Sidney, Ohio

"Kelly, how are you going to do it?" my friend Nicole prods over dinner at the Bridge in downtown Sidney. "Your only saving grace is that you might fall asleep."

I giggle, but I am actually anxious about my first spa visit: a two-and-a-half hour appointment at GreatStone Castle, the 1895 Victorian bed-and-breakfast in which we're staying. You see, being idle sends my nerves into a frenzy — so I flee the thought of relaxing and slurp up delectable strands of Cajun blue cheese Alfredo pasta instead.

Back at GreatStone, a 17,000-square-foot mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places, we sway on the porch swing and discuss another first: a BandB stay, marveling at how this one feels a lot like home.

Awaking from a night's rest in the fluffy, four-poster Windsor Suite bed, we amble down the wide staircase, past rows of antique dolls and snow globes, to the hardwood-floored breakfast room. We savor home-cooked pancakes with maple syrup, bacon and cream-cheese muffins as the innkeeper, Christa, tells us the mahogany buffet table was used to hide Jews during World War II.

We head to the stone-walled spa, where I slide into a toasty mineral bath. Attempting to quell my butterflies, I crank up tranquil music and add hot water. But I become lightheaded and worry spas aren't for me.

When my massage therapist, Christine, comes in, I ask for more water and a fan. Still on edge, I recline for a European facial and pass time by chatting. Our easy conversation and the steam machine, which covers me in a blanket of soothing mist, begin to melt away my stress, releasing the tension in my muscles and letting my head finally clear.

I flinch as Christine places scalding discs on my back for a European hot stone massage, but soon find comfort in the warmth. As the clock runs out, I find myself wanting to stay in this dreamlike escape.

I pack my bags feeling refreshed and realize that relaxation is actually gratifying. Who knew?