Spa Diaries

Valley Girls

2010-08-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

Dtox Day Spa Encino opens today. Yes, the same Dtox that I go on and on about so regularly...well, it's growing. Check it out during the "soft launch" month of August and get a 25% discount on all 50-minute services. The new location includes all that you'd expect from Dtox and a little more like co-ed outdoor relaxation cabanas, a large steam room with cold plunge pool and a dry sauna. Worthy of a trip to the Valley? If I weren't already planning an epic spa retreat in Napa this month (more on this soon), I don't think I could resist this offer. Check it out and let me know what you think.

Birthday Special

2010-07-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday was my birthday. I was in Portland over the weekend for my cousin's wedding and celebrated my birthday with a delicious brunch at Urban Farmer followed by an afternoon at Sauvie Island blueberry picking. I couldn't have asked for a better day. But, I have a 15 percent bitrhday discount at Dtox Day Spa burning a hole in my pocket . So, I'm keeping the celebration going all week and treating myself to an organic custom facial this evening. Looking forward to another year full of adventures and love.

I Believe

2010-07-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

Enough said

We Believe from STEVEN PIPES on Vimeo.

Made Over

2010-05-26T21:42:00.000-07:00

I am not really a makeup kind of girl. I've always wanted to be able to wear smokey eyes for a night on the town but I've never perfected the art of eyeliner (let alone the shadow it must take to pull off the look). But, with a friend's wedding coming up and the eye shadow I purchased over a year ago running dry, I hit the Bobbi Brown counter at Nordstrom last Saturday and emerged with a whole new look. I left feeling pulled together, but most importantly, like me. I've even had a couple compliments at work. Oh, la la.

Image via Musings of a Muse.

Miracle Manor Retreat

2010-05-26T21:21:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in my previous post, our girls weekend in the desert had a last-minute change of venues. Instead of the Viceroy, we stayed at Miracle Manor Retreat in Desert Hot Springs. It's a quaint B&B off the beaten path, pleasantly refurbished and definitely a retreat from frenetic life of Los Angeles. (The inn keeper even whispered as she showed us to our room.) The furnishings were nice, the rooms clean, and I definitely enjoyed the complimentary breakfast and bottomless coffee both mornings. But, for the girls staying in Room #3, it would have been more a lot more relaxing if the AC didn't fizzle out in one of our rooms on not one but two nights. After a toasty first night, the AC issue was brought to the attention of the helpful inn keeper and she promptly called in reinforcements to "fix" the issue. But, when we made our way back to Miracle Manor after a full day at the Parker, the AC still wasn't working. We're talking about the desert in May, with day-time temps over 100 degrees. There's just no excuse a faulty AC. And, upon check out, hotel management only wanted to provide a 10 percent discount on one night. Unfortunately, that's not enough to win me over for a second stay.

Thank you Mister Parker for pulling a rabbit out of your hat

2010-05-17T22:07:00.000-07:00

Some last minute changes led to a shift in venues for my girl’s weekend in Palm Springs this past weekend. Instead of the Viceroy we found ourselves shacking up in Desert Hot Springs at Miracle Manor (more on that in a future post). And, instead of checking out Estrella Spa at the Viceroy, I finally had an opportunity to visit the Palm Springs Yacht Club at The Parker. Thank you Mister Parker. You did not disappoint. Click "Read more..." below for the full scoop.

Reservations

Over coffee and yogurt Saturday morning we made an eleventh-hour decision to head on over to The Parker. With six lovely ladies in our party, I thought it might be tricky to land appointments the same day. But being a crew of fabulously resourceful ladies armed with five iPhones, a laptop, and free wifi, it turned out booking a last minute full-day spa retreat for six was no challenge at all.

After learning that The Parker doesn’t offer day passes to the spa on the weekend–kind of a drag but I get why they do it—we all decided to book treatments. Our lovely spa reservationist (I think her name was Vanessa) was extraordinarily patient as I read through our list of requests:

Jeanette – The Guilty Pleasures Package (including a 45-min sugar scrub, 60-min tailor made massage, and a 60-min spa pedicure)
Fern – A Motley Mix (including a 30-min Swedish massage, 30-min pore cleansing facial, 30-min spa manicure) and a 60-min spa pedicure
Joycie – 60-min pore cleansing facial and a 60-min spa pedicure
Sophia – 60-min Thai-style massage
Stephanie – 45-min Sugar Scrub
Carrie – 60-min spa pedicure

Seriously, if someone called me with this list and wanted same day appointments, I’d probably consider quitting on the spot. But, Vanessa didn’t. Instead she took down my phone number, went to work on her computer and within 15-minutes, she called me back with an impressive full-afternoon spa itinerary. Bravo! She certainly pulled a rabbit out of a hat.

Arrival & Check-in

We arrived at The Parker about 12:00pm. After quickly going through the spa check-in process we had a quick tour including an introduction the indoor pool, two Jacuzzis, the dark relaxation room (which doubles as check-in location for your treatment), and a swing by the ladies locker room. The fabulous Jonathan Adler-designed spa didn't disappoint. After making a quick change into our swimsuits, we found ourselves lounging by the co-ed pool by 12:15pm (first appointments commenced promptly at 12:45pm). During our tour we were also introduced to the treatment playlist. Yes! For the first time ever a spa actually asked me what I wanted to listen to during my treatment. Goodbye Enya, hello mellow hip hop.

My Treatments

I signed up for the Guilty Pleasures package (a 2 hour and 45 minute spa experience). My afternoon kicked off with a 45-min sugar scrub. I hadn't had a scrub for awhile so I didn't know what to expect. And, I wasn't aware of the protocol at The Parker. Should I strip down like I would for a massage, or should I wear my bathing suit? I asked. You're draped throughout the treatment so your preference is up to you. After a thorough application of the sugar scrub, the spa attendant stepped out of the room so I could hop into the shower and rinse off the scrub. Then it's back to the heated massage table for lotion application. I left the room thoroughly exfoliated and ready for step 2, a 60-minute tailor made massage. With just 15 minutes between treatments I chose to spend my down time resting in the dark relaxation room. At 1:45pm on the dot, my female massage therapist came to escort me to my massage treatment room. The tailor made massage is, well, tailor made. After sharing my problem areas with my therapist and explaining I'd prefer a firmer touch, she left the room so I could undress. It was a great massage, although I would have preferred a room a little further away from the women's locker room entrance. I was abruptly pulled out of my zen-like state a couple of times by the voices of other spa goers. After my massage I was pretty much jello and I still had a 60-min spa pedicure lined up. With 15-minutes between treatments I spent this break ordering an Ahi Cobb Salad off the room service menu for delivery following my pedicure. Like most spas, manis and pedis are done in the salon. The salon was bustling with locals on Saturday afternoon and was a nice change of pace from the main spa. The spa pedicure chairs were more comfortable than those at typical nail salons which I enjoyed considering I was barely able to stand upright after my massage. The pedicure "mask" (applied with a 2-inch wide paint brush and later removed with a warm damp towel) was my favorite part. My color of choice: OPI A Good Mandarin is Hard to Find. At $285 (before 20% gratuity), I found the 2 hour and 45 minute package was a stunning value.

Lunch
For lunch we all ordered the Ahi Cobb Salad off the room service menu and had our lunches delivered to the indoor pool deck. Our server Frankie was adorable. Seriously, we all wished we could pack him up and take him home with us. For good measure, I followed up my salad with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc.

It was hard to leave the Palm Springs Yacht Club. But, with a dinner reservation at 8:30pm, we headed to the locker room to prep for dinner around 6:00pm. The full-service locker room was nice but personally I'd have appreciated some more counter space for primping. Also, they need to label the doors. I opened the shower door twice looking for the toilet.

To sum it up, I thoroughly enjoyed Saturday at The Parker. If you can't afford to stay the night there the next time you're in Palm Springs I highly recommend booking a treatment and spending a day at the spa. After Saturday I don't know if I'll be able to resist next time I'm in the desert. Have you been to The Palm Springs Yacht Club yet?

Spa 24/7

2010-05-05T19:07:00.000-07:00

I kind of consider myself a spanista (you know, like a fashionista, but of spas). But, with all my spa experience, can you believe I've never been to a Korean spa?! I know, I'm kind of shocked too. I guess I didn't really think about it, or understand the Korean spa tradition, until I heard rave reviews of the Olympic Spa from numerous people. So, I started doing some research and came across Wi Spa (corner of Wilshire and Rampart). The whooping 48,000 square foot space includes hot tubs, cold tubs, dry saunas, steam saunas, a full restaurant, fitness facilities and even a co-ed waiting room. To top it all off, it's open 24/7. So, if you're dying for a shiatsu rub down at 2 a.m. this is the place for you. If anyone's been, let me know. I'm dying for a first-hand review.

Photo of the Salt Sauna via the Wi Spa website.

DIY - Spa Goodies Class

2010-05-04T22:38:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Mother's Day, The Craft Kitchen is hosting a DIY spa goodies workshop at The Urban Craft Center in Santa Monica. For $65 (supplies included) you'll learn how to make a boatload of spa goodies including soy candles, scrubs, beeswax lip balm, lip gloss, soap, spritzers & bath bomb. I'd be there in a heartbeat if I didn't already have a lunch date planned with my mom. Saturday, May 8. Sign-up here.

Don't cry for me Argentina

2010-04-30T17:35:00.000-07:00

If i had infinite funds and unlimited days off Namasthé Spa at Loi Suites Iguazú Hotel would be on my summer hit list. The spa made Condé Nast Traveler's Hot List Spas 2010 and the hotel doesn't look half bad either. Nestled into the jungle, it's a stones throw from Iguazú Falls (another item on my bucket list thanks to an introduction from a friend that visited the falls late last year). Talk about kill two birds with one stone.

Photos via hotel website.

Gilt-y pleasure

2010-04-28T15:13:00.000-07:00

Remember my post awhile back about the Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa in New York’s Plaza Hotel? Well, now is your opportunity to check it out on the cheap. From now until 9pm Eastern tomorrow (April 29) Gilt's offering up discounted spa packages. They've included everything from massages to the signature Cabernet scrub. New York ladies represent! (And send me your full review after your treatment.)

Latest vice, The Viceroy

2010-04-23T15:51:00.000-07:00

I'm off to Palm Springs for another swanky bachlorette weekend in May and we're doing it the right way with a villa at the Viceroy Palm Springs. I'm looking forward to signature drinks (like the Popsicle Tini), lounging by the pool, and a visit to The Estrella Spa. I know I should settle for a more modest treatment like a 60-minute custom massage. But, I'm seriously tempted by the Head to Toe Indulgence which includes a facial and reflexology foot massage done simultaneously by two therapists in tandem. Indulgence indeed!

Photo from the Viceroy Palm Springs website.

My favorite things

2010-04-22T13:13:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite things: 1) Foot Massage and 2) Wine. Life is beautiful. Despite being on the other side of the planet (considering LA traffic patterns) this place is on my spring hit list.

Photo via the Buddha Lounge web site.

Back Blogging

2010-04-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

Keeping up on regular blog posts is a lot harder than one might think. With big changes happening at my day job, I haven’t posted in more than two months. That’s just plain embarrassing…especially because one of my last posts promised a review of my February trip to the spa at the Stowe Mountain Lodge in Vermont. I’ll try to make it up by getting back on the blog-wagon this spring. With spring in full effect (well, almost...today it's raining), I've been focused on getting back in shape for summer. I've even been considering self-tanner. I guess living in LA has finally got me. But before I move forward, let's do a quick rewind to February and the Stowe Mountain Lodge.

Just two weeks after a snowboarding injury I had epsom salts on the brain when I checked in for my 50-minute massage at the Stowe Mountain Lodge. I spent the day prior snowboarding for the first time post injury. Despite a couple of painful moments and some swelling, I was in pretty decent shape. I checked in for my treatment around 9 in the morning and was impressed by the spa boutique. Lots of organic grooming products. After being whisked off to the women's locker room by a friendly staffer, I changed and made my way to the waiting area. The view was incredible. The wind had picked up (it was a brisk 27 degrees) and I was happy we'd decided to spend Sunday at the spa instead of on the mountain.

I'd let my massage therapist know that I had an ankle injury and she spent some time working on it to "encourage lymphatic drainage." I'm not sure if it was all that effective but I left feeling relaxed and less tense. If you're ever in Stowe it's worth a drop by the spa. On the weekends the facilities get crowded so book well in advance. And if you're staying at the hotel, it's worth noting that the walls are thin.

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T20:31:00.000-08:00

Photo via tonx photostream on flickr.

Spent most of today relaxing around the house and doing laundry. Grabbed a latte and granola for a nice low-key breakfast with my man. My latte came out with a heart kind of like this one. Hope you enjoyed your day.

Winter Wonderland

2010-02-13T17:57:00.000-08:00

I've been absent for a couple weeks. But, I swear, I have a good excuse. Who can be expected to blog regularly when you're living in a Christmas card?! I snapped this image on our girls weekend to Stowe, Vermont. Seriously, who lives like this?! Amazing! Lots of high points including haunted bridges, $4 pints, deep tissue massages, The Alchemist, Ben & Jerry's, Cider donuts and snowboarding Stowe. One major low...winter dry skin. Being a Southern California girl, I had no idea the lengths you east coast ladies go to. I mean, humidifiers in every room? The depths of winter requires serious skincare. So, here are a few of my favorites (and one from a friend).

Fend off winter chapped lips with Dr. Haschka's Lip Care Stick. Made of jojoba wax and shea butter, this stick is all natural. Contains no petroleum.

Kill crackling dry hands and feet with Malin + Goetz vitamin b5 body moisturizer. It's got a refreshing citrus scent to remind you of sunnier days.

Splurge on the triple oxygen treatment at Bliss Spa.

More to come from my trip...including a review of the spa at the Stowe Mountain Lodge.

Pampered to a Pulp

2010-01-28T17:53:00.000-08:00

When I was flipping channels at the cabin (post injury) last weekend, I came across this episode of Roseanne. Maybe spa life isn't for everybody.

Injured List

2010-01-26T18:51:00.000-08:00

I'm nursing a sprained ankle after a snowboarding injury last weekend. My foots black and blue and rather swollen. I'm getting bored of ice mostly because it's winter, and even in Southern California, it's not fun to plunge my foot in an ice bath several times a day in January. A colleague of mine, who happens to be a beach volleyball player and has nursed herself back to health after numerous ankle sprains, told me to try Epsom Salts. It's a warmer alternative to ice and can mitigate swelling and bruising. From what I've found online, I think I'll try it out tonight.

Spa Style

2010-01-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

I came across these images online. What beautiful spa design. Can't get over the warm wood detailing. I also can't figure out who's the designer, or where this is. If you happen to know, please share. I might want to visit this place someday.

Lip Service

2010-01-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

I'm not a big fan Valentine's Day schmaltziness. But, here's something I can embrace. Check out Dolce & Gabbana's new Roses Lipstick Collection. Each shade pays homage to a different rose and is infused with its scent. The collection comes out in February. I might just have to add this to my winter wardrobe.

via Splendicity

Stoked for Stowe

2010-01-22T18:28:00.000-08:00

Being a Southern California girl I typically spend summers on the beach (Malibu anyone?) and winters riding Mammoth Mountain (which got an incredible 8+ feet of snow this week). But, today, I'm stoked for Stowe. I'm off to New York next month for a week-long winter visit and will be spending the weekend in Vermont. We're staying here. And, yes, a big factor in picking this place was the spa. Cut me some slack...there's a "Healing Lodge." Sigh, I'm hopeless.

Photo via the Stowe Mountain Lodge site.

Vinothérapie?

2010-01-21T09:00:00.000-08:00

Anyone that knows me well understands that two of my favorite things in life are spas and wine (in no particular order). So when I was browsing an old copy of Food & Wine while waiting for a deep tissue massage last week and came across a profile on the Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa at the Plaza in New York, I was disappointed in myself that this is the first I'm hearing of it. Opened in 2008 (I'm so behind), the Vinothérapie Spa at the Plaza is one of four Caudalie spas in the world. The first was founded in 1995 by spouses Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas at the family’s Bordeaux vineyard. The spa features an experience rich in grape seed extracts, which is apparently great for the skin. Treatments include everything from wine-soaked baths to traditional massages. You can even end your stay with a glass of wine in the relaxation lounge which conveniently doubles as a tasting room. Am I dreaming?

Rain Rain Go Away...

2010-01-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

I'm actually a huge fan of this crazy Southern California weather we're having. But, it's kinda difficult to fully embrace it since I've got this sexy new pair of shoes that I'm dying to show off. I got them as a little present for myself on my last day in Las Vegas for CES. Joycie, you're a bad influence but I love you for it. Yes, folks, they're Chloé and they were on sale. P.S. Excuse the bad pic but I couldn't find a good image online.

I also got these motorcyle boots from Madewell when I was shopping with my mom the other day. They're great for this week's weather but don't show off my fresh pedi.

Help Haiti!

2010-01-19T22:27:00.000-08:00

Help Haiti! $15 gets you this t-shirt, designed by Studio Number One, & 100% of the cost goes to UNICEF relief efforts in Haiti. Go here to purchase.

Please re-post this and help SNO spread the word!

Let's get physical!

2010-01-19T19:15:00.000-08:00

OK, so this post isn't exactly spa related...but humor me because it's related to fitness and, let's face it, we're all hoping to look better under those spa robes. So, I wanted to share with you my little secret. Since August I've been dance-r-sizing. And, I am happy to report, the results aren't half bad. I've been going to Heartbeat House, a self described non-competitive dance/workout/fitness studio in the Atwater Village neighborhood of Los Angeles. On Monday nights I take Awesome 80s Dance Party, Wednesday Zumba or African Dance and on Friday it's about kicking the weekend off with Cardio Ballet Barre. Classes are fun, relatively inexpensive and I typically leave drenched in sweat. I admit sometimes I feel a little silly, especially with passersby peering into the store-front window. But hey, it's a good escape from the monotony of the YMCA.

I have a dream

2010-01-12T16:36:00.000-08:00

I've been feeling run down as of late. Maybe it was the whirlwind trip to Las Vegas for CES last week? CES is partially to blame I'm certain. But, it's more than that. So, I'm taking Thursday and Friday off and with the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday Monday that makes for a 5-day weekend. I promise I'm not trying to make you jealous. But, I have been trying to figure out what to do with 5 days off in a row. (Send me your ideas if you have any.)

With some good snow falling in the Pacific Northwest I've been dreaming up a last minute trip to Whistler to snowboard. And then, this afternoon an email landed in my inbox. Scandinave Spa Whistler opens January 30. Think traditional Onsen, Finnish saunas and hot springs nestled into the gorgeous Whistler mountains. The pictures look amazing and the treatments are sure to be worth it after a long day on the mountain. With my typical snowboarding buddy out for the season with a knee injury I couldn't find anyone to make the trip this weekend. And now, I have a reason to wait for the end of the month. Please someone...help make this dream come true.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-02T11:36:00.001-08:00

Photo by Brigitte Sire.

Goodbye 2009, hello 2010. I had tea with my 89-year old grandmother (and kind of my life mentor) on New Year's day and talked about my resolution for 2010. Balance. For at least the last six months (if not my entire life) I've been a little "unbalanced." So, in 2010, I strive to bring a little more balance to my life. Read, take time outs, work less, play more, snowboard often, travel, write, love, eat, cook, decompress. (Oh, and spa visits at least once monthly!) I'm looking forward to what life brings in 2010. What's your resolution?

About-Face

2009-12-27T12:14:00.000-08:00

Kick off 2010 with a fresh start and a fresh face. The Foundation at Barneys in Beverly Hills has two skincare events coming up in January. The Fresh Facial event on January 17 includes a facial and shoulder massage. If that's not your style, check out the Shu Uemura facial event on January 22. For the New Yorkers, enjoy a complimentary (yup, I said free) 45-minute Jurlique Signature Facial on January 5. Here's the scoop. Give your face a 180 degree turn.

Image by Joseph Newton.

Comeback kid

2009-12-26T12:58:00.000-08:00

After a couple weeks off, I'm back. I guess I could blame my absence on a few crazy work weeks mixed with the madness of the holiday season. I could, but I won't. A lot has happened and there's much to catch up on. Here's a quick look back at what I've been up to and some exciting things to look foward to in 2010. Hope you're all enjoying the holidays. Spend some relaxing with friends and family and take some time for yourself. It's so needed at this time of year. xoxo

A look back

Took Holiday Cocktail Party cooking class at Barbrix with Seonna
Winter White Elephant Brunch at Flo & Steph's
Bloggers dinner at Bottega Louie with Carrie, Joycie, Sarah and Jean
Holiday Related Event at our house (successfully prepared and served three dishes from cocktail party cooking class)
Facial at Dtox Day Spa with Heather while she was in town for a few days
Christmas Eve at my folks
Chinese food and a movie on Christmas Day

Coming up

Low key New Year's Eve with friends
Riding with Marissa
CES and the Wynn Las Vegas
Bacara (thanks for the gift certificate Mom & Dad)

Image by Justin Krietemeyer (taken from our Holiday-Related Event invitation)

Raining shoes

2009-12-08T18:56:00.000-08:00

Happened upon an estate sale in Burbank last weekend landed myself a few pairs of new shoes. Correction: Make that nine pairs of shoes. Yes, I went a little overboard. But at $10 a pair on unworn vintage heals and boots, I couldn't resist. This woman was a fan of the peep toe which means I'll be in need of some regular tender-loving foot care. Anyone recommend a good place in Los Angeles for a reasonably priced pedi?

Dear Jeanette...

2009-12-02T19:47:00.001-08:00

Since you're the most knowledgeable spa aficionado I know, do you have any suggestions for a great facial?

XO -joycie

First off, aficionado? Joycie, you flatter me. So, I spent some time trolling my mental encyclopedia of past treatments and came up with the following suggestions.

The Clinic at Kate Somerville - O.K., confession, as you'd know if you read my recent post about The Clinic, I've never actually had a facial at Kate Somerville. But, I've always wanted one. Is that good enough? From others' rave reviews, it sounds like aestheticians at The Clinic are miracle workers. If I ever get around to booking a treatment you can expect a thorough review.
dtoxygen facial at Dtox Day Spa - I really should get a discount at Dtox since I'm constantly giving props to the folks there. It's in my hood, so I drop in a lot. Recently I tried out the dtoxygen facial when I was feeling a little, well, down in the dumps and left the place feeling like a goddess. I swear. While this treatment is perfect to get you "camera ready," I stopped in for no special occasion on a weekday evening and reaped the rewards for a week following my treatment. Note: They don't do extractions when you're getting an oxygen treatment so don't do the dtoxygen facial in you want someone to dig in.
Bliss Spa at the W Hotel - I thought really long and hard about this. And, hands down, the facial I got at Bliss while lounging at the W San Francisco was perhaps the best ever. I haven't been to the spa at the W Westwood (probably because I'm scared to venture west of La Brea) but as long as the West Los Angeles location is on par with its San Francisco counterpart, you can't go wrong.

What's your fav facial?

The final countdown

2009-11-27T09:30:00.000-08:00

Just a matter of time now and we're off to the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs for some R&R. Took a look at the weather this morning and it could rain tomorrow afternoon. Rain in the desert? Maybe I'll kill some time with a spa treatment or two. Anyone want to help me choose from this list of goodies? Have a fabulous long weekend!

Photo from Robert.Montalvo's photostream on Flickr.

Thankful for...

2009-11-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you're enjoying eating fabulous food with your closest friends and family. Today I'm thankful for so many things...my health, my man, friends, family, Nico...the list goes on. Before the busy month of December hits carve out some time and try this do-it-yourself Pumpkin Body Scrub (courtesy of the Menacolin Woodlands Resort in Pennsylvania). You should have many of the ingredients leftover from your turkey-day feast.

Pumpkin Body Scrub
From Woodlands Spa at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort via SpaFinder
1 small can pumpkin
2 cups of sea salt
½ cup of raw sugar
2 Tablespoons of Oil (sunflower or safflower)
¼ tsp. Vanilla
½ tsp. Nutmeg
½ tsp. Pumpkin Spice or Cinnamon
Mix all ingredients by hand until scrub has a firm consistency. Apply pumpkin body scrub in tub or shower and rinse thoroughly. Refrigerate product when not in use. Discard any unused product after three weeks.

Photo from the cat & the exercise bike's photostream on Flickr

H2O

2009-11-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

In preparation for turkey day, I spent some time trying to find a good recipe for spa water. It's expected to be a warm day in Los Angeles and some cucumber-infused deliciousness seems to fit the occasion. I came across this Southern Living recipe and the cranberries sold me. Try it out for your Thanksgiving feast.

Decked-Out Water

Ingredients
- 1 medium cucumber
- 12 cups of water
- 3 thin orange slices
- 3 fresh, thin ginger slices
- 3 fresh flat leaf parsley or cilantro sprigs
- 6 fresh cranberries

Preparation

1. Cut 2 thin lengthwise slices from cucumber. Reserve remaining for another use.

2. Stir together cucumber slices, 12 cups water, and next 5 ingredients in a pitcher; cover and chill 1 hour. Pour over ice in glasses before serving. Garnish, if desired.

Enjoy!

Throw your dog a bone

2009-11-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

I'm completely, utterly and hopelessly in love with Nico, my three-ear old golden retriever. But, does Nico really need a back rub? According to Buddha Dog, the answer may be yes. Specialists in small animal massage, Buddha Dog's website says pet massage can decrease pain and increase your animal's energy and muscle tone. Learn more about Buddha Dog by reading Erin Auerbach's San Fernando Valley Pet News Examiner article. At $50 for a 60-minute massage (recommended for medium to large dogs), I'm just not sure I can stomach a spa habit for my pet. Sorry Nico. I think I'll throw you a bone instead. It's more affordable and I have an inkling you might enjoy it more.

Seeing Purple

2009-11-23T10:51:00.000-08:00

I happened upon Napa Valley Bath while online over the weekend and woke up this morning practically seeing purple. From body lotion, to foot cream, to bath salts...I want everything lavender! Well, with the exception of clothes. The smell of lavender takes me back to my trip through Southern France with a couple of friends some years back. Here's to the days of driving through Provence in our two-door Peugeot without care in the world. Well, until we smashed the Peugeot into a pole while parking. I've come to learn that rental insurance doesn't cover everything but lavender makes it better.

Deep Thoughts

2009-11-21T18:12:00.000-08:00

I started the day with a deep tissue massage. So needed after a tough week. While I was lounging after my treatment somehow the Saturday Night Live sketch "Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey" popped into my head. So, I decided to share this.

Add a pinch of salt...

2009-11-20T17:18:00.000-08:00

Happy weekend! What better a way to kick off the weekend than with a relaxing bath. So, this evening I combed the web for recipes. Here's a quick recipe if you're looking to spend your Friday night laying low and don't want to spend a lot of money on fancy ingredients. Enjoy!

Simple Epsom Salt Bath
-Fill bathtub with hot water (or warm if you prefer)
-Add four generous handfuls of Epsom Salts (available at most grocery stores and pharmacies)
-Add 10 to 15 drops of an essential oil of your choice (choose lavender if you're generally stressed out or overwhelmed; or choose chamomile to calm and soothe your nervous system)
-Soak for 15 to 20 minutes
-Take a shower to rinse the salt from your skin (the salts can be drying)
-Moisturize

Thankful for the Ace Palm Springs

2009-11-19T18:58:00.000-08:00

Today I'm thankful for the Ace Hotel Palm Springs and the time I'll be spending there with friends over the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday weekend. It's time to get outta Dodge, relax at the pool and stay up late.

Photo from poketo's photostream on Flickr.

In desperate need of a spa-cation

2009-11-18T22:32:00.000-08:00

I'm finally emerging (at 10pm) from one of the more stressful days of my adult work life. I'm in desperate need of a vacation. I typically carry all my stress in my upper body. But today, it got so bad the tension crept all the way down to my spine to settle in my lower back. It got me to thinking. Is there some kind of a fellowship I can apply for which will allow me to spend the next six months on a spa-cation? If you find anything let me know. Until then, anyone want to sponsor my trip to the Four Seasons Nevis, West Indies?

Photo from Four Seasons website.

Spa deal

2009-11-17T22:11:00.000-08:00

I've always wanted to check out the "Clinic" at Kate Somerville but could never justify it. Nestled into one of the Bungalows off Melrose Place in West Hollywood, it's always seemed like a place for the Hollywood elite not a regular girl like me. So, what better way to justify a splurge than a deal. This week Kate Somerville is offering 30% off treatments and its signature line of products. (Thanks Daily Candy.) If you're in the market for an oxygen facial, light therapy or just want something simple like the Kate Somerville Signature Facial book before November 24 for any treatment before December 31 and cash in the discount. Don't forget to mention Daily Candy upon booking. A Kate Somerville treatment might be exactly what you need to pull together the perfect look this holiday season. New clothing optional.

Photo from Kate Somerville website.

Almost famous

2009-11-16T20:07:00.000-08:00

I'm famous, well almost. My friend Anna was in Los Angeles this past weekend shooting photos and blogging about the Parisienne experience for YSL. We met up for drinks at the Chateau Marmont and some pics of me and my friends Meredith and Brigitte made it on the YSL Experience PERISIENNE blog. Fancy. Kinda makes me want to buy the fragrance eventhough I'm not much of a fragrance kinda girl.

Photos by Anna Wolf.

Candle light

2009-11-13T16:01:00.000-08:00

My man brought me home an adorable, affordable (O.K. cheap) candle the other night. It's shaped and smells like a pumpkin pie. Yum! It got me to thinking about all those delicious candles that you find as point-of-purchase sales at the spa. So, I was inspired to pull together a quick roundup of my favorites below. Some affordable. Some, well one in particular, not so much. The limited edition D.L. & Co. Sworovski crystal thorn apple candle isn't at the top of my holiday wish list but might be if I could justify anyone spending $420 on a candle. Let's just say I probably wouldn't return it to Barney's unless there was Phillip Lim little number for about the same price.

D.L. & Co. (Photo from D.L. & Co. site)

Voluspa Crisp Champagne

Lemongrass & Eucalyptus Candle (Target.com)

Under the weather

2009-11-12T16:51:00.001-08:00

I've been under the weather. The worst part? Along with my cold came an infection in both my eyes! So, I'm wearing my very unstylish glasses and popping eye drops once an hour. By night, I’ve been using cold compresses (my optometrist’s preferred regimen). Cold wash cloths aren’t cutting it. And, I’ve realized I need a cooling eye mask like this one from Sephora.

Photo from Sephora website.

A Miracle

2009-11-06T16:43:00.000-08:00

Just outside Joshua Tree National Park, atop Miracle Hill in Desert Hot Springs, Calif. lays Miracle Manor, an affordable, motel-like spa retreat. Relax in the cold and hot spring mineral baths by day and retreat into one of the six guest rooms (two of which have full kitchens) by night. Perfect for a quick weekend away. With hiking trails aplenty nearby, I hope a weekend retreat like this one is in my cards.

Photo via Miracle Manor website. Credit April Greiman.

Slippery Slope

2009-11-05T18:50:00.001-08:00

I've never been much of a slipper girl but I think the time has come. Now I've got to choose from among these beauties from JCrew. Eeny, meeny, miny, moe.

Photos via JCrew website.

Just what the doctor ordered

2009-11-04T12:09:00.000-08:00

I've been a longtime believer that massage is healthy. And I found out today that the famed Mayo Clinic agrees. Not only does massage help with stress management, but it may also be helpful in boosting the immune system, says the Mayo Clinic. According to this web article, "People with HIV who participated in massage studies showed an increased number of natural killer cells, which are thought to defend the body from viral and cancer cells." So, imagine the benefits it can have on those without compromised immune systems. Forget the swine flu vaccine, book a massage instead. Massages can also help reduce anxiety, promote infant growth, and decrease pain. As if I needed another reason to book a massage.

Pining for the perfect spa robe

2009-10-30T16:22:00.000-07:00

I'm not much of a robe girl at home but when I go to a spa I expect to find a stylish, yet functional, robe hanging in my locker. The sad truth is it rarely happens. They're always oversized and make me feel like I'm 10-years old again and playing in my mom's closet. So, I'm hunting down the perfect spa robe and I want one with a hood like this lovely from the Ace Hotel Palm Springs. Anyone have any suggestions?

Photo courtesy of Miyoko39 from Flickr.

Review: Harvest Spice Aromatherapy Massage

2009-10-28T18:29:00.000-07:00

It's back! I found my review of the Harvest Spice Aromatherapy Massage at Dtox. This offer is only good for the month of October. Jump on it.

Oh Dtox, what have you done to me? I used to be a traditionalist. A 50-minute deep tissue massage kind of girl. But then I started trying out new treatments plucked straight from your monthly email specials. And with a Harvest Spice Aromatherapy Massage on tap this month, what’s a girl to do?

I checked in right about 2:30 pm and quickly slipped into my old routine Yes, I still remember my way back to the ladies changing room. (Seriously, it’s only been about a month.) After a quick rinse I pulled on my terry robe and my way to the co-ed waiting area. I grabbed myself some cucumber and lemon water and settled in on one of the chaise loungers. When it was my turn a female massage therapist introduced herself and escorted me off to the treatment room.

Full disclosure, I’ve already had this treatment before. The massage is essentially the Dtox Custom Massage with a “Harvest Spice Aromatherapy” add on. The treatment was everything I’d expected. The scent of Harvest Spice was subtle but instantly created a warm and relaxing cocoon in which I remained for the next 50 minutes.

Following the massage I was hesitant to wash the oil off my skin. I wanted to remember that scent. That is, until it started making me kind of hungry. That night and into the next day I had an insatiable appetite. I wanted potatoes, roasted veggies...pretty much anything that pairs well slice a pumpkin pie. Warning to dieters: steer clear if your will power is a little faint.

Why thank you Mister Parker

2009-10-28T18:18:00.000-07:00

Just got an email from Mister Parker and had to share the news. For a limited time the Parker Palm Springs is offering an insane spa steal. From November 1 through December 29th book a $179 a night room Monday through Thursday and get a $200 spa credit. The catch? To seal the deal you have to book by midnight tomorrow (October 29). More details and fine print here. Who's in?

Photo courtesy of Parker Palm Springs website.

Doh!

2009-10-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

I'm crushed...somehow I deleted my recent review of the Harvest Spice Aromatherapy Massage I had a few weeks back at Dtox Day Spa. Guess I got kinda trigger happy when messing around with widgets on this fancy tool we call the World Wide Web. I'm trying to resurrect it from somewhere in cyberspace. Hope to have it back online soon.

The sky is falling

2009-10-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

I finally had the pleasure of eating at The Bazaar at the SLS Hotel last week. The food was incredible. Celebrity chef José Andrés sat at the table next to ours opening bottles of wine throughout the night. So L.A. Though I didn't get to check it out, next time I'm in the neighborhood Ciel Spa is on my list. From what I hear the white-on-white Philippe Starck-designed spa is one of the best new spots in Los Angeles. I'm saving my pennies for the Escape package which includes a 60-minute specialty massage, a 90-minute customized facial, spa lunch at the pool (cuisine by José Andrés) and finishes with a mani pedi. OK, so maybe I've got my head in the clouds.

Raising eyebrows

2009-10-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

I am so bad about keeping my brows tweezed. But, with Flo & Steph's wedding right around the corner and friends flooding into town for the nuptials, it's time to hit Stark Waxing Studio. The oil-based wax they use removes hair without irritating my skin.

Birthday Bonanza!

2009-10-14T17:46:00.000-07:00

I'm dedicating this post to someone very special who turned thirty something today. Here's to many more years of spa days, slumber parties, and flip flops with socks. Miss you lady! xoxo

Let's hear it for the boy

2009-10-13T19:07:00.000-07:00

I’m not quite sure how or when it happened but I’m now a proud member of UrbanDaddy. I guess somewhere in cyberspace my identity was swapped and now spammers think I’m a dude. I'm not complaining. Especially when the UrbanDaddy membership comes with a 40% discount at Ona Spa in West Hollywood. I think I'll skip the Botox and cash in the discount for a massage. UrbanDaddy, Can you please hook me up with some discounted snowboarding gear soon? It snowed over a foot in Mammoth today. Thanks!

I caved...

2009-10-10T20:05:00.001-07:00

I did it. I've been holding out all week and just couldn't stand it anymore. I booked an appointment tomorrow afternoon for the harvest spice aromatherapy massage at Dtox Day Spa. Check back soon for my review.

Good Day Sunshine

2009-10-10T19:33:00.000-07:00

I don't often spend big bucks on skincare products. O.K., so maybe that's a little white lie. From time to time I cave and buy one or two expensive products following a good facial. There is, however, one exception: sunscreen. Being a redhead, I've spent most of my life dreaming of the perfect concoction. You know, something that provides full coverage while moisturizing but without causing breakouts minutes after application. After years of experimentation, I think I finally cracked the code thanks to Eminence Organics and its SPF 30 Sun Defense Minerals. I'd heard rumors about powdered sunscreen but had written it off until one enlightened esthetician told me this was the sole product she couldn't live without. So, I tried it. It's water-resistant (this part still blows my mind), organic, and doubled as my go-to foundation the entire summer. It comes in several shades from light to dark (I'm a No. 1). The powder is stored in a handy brush applicator making it super easy for girls on the go. Until something better comes along, I'm a total convert. What's your go-to sunscreen?

Land of Milk + Honey

2009-10-08T16:37:00.000-07:00

On my first and only trip to Austin nearly four years ago my dear friend Lisa and I happened upon Milk + Honey day spa. It was Friday night and we were looking to make appointments somewhere nice but not the Four Seasons. Hotel spas often feel like massage factories. Word of mouth, and a quick Google search, landed us appointments the following day at Milk + Honey. It was the new kid in town back then. In fact, I think it had only opened a couple weeks earlier. I booked a facial, and Lisa a massage. I fell in love the moment I walked in the door. It was small, sweet…in every way a big city boutique day spa. Absolutely perfect. I remember having one of the best treatments of my life than rainy Saturday. Lisa must have too. We were so impressed, in fact, that we booked appointments to return the very next day.

On our way out the door we met founder Alissa Bayer. She told us her story of how she moved to Austin to attend graduate school, fell in love with the city and stayed. Just one thing was missing from Austin and that was a good day spa. Combining her business acumen with big-city spa sense, she opened Milk + Honey. Since that fateful day in January almost four years ago, I’ve watched Milk + Honey grow from afar. (They’ve now got two locations and a salon.) And I’m still on the email list even though I have no idea when I’ll ever land back in Austin. I guess I left a little piece of my heart in Austin, TX that weekend thanks to Alissa and to the land of Milk + Honey.

Spa baby

2009-10-07T18:32:00.000-07:00

Between tennis lessons and building sand castles on the beach, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. I couldn't help but share this adorable pic of my niece from our trip to Lana'i last summer. She's a total spa diva in the making. Love her!

Oktoberfest

2009-10-06T17:45:00.000-07:00

Hello fall. It's been cooler than normal for October in Southern California and with the cool weather comes cravings for pumpkin spice lattes, roasted fall veggies, and butternut squash soup. There's just something in the air that makes me want to host potlucks and dig out my crockpot (even though the only thing I've ever successfully made in it is mulled wine). I'm just in a fall frame of mind. So when an email landed in my Inbox earlier this week from Dtox Day Spa I was beside myself. Included among this month's specials is a "harvest spice aromatherapy massage" with a $25 savings to boot. Yum! I think I might follow up my treatment with some curried pumpkin soup.

12-step program

2009-10-05T22:03:00.000-07:00

Not sure when or how it happened. Maybe it was the plush terry robes. Or, the rubbery spa slippers. The smell? You know, the citrus-y, cucumber-y, lavender aroma that floats through the air the moment you walk into any good day spa-smell? Like I said, I’m not sure when or how it happened but it did. I have a confession to make. I’m a junkie. A complete spa addict.

I didn’t think it was a problem. I mean massages are good for one, right? But then I found myself rushing out of work a little early for a “personal appointment” on a Tuesday afternoon. I’d reason, “If I leave at 5 o’clock I can squeeze in a 50-minute massage and still have time to hit the steam room before dinner.”

So, admission is the first step. And this inaugural post is all part of my 12-step program. In the coming days, weeks and months I’ll share with you all those little things that led me here today. I’ll write about my favorite spas, treatments, robes, scents, even post-spa feasts. You can expect to find pretty much anything spa-related. What’s your addiction?