A New Era Of Self-Care

Under the guidance of Tania McCorkle, Director of Wellness Programming and Development, Strata Spa and Salon curates an experience that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. In today’s fast-paced world, self-care is not an indulgence; it is a necessity. Through a blend of intentional treatments, thoughtful products, and a serene setting, the spa and salon empowers guests to prioritize their well-being and embark on a journey of rejuvenation.

Strata Spa and Salon’s origins are deeply rooted in the pursuit of whole-person wellness. Inspired by the personal journey of the owner of Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, who struggled with health challenges and found traditional medicine fragmented, Strata Spa and Salon was created as a place where local residents and visitors could explore integrative healing modalities. Open to the public and welcoming locals, club members, resort guests, and area visitors alike “Our vision has always been to provide access—to create an atmosphere where people can come and select their own path, whether for relaxation, celebration, or a deeper exploration of holistic health,” explained Tania McCorkle, Director of Wellness Programming and Development.

Tania is passionate about the importance of wellness, both professionally and personally. “Health and wellness should be at the top of anyone’s priority list,” she asserted. “Stress and lack of sleep are two of the biggest issues people face today. No matter how well we think we’re dealing with it, sometimes we aren’t dealing with it at all.”

Tania’s path to Colorado Springs and Strata is one shaped by a lifelong passion for health and fitness. Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, she was drawn to the active outdoor lifestyle from an early age. When she moved to the United States, she pursued a career in fitness, eventually transitioning into spa and wellness leadership. Her journey took her to esteemed wellness destinations like Canyon Ranch and Barton Creek, but it was the unique vision of Strata Spa and Salon that captured her heart.

Her role at Strata is an evolution of her background, blending fitness, spa services, and whole-person wellness into one seamless experience under the roof of a premier resort. With a keen understanding of the interconnectedness between physical health, relaxation, and rejuvenation, Tania is dedicated to ensuring that every guest at Strata finds exactly what they need to restore balance in their lives.

Strata Spa and Salon is not just about massages and facials; it is a destination for those seeking a transformative experience. It integrates wellness, offering a blend of traditional spa treatments and alternative healing practices. “People just want to feel better,” Tania said. “We blend a variety of approaches, giving guests a selection of paths to follow.”

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the way people approach self-care. According to Tania, “We’ve seen a huge shift. Guests aren’t just looking for a spa day; they are seeking deeper meaning in their experiences.” In response, Strata has been intentional in selecting vendors and products that align with this evolving mindset. “It’s not just about the service—it’s about the story behind it,” she said.

From carefully sourced nail products free from harmful chemicals to holistic Ayurvedic treatments designed to restore balance, every element is chosen with purpose. “We brought in Ayurvedic treatments nearly three years ago because they align so well with our integration of wellness,” Tania shared. “These services reset the body’s energy, providing grounding and revitalization.”

Strata’s offerings go beyond the conventional. Among the standout treatments is the bamboo massage, an intense deep tissue therapy similar to a foam roller experience. “It’s great for deep muscle work, though it may not be for everyone,” Tania explained. For those looking to enhance their skin, Strata’s facials incorporate techniques like red light therapy and HydroFacial treatments. Hair health is also a priority, with scalp analysis services that assess hair growth conditions and recommend treatments such as RevitaLash, originally developed to support chemotherapy patients experiencing hair loss.

CBD treatments have also become a guest favorite, featuring a locally crafted product developed by a founder seeking relief for his mother’s multiple sclerosis symptoms. “It’s a beautiful, homegrown product that’s incredibly effective,” Tania noted.

For expectant mothers, the spa’s prenatal treatments offer specialized care, including deep hydration masks for the belly and seaweed wraps to alleviate swelling. “We design these treatments with the utmost comfort and benefit in mind,” she said.

A visit to Strata Spa and Salon begins well before guests step through its doors. Online booking allows for a seamless experience, followed by a personal follow-up call to ensure services are tailored correctly. Upon arrival, guests are encouraged to unwind in the spa’s tranquil spaces before their treatments begin.

“Guests should arrive 20 to 30 minutes prior to their service to enjoy the amenities,” Tania advised. “We offer a salt inhalation room, steam rooms, and an experiential shower—all designed to enhance relaxation and health.” The men’s area features Himalayan salt walls and a dry sauna, while the women’s area boasts an inviting salt-infusion room. “Sitting on the warm platform, inhaling the therapeutic salt air, and taking in the view of the glowing Himalayan walls—it’s a truly serene experience.”

After their treatments, guests can extend their tranquility in the relaxation lounge, enjoying warm tea, healthy snacks, and refreshing water. Given Colorado’s high altitude and dry climate, hydration is a key component of the spa’s approach. “We always remind guests to drink plenty of water. It’s crucial here,” Tania noted.

For couples, Strata offers exclusive rituals in a private suite with an extended post-treatment experience. “We add 30 minutes in the room for privacy, serving sparkling wine and chocolates or truffles. It’s a beautiful way to enhance the shared experience.”

Her own self-care regimen includes indoor swimming, healthy eating, and stress management techniques. “There’s nothing better than being in the water, completely disconnected from the noise of the world,” she said. She also swears by grounding sheets, crediting them with her incredible sleep and recovery each night. Tania emphasized the importance of setting daily intentions and taking time for deep breathing. “Wellness isn’t just something you do—it’s a way of living.”

Strata Spa and Salon stands out not only for its luxurious treatments but for its commitment to whole-person wellness. From therapeutic massages and Ayurvedic healing, to high-quality skincare and specialized hair treatments, every element is designed to support well-being on multiple levels.

Tania and her team believe that wellness is an ongoing journey, not a destination. “Self-care is not a luxury—it’s a necessity,” she affirmed. “Our goal at Strata Spa is to create a space where guests can reconnect with themselves, restore their energy, and leave feeling truly revitalized.”

Whether you are seeking a transformative healing experience, a serene escape from the demands of daily life, or simply a moment of intentional self-care, Strata Spa and Salon welcomes you. With its thoughtfully curated treatments, expert practitioners, and breathtaking surroundings at the Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, it serves as a beacon of wellness in Colorado Springs. Here, self-care is more than a luxury—it is a way of life.