I know very few women who don't like to get pampered (or more) at the spa; I just so happen to be one of the obsessed. But a trip to the spa these days isn't exactly as thoughtless of a purchase as a cup of coffee or an impulse purchase at H&M. It takes a lot for a gal to get refreshed — including coin. To the rescue: Fall Spa Week 2011, your opportunity to get a variety of spa and wellness services that normally cost between $50 and $100 for only $50 a pop. Now that's beautiful. Here are my top picks:


  • 60-minute tri-active facial treatment at Clarins Skin Spa at Nordstrom (55 E. Grand Ave., 312-464-1515). Several of the skin care prods from Clarins are comparable to lines found in some of the best spas in the city, which is fitting why the French brand has a spa within Nordstrom to show off the efficiency of its treatments. Take advantage of this customized (soothing, hydrating, age-fighting, anti-stress, brightening, purifying, and radiance) hour-long facial, which incorporates the Clarins Pro high-performance products only to be used by your esthetician — what would be the point of a professional treatment otherwise, right?
  • 70-minute pumpkin enzyme manicure and pedicure at Kiva Day Spa (196 E. Pearson St., 312-840-8120). Just in time for Fall, this results-driven mani-pedi includes a seasonal-inspired soak, scrub, and pumpkin enzyme that does so much more for your digits and tootsies than pie does for your toosh.
  • 50-minute custom Swedish massage with essential oils at Channing's Day Spa (54 E. Oak St., 2nd Fl., 312-280-1994). If you're going to opt for a classic massage, then head to a place with 30 years experience in the biz. The use of essential oils elevates the experience for both mind and body, so if you're really looking to reap the bennies, keep the oils until you shower the next morning.

  • 50-minute intuitive reading with an energy healer at Ruby Room (1743-45 W. Division St., 773-235-2323). Spas aren't just about treatments, though it's rare we see anything more than that in our urban surroundings, which is why getting an intuitive reading is so exciting. No, you won't be seated across from a gypsy with a gold cap, but the healer will promote clarity and perspective on that (sometimes) crazy life of yours.
  • Five pack of mind body classes at exhale (945 N. State St., 312-753-6500). Health and wellness are also a large part of the spa philosophy, and I can't think of a better way for anyone to get on the bandwagon than with exhale's award-winning core fusion and yoga classes, the perfect blend of strength, toning, and flexibility.

Source: Maria Ponce