Relocating to Nashville for school comes with many challenges — some obvious and some unexpected. Until I got to Vanderbilt, I didn’t think about how I had to find new places for my high-maintenance beauty habits. After some trial and error, I have uncovered the best places to escape the pressures of academia and indulge in self-care habits (through recommendations and exploring near campus). Finding a new hair salon was the biggest challenge, but I found everything else afterward. All of the businesses mentioned are within walking distance from campus unless otherwise specified. From meticulous manicures to tension-melting massages, these establishments know the value of a good spa day.
Spa experiences: Massages and facials
Nashville School of Massage Therapy
This establishment is exactly what it sounds like — a school for masseuses — and customers are the guinea pigs. This means the experience is extremely affordable (only $40 for an hour massage). It probably won’t be the best massage of your life, but it will be worth the low price. This business is in Franklin, so unfortunately, it is about a 30-minute drive.
Woodhouse Spa
This spa is for the bad and boujee. The prices for massages and facials are steep ($145 and up), but it is worth it for a special occasion. The service is impeccable, and the massages, facials and rituals are dream-like. The spa has been consistently voted one of the best in Nashville.
The Lotus Room
This massage experience focuses on healing the customer. Shoes are removed upon arrival, and the staff immediately ensures you are comfortable and feeling your best. The prices are average for a high-quality massage ($80 and up), and the experience is soul-cleansing.
NSI Wellness and Aesthetics
While NSI boasts a wide array of services, their facials are highly recommended ($110 and up), and they enjoy collaborating with Vanderbilt organizations for wellness. They curate a relaxing experience with medical-grade products and services.
Waxes
Spa Haus
Although this business does more than waxes, their waxing is what many rave about. The prices are on the higher end ($90 for a Brazilian wax). Their staff has been described as extremely welcoming and friendly. The building also has a perfect spa vibe. It’s a great place to recover from the craziness of campus, with minimalist interior design, a salt wall and luxury finishes. This spa is a 10-minute drive from campus.
Body Sugar
Again, Body Sugar offers more than just waxes — but the waxes are highly recommended and decently priced ($73 for a Brazilian wax). They also only use sugar waxing, which some people think is less painful than hard or soft wax.
Hello Sugar
These waxes are efficient, easy, less painful and on the cheaper side ($63 for a Brazilian wax). The staff is extremely amicable and makes customers feel comfortable. However, finding the salon can be a bit challenging, as it is located within a larger salon (Salons by JC) that houses several small businesses.
Nails
Each of these nail salons is highly recommended and relatively close to campus. The prices refer to a gel manicure without gel removal.
Chao Nail Bar – $45
My experience at Chao Nail Bar was by far the best nail day I’ve had in Nashville, with great customer service and the most comfortable massage chairs I’ve ever been in. They also have nail techs that specialize in intricate designs.
Shira’s Nail Bar – $55
This salon is a fan favorite on campus, but the prices are a bit more expensive than other local nail salons (sometimes they do offer student discounts).
Apex Nails – $45
Apex Nails offers straight-to-the-point, no-frills services as well as deluxe options. The family-owned salon has been in business for 30 years, and the experience is a worthwhile spa day without breaking the bank.
Whether you need a quick manicure or a full day of pampering, these Nashville spas and salons have you covered. As you navigate the stress of school, remember to take a moment for yourself. After all, a little self-care can go a long way in keeping you refreshed and ready to tackle whatever’s next.
