Sometimes, the best things in life truly are free.

Especially if you are a member of the Wichita State community near the Ulrich Museum of Art.

Today, the Ulrich Museum of Art is hosting their annual Ulrich Spa Getaway as a part of Finals Frenzy — an opportunity for WSU students and faculty to get away from the rigors of finals week.

“The event is about giving back a little bit to the students and giving them something nice for them to just drop in, help them relax and ease some stress as they enter finals week,” said Jana Durfee, museum educator.

Along with offering refreshments, such as hot tea, cookies, and a place to sit down and collect your thoughts, the Ulrich Spa Getaway offers students free massages, complementary of massage therapists from local spas and a source close to home — the Heskett Center.

“We’re using some therapists from the Heskett Center here on campus and we are also using some therapists from out in the community — from Sveta,” Durfee said.

Although the event is primarily designed for WSU students and faculty, the event has had effects that can be felt in the community.

As the event has happened in the past, a local business has seen a positive impact on their business, as well.

“[Students] will pick up our brochures and business cards and later come in — even some of the employees will come see us for manicures and massages,” said Sherry Weaver, manicurist at Sveta’s Skin and Body Therapy.

Weaver is no stranger to the event, as she has been involved for the past few years — she keeps returning to both help provide a small escape for the WSU community and because she enjoys interaction with the community.

“I like meeting the students, meeting everybody — I many different people,” she said.

Not only that, but for a visitor, the small getaway can be something to provide an opportunity for calm as the stress rises.

“I came here wanting some stress relief before the holidays — just wanted to relax,” said Fran Cook, contract/grant development specialist in the office of research and technology transfer. “The convenience, the atmosphere — the Ulrich really is a hidden gem. Just come and escape for a minute.”

The Ulrich Spa Getaway will be held at the Ulrich Museum of Art from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and there is no cost to students. For more information, call 978-3664 or email [email protected]