And like all good businesses, the spa industry is constantly reinventing itself. Spas are now being marketed as a healthy necessity rather than an indulgence. Thanks to a sagging economy, many spas are also cutting rates and offering hard-to-resist package deals. If you’re overdue for some revitalization, there’s never been a better time to re-create a healthier, better you.

But all spas aren’t created equal. Here are the basic five categories:

Day spas are independent or associated with health clubs, hotels or even department stores. They offer personalized beauty, wellness and relaxation treatments. Their specialty is offering a quick fix for busy people. Think of them as the Jiffy Lubes of the health world.

A resort spa is inside a resort or hotel. These spas are ideal for family getaways, with a diversity of offerings, including golf, tennis and children’s activities.

Destination spas offer holistic immersion into the world of wellness. They focus on lifestyle improvement, health modalities, self-renewal and rejuvenation programs, and pampering treatments. Packages are typically structured for guests staying three or more days.

Medical spas or medi spas combine medical practice and spa therapeutics. They offer minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, such as laser and injectable treatments, as well as a spectrum of other beauty and wellness services.

Cruise ship spas: Many offer all the pampering perks, lifestyle improvement classes and self-renewal programs you can find at the most comprehensive land-based spas. All that, and the big blue, too.

The options are endless, so do a little self-analysis first. Are you looking for a detox program to eliminate unhealthy habits—or a creative retreat to awaken your muse? Do want to mix some rugged hiking with your self-indulgence? How about gourmet cuisine and wines or, for weight watchers, a culinary program that counts the calories for you? Is the whole family tagging along—or is this a romantic retreat? Whatever your needs, we’ve come up with some first-rate recommendations, both near and far. We guarantee they’ll put the “ah” in your spa experience.

Sanctuary Spa at Camelback Mountain (destination/resort spa)

What and where: Gaze out your casita window at the otherworldly grandeur of Camelback Mountain, rising up from the mist of Paradise Valley. On the outskirts of Scottsdale, Ariz., this boutique resort and spa features Asian-themed décor, cuisine and treatments in a Zen-drenched ambience. Its 98 casitas offer panoramic mountain views, wood-burning fireplaces and private outdoor soaking tubs. 5700 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ; (800) 245-2051; www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com.

Special package: The Satori spa package is a four-night custom-designed retreat. Options include guided hikes up Camelback Mountain, private Pilates sessions, labyrinth walks, body sculpting, spa treatments and personal training sessions. Prices start at $2,675 for a single person; $4,481 for two people in shared accommodations.

Don’t miss: Watsu massage treatments take place in a private, heated Watsu pool, allowing the therapist to stretch and move muscles in ways impossible on dry land.
Above and beyond: The spa offers consultation in astrology, labyrinth walking meditation, tarot and numerology.

Crystal Cruises’ Mind, Body & Spirit Cruise (cruise spa)

What and where: Your mind, body and spirit have a choice of two December cruises on one of the world’s most luxurious lines. Expect spectacular food, service and accommodations and top-notch health and relaxation experts. The Crystal Symphony sails from Los Angeles to Valparaíso, Chile, Dec. 7-21, 2008; and the Crystal Serenity sails from Costa Rica to Miami, Dec.12-22, 2008. Both voyages are led by Tai Chi and yoga masters, fitness experts and other health gurus. The Crystal Symphony’s lecturers include Cathy L. Greenberg, Ph. D., the bestselling author of What Happy Women Know, and John McMichan, M.D., of the Mayo Clinic. The Crystal Serenity’s lineup includes Jim Karas, author of The Business Plan for the Body; and noted yoga instructor Sandy Shaner. The Crystal Symphony cruise begins at $3,450; Crystal Serenity's fares start at $3,550, based on per person, double occupancy accommodations.

Don’t miss: Indulge in the extravagant spa ceremony of renewal, featuring a lime and ginger salt glow followed by a therapeutic deep muscle massage.

Above and beyond: “Tour de Spin,” a complimentary indoor cycling program that virtually re-creates three portions of the Tour de France. Inspired by top cyclist Lance Armstrong and led by onboard instructors, the program employs Le Monde Life Fitness Bikes.
Crystal Cruises; (888) 722-0021, www.crystalcruises.com.