According to co-owner Christa Bennett Thurman, the spa’s priority is to create a meditative and comfortable atmosphere where clients can “let go and relax.”

–Therapy by the Sea, a day spa offering a comfortable, calming ambience and experienced staff, recently celebrated its first year under new ownership. Located in the quaint West Village area of Cambria within walking distance of the beach, Therapy by the Sea is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or simply unwind.

According to co-owner Christa Bennett Thurman, the spa’s priority is to create a meditative and comfortable atmosphere where clients can “let go and relax.”

Christa and her husband, Tom, relocated to Cambria not long ago because they were attracted to the town’s beauty and charm, and the warmth of its residents. They had family ties to the seaside village, and had always considered Cambria a special place. It also served as the ideal location to settle in and take care of Christa’s mother during her twilight years.

Upon arriving in Cambria, the Thurmans found themselves eager to share the “Cambria experience” with others, so they began seeking business opportunities that would allow them to do so. In November 2014 the perfect opportunity presented itself—Christa and Tom assumed ownership of an established day spa, Therapy by the Sea, located in the West Village area of town.

Owners Christa Bennett Thurman and her husband Tom.

Therapy by the Sea offered Christa the ideal venue to share over 20 years worth of experience in the massage field, including prior ownership of a health and wellness center in Sacramento.

Christa is trained in the practice of Breema, which uses rhythmic movements of the body to create physical, mental and emotional balance. “Breema is the cornerstone of my practice,” she explained. According to The Breema Center, “By applying the principles [of Breema] and supporting body-mind connection, Breema facilitates a taste of presence in the body that becomes the foundation of a new dimension of consciousness.”

Since purchasing Therapy by the Sea just over a year ago, the Thurmans have remodeled the spa and extensively expanded the menu of services. The spa, a roomy two-table suite, offers both individual and duet sessions (for couples). There is also a special private dressing room, with robes and chairs for clients to relax in while receiving their Detox and Renewal Foot Soak package add-on.

The expanded services and offerings include Ayurvedic treatments, new equipment, chair massage, Lucia Apothecary skincare products, and custom blended oils and other skincare products to meet clients’ specific needs. Additionally, according to Christa, seaweed wraps will be introduced to the spa service menu soon.

Because spa treatments from Therapy by the Sea are often given as a gift for special occasions, such a loved one’s birthday or anniversary, the spa also offers “add-ons,” which can be purchased to enhance a gift purchased through the spa.

Tom Thurman, who manages aspects of the business behind the scenes, partners with local businesses to create gift baskets and add-on packages that feature local products, such as Central Coast sparkling cider and locally made desserts. All gift bags and baskets also include coupons to local businesses, providing clients a great way to explore what the local community has to offer. For those seeking adventure, more elaborate add-ons include wine tasting in the San Luis Obispo area or even a trip to Las Vegas!

Therapy by the Sea offers something for everyone, and they aim to make each guest’s experience unique and memorable. According to Christa, “We pay attention to feedback and continually seek ways to enhance our services. I try to provide for others what I would like to receive, and that’s where I put my attention and focus.”

While the spa’s location in Cambria attracts many tourists, it is also building a strong base of repeat local clientele. Regardless of whether a client lives on the Central Coast or is visiting from out of the area, Christa says “I enjoy Cambria for the environment, people and friendliness. I try to embody all of that so others can experience it as well.”

Therapy by the Sea is located at 816 Main Street, Suite F in Cambria. For more information, call (805) 927-2956 or visit www.therapybythesea.com.

-Amie Hammond