Allen Hunt, Paul and Liz Bonner and Brad Drummer
at Nusta Spa's 10th Anniversary Celebration

Some things haven't changed - most notably:

• Liz seems to have as much enthusiasm for Nusta Spa now as she did when she first opened the spa 10 years ago.
• Nusta Spa is committed to be ecologically responsible. In 2004, Nusta Spa was the first spa in the world to achieve LEED^TM Gold certification for commercial interiors. Today they continue to adhere to these standards as well as operate using sustainable, planet-friendly products and practices.
• In 2004, Liz chose the Quecha word "Nusta," which means to treat her clients like royalty, as her spa's name and intention. She got this inspiration after taking a trip to Machu Picchu in Peru where she heard a tour guide describe a set of stones that served as the baths of the Aztec royalty, or "Nusta." The spa is still strives to be guest-centric.
• The contemporary design of the spa's interior is basically the same as it was when it opened. The design is still relevant - it does not look dated or worn a decade later. The spa has also been well maintained. (The interior design of many spas I have visited seem to "expire" around year 8. They are often in need of extreme maintenance at that time as well.)

Liz made wise choices a decade ago and is enjoying the benefits of those choices. I asked Liz to look back at the decision to build a green spa and become the first LEED^TM Gold certified spa. It was an important personal decision, but was it a smart business decision? “It was the best decision I made,” she replied. “It was a point of differentiation." It was more than just using recycled building materials, recyclables and and efficient lighting. She said that having a healthy, comfortable environment in the spa was important for her clients' wellness. For example: a sophisticated air filtration system ensures air quality; non-VOC paints, adhesives and sealants were used to prevent outgassing of harmful contaminants; the energy efficient HVAC system allows the temperature of each treatment room to be adjustable for the individual comfort of clients and staff; and each treatment room offers chromatherapy with LED lighting that can be set to the client's choice of color (some rooms also offer natural light via opaque windows).

According to Liz, it cost more to build green back then and operating green was a struggle. Finding toilet paper, cleaners, etc. that had the desired quality a decade ago was difficult. Now it is much better, and there are many good choices available.

I asked Liz to share some words of wisdom for new spa owners and those considering opening a spa… “You have to have a long term perspective and be realistic," Liz responded. "You are not going to be flying your own private plane. You can make money, but you must reinvest in the spa. You have to keep it maintained and fresh. Make no mistake. It’s hard work. I cleaned the bathrooms and unclogged toilets many times. The goal is long term client retention, and it takes a while to build clientele and develop smooth operations. Decisions are often made for short term gains but don't work in the long run. Long term relationships with clients make it worthwhile and gratifying."

Women's Locker Room at Nusta Spa

One of the Spa Lounges at Nusta Spa

On this visit I experienced a facial that used emerginC products. My esthetician, Marilize, escorted me into the treatment room and stepped out while I climbed onto the wide, comfortable treatment table. I snuggled under the thick, fluffy comforter while Marilize tucked a bolster under my knees. The facial started with steam and cleansing using emerginC's Multi-Fruit Cleanser followed by a Micro-Scrub exfoliation. Extractions were next. After that, everything became a tranquil fog highlighted by warm, moist towels, masks and hand, neck and scalp massages. Marilize provided a card at the end of the facial that listed all the products she used including Vitamin C Serum, Hyper-Vitalizer Face Cream, Hydra-Repair Capsules, Vitamin C Eye Serum, Hyper-Vitalizer Eye Cream, Complexion Control and Sun 30+. My skin felt soft and smooth when it was all over, and I felt very relaxed.

The Corridor to Treatment Rooms at Nusta Spa with walls featuring Nazca Lines inspired by ancient geoglyphs located in the Nazca Desert in Peru

After the facial, Marilize handed me over to Brad Drummer for my next treatment, Nusta's signature Interpretive Touch^TM massage, which was created by Brad. Nusta's web site describes this restorative, healing therapy as a "revolutionary approach to deep tissue massage using pulsating pressure and wave induction strokes to penetrate muscles." Personally, I love this massage, and I think Brad is a brilliant massage therapist - one of the best I've ever experienced (and I have had a LOT of massages). The Interpretive Touch^TM technique/modality is excellent for releasing my tight shoulders, neck and back. Brad also worked on helping my hips loosen up and legs arms gain range of motion. I highly recommend this outstanding massage and this excellent therapist.

Treatment Room at Nusta Spa

My spa experience ended with a mineral makeup application done by Lindsay Ebbin of La Bella Donna linea minerale. According to Linday, it's an all natural makeup line made from mineral pigments to give skin beautiful color and natural looking coverage. It allows skin to breathe (does not clog the pores) and provides natural sun protection and staying power.

Retail Boutique at Nusta Spa

Nusta Spa