A Green Spa Experience to Remember

Finding myself in San Francisco for a conference, I decided to arrive a day early and explore a spa experience in Freestone which is about 65 miles outside of the city. The thought of “dropping out” for the day to “drop in” on myself was very appealing.

The Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary is a green and sustainable property. The owner, Michael Stusser is a leader in the sustainable movement. It was 25 years ago that he made a commitment to creating a green spa – one that resonates with nature. A founding member of the Green Spa Network, Michael is forward thinking and envisions that spas will be both the wellness and spiritual centers of the future.

I entered the small building and was met by the intoxicating scent of essential oils. The staff was delightful and Jordan offered to take me on a tour of the property. Towering bamboo hugged a wooden gate that when opened took my breath away. The thought came to mind, “Debra, you are not in Kansas anymore.” I was transported to an extraordinary place, one that bespeaks transformation. The Japanese garden, native plantings, waterfalls, fountain, rock gardens and stream were designed to embrace individuals as they reflect and decompress.

After my tour I was escorted to a creek-side Pagoda and it was there that I received an aromatherapy massage and scalp treatment. Thanks to Consuelo, I was now uber-relaxed. My delicious vegetarian lunch and freshly brewed tea were served in a private enclave overlooking rustic plantings with dramatically beautiful scenery. It was now time for my Sound Therapy session. Suspended in a hammock overlooking a garden I listen to music that was composed specifically to balance the brain. I was drifting away in a state of euphoria when I sensed someone sitting nearby. The practitioner patiently waited for me to notice her and introduce herself. I scheduled for a guided meditation session. Daidie guided me through my past, my present and my future. For me it was a cleansing of the spirit and soul. I experienced a shift within and felt light and happy.

One treatment I did not have a chance to experience was the Cedar Enzyme Bath. Osmosis is the only spa in the United States that offers this unique service which originates in Japan. The hot wood chip bath is used to treat arthritis, the immune system and other body systems. Definitely on my list for my next visit!

Most of us are living a high pressured, tightly scheduled and high-tech lifestyle. It is important to quiet the mind and body and take time to connect, not electronically but energetically, to the nurturing essence of Mother Nature. Thank you Osmosis for a blissful day!

Debra Duneier is an accredited LEED® Green Associate, Certified Eco-Designer, Feng Shui Master Practitioner, Creator of EcoChi® and an award winning Author of EcoChi: Designing the Human Experience. www.ecochi.com