus ready for immediate consumption along with my favorite...beer. Salads of greens, feta, and fruit set off chicken sausages and veggie burgers which we all happily ate until we were full. There was plenty of visiting between all the women. Some of us were getting to know each other and others had clearly been friends for a while. I felt fortunate to be a part of it. I can't wait to go to a Tuesday night ride and continue to acquaint myself with Team Sugar. I encourage Utah women of all ages to do the same. I hope to see you there!

Team Sugar

Utah Mountain Biking

Efusjon is in the house!

I am happy to announce a new product now available in our massage studio! Efusjon Energy is a new line of all-natural energy drinks made with organic ingredients and packed with vitamins to give you a safer and healthier alternative to much of what is currently available on the market. These lightly carbonated drinks are made with Acai berry juice which is very high in antioxidants. Antioxidants protect your cells against damage and have become very important in today's toxic world. As one of natures top super foods, the Acai berry also supports the body's metabolism, can fight fatigue and depression, and improve concentration. You'll find it is rich in folic acid, magnesium, calcium, iron, potassium, protein, polynutrients, vitamin C and E, amino acids, and Omega 3, 6, and 9. That's one powerful berry!

Currently there are two versions of Efusjon to choose from: Raw which is non-caffeinated and Edge which does include caffeine for those who need an extra boost. Both of these contain the organic Acai berry juice. Also look for Efusjon Breeze made with Mangosteen and Efusjon Dawn made with Quercetin coming soon. Check out the ingredients and nutritional facts of Efusjon Raw below!

It has always been our goal to offer our clients only the best and encourage health and wellness in general. Water will always be provided after your session and is the most important thing to consume when you are recovering from a therapeutic massage. It's best to schedule your massage for a time when you will be able to rest and give your body time to process through the full effects and benefits it provides. I know many people have very busy schedules and are lucky to fit a massage in where they can. If you have to go back to work after your massage, an Efusjon drink to-go may be just the thing to get you back into a productive mode. I do want to encourage your post-massage state of relaxation, however, and would also suggest taking your drinks with you to enjoy at a later time.

For information about the Efusjon Energy Club, please visit my blog www.efusjonjenni.blogspot.com

Summer "Bounce Back" Special!

Summer is meant to be enjoyed! We want to help you make your 2009 summer season as good as it gets! This is the time when everyone wants to be outside enjoying summer sports and vacations, but we often forget to take care of our bodies in the meantime. It is critical that we keep ourselves maintained and able to enjoy summer activities to their fullest. Our June and July special is designed to make getting your regular bodywork affordable and encourage you to come back in for your next massage while we can still build on the last one. Make this the healthiest summer yet!

Here's how it works. Come in any time during the month of June or July for a therapeutic massage or any of our other premium services. You'll receive a "Bounce Back" coupon with every full-priced service you purchase good for 30 days to come back and receive another quality massage for 1/2 price! There is no limit to how many coupons you can accumulate, just use them before they expire. It's as simple as that!*

Looking for a Father's Day, wedding, or birthday gift? Maybe they'd enjoy a great massage. We'll also give you a "Bounce Back" coupon with every Gift Certificate you purchase. Use it for yourself as a reward for thinking of such a wonderful gift or give it to Dad to boost his already awesome present! Just keep in mind that coupons will be good for 30 days from date of purchase.

Give us a call to start living it up this summer!

Eileen Keiser, LMT 801*574*1325 Jenni Curtis, LMT 801*879*4173

*Bounce Back Special is good for all full price massages purchased during the months of June and July 2009. ½ priced coupons are good for 30 days from date of purchase on services of equal or lesser value from the same therapist who provided the initial service.

Glenwood Hot Springs and Spa of the Rockies

I just got back from a fabulous road trip to Colorado! One of our stops was the Lodge at Glenwood Springs where I visited the Spa of the Rockies and soaked in the Hot Springs pool. First of all, let me say that Glenwood Springs is absolutely beautiful! When researching online, I found that there was no shortage of cool activities to choose from and I only wish that I'd had more time to fully experience what this place has to offer. Next time I visit, I plan to explore the Vapor Caves.

Glenwood Springs itself has a very small town vibe with an air of history about it. I immediately felt relaxed as I looked around at the surrounding canyons and red dirt mountains covered with greenery. Local breweries, restaurants and coffee shops are easy to walk to via a pedestrian foot bridge across the highway and river. The Lodge was comfortable and the staff very helpful and we were glad to be so close to the Hot Springs Pool which was included in the price of our room. As we walked to the pool, we could smell the distinct aroma of sulfur which reminded us that we were in a natural geothermal area which, to me, is very fascinating. This is really the first hot springs I've visited and I was excited to experience it!

There were two pools, a large one kept at about 90 degrees Fahrenheit and a smaller "therapy pool" kept at 104 degrees. We went straight for the hot one and found that after a while we felt a little overheated even though it didn't seem to be all that hot. We sat on the steps for a bit and then tried the other pool, which did feel cool in comparison. It was quite refreshing! The weather in Glenwood Springs over the Memorial Day weekend was actually rainy and chilly so we returned to the Therapy Pool again to warm up before getting out for some dinner. The pools are open until 10pm and look lovely all lit up after dark. They are also quite nice to be soaking in during a rainstorm as the steam rises and you can feel the contrast of cool and warm water on your skin.

The next afternoon, I visited the Spa of the Rockies which overlooks the Hot Springs Pool. This is a new addition to the Glenwood Springs resort and has been recently renovated. Inside it is breathtakingly beautiful and you feel immediately pampered. I was shown to the dressing room and given a locker with a robe and sandals to change into. The dressing room was fully equipped with everything you could need and through some glass doors was a fountain and a steam room where you could start your relaxation process. In the steam room, I found wet washcloths with the scent of eucalyptus which I used on my face. After that, I went to the Serenity room to enjoy some jasmine tea while I waited for my therapist to come and get me. There were also dried fruit, nuts, and either lemon or cucumber water to drink along with other loose teas to choose from. I took note of the blankets, footstools, and settees for sitting and relaxing.

My therapist, who was an older gentleman, came and took me to the treatment room. I was a little disappointed that they were having some technical difficulties with the Vichy Shower so I would not have that as a part of my treatment. I've always wanted to try one and so I'd requested it. Instead, the room had a regular shower for me to use. The Spirit Purification Ritual I'd booked, started with an adobe mud mixture applied to my body with exfoliating gloves. The warm mud felt good and I liked the scratchy sensation of the gloves. I was then wrapped in plastic, a thermal reflective blanket, and other warm blankets and given a foot and scalp massage while the mud dried on my skin and pulled impurities from my body. After that I showered and was back on the table for a bit of a juniper and sage lotion massage. When the treatment was finished, I was taken back to the Serenity room and left to relax and dress at my leisure.

My overall Spa experience was a little mixed. They do seem to be slightly understaffed and working out some kinks still. I got the impression that my therapist was experimenting with the treatment which led me to believe that there is not much of a protocol for him to follow. The experience could have been more seamless and professional. After all, we are paying a lot of money for these spa treatments and we expect to be thoroughly wowed! Are spa treatments ever worth the money? I wonder. They do have a beautiful facility there, however, and the staff is very accommodating and friendly. I hope to visit again, but perhaps I'll just get a facial at the spa and spend my money on a river trip or cave exploration instead.

In general, Colorado is a really nice place to visit. They have great mountain biking, cool little mountain towns, and who can pass up the opportunity to enjoy natural hot springs? Oh, and they seem to be good at making beer too. I recommend checking it out!

Glenwood Hot Springs