April 15 is tax day.

The next day is National Stress Awareness Day. Obviously, we have so much stress--thanks, Uncle Sam--we a need a whole day to realize it.

Here’s the good news: Spa Week doesn’t end until Sunday (April 18). Spa Week began in 2004 for busy New Yorkers. The concept was to bring the pampering and expense of luxury spa treatments to the masses. Treatments that would normally cost $100-200 are reduced to $50. The spas would determine which treatments they wanted to offer, but during the designated week, all the samplings would cost $50 and last 45 minutes.

In light of the reality of our pressure-filled existence, a visit to one local spa ought to be just be the ticket for a few moments of relief.

Spa Gregorie’s is located in Del Mar. It opened eight months ago. In January, it won Best Day Spa in America by American Spa Magazine.

Spa Gregorie’s offers four treatments during Spa Week: A hydrating and exfoliating express facial, a shed-your-skin body scrub, a Swedish deep tissue or sports massage and a women’s blow-dry and deep conditioning treatment.

The express facial with Mylynn is gentle and relaxing. The attention to detail is unparalleled, and your skin will leave with a glow that lasts for days.

Owner Angela Cortright owns two spas in addition to Gregorie’s in Del Mar. For more than 12 years in the day spa business, she has learned how to do it right. Cortright’s spas in Newport Beach and Rancho Sanata Margarita have both won rave reviews.

Historians have suggested that the word "spa" is an acronym for the Latin Salus Per Aqua, or health through water. Spas began with Roman baths and were a common practice by both rich and poor.

Over the years, the idea of visiting a spa has mutated to something that only the well-to-do do.

“I hate the term “pampering”,” says Cortright. “I began this business because I was the poster child for stress. My health was suffering. I had bad skin, digestive issues and a heart that was pounding out of my chest. My husband introduced me to a spa and I had an epiphany.”

The prestigious Mayo Clinic conducted research regarding the health properties of massage, and studies found that it can be helpful for relieving stress, managing pain, controlling blood pressure, boosting immunity and assisting in the treatment of cancer.

Enjoying a day or even 45 minutes at the spa shouldn’t be a luxury for the well off. It shouldn't be a guilty pleasure. If Spa Week offers customers anything, it’s a chance to try out a new hot spot or a new treatment, and take care of your body at the same time.