From Brooklyn to the Rainforest: A Manhattan Mani-Pedi Story

It's been just under seven years since I've lived in Manhattan proper. During that first stint as a New Yorker every experience I had in Brooklyn centered in Williamsburg and ended with a firm resolution to never return. Last night, having a vague sense that I owed the journey to an old friend, I boarded the subway for the 45 minute excursion. Happily, I found nothing but beauty in the borough across the bay. Delighted by a magical neighborhood of old country estates and panoramic views from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State building, I find myself wondering why exactly I'm in Manhattan at the moment.

Manhattan is demanding- which is one of the (many) reasons I love it. Still, after demanding my feet to march the entirety of the island in one week, they were long overdue for downtime. I decided a retreat to the rainforest might give me some perspective on that other exotic distant land, Brooklyn.

I took my reprieve on West 8th Street at the eco-friendly Eve Salon.

Their seasonal Rainforest Renewal Manicure and Pedicure and uber comfortable pedi couches provided the respite I needed to reflect on my return to Brooklyn. With a restorative Star Fruit Banana Butter Crème Bath, and a delicious Passion Fruit Guava Body Scrub underway I got to thinking. Or at least, I tried. Maybe it was all the Acai antioxidants floating around but I really couldn't come up with anything. Just that, all these years I've been fixated on Manhattan, my time here, what I'd do differently, when and if to return. All this time humble, happy, simply beautiful Brooklyn was just across the river and last night it afforded me views of Manhattan, and the many lives I've lived here, that have left me very, simply happy.

Still, whether you're a city girl or a country bumpkin your time in the elegant elevated couches at Eve Salon will melt your mind just past the stop marked "Soul Searching" and drop you off at "Excessively Happy". (Ask for Jane if she's available) Enjoy!

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Services in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

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The After Shot: A Ted Gibson Salon Hair Cut.

Me (yesterday) after the best haircut ever. One day later, and (as per my usual Sunday routine) my hair is piled high atop my head. Last Sunday however it was an unimaginable maze of knots, curls and dead ends. Today it is a dainty, sprightly knot befitting a pre-pubescent (read: pre-frizz) school girl. Why the change? Neven at Ted Gibson's DC Hela Spa location is a miracle worker and my new hair boyfriend. Despite living fours hours south in Chapel Hill, NC I intend to be fully committed and see him at least every two months. Neven is pictured below working his magic on @silverlips, the brains behind Silver Lips Beauty.

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Ted Gibson Salon at Hela Spa in Chevy Chase: Don't You Ever Get to Thinkin' He's Replaceable

For the past two weeks my hair has felt like a bad rash. My new job has me more tethered to North Carolina than I'm used to and so, to accommodate the 9 to 5 (or 10:30 depending on the day) life, I've had to abandon my previous hair boyfriends in LA and New York. The results have been much less than satisfactory.

But Ted Gibson, being the patron saint of hair (I say this sincerely as I earnestly believe he was put on earth to help materialize his motto - "Beauty is Individual" - as ultimate truth as well as a chic statement) was two steps a head of me. By opening his DC Salon at The Collection in Chevy Chase he has once again saved my hair and subsequently my self image.

The thing about people like Ted, who are blessed enough to be fulfilling their divine purpose, is that they attract equally talented, beautiful (kind-hearted) people like Neven. Neven began working at Ted's DC outpost before it even opened. Imported from Croatia on the basis that his talent is irreplaceable by an American citizen Neven is a heavenly combination of Gianni Versace and the statue of David. The Ted Gibson Salon at Hela Spa opened on Inauguration day weekend. With in a few hours a Croatian news crew had stumbled upon Neven and the headlines in Croatia were fairly equally weighted - Obama at the White House and Neven at Ted Gibson. Between Croatia's priorities and it's beaches, I'm seriously considering a move or at least an extended vacation.

Neven is a bit of a hair genius and I now have lovelier longer layers than ever before. (Pictures to follow tomorrow.) I realized while watching him artfully shape a style out my tangled brown mop (utilizing nothing more than an expert pair of scissors and massive reserve of natural talent) that no matter how thick your hair is, a master stylist will never need to use thinning sheers. Neven simply cut around the weight in such a way that the hair can move and live on its own volition. Like Michelangelo set the image of David free from that marble slab, so too Neven reveals beauty from whatever medium is lucky enough to find herself in his chair. If feeling like an iconic work of art (which mind you is the only thing that walks out of any Ted Gibson Salon) isn't reason enough for you to part with $150, consider what price you would pay to receive the best scalp massage ever from irreplaceable Croatian talent. Tell Neven I sent you!

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Simplicity of Wellness Retreat at Kiawah Island Golf Resort

The last time I visited Kiawah, I was twelve and fell in love with the native wild alligators that roamed about. Word of "Laurie's Alligator Fascination" spread and well you can imagine the Christmas presents that started rolling in. I'm actually still staring at a Steiff Alligator hand puppet. AND...I can't believe I just shared that with you.

When I return to this magical island paradise, I doubt the alligators will hold my attention as much as these ethereal guest bathrooms. Seriously, have you ever seen anything so beautiful? Luckily there's a very special retreat on the horizon.

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort will hold a special “Simplicity of Wellness” retreat October 21-25, 2009. This 5-day event will include treatments in the hotel’s Mobil 5-star spa, nightly speakers and workshops, fitness classes including Pilates, yoga and movement therapy, chef presentations on health eating and much, much more. God, I really need to go to this. REALLY.

According to spa director, Missy Hughes, guests will embark on a journey of understanding through a sampling of organic lifestyle choices. “This special event promises to enlighten the senses of its participants and educate them on the various ways to find balance in busy lifestyles.”

Spa personnel will assess their personal interests and customize a program based on their individual preferences. Following arrival, participants of the retreat can enjoy many of the following activities:

Three 60 minute spa services
Nightly keynote speakers highlighting mindfulness, nutrition, and positive living
Creative workshops
Morning beach walks
Marsh and ocean kayaking
Biking exploration
A variety of fitness classes including Mat Pilates, Yoga by the Sea, Movement Therapy
Chef presentations
Spa menu breakfasts, interactive lunches, and banquet style dinners

This package includes accommodations in the oceanfront, Mobil 5-star/AAA 5-diamond Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, meals, spa treatments and all activities listed, and starts at $3199 per person. The number of participants is limited, so early reservations are recommended.
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A Silver Anniversary Facial at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Girls, I am so in love with the Ritz Carlton these days. So much so that while I lay here sick with a fever, in bed, and bored to death of rest, orange juice, and tiger balm, all I can do is look at these pictures of The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel and read about it's 25th Anniversary on August 27, 2009. In honor of this milestone, The Ritz-Carlton Spa has developed a "Silver Facial."

Designed for all skin types, it cleanses, tones and exfoliates for softer and smoother skin while regulating skin temperature, providing natural cooling, improving blood circulation and imparting a luminating glow to the skin.

“We are excited about the resort’s Silver Anniversary and are thrilled to be able to offer this unique facial as a way to celebrate,” says Spa Director Amelia Winfrey. “Like all of our therapies, the Silver Facial is designed to nurture the body and mind and provide a return to balance.”

The silver lining on the silver facial? The resort sits on a 150-foot bluff with panoramic white-water views of the Pacific Ocean and two-miles of sandy beach. The facial is $195 for 60 minutes or $265 for 90 minutes. Enjoy!

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Anara Spa at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Invites the Kiddos!

Pretty much since the first day I met her in LA I have adopted @Makeupbag as my blog mentor. She is in Hawaii this summer with her kids so when I heard about Anara's summer spa kid's menu I immediately thought of her and her totally adorable girls.

Teens’ ages 12-16 can enjoy a special facial addressing teen skin care needs, get sun-kissed hair highlights or join a parent for garden facials or pedicures. Kids ages 6-16 can choose from pineapple-coconut mani/pedis, island hair braiding, flower power polishes, Polynesian temporary tattoos, or Hawaiian hair styling with fresh flowers. My little sister is almost eight and she can get down with some temporary tats. She also has a polish collection that puts bliss to shame. I emphatically believe in teaching our little ones about taking care of themselves and respecting their bodies.

As for the brilliant women like @makeupbag who teach us all how to be more effective, more kind, and more creative by simple example, well, I leave that to her for now.

Here's a little more about Anara Spa at the Grand Hyatt Kauai:

With a multi-million dollar expansion and renovation completed last year, the spa features treatment rooms opening to their own private garden, open-air lava rock showers, sauna and steam rooms, a lap pool, and a well-appointed fitness center open 24/7. The new Lokahi garden spa area offers treatments amidst lush plumeria (frangipani) scented gardens to the sound of waterfalls and wind-blown bamboo. Each private thatched-roof hale (bungalow) features its own lava rock shower and steam grotto. Soothing hydrotherapy can be found in the open-air Vichy treatment room, whirlpools, and lava rock botanical baths. Enjoy!

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Tammy Fender Holistic Facial Now at The Breakers!

Recognized as one of the top five hotel/resort spas in North America, the legendary Spa at The Breakers now adds Tammy Fender's Signature Holistic Facial to its spectacular spa menu. Available as a 50 or 80 minute treatment, Tammy's facial features her 100% organic, custom-blended products. And her products are to die for. Her Cleansing Milk Lavender & Fo-TiFormula No. C-129 is currently changing my life, or at least my skin. (Seriously, don't face summer without it.) When guests receive the facial, they can enjoy complimentary fitness classes and access to The Breakers Mediterranean-style Beach Club, including five oceanfront pools, and its amenities for the day.

WHAT IT COSTS: 50-minute treatment, $175; 80-minute treatment, $310; treatment plus reflexology, additional $115

WHERE TO FIND IT: The Spa at The Breakers, One South County Road, Palm Beach, Florida 33480. (561)653-6656

TAMMY'S PRODUCTS: TammyFender.com

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The Pine Salt Scrub at Pinehurst

A dear friend of mine said to me last week, "You seem so happy and relaxed!" Only momentarily stumped as to the cause of this elation, he followed this declaration with a quick, "When was the last time you went to Pinehurst?" I laughed and confessed it had been only two days earlier.

When it's big decision time I believe there is a historical precedent for retreating to a quiet, peaceful place so that one might better hear the inner voice. Why not carry out said retreat at a spa where they regularly ask "Would you care for a complimentary smoothie?" and "Can I turn the jets on for you?"

In this particular case the decision was school or fantastic (completely unforeseen) job offer. Seeing as the universe had afforded me such abundant choices I decided to afford myself the The Pine Salt Scrub, a forty dollar price increase over my usual Bath Escape.

This full body exfoliation uses the highest quality pine salts to slough off the outermost epidermis. After a quick rinse, your lovely spa attendant soothes every last inch of you with a rich sweetly scented moisturizer. If you didn't take my advice after the Vichy Shower at Bliss, please afford the luxury of having another adult bath you in this completely fantastic spa ritual. The scent of Pinehurst's signature treatment is crisp and refreshing, like pine needles on the forest floor freshly fragrant from a spring rain. Delicious. After being reduced to a non-verbal blob I decided I was down with the abundance idea and went for the job. Enjoy!

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Dr. Zong’s Tips for a Healthy Home Spa Experience

Dr. Zong just sent us these most fabulous and practical pedicure tips. After a year (yes a full 365 days) with consistently colored nails, I have finally let my fingernails breath and they are so thankful. I'll consider giving the same relief to my toes...in the fall. A Southern girl simply can not have bare toes in the Summa'. Let's see what else we can learn from Dr. Zong, Manhattan's foot guru.

• Bacteria can flourish in dark, wet places, such as a bathroom medicine cabinet. Be sure to sanitize your nail clippers by soaking them in boiling water and wiping them down with rubbing alcohol every few weeks
  
• Say NO to self-surgery! Anything that hurts, such as removing deep-set ingrown toenails, will cause more damage than good. If you have a painful nail, see a doctor right away


• Check expiration dates for beauty products like scrubs, lotions, or soaks. Open containers that sit around for a long time unused can collect bacteria and easily infect cuts in your feet – including blisters
  
• Use simple Epsom salt and warm water to relieve and revive tired feet. It often has similar properties as fancy spa soaks but can cost several dollars less at a drug store
  
• Give your toes time to breath. Nails are their healthiest when they are exposed to air and water. When changing nail polish colors, check nails to make sure they are not discolored – this is a classic sign of toenail fungus and can go unnoticed if nails are always painted

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Core Fusion at Exhale Spa NYC Changed My Life

Since Exhale Spa is giving away free meditation classes I decided to visit their Central Park South outpost yesterday to do research on behalf of you, my lovely readers. Let me just say, though I couldn't make the mediation class, these instructors are simply the best I have ever seen. You must go. In a one hour Core Fusion Basic class they may change your life, as they did mine.

Despite being possibly the most out of shape person in the class, one hour in Core Fusion (basic!) increased my stamina and convinced me that I can in fact change the shape of my body. Diana, the sprite-sized yogini instructing the class, had a sinewy toned body which I imagined to have the automotive equivalent of a two-door mini cooper with a supped up engine. After an hour of watching her body pretzel about the room I've decided I have the flexibility of a grandma in an assisted living facility. Still, in my workout today I noticed increased stamina and Diana's stretches are releasing muscles that have been bound up for years.

Just like core fusion itself, the music, was outstanding and a bit of the best of everything - moving from LL Cool J to Enya without missing a beat. With 10 minutes left in the class, just as all of my limbs were convulsing and I swore I couldn't go on, LL Cool J started saying things like, "Push it out girl. Arch your back." and "Come on, come on, move somethin'. Come on, come on, prove somethin'. Do a split if you're really hard core" Done and Done.

Let's just say when LL speaks I listen. "Hurt me girl. Move somethin'."

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IPL Laser Hair Removal or Why I'll Never Be Married

With the advent of pre-date google stalking this blog has become a bit a liability. I've dated a few dudes this year and it's kind of awkward when on the third date or, occasionally, the first - he says something like, "So you're kind of addicted to pedicures, huh?"

It's mid 2009. Said dude can go back almost two years and know what I was thinking, how my skin was freaking out, exactly which stretch mark I was obsessing over and the miracle product that solved my conundrum. How any of them make it to the third date after all that reading is beyond me but I have two resolves....1) The guy truly worth dating really won't care what I say on the internets (and, perhaps, may even love me enough to find it endearing?) and 2) Henceforth I'm lying about my last name so that I may avoid the convergence of courting and beauty blogging.

Still, despite all of my best efforts at anonymity, occasionally there is a find so fantastic I must share it with you no matter how potentially uncomfortable my next first date will be. Today this liability is IPL Laser Hair removal. I'm Italian which in terms of skincare means two things. 1) When I walk across the street my skin travels across the ethnicity rainbow and 2) The older I get, the hairier I get. (I'm so never getting married. Dudes, I beg you, stop reading here.)

This is why my IPL Laser experience with the south's most brilliant beauty maven is changing my life. First, I no longer have hair underneath my arms, on my face, belly or in my nostrils. Second it hurts, so good. As in the pain isn't that bad. Third, if it works for my stubborn, Italian hair it will work for almost anyone. Also without me knowing it a decade of shaving and razor burn made my armpits ugly. They are now airbrush pretty and smooth. No bumps.

Terri, aesthetician and laser technician extraordinaire, has been running the laser for over ten years. She has a relationship with it in the way that only an intuitive southern woman can. She knows when it needs water. She knows when it needs a break. She knows when the laser head needs replacing. And she knows all of these things with no related indicator light on the actual machine alerting her to such conditions. She will give you a consultation for free (as most good laser technicians should!) and predict with alarming accuracy how effective it will be for you, how long your course of treatment will take, and how much she will charge you. Even if you live in another state you should come see Terri, get her expert opinion and measure all other laser technician's advice against it. Or you know you can spend a ton of money on razors, creams, razor burn, waxing, and the like for the rest of your life.

Ms. Terri works for several different plastic surgeons (cause she's in demand like that), has her own organic spa where she does the world's most relaxing facials, and has a few brilliant online outposts which she will tell you all about as your beauty needs arise.

If you still aren't convinced Total Beauty has prepared this lovely hair removal 101 for you.

Hair Removal 101

Use our expert tricks to get your smoothest skin ever

Razor burn. Ingrown hairs. Those ouchy little nicks you get on your kneecaps. Does hair removal have to be such, like, medieval torture? Turns out no. So here's our guide to getting better results with shaving and alternative hair removal. See tricks

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The Spa at Pinehurst: A North Carolina Classic on A Modern Budget

Perhaps your husband is a golfer who dreams of playing the famed Pinehurst #2. Perhaps you are a college student who needs relief from the pressures of academia and basketball. Perhaps you are, like me, plagued with a taste for opulence but saddled with a small budget.

Young or old, well-heeled or of humble means, local girl friday or international Golfer, The Spa at Pinehurst is an item for the bucket list. Book any treatment beyond a salon service, and you’ll have all-day access to the four star, 31,000 foot facility - tranquility, pool, steam, sauna, and Southern charm included. Built in 2002 as an addition the original property, built in 1895, the spa boasts 28 treatment rooms consisting of 16 massage rooms, 6 facial rooms, 2 body/wet rooms, 1 dual/couples massage room,1 hydro-tub room and 2 waterscape tub rooms.

The least expensive item on the spa menu? A Hydrotherapy listed simply as a "Bath Escape" for a mere $40. Other popular treatments include the Magnolia Facial, the Hot Stone Massage, Golfer’s massages, Gentlemen’s Facial and Sportsmen’s pedicures. And no matter what treatment you receive adorable men in matching brown uniforms will approach you and say things like, "Would you like the jets turned on?" and "Can I offer you a smoothie?" Yes and Yes. Juice, coffee, tea, spa snacks, and several large bowls of ice and wash clothes are refilled constantly. The iced wash clothes are a necessity if you plan to spend any time at all in the true to its name steam room. I spent 3 hours hoping from women's hot tub, to co-ed hot tub, to steam room, to juice bar, to pool and back again. If you ever doubt that stress holds a physical presence in the body spend three hours at The Spa at Pinehurst and I promise, you will feel it leave. Deliriously relaxed I spent the last 30 minutes of my visit in a gardenia scented bath escape.

Sold? Perfect timing. The annual Spring Renewal Weekend is March 13-15, 2009 and there is still space available for last minute travelers. The cost is $499 per person – and it's loaded with value. Yoga, spa cuisine, $100 towards spa treatments(!), and two nights in what is, in my humble opinion, the best resort on the East Coast. Package details below. Enjoy!

Spring Renewal Weekend at the Spa at Pinehurst – $499 per person

Includes
-Two night’s accommodations at Pinehurst’s historic Holly Inn
-Continental Breakfast each morning
-Spa Luncheon featuring Mimi Donaldson, author of “Bless Your Stress – It Means You’re Alive!”
-Spa Opening Reception Friday
-Gourmet Dinner and Wine Tasting Saturday
-Series of Seminars including: How to Spa at Home, Aromatherapy, and Nutrition 101
-$100 Gift Card for spa treatments
-Loaded Spa Gift Bag
-Morning Fitness/Yoga Classes

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Zico Coconut Water, Pulau Sempu, and Spa Hydration.

Spa time = rejuvenation. But what about after leaving the spa? Wellness experts say that following intensive spa treatments such as a deep tissue massage, it is imperative to rehydrate as massage therapy releases toxins from muscles that must be flushed from the body as soon as possible. Yesterday, we added Zico to our list of spa-friendly concotions and were delighted.

From our days of camping on deserted, equatorial Indonesian islands we can attest to the value of coconut water. Seemingly every Indonesian male above the age of 5 is capable of shimmying up the tall tropical trees, using their machete to lop of the top half of the coconut, and sticking a straw inside before presenting it to tired westerns. We always loved this post-Pulau Sempu ritual and now ZICO has circumvented the entire 48 hour flight to Asia and malaria medication process for you.

Made from 100 percent pure coconut water ZICO Coconut Water contains more potassium than a banana and five essential electrolytes. What’s more, ZICO is packed with cytokinins which are powerful antioxidants that detoxify the skin by removing free radicals from the body. They also aid in the regeneration of new skin cells and help clear debris from older cells, leading to healthier, younger-looking and softer skin. Also, we got totally jacked after drinking this yesterday at the office/medi spa. Enjoy!

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Beauty Bubble: Brow Know How with LC and Sigrid

Ever since my run in with LC at Warren Tricomi I have felt a certain affinity with her. Mostly because we share the same initials and stylists but also because both of our brow makeovers have done wonders. Yesterday Sigrid attacked my bushy brows almost while I was at my desk. After 10 years of brow misshaping, I have given Sigrid permission to do anything she wants with mine. She was the first woman to move the arch in my brow to align with the outer edge of the iris and for girl with a naturally high arch, it's the only way to go. For more brow know how check out these celebrity before and afters.

Celebrity Eyebrow Makeovers

From pencil-thin to insanely bushy, see how stars like Madonna, Tyra Banks and Mariah Carey have tamed their unruly brows

Brows hold center stage in the beauty world. Why? Because they can make an amazing difference in how you look. Check out our gallery to see the improvements your favorite celebrities have made to their brows over the years and decide if you should step up your brow maintenance. Even if you have to lay off the tweezers for weeks ... it's worth it. See eyebrows

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Beauty's Spa: Dollar Down, Chakra Up.

The director of the Spa at Conrad Maldives just got back from Spa Asia and says she's seeing an industry-wide trend: bite-size samples of alternative treatments. The economy hasn't resulted in the spa drop-off full stop but the treatments are changing. Clients are moving from beauty work to wellness work. Instead of putting down $150 for a facial, they're more likely to look at alternatives like reiki, light therapy, gemstone energies, etc.; the same "trippy-dippy” treatments that met with resistance in the past are suddenly drawing a lot more curiosity. Good thing since I've had energy work spectacular enough to move internal mountains.

Presumably, people are looking for deeper value from their spa expenditures, or because they're just more desperate for a spiritual uplift. In response to this trend, several spas are attaching small samples of these treatments to otherwise standard massages. The Conrad Maldives recently attached 8- or 10-minute alternative treatments to more than half of their standard offerings. While the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has always been at the forefront of the wellness mission (they were the first in the Maldives to offer a full destination spa and currently have three distinct spas on property, with resident experts in reiki, acupuncture, meditation, sports medicine and yoga) they are seeing an increase in client interest in alternative energy work. Last month they launched a first-of-its-kind treatment program with Dorrisima, with eight chakra-based treatments that each interweave color therapy, light therapy, sound therapy, reiki, and a tea ceremony. Feels like Om, indeed.

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Beauty's Spa: San Francisco is Bliss

Here is what Bliss says about their hot salt scrub™ body treatment

Drives away dry and scaly skin. It's a right-on rubdown with our secret self-heating, sinus-clearing, mind-melting, rosemary, and eucalyptus oil dissolving sea-salt scrub blend.

Here is what I have to say about it: Mind-melting is an understatement. I was born again in the space of an hour inside a Vichy shower treatment room at Bliss's first West Coast outpost, Bliss San Francisco. Until today I was unaware that grown humans were in fact aloud to pay someone to bathe them. Now I think any life lived with out the experience of a full body rubdown followed by a carefully tended Vichy shower is incomplete.

First Karen, another angel employed as a massage therapist at Bliss SF, rubbed my body down in warm fragrant eucalyptus oil. I have enjoyed numerous hot oils in my years of day spa addiction however Bliss's Eucalyptus oil concoction is the only one truly worth of the term Aroma-therapy. Then she scrubbed my skin from toe to top with Bliss's Hot Salt Scrub until a new, smooth, silky epidermal layer appeared. In the past year of the beauty blogging bizarreness that has become my life, I have tried everything to treat my horrendous backne but have yet to kick it completely. If penny sized chunks of hot sea salt being rubbed against my body like hot wax on a car doesn't do the trick I'm investing in skin grafts. But I digress. After the Eucalyptus oil marinade and extremely thorough salt scrub Karen ran the Vichy shower over my entire body. Again, if you have never had a Vichy shower, please do. At this point, I was jelly in her hands and, save a few hand towels for a slight reference to modesty, I was in fact the image of a toddler in a baby bath - limp, unreasonably smiley, and for no good reason given my current helplessness, utterly happy. After carefully towel drying my newly buff bod Karen carefully massaged me with Bliss's new Blood Orange Body Butter.

Yesterday I was a mountain woman who spent two days in a rustic Yosemite cabin (and by "cabin" I mean four planks of wood converging to form primitive shelter) in the name of familial bonding. I arrived in SF un-showered, fresh out of hippie-filled hot springs, and seriously wearing NO makeup. So un beauty editor like. I would do it over ad infinitum however to visit my mountain-top living, spiritually stunning, rock climbing, earth muffin cousin who I adore but I would also have to visit bliss repeatedly to recover. If you think there isn't a Bliss near you, check again they are expanding from Doha to Hoboken. Also I know times are tough. No worries you can have the exact same experience I did at home, minus Karen and the Vichy.

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Beauty's Spa: Holistic Bamboo Key to the Success of Spa at Four Seasons Costa Rica

When Susie Ellis speaks I listen. As the visionary founder of SpaFinder, it's almost imposible to tell which came first, Susie or the spa industry. Her standards are the measuring stick for success and, for industry junkies, her blog is a must read.

This year, SpaFinder's readers choice awards showered an unusually high number of accolades on one resort in Costa Rica. So for our virtual Friday vacation I present the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica. Honored with SpaFinder's Readers' Choice "Crystal" Award the Four Seasons Costa Rica has been named spa-goers' favorite spa in Central America, as well as being voted into the Top 10 Best Spas in the World for Luxury, Accommodations, Favorite Spa Therapist (Rebeca Ruiz) and Favorite Spa Manager (Todd Hewitt). That's a lot of luxury but the compelling piece is the resorts dedication to local, organic spa ingredients.

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica utilizes local organic plants, fruits, and flowers in its treatments due to their therapeutic value; such as, the Natural Healing Bamboo Massage, which uses bamboo shoots for their strong healing properties. The shoots are taken from the Resort's plentiful foliage, cut into various sizes and used in deep pressure massages (60-minutes/$150, 90-minutes/$200). For the Resort's sun worshipers, The Spa now allows guests to enjoy new Spa Tapas (mini-treatments) without ever leaving their chaise lounge. Guests can indulge in an array of 30-minute poolside treatments including a Cucumber Refreshing Facial Massage ($35), The Ultimate Break head and neck massage ($60), or the Put Your Best Food Forward treatment ($50), which uses foot reflexology to induce maximum relaxation.

As a renewable resource Bamboo is earth friendly but its healing properties also make it extremely body friendly. Here are the top ten reasons to opt for Bamboo spa treatments.

1. REDUCES STRESS
2. IMPROVES IMMUNE RESPONSE
3. RELEASES MUSCULAR TENSION
4. REDUCES FLUID RETENTION
5. INCREASES CIRCULATION
6. HELPS ELIMINATE TOXINS
7. STIMULATES METABOLISM
8. STIMULATES BODY ENERGY FLOW
9. REVITALIZES MIND
10. PROMOTES RELAXATION

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Beauty's Spa: Eldorado Hotel & Spa Unveils New Nidah Suites

A few weeks ago I lead you to the best budget Spa experience in the southwest with a visit to Truth or Consequences. Apparently the NY times thought I did a great job and decided to cover the story for their readers as well. But I'm thinking we could all use a little recession reprieve, no? We are going to ignore the large "they've got this de-pression on" elephant in the room for a moment. Do you mind? Yeah, didn't think so.

Taking the spa experience to new, opulent heights, Eldorado Hotel & Spa is unveiling the Nidah Spa suites with in room oxygen pods (Santa Fe is after all 7500 feet above sea level) and spa treatments. We have one of the very first pictures of the newly completed suites which are named after the four-diamond hotel’s Nidah Spa. Three of the nine junior suites feature posh accommodations promoting peace and tranquility with design reflecting the surrounding Southwest landscape and featuring wall-mounted waterfalls. Plush linens, robes, a customized iPod Nano, a special spa bar, daily breakfast in bed, and Nidah Spa access can all be yours starting at $869 per night (based on double occupancy.)

A special spa menu consists of natural elixirs featuring ginseng, kola nuts, asiatic cherries, Chinese peony, etc. Each elixir addresses a specific wellness issue such as sleeplessness, anxiety and tiredness. The spa also includes a eucalyptus steam room, sauna and relaxation room and guests of these innovative in-room spa suites are also treated to a nightly turn down service including travel candles and neck wraps.

Nidah Spa is a 4,300 square foot posh spa with signature treatments themed after the Sacred Directions – North: restorative; East: renewal; South: vitality; West: purification and Golden Center : balance. Treatments also use ingredients that are prepared fresh daily and draw from the natural healing properties of plants, legumes and herbs indigenous to New Mexico.

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Beauty's Spa RAVE: Equani Spa - A Native American Healing Experience

Girls, of all the spas I have researched during my fall spa tour Equani Spa at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, nestled in the North Georgia Mountains is by far the most fascinating, basing all of their treatments and even their design on Native American principles. Look forward to a full review coming in the next few weeks, but until then please do your self a favor - it's Friday after all - and read all about delightful details.

Long known as Georgia’s premier mountain resort, Brasstown Valley Resort will open the doors of its newest addition – the Equani Spa today! The Spa features 7,500 square feet of blissful escape from the everyday stress that life brings. The list of upscale amenities read like a list of dream house essentails including stables, mountain horse trails, championship golf, fishing, a heated indoor pool and miles of hiking trails and natural areas on the 503-acre property.

Inspired by the native Cherokee, the Equani Spa offers such treatments as massage, bathing, face, nail and body masque rituals, I could go on. Forever. All of the Equani Spa Rituals begin with the cleansing of hands and feet, and moving meditation. This is to purify and cleanse the mind and soul and to counteract depression, anger and bitterness. (And after the last few weeks, don't we all have a little too much of that?)

In addition to the Rituals, the Equani Spa offers outdoor activities indigenous to the Cherokee that stimulate and activate the mind, body and soul. Guests will learn about Native American history by participating in a Hot House “A-Si” ritual, meditating and enjoying the tranquility of navigating the Labyrinth, a circular maze used in ancient times for reflection. After experiencing peaceful and rejuvenating treatments, guests can enjoy healthy food selections offered at the Spa while relaxing in their robes and enjoying the specific bit of serenity offered by the Northern Georgia Mounatins.

Owned by the North Georgia Mountains Authority, Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa’s natural surroundings, cultural and ecological significance were the centerpiece design elements. The Cherokee knew this as place of healing and peace long before spas sprouted all over the southeast and this spa which pays homage to areas orignial inhabitants transports guests to a simple serene place.
Robert Dean Langdon, president/CEO of Da Vinci Design Associates, was the designer and spa consultant for the Equani Spa. Langdon said: “The Spa’s array of therapeutic services, from traditional massage, beauty and body treatments to holistic Cherokee healing and relaxation techniques are being designed to complement the resort’s natural outdoor and recreational environment. Surrounded by the magnificent Brasstown and Southern Appalachian Wilderness areas, the Spa boasts high-country views from several indoor and outdoor relaxation areas featuring an outdoor fire pit, a fabulous hydrotherapy experience and communal relaxation area. The outdoor relaxation area features a 45’ wide stack-stone waterwall and hosts 3x8’ high spillways to create a neck massage while sitting in the Thermal Plunge Pool outside overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains.”

In addition to the unique services offered, couples can opt for an extra-special treat by spending the night at the Spa. Taking up the entire second floor, Langdon described "this secluded 825 square-foot retreat boasts a 175 square-foot private roof top deck, a Jacuzzi tub for two opening to a 46-inch flat screen TV and fireplace, a spacious ‘Experience Shower’ providing a full-sensory experience with double-drench shower heads, steam, aromatherapy, LED lights and marine speakers with 12-head Swiss shower bars. The bedroom features a vaulted pine ceiling and stacked-stone gas fireplace with a door to the private deck. Just off the bedroom is the parlor living room also with vaulted pine ceilings, wet bar, a flat screen TV and enough space to position two massage tables for a private in-room massage. In addition, the suite offers a kitchenette with granite countertops, stainless steel refrigerator and microwave along with a workstation desk with wireless Internet.”

The suite exults fantastic views of North Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, the golf course and horse pastures adding to the luxurious setting. Couples will truly feel a million miles away from civilization in this plush sanctuary.

Right. Now I just need to find a person willing to be a couple and I'll report back with all the delightful details.

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Beauty's Spa: Lake Austin Spa Resort - The Ultimate Spa Experience

It does not show up on film but in the afghan-draped sofa chair by the fire place, there is a hollow shell of my old self. This month has been a constant journey for me. In the last 30 days, with destinations as widespread as New York City, San Felipe Mexico, Los Angeles and Dewey Beach, Delaware, I've travelled through much of the North American Continent. In the middle of it all, both geographically and sequentially speaking, I spent a day in heaven.

Voted the #1 destination spa by Conde Nast Traveller's readers' choice awards (the Oscars of the spa industry) Lake Austin Spa Resort is a slightly larger version of the ideal ancestral family home. I first heard about this must see spa from a friend who visits for a week each time her children are in utero. (Note to my future husband, a week at Lake Austin Spa Resort is to be included in any supposed pregnancy budget.) Rather than devour the resort ravenously through pre-visit research as is my usual routine, I decided (out of fashion week vagabond necessity as much as marketing-jaded skepticism) to walk in blindly. I wanted my experience, and my ability to relate it to you, unfettered by expectations.

During the conscious moments of my stay I repeatedly thought 'this is exactly what I would want my family vacation home to be.' Hammocks dotting the shore line of a lake so green the line between it and the foliage surrounding it was consistently undefined, hot tubs and pools in most sitting areas, an unmaginable list of decadent, effective spa treatments, outdoor treatments rooms and showers, hydro bikes, kayaks, an outdoor yoga deck a top the lake, an organic garden that supplies the chef's cupboards, a gym where all of my obsessively athletic relatives are confined. In sum 19 acres where it's completely acceptable to wear nothing but a bathrobe and unlimited fat free frozen yogurt is offered frequently and often by people whom I have never met before. I could go on, forever. The point is, like one of the five tenants of Islam, if you are ever of the earthy means to do so you have a personal and spiritual obligation to journey, (here's where it differs - a lot - from the Q'uran) to the middle of Texas. If you never get there, you can't say I didn't tell you. Please just trust me and go.

On my day there after being rubbed down, hot tub soaked, swimming in the most enchanting pool barn (I know, not even Martha Stewart can imagine a pool so pleasant it is housed in refurbished, garden-moated, barn) and lolling in a lake side hammock, I finally, overcome with delirious relaxation, sat down to nap. A moment after my exhausted body collapsed into the comfy embrace of the over sized sofa chair I fell into a deep cathartic slumber. This nap was the kind that invites a deep meditative conversation with the universe. I think during this nap I made an agreement with the universe about treating myself more gently and promising to let go of any notion that I am not deserving of the absolute best of everything the world has to offer. And isn't that the purpose of a Spa? To heal and rejuvenate? Honestly, it is easy to make such an agreement at Lake Austin Spa Resort as it is a literal slice of heaven. (In all the years I have imagined heaven, I never dreamed a 19 acre parcel of highland lake country in Austin, Texas is actually what lays behind the pearly gates - but it is. Texas? Really? huh. )

The effect, one week later, has not worn off. I left behind, in the blue room, the quickly fading adolescent idea that I am somehow undeserving of living this life to fullest with the best possible friends, companions, and business associates. I can't explain it except to say that when I woke up, a hologram of myself stayed - perhaps to continue breathing in the healing waters and treatments - while the rest of me goes forth, a little stronger from having been in a place so safe so restful so unpretentious that I am certain it was meant for nothing else than to wrap myself in love and a healing consciousness so authentic that it is mine to carry with me wherever I may roam.

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