THE HEALING TOUCH: “Helping Hands” are the focus at Alchemy Mind and Body Spa. “We are experts at what we do. But knowing the best techniques is only part of the process. We are also here to make you feel great. Whether you’re here for a one-hour service or an entire day, your happiness is of utmost importance.” Owner Denyse Thedinga is shown near a Buddha replica in the waiting room, which helps to create a sense of serenity and relaxation. (Photo by Julie Dassaro)

By Jean Stratton

The healthy benefits of massage and facials are well known, and you will definitely be in good hands at Alchemy Mind and Body Spa in Kingston,

Once considered a luxury, massage and facials are now thought of as essential by many. More and more people are discovering not only the benefits for their skin, but also for their state of mind.

As owner Denyse Thedinga points out, “The benefits of massage and facials include relaxation and stress relief. It is important to relax and take a moment for yourself, especially with the stresses in the world today.”

Located at 4451 Route 27 (at the Raymond Road intersection), Alchemy Mind and Body Spa opened in 2015. It is situated in the historic Higgins House, which dates to 1709. Restored over the years, the house is listed on the National Historic Register, and its spacious size, and expanse of light-filled windows, contribute to a congenial setting for spa services.

Value of Relaxation

A Hopewell native and licensed massage therapist, Thedinga has worked in the massage field for more than 15 years, including at the current location, serving as director when it was the OnSen Wellness spa. Formerly a yoga teacher, she is well aware of the value of relaxation.

“Alchemy Mind and Body is a place for positive transformation and growth,” she explains. She liked the idea of “Alchemy” as the name of the spa, noting its definition as a “seemingly magical process of transformation, creation, or combination.”

Alchemy Mind and Body specializes in a full range of massage and facial treatments, as well as foot soaks and hot tub and sauna services.

“For the complete spa experience, we recommend combining several treatments,” notes Thedinga. “Clients who stay for an hour leave relaxed; those who stay for two or three hours leave feeling transformed!”

The staff of 27 includes 17 massage therapists and five experienced facial estheticians. Nine treatment rooms on two floors are available, and in addition, an outside garden features the hot tub and sauna locations.

“The massage therapists have a combined 321 years of experience!” points out Thedinga. A specialist in ashiatsu deep massage, cupping, and therapeutic deep tissue massage (a rehabilitative massage that can help relieve pain, sore muscles, and stress), she points out their restorative powers.

Full Spectrum

“The goal of these treatments is to reduce pain, reduce stress, and to focus on specific problems. If you are in constant pain or discomfort, these treatments could help.”

The spa offers a full spectrum of massage therapy, including integrative (with Swedish techniques), hot stones, aromatherapy, maternity, and the customized “Alchemist” signature massage, among others.

“Each massage is tailored to the client’s individual needs to enhance health and well-being,” explains Thedinga. “The massage therapists go far beyond the superficial to profoundly rejuvenate and indulge your senses in an experience that is beyond compare.”

Facials are also very popular at Alchemy, and they include services for all skin types. The signature “Alchemist” facial helps to renew and revitalize, and is both invigorating and refreshing. The new state-of-the-art HydraFacial uses a special wand to cleanse, remove impurities, and hydrate and moisturize.

There are facials designed to help teenage skin, address issues of aging skin, and other specific conditions. Men’s facials, back facials, and chemical peels are also available.

Tired feet will love time spent in one of Alchemy’s special signature foot soaks. These 30-minute or 60-minute treatments can be personalized, and take place indoors or outside in the spa garden. Complimentary tea is served during this service. The garden is also the setting for the hot tub and sauna, enjoyed by many clients.

10 Percent Discount

In addition to individual services, combination packages are available. As Thedinga explains, “We have packaged together some of our most popular services and created day package experiences. The packages that are two-and-a-half or more hours of service are discounted 10 percent. You may also customize you own package.

Individual services are usually 30, 60, or 90 minutes, and prices range accordingly. Facials start at $85 for the back, with others at $115, $145. $185, and up to $275 or more for the HydraFacial.

The 30-minute massage therapy treatments are $85; others range from $115 to $145 to $185 for 60 or 90 minutes. Combined day spa packages are in the $220 to $355.50 range for several treatments.

Gift cards are very popular, notes Thedinga. “It is a wonderful way to introduce someone to the benefits of massage and facials. They are a welcome gift.”

Many regular clients enjoy the services at Alchemy Mind and Body. They are all ages from 15 and up, and come from Princeton and beyond.

“Some customers come once a month, even once a week,” reports Thedinga. “If people cannot come that often, I recommend they come four times a year, at the change of the seasons. Different seasons can affect the skin differently. Also, sometimes a group of friends will come together, and in addition, we offer couples massages.”

Right Career

Thedinga knows she has chosen the right career, and is encouraged as she looks ahead. “I love everything about my work. It always reminds me of why I wanted to do it. I wanted to help people and make a difference in their lives. To see them feel better after a massage is very rewarding to me.

“And I am always learning. Each body is different, with different conditions. Clients all have different personalities and different problems in their life.”

Her enthusiasm for her work is leading her to open a school for massage at the spa. “I hope to open it in the near future,” she says. “Students will be instructed here, and it will be an opportunity for them to have hands-on experience right here.”

Now that the New Year is upon us, perhaps it’s time to try something new for yourself. Time to let go of that “To Do” list for an hour and treat yourself to a relaxing massage or facial.

As Thedinga observes, “From the moment you walk in the door, our focus is on relaxation. Our spa services are a great way to take a step back from the bustle of everyday life. Come take a break with us!”

Alchemy Mind and Body Spa is open by appointment only, Tuesday to Friday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For further information, call (609) 430-9999 or visit the website at alchemymindbody.com.