The Perfect Mother’s Day Massage

Gift-buying slackers: We've got you covered

Spa guests of the Four Seasons Philadelphia are welcome to chill poolside, use the gym or unwind in the sauna post-treatment.

I’m in love with the Four Seasons. Or, more specifically, the Spa at the Four Seasons, and Desiree, the pretty, red-haired savior who worked quietly yet efficiently on my incredibly tight, knot-riddled back for 80 blissful minutes yesterday afternoon, to be exact. From the moment my Total Tranquillity massage started to the moment I finally resurfaced from my relaxed haze, work, friends, family—life—didn’t enter my mind.

As I wrapped myself in a soft, wonderfully over-sized bath towel and slipped into the warm respite of the sauna for a post-massage treat, I couldn’t help but think how much my mom would enjoy it, and how perfect a Mother’s Day gift a trip to the spa would make. I could just see the two of us lounging about the beautiful indoor pool after our treatments, ordering a bit of room service as we both enjoyed the vacation-like bubble that a ritzy hotel instantly provides. Or, perhaps, I’ll bring my girlfriends. Or my sisters. Or book another, just-for-me, mid-week treat. Either way, I’ll be back.

Total Tranquillity massage, $195 for 80 minutes; $150 for 50 minutes, The Four Seasons Philadelphia, One Logan Square, Philadelphia, 215-963-1500, fourseasons.com/philadelphia.