2 minute read
GENTLE TOUCH
As the year comes to a close it’s time to give your clients that extra bit of attention. From tired minds to tired feet, Salon System’s Lisa Stone shares her thoughts on helping clients feel less frazzled.
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Stress levels high
There’s no getting away from the fact that Christmas is a very hectic time. With planning and shopping and an increased workload, our clients can become incredibly stressed, and soon, fitting in their Christmas nail, hair or beauty appointment can feel like just another task!
When your client is sat in your chair, at your nail station or on your beauty couch they should feel relaxed and soothed but in reality they will often be feeling uptight, as instead of enjoying your service they could be thinking about a long list of jobs.
What can you do?
You can bring in a little mindfulness into your service, helping your client to become present in the moment, so they can re-focus their mind and get the full experience – not just a treatment. Helping your clients stay present means they get to experience every single touch, texture and smell.
This is so easy to do and can be introduced and woven into every service.
First, take a few moments to go through some simple breathing exercises with your client. They will likely have rushed in for their appointment, so taking a few minutes out will help them become calm and focused.
Think about learning to deliver meditation; I offer my clients the option of a 10-minute body scan before a facial or a body massage. It allows them to check in with their body and fall into deep relaxation. They gain so much more from their treatment because they have a clear mind, and they can really unwind and zone out.
Meditation can be done lying down or seated so it’s perfect at the back basin or a manicure station. Consider offering a ‘Mindful Manicure/Pedicure’ that helps clients to release tension and gives them a guilt-free time out.
Your clients could listen to recordings of meditations while receiving their manicure/ pedicure or scalp massage, or you could play them a calming lo-fi playlist – they’re easy to find on YouTube and provide the perfect chilled vibe. This will help the client feel relaxed and able to focus on your touch. Playing music also removes the pressure on the client to feel they have to make conversation.
Fragrant finishing touch
The benefits of aromatherapy are endless, so be sure to introduce some calming fragrances into your space. Scents such as lavender, rose, jasmine and neroli can have a soothing and relaxing effect on the nervous system, helping to lift mood and reduce anxiety, leaving clients feeling calm and peaceful.
Use diffusers in your treatment room and reception area and add aromatherapy candles to your retail offering so that clients can take that relaxing vibe home with them.
Finally, consider offering relaxing herbal teas such as lavender, peppermint and camomile – it’s much better for the clients’ mood than coffee, which is proven to heighten anxiety and stimulate our minds a little too much. It’s all about setting the right tone so your client feels truly restored after their time with you.
