A Journey to Deep Relaxation:
Experiencing the Vagus Nerve Meditative Massage at Sunny’s Spa & Beauty Lounge

Stepping into Sunny’s Spa & Beauty Lounge at The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa, I was immediately enveloped in a sense of tranquility. The gentle hum of the ocean, the soft scent of essential oils in the air, and the warm welcome from the spa team set the tone for what was about to be a transformative experience.

I had booked the Vagus Nerve Meditative Massage—a 100-minute journey designed to regulate stress, rest, and digestion by stimulating the vagus nerve, the longest cranial nerve in the body. As I checked in, I was presented with a plush robe, slippers, and my choice of tea or water. With my warm tea in hand, I found a peaceful spot to take in the breathtaking ocean view, letting the stress of the day begin to fade.

Soon, Ruthanne, my massage therapist, introduced herself with a calming presence and led me to the Soul treatment room. The name alone suggested the deep relaxation that awaited. After disrobing, I climbed onto the massage table, instantly feeling the room’s warmth embrace me.

The session began with the resonant chime of a sound bowl, a gentle cue to bring my focus inward. A delicate mist of essential oils—juniper, chamomile, lavender, and jojoba—was sprayed lightly around me, setting a deeply calming atmosphere. Warm, steaming towels were placed on my feet and neck, their soothing heat grounding me in the present moment.

Ruthanne’s expert hands worked in slow, intentional movements, beginning with gentle rolling motions on my neck, head, and chest. Each stroke felt like a release, unwinding the built-up tension from my daily life. The stress I had unknowingly carried melted away under her touch. The moment she massaged my scalp, using a nourishing oil and hair conditioner, I felt an unexpected but much-needed wave of relief. Often filled with racing thoughts, my head finally felt light and at ease.

A weighted heating pad was placed on my stomach, its comforting warmth seeping deep into my core. With every warm towel, rhythmic rocking motion, and precise massage technique, my body continued to reset. Ruthanne’s attentiveness was evident, she checked in to ensure the pressure was just right and that I remained in a state of pure comfort. I felt cared for, and my well-being was central to every movement.

As the massage drew to a close, the sound bowl chimed again, gently signaling the end of my experience. I lay there for a moment, basking in the stillness and serenity that had settled within me.

Reluctantly, I rose and slipped back into my robe, making my way to the Outlook. There, I sipped on more tea, allowing the warm sun to kiss my skin and soak up some Vitamin D before returning to the outside world. I felt lighter, clearer, and deeply restored.

The Vagus Nerve Meditative Massage at Sunny’s Spa & Beauty Lounge was more than just a treatment, it was a reset, a journey back to balance. As I left, I carried that newfound calm with me, knowing that whenever life became overwhelming, returning to Sunny’s would be all I needed to find my peace again.

Denise Randazzo is the Owner and Principal Operator of Randazzo Partners and co-founder of Nightingale Hospitality. With over twenty years of experience in hotel sales and marketing, she has spearheaded new lifestyle hotel openings and managed multi-million-dollar budgets. Having spent her career navigating fast-paced environments while managing business operations, staff, and ownership expectations, Denise understands stress all too well. This firsthand knowledge of high-pressure industries has fueled her passion for wellness and the pursuit of balance, making experiences like the Vagus Nerve Meditative Massage even more meaningful.