SEATTLE — In the week since the Nov. 5 General Election, day spas in Washington are reporting an uptick in business.
Owners of four separate day spas across King County-- Yuan Spa, Spavia Greenlake, Little Red Day Spa, and Spa Noir-- each told KING 5 that they’re seeing more bookings than they had anticipated for this time of year.
"It was a good 10% higher than what it would have been last year at this time," said Jeff Hengst, owner of Little Red Day Spa in Seattle.
Over in Kirkland's Totem Lake area, a guest services manager at Yuan Spa told KING 5 that the last five days have been particularly busy for them.
"We've seen a surge in our business, of over 11% since after the election," said Gary Tao of Yuan Spa. "Mostly massage. We have people that want to come in and do a facial. A lot of people coming in for hydrotherapy."
A third spa, Spavia Greenlake in Seattle, told KING 5 over email they’re seeing, “a significant increase in the general population seeking relaxation and stress relief during this time.”
It would be easy to jump to the obvious conclusion that the trend is elections-related. After all: concerns about the past or future can take our minds out of the present.
"People are tired, people want to relax," said Tao.
Hengst echoed that sentiment: "I can't prove it, but I'm fairly certain it was anxiety about the election."
However, there could be other reasons for the uptick.
"People are settling into their fall schedule and the daylight is falling back," said Hengst.
Many also seek remedies for their seasonal anxieties or depression, and even seek out rest from our recent shift to daylight saving time.
"We definitely see more people coming in as the weather gets a little colder," said Tao.
Plus, a 2024 U.S. study shows spa visits have grown rapidly amid the broader wellness movement. According to the study, between 2022 and 2023, the industry saw 5.7% more revenue and about one million more Americans visiting spas.
"You create a space like this for people to have that experience, and to do that kind of work, and it actually works. We see them walking out feeling more relaxed, more connected with each other," said Hengst.
While spa services are one way Washingtonians can get the help they need to relax, those in an emotional crisis or needing further supports can always call or text 988 for free guidance from a trained crisis counselor, 24/7.