Hand & Stone Announces 'Back Friday', A Much-Needed Holiday for Stress Relief

Celebrating Back Friday in Style

The holidays are often celebrated with joy, but they can also be quite taxing on many individuals. In response to the mounting stress associated with the holiday season, Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa has inaugurated a new national holiday called Back Friday. Slated for December 5 this year, this innovative day aims to redirect attention from the chaos of the holiday shopping frenzy to the importance of self-care and relaxation.

A New Holiday Tradition

Back Friday is positioned strategically one week after Black Friday, a day notorious for its overwhelming shopping deals. According to a recent survey by Hand & Stone, nearly 50% of Americans find the week following Black Friday to be more stressful than a typical week. This unveiling of Back Friday encourages people to pause and acknowledge the burdens placed on those who keep the festivities alive—parents, caregivers, and delivery drivers often shoulder most of this weight. In fact, 63% of respondents identified mothers as the primary carriers of holiday stress, while many recognized the invaluable contributions of delivery drivers.

The Pop-Up Experience

To officially launch this new holiday, Hand & Stone will host a pop-up event in the heart of New York City on December 5. The bustling city, symbolic of holiday chaos, will provide an ideal backdrop for this much-needed break. Visitors to the pop-up will have the opportunity to enjoy complimentary chair massages and could win valuable self-care prizes. This is a way for New Yorkers to take a meaningful pause amidst their holiday hustle, reinforcing the idea that relaxation is essential during such a frantic time.

Nationwide Self-Care Activations

In tandem with the NYC event, Hand & Stone locations across the country will celebrate Back Friday with special in-spa activities. These will include offering complimentary sessions to deserving guests who exemplify the spirit of selflessness during the holidays. The goal here is to cultivate a community-focused energy, allowing patrons to express their gratitude towards those supporting them through the holiday season.

In addition to the experiences on this special day, Hand & Stone will extend their holiday gift card promotion during Back Friday—customers can receive a $50 promotional card with the purchase of a gift card worth $150 or more at select locations. This initiative not only encourages gifting but also emphasizes the importance of self-care in everyone’s wellness routine.

A Shift in Holiday Mindset

CEO of Hand & Stone, John Teza, stated, "The holiday rush often leaves people feeling drained and overwhelmed. Back Friday is about shifting the narrative; it’s about recognizing the importance of stepping back and taking time for self-care." The holiday aims to dovetail seamlessly with the existing traditions, creating an opportunity for reflection and relaxation amidst the seasonal rush.

Another significant insight from the survey reveals that 34% of Americans would opt for a massage over material gifts, hinting at a growing desire for experiences rather than possessions. This trend underscores a broader spectrum of self-care gaining popularity in modern society.

Conclusion

With Back Friday, Hand & Stone aims to redefine the post-Black Friday experience, encouraging individuals to prioritize their wellness. This new holiday will be recognized annually, solidifying its place in the cultural calendar as a day dedicated to relaxation and gratitude. As we immerse ourselves in the holiday spirit, let's not forget to carve out time for ourselves; after all, self-care is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. For further details, you can visit Hand & Stone and keep up with updates on Instagram (@handandstoneusa).

Through this initiative, the hope is to inspire a nationwide movement that encourages self-care and wellness during a time that can often be overwhelming, reminding everyone to treat themselves with the care they deserve.