Children And The Spa: Cute Or Inappropriate?
In American culture, spas are usually a pastime associated with adults or teenagers. Kids are just not in the picture. And yet, according to an article on MSNBC, family-oriented spa packages are becoming more common. Kids sit alongside their moms getting pedicures, facials and even massages.
For many people, this image is overly posh. But in reality, spas are actually good for kids. The pedicures keep the children’s nails healthy while the facials free up any oils that may have built up in their skin (which can reduce acne). Even better, are the massages which offer numerous physiological benefits for young people.
The most prominent of these benefits is an increased blood flow. This is especially the case with a hot stone massage, where blood flow is increased even more. Hot stone massages can also alleviate pain in kids who are suffering with joint or muscle problems. And for everyone in general, hot stone massages, (along with traditional massages) help to improve the circulatory system.
Kids can receive physical and psychological benefits from massage. This is because the same mechanisms are at work; the release of serotonin. And even with kids serotonin is important, since stress from school or athletic activities may cause them to feel down at times. But if their serotonin level is steady, they’ll be in a better position to handle their stressors.
Plus, there’s one additional benefit that antagonists don’t think about… bonding time. If the spa allows children and your child is is well-behaved, there should be no reason why not? It is better than just leaving them at home with the babysitter. Not only do they feel ‘included,’ but they also start to appreciate a healthy past-time. Ultimately, the public needs to look past the ‘vanity’ aspect of spas and instead consider the emotional and physical benefits they provide their customers.
In conclusion, there’s really nothing wrong with bringing kids with you to a spa. As long as they’re not acting up or bored, let them enjoy the experience. They will appreciate it.
I write for TIR Massage Stone, the leading hot stones supplies provider. They carry products such as basalt stones, as well as many other accessories for hot and cold stone therapy.