Heading to the UK and not sure you want to hit the main tourist spots? I don't blame you. While I love seeing them, there's something about doing other things - whether it is getting off the beaten path, following your passion (ghosts? beaches? food?), or relaxing. And while your family is discovering Victorian train stations in the Dales, or tromping around castles, you can discover your own spa holiday with Yorkshire spa breaks. Here's what to look for, think about, and how to prepare. After all, this is supposed to be a stress-free experience, and allow you to recuperate back to optimal health. Take care of these details, and you'll enjoy your spa holiday even more.

Planning

What do you want to do?

Relaxation means different things to different people. Your spa holiday might mean pampering, or it could mean yoga classes, or even a meditation retreat. Do your research as to what is available in the area you're headed, and then take a close look at what you (and your body) needs. Which leads to...

Revitalize or Decompress?

What are the goals of your spa break? Do you want to decompress and rid yourself of tension and muscle aches, do you want to grow (spiritually or personally), or do you want to learn something new? 

A couple sit and watch the world go by on the rocky outcrop at Woodhouse, Ilkley Moor

When do you want to go?

Do you prefer to sit in a hot tub with snow falling all around you, or get a massage while you're in a lovely, green garden? Ascertain the season! 

White blanket over Ilkley. 

Who are you going with? 

Do you want to have a couples retreat? With girlfriends? Or go on your own? 

What's your budget?

You can go all out and find an all-inclusive spa holiday, you can head to a spa for certain services that you love, or you can create your own, wherever you are at. It might be walks on a beach, a couples massage, and a lovely evening with wine. Or hit the spa, and then walk the beach and have a lovely dinner. It's all up to you!

How to Prepare

Do all the work you need to do before you go

Make sure you're not bringing work from home. Set your email up with an autoresponder that says when you'll be back. Don't answer work calls, unless it is an emergency. Truly give yourself time to enjoy this break!

Sleep as much as possible

While you're there, sleep as much as possible. This will help whatever treatments, massages, etc., work their magic on you on a deeper level. 

Hydrate

This goes without saying, but stay hydrated. Just like exercise, many spa treatments can release toxins into your muscles and you want those OUT. Hydrate, especially if you're in a sauna or getting hot stone massages.

Vitamins

Be sure to take your vitamins, including B vitamins. These will also help you readjust your body from all the stress, and maximize the spa treatments you're enjoying.

Avoid heavy meals, lots of alcohol, and too much caffeine

All of these can negatively affect your spa treatments, thus defeating the purpose.

Get in the right frame of mind

Get ready to relax! Whatever activities you've chosen for your spa holiday, be fully prepared to let go, relax, and have the magic of the spa rejuvenate your tired body and refresh your outlook. Isn't that what you came here for?

Breathe!

What a wonderful experience! Be sure to breathe deeply and enjoy. Bet you'll be back soon!

Photos: Miguel Virkkunen Carvalho, Tom Blackwell, TJBlackwell, VisitSormland, Dennis Wong, VisitSormland, PORTO BAY FALÉSIA, Denise Cross Photography