In this continuation of my interview with Liz Galloway, CEO of the Lotus Effects Spa Consulting, Ms. Galloway talks about how to choose a spa experience. Read on to learn what things to consider.

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1. In your opinion, how can one benefit most from a spa experience?
Spas are based in beauty and health, so depending on your goal with a spa visit, you may visit a spa retreat at a resort. Maybe you want a little more result with a botox injection or laser facial at a medical spa. Address a superficial muscle issue or relax at a day spa etc. There are many different spa concepts, so what I would say to get the most out of your personal spa experience is to be confident in asking your therapist or treatment provider a lot of questions, expect to leave your cell phone, work, worries etc. outside. If you've got friends who visit spas, ask for a favorite therapist or recommendation on a location. The quality of the therapist and the environment will make a big difference, so don't be afraid to look for what you want. Your paying for it, so make the experience yours.

2. In what ways can the spa experience be worked into life to improve the overall quality of life?
It's very popular to adopt spa type interiors in homes, offices and even residential communities. People want to unwind and feel refreshed in their own spaces, in addition to being in a spa. Making the transition from a spa treatment to your home spa can include spa interior elements, furniture, showers, spa product rituals at home, aromatherapy, guided imagery for meditation, or even a quick skin recipe made with natural products in your kitchen. You can make the decision to include the benefits of spas everyday in your life, even if you can't visit a spa.

3. What is the best way to choose and experience a destination spa?
When many people think of destination spas, they include resorts, and that is not the case. Resorts utilize spas as a service based amenity rather than a focus, whereas destinations or based in total wellness around the spa and health. Destination spas can be to detox, change a lifestyle, ramp up a diet, recover from an injury or cosmetic procedure. It's subjective, in that they vary from place to place. Destinations are great as a full focus, or “bootcamp” to looking and feeling rested, fit and healthy. To choose one, chat with people on line in spa forums, review places like trip advisor on destination spas to see what people are saying, and do your research to compare pricing, along with what is included in that price. Yoga, meals, consultations? Expect to put some effort into it, just like any other trip or retreat.

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I'd like to thank Ms. Galloway once more for such an insightful and informative interview. If you have any questions for her, feel free to contact her through one of her websites below. I'm sure you will find her as warm and personable as I have.