I am somewhat of a known spa junkie. Scrap that, I am borderline addicted to spas, massages and mani/pedis. However, these luxuries are not synonymous with living on a budget, or in this economy. Friends of mine from all walks of life tease me about visiting the spas and inquire about how in the world it is manageable. I will start my tips out with a disclaimer that I have cut back on my spa going, as my muscles were actually getting over massaged and it's much nicer (and healthier) to go every so often and makes it all the mort savory and special of an experience.
Firstly, set up a Lifebooker account. I have been using this fabulous website for over a year to book a variety of treatments (haircuts, waxing, massage...) at discounted four and five star spas/salons. Granted you need to be open to experiencing new places and people and the site only runs specials with particular spas (usually it's a cyclical thing). But I've discovered some amazing places which I continue to frequent (even not booking through Lifebooker). Based on how much your treatment(s) are, Lifebooker asks you to write a short summary of your experience and rate it , then credits you an allotted amount of reward dollars to be used (within a certain time frame) towards any loot on their site you wish.
I usually aimed to book the most discounted massages when I first started using the site, and to this day, have never had a horrible experience (some less stellar than others), but never nightmarish or even close.
Once you've pinpointed your local place to get massages or mani pedis, be smart. ALWAYS ask about a frequent client card (usually it's 10 manis or treatments and then one for free). Acqua Beauty Bar, where I go with my mom, gives you a card which credits you a point for each dollar you spend. When you reach one thousand, you get free 100 dollar value massage. Takes a while, but since I go there regularly and the service is AMAZING, I know eventually I'll reach that goal.
Also check spa websites for Early Bird specials. Almost all salons have a Mon-Wed special on mani-pedis. My favorite? True Nail Salon on Fifth Avenue between 18th and 19th features fantastic, unsurpassed mani/pedis for 28 bucks the first three days of each week. My massage place of choice (and I am a certified massage maven at this point) is Essential Therapy.
Located on 25th between Park and Lex, this fabulous oasis of a spa has a jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, all free of charge, every time you come visit. I usually stay for two hours, one for massage and then the second winding down in various areas. They are about middle of the road price wise, but the therapists are always fantastic, listen to your requests/needs and they have amazingly large, lush rooms with great tables and soothing music.
I could probably go on forever about this place...but to get back to the discounted beauty point, Mon-Fri, if you book a massage before 3pm, they offer an Early Bird special, meaning you get 35 bucks off the standard massage price. I know you probably work and can't get away very often, but how about this July 4th? It's on a Monday...
Lastly, if you have a Smartphone, download the FourSquare app and use it! Checking into spas and salons often scores you free goodies and if you end up being a mayor of a venue, you sometimes are entitled to free treatments and discounts. And use those old student IDs, as they will earn a 10 % discount at least...
I hope these tips inspire you to plan a little 'me-time' for yourself. It's still isn't cheap, and is time consuming based on a busy work schedule, but your mind and body will thank you.
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