Relaxing Spaaaaah...Willow Stream Spa

The Willow Stream courtyard grotto has a three-story therapeutic waterfall, inspired by the turquoise waters of the Havasupai Falls in the Grand Canyon. Spa-goers can soothe their shoulders with three different waterfall pressures.
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by Tiffany Nelson

From the moment you step foot in the door at Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, your pulse slows down just a little. Everything is so tranquil in the lobby from the soft music to the front desk staff. They recommend checking in 45 minutes prior to your appointment and for good reason – this is the ultimate place for relaxing and that’s exactly what they want you to do.  

Of course, I was running late and only had 10 minutes to get ready for my facial. As I was escorted to the women’s locker room, passing by the tranquil café, the waterfall and soft lights, I finally started to slow my step. And, I was glad I came fully prepared to enjoy the eucalyptus inhalation room and the luxurious rooftop pool later.  

With a tendency to stick to the typical facial and massage when I go to spas, this time I went out on a limb and tried some of their specialty treatments. Starting with the aromatherapy blending bar, where you actually create your own oil to be used for your facial later, these oils were comprised of what you are feeling, how they smelled and when all put together, are your own unique oil that you can take home and use. This process is unique to Willow Stream and is so fun to do. It’s amazing how our bodies react to a smell one day and may not like it the next day.

Next came the Arizona Aromatherapy facial and I must say, it was one of the best facials I’ve ever had. Starting with a massage on my feet, (which who doesn’t love), to using this oil that was specifically made for me, it made all my worries fade away. I believe I even fell asleep at one point while I was having my shoulders, hands and face massaged.

Next, came my favorite part, the massage. The Hacienda retreat is a body experience that finds your energy and restores your glow that pays homage to La Hacienda restaurant. It begins with a yellow-corn and lime body polish. Never knew my skin could be so soft. Then, an ultra-hydrating shea-butter mask, scented with lime zest, spearmint and lemon, which was so refreshing and, of course, we had to add in an additional 30 minutes of massage. I have to say, this was FABULOUS!!!  

Willow Stream has so many unique massages including the Stay Active Rx. This signature program offers relief from joint inflammation and recurring muscle aches and pains associated with many everyday sports and activities. You can choose from Golfer’s Performance Massage, Stay Active Rx Massage or Stay Active Rx Back Soother.

It’s hard to make the time for ourselves, with all the directions our lives are pulled in, however at Willow Stream Spa that’s their focus. To recharge our energy, which makes the difference between living and living well, and allow us to flow, rather than fight through life.

The Willow Stream Spa is located in the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess at 7575 East Princess Drive in Scottsdale, Arizona. For more information or to make a reservation for the best recharging experience of your life, call 480.585.4848, 800.441.1414 or visit   www.willowstream.com/Scottsdale.