Meet one of the most inspiring people in my life, Louis Staats. A native to the northeast, Louis and I met during his time at the University of Delaware. He is a visionary painter whose passion and commitment to the visual arts is an inspiration to all who know him.

Louis has always amazed me with his ability to face his fears and overcome obstacles. I've watched as he has become the best version of himself and, in doing so, he inspires me to do the same. I count myself incredibly fortunate to have the friendship and mentorship of such an amazing person as Louis in my life.

Sketching a New Normal: Swapping the Studio for the Sea ⚓️

Through his experiences in the Navy, Louis has learned the importance of having structure and discipline in order to achieve his goals. He is currently stationed in Japan and tells me that he applies these principals to his daily life, by establishing healthy habits such as regular exercise and a balanced diet. Can you guess what his favorite type of massage is?

Louis understands the benefits of massage therapy, which he says help him to relax and stay focused. When he is in Fort Lauderdale, he always books a Hot Stones Massage.

The Bedrock of Relaxation:

Hot Stones Massage

Melting stress away is at the core of this technique. A world renowned treatment, Hot Stones Massage is unique because it uses heated Basalt Stones to create a both relaxing and therapeutic experience.

My search for a true master of this technique took me to the people of Costa Rica who live near a volcano named Arenal. As an apprentice to the teachings of these precious stones, you have to understand how Volcanos affect the world. In Costa Rica there are 5 active volcanos: Turrialba, Poas, Arenal, Rincon de la Vieja and Irazu. 🏔

Fire Bending Masters:

Teachings from Ticos 🔥

One of the most challenging aspects of acquiring proficiency in this style of massage was the frequency of burns. Ouch, this was like touching the Sun and expecting it to bend to your will. The locals (nicknamed Ticos) have developed ways to use this exchange of energy and taught me how to harness the stone's radiating heat.

The technique is comprised of a series of steps through which the practitioner gradually absorbs the heat radiating from the stone into their palm, and then proceeds to transfer this heat to the recipient's body. This transfer process is akin to a dance, where one must be attuned to the rhythm and intensity of the heat.

I was impressed with the notion that the stones possess a vital essence and are an extension of the rivers, which were formed by the eruption of volcanoes many years ago. The stones are therefore imbued with the Earth's energy.

Ticos have a welcoming and easygoing culture, with tons of inspirational quotes scattered throughout their parks and cities. You may have heard the phrase "Pura Vida", which is the country's motto. Another great quote I saw at the spa said "A stone is only an object without its wielder". But my favorite quote was on a hike to the waterfall in the picture and it read "You did not climb the mountain so that the world can see you. You climbed the mountain so that you can see the world".

Keeping Things Simple

Whether you want a Swedish, deep tissue, or fancy-pants Hot Stones massage, it's all only $99 an hour.

No gimmicks, no add-ons, no fuss - just pure relaxation at a fair price

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