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The Peninsula Chicago, which is widely regarded as one of most luxurious hotels in the city, offers a glamorous retreat along the Magnificent Mile for those staying as hotel guests as well as those simply popping in for an afternoon at the Peninsula Spa by ESPA. I felt instantly transported from everyday life as I walked through the magnificent lobby of the hotel and ascended to the spa, located on the 20th floor. As I stepped off the gilded elevator, I found myself in the quietly luxurious and relaxing reception area of the Peninsula Spa. The spa's décor features natural, sophisticated botanical elements including wood paneling, plants, and gorgeous painted tiles. The receptionist checked me in with a smile before showing me to the luxe locker room. On our way, the receptionist explained that the Peninsula Spa uses the ESPA skin care line, which emphasizes aromatherapy and is composed of all natural ingredients. After descending a small flight of winding stairs, and shuffling past a beautiful lily pond, we arrived at the spacious locker room, complete with a eucalyptus steam room. I changed into a spa robe and made my way to the waiting room, passing trays of apples and warm tea offered up for guests to enjoy. The private waiting area is lined with curtained chaise sofas covered in soft, white terry cloth. I waited comfortably for the Licensed Massage Therapist and the start of my first service, the AMA Releasing Abhyanga. The AMA Releasing Abhyanga (which features a mix of body exfoliation, massage and aromatherapy) is based on thousands of years of Ayurvedic medicine and aims to release AMA (toxins) through the stimulation of marmas (pressure points). Through this stimulation, the treatment returns balance to the physical body while restoring the client's spiritual and emotional well being. We began the treatment with a ceremonial footbath and foot massage. I submerged my feet in a copper bowl filled with warm water, salts and essential oils. Next, the massage therapist performed the traditional body exfoliation that accompanies the AMA Releasing Abhyanga using a citrus, spearmint and pine exfoliant to help with lymphatic drainage and improve circulation. After massaging the exfoliant into my skin, and leaving me to relax and shower, we began the massage. Abhyanga is a soothing form of massage, which focuses on stimulating pressure points (marmas). Since marmas are present all over the body, the massage therapist used gentle circular strokes on the marmas starting at my feet and working all the way up to my scalp. This gentle massage not only had the power to relax my physical body but, as each marma was stimulated, I felt a distinct release of stress and tension. I breathed deeply, relishing the warming blend of essential oils-- including clove bud, rosemary and peppermint-- that I had chosen for my massage. An esthetician greeted me and guided me to a facial room for my next indulgence, an Intensive facial. The esthetician asked me to select an aromatherapy oil to be used during my facial. Using a refining skin polish combined with a cleanser, she cleared my skin of impurities and oil. My skin already feeling fresh and rejuvenated, she applied a firming mask to my face and a mud mask to my hair. She left both masks to set for 15-20 minutes and I fell into a relaxed, comfortable slumber. After removing the mask, she steamed my face and performed a few essential extractions before applying a brightening serum, moisturizer, and an eye cream to my newly polished face. Faced with a mirror, I examined my glowing skin, impressed at what the treatment had done for me. My visit to Peninsula Spa by ESPA was truly a therapeutic and refreshing experience. The unique treatments at Peninsula Spa by ESPA effectively combine Eastern and Western approaches, delivering a unique menu of luxurious spa services including massage, facials, manicures, pedicures and body treatments. Click here for Spa/Salon prices, services, hours and more.
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