Long ago, the Oneida Indians used seasonal foods, like maple, strawberries and many herbs to promote better health and well being. Beginning April 1, Ska:ná:, the Oneidas’ luxury spa at Turning Stone Resort and Casino, will once again celebrate the arrival of spring with a collection of exclusive, nature-inspired spa treatments featuring maple.

According to Loretta Taylor, Turning Stone’s director of spa operations, “These signature treatments are infused with warm fresh maple and other natural products, including green apple and pear, to awaken the senses and revitalize the body.” She noted, “The treatments we will offer throughout the spring include a maple and green apple body treatment, a maple and pear antioxidant facial, and a maple and green apple manicure and pedicure.”

Long before the invention of refrigeration and discovery of preservatives, the Oneida people learned how to make the best use of the gifts of Mother Earth, such as the sap from the maple tree. The advent of spring provided maple syrup, a treat enjoyed by the Oneida People since ancient times. Several cuts would be made on the bark of maple trees to allow the sap to flow. Once the sap was collected, it was boiled down to obtain the syrup. Sometimes the process was prolonged to extract all of the sap’s moisture and a hard candy would form, which could be eaten in this form or saved and used later to flavor foods.

“The sap was used as a food but it also had medicinal purposes, including serving as a cleanser for the body,” stated Oneida Nation Member and language instructor Sheri Beglen. She added, “The sap flows through the tree like blood flows through our veins—serving as a source of nourishment. And, Oneidas today still use maple for its food and health properties.”

The award-winning Ska:ná: is attached to The Lodge at Turning Stone. The Lodge, which includes Ska:ná:, were Condé Nast Johansens’ recipient of “Most Excellent Golf Resort” in the United States and Canada in 2010 and “Most Excellent Resort” in 2007. Both are also adjacent to two of the resort’s three nationally-ranked, championship golf courses. Located 30 miles east of Syracuse in beautiful Upstate New York, Turning Stone also has world class gaming, entertainment, accommodations and dining, as well as a Sportsplex that has indoor playing facilities and instruction for golf, tennis and racquetball. For more information about Ska:ná: or Turning Stone, call 1-800-771-7711.

About Ska:ná: Spa

Ska:ná:, meaning “peace” in the Oneida language, offers soothing, modern treatments with Oneida Indian healing principles that have been used for centuries. The architecture of the 32,000-square foot luxury spa is a tribute to Oneida culture and their respect for Mother Earth. Treatments at Ska:ná: focus on the use of herbal and mineral wraps, warm stone therapy, and reviving soaks to restore balance and harmony to the body, mind and spirit. Features include: 12-treatment rooms, a full-service salon, co-ed mineral pool, soaking tubs, steam room, sauna, couples treatment room and a luxurious VIP suite.