Ocean Beach Mainstreet Association, September 2008
Hidden Pleasure
A good massage
is one of life's simple pleasures, often put aside as an unnecessary
luxury expense as economic times get tough. But with all the proven
health benefits that massages and skin treatments can provide, not to
mention the sheer pleasure, we may want to reconsider our priorities.
Among many other benefits, massage therapy has been known to help alleviate
physical ailments such as back pain and migraines, increase joint flexibility,
exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles, and even ease
dependence on medications. Skin treatments have been known to improve
the overall condition of the skin and promote tissue regeneration, reducing
scar tissue and stretch marks.
Enter The Hidden Spa, one of the newest members of Ocean Beach's business
community, located at 4969 Santa Monica Avenue, Suite C, directly behind
Apple Tree Market. Jill Pomi, an aesthetician for over 8 years and an
OB resident for 10 years, is the sole proprietor.
The Hidden Spa is a full service and all natural day spa, offering spa
services including manicures and pedicures, waxing, facials, and massages.
What makes The Hidden Spa unique is its focus on all natural ingredients.
According to Jill, "my emphasis has been all organic, all-natural
care for your skin and body". The spa features organic manicures
and facials. An organic mani/pedi-cure uses a water-based polish made
from all natural ingredients which are mixed on the premises, which
means it's healthier for your nails. Similarly, the raw materials used
for an organic facial and massage are purchased individually and mixed
on-site, ensuring that every treatment is truly all natural. Jill buys
raw materials such as aloe, almond oil, hemp and grape seed oils, dried
lavender, mango butter and shea butter directly from an orchard in Georgia.
Her sea salt is purchased and shipped directly from Israel. Other spas
that purport to be organic often purchase their products from suppliers
who manufacture their items commercially and are not always all natural.
Buying direct from the source not only means that Jill has control of
what ingredients go into her products, but it also means that she can
cut out the middle man and keep her prices low.
One of The Hidden Spa's most popular facials is the pumpkin peel facial
(which has received rave reviews online). This facial feature uses an
all natural enzyme derived from pumpkins, which naturally and effectively
absorbs dead skin cells, eats away oils, and gently rejuvenates skin.
Among many other treatment options, they offer a traditional European
facial, great for first-timers, a facial for acne prone skin, and a
mini facial, perfect for a quick skin refresher. Undecided? Each client
meets with a trained aesthetician who recommends the perfect treatment
for that client based on their unique needs and objectives.
Another unique feature of The Hidden Spa stems from Jill's business
philosophy. She hires aestheticians and massage therapists that instinctively
want to help others and are not just interested in making a quick buck.
Unlike massage technicians that you may find at other spas, each of
her massage therapists are HHPs or holistic health care professionals
which means that they have achieved the highest level of certification.
The Hidden Spa's primary focus is on helping their clients feel great
and customizing programs that fit their needs. She never feels that
she or any of her staff needs to "sell" their services, so
you will never experience any pushy up-selling. Jill and her employees
realize that if they focus on the well-being of their clients, the results
will speak for themselves.
Here are some of The Hidden Spa's great packages, perfect as a gift
to others or a gift to yourself.
• For $299, you can indulge in a treatment package of 6 one-hour
massages.
• For $140, you can pamper yourself and a friend or loved one
in a couples' massage. This package includes a 1 hour massage for each
of you, flowers, chocolate, sparkling cider, and a peppermint foot scrub,
in a serene, relaxing atmosphere, with side by side massage beds.
• For that special occasion, whether it's a bridal shower, bachelorette
party, or just a day at the spa, you can book the entire facility and
spend the day with up to 30 friends, pampering yourself with all the
services that The Hidden Spa offers. They can customize your special
day to make it unique and memorable.
The Hidden Spa is open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and by special
appointment outside regular business hours. You can call the spa directly
at 619-224-2160 for an appointment and can obtain more information at
their website: www.obhiddenspa.com.
Ocean Beach Mainstreet Association. “Hidden Pleasure.” Ocean Beach News: September 2008. <http://oceanbeachsandiego.com/OceanBeachNews.shtml?242>
San Diego Magazine, April 2008
