A spa visit offers many health benefits for the guest — stress relief, reduced physical tension and a calmer mind — so it makes sense that these advantages can carry over into the workplace. Research highlighted by Forbes in 2016 shows that spa treatments can spark creativity, strengthen the immune system, increase productivity and improve sleep. With that in mind, GT associate publisher Carly Allen and I booked afternoon spa treatments at The Peninsula Chicago during a recent business trip to the city. After all, it’s still work when it helps you perform better.
Following a busy set of meetings and the fatigue of travel, taking a few hours to reset and restore balance had a noticeable effect on the remainder of our trip and on our focus and workflow the following week.
The Peninsula Chicago is one of my favorite hotels in the city, and I’m always happy to find reasons to return. I’ve stayed in the newly renovated guestrooms, dined at the award-winning Shanghai Terrace, enjoyed the hotel’s holiday décor and relaxed at The Bar. This was my first time experiencing The Peninsula Spa, which I had glimpsed before while using the hotel’s well-equipped fitness center. Now that I’ve visited the spa, it’s a new favorite reason to come back.
Relaxation begins as soon as you enter the reception area: a serene, dimly lit space that immediately calms the senses. We were shown the locker room facilities and I appreciated the attention to detail — shelves stocked with robes and slippers in multiple sizes so guests can choose the right fit. I picked a robe a couple sizes larger to really curl up in; on an early May day that still felt chilly in Chicago, the warmth of the robe felt especially luxurious.
The peaceful atmosphere continued in the relaxation lounge, where cushioned loungers dressed like beds awaited. With plush comforters turned down on one side, the loungers invited rest. I wrapped myself in a blanket and read a magazine while waiting for my therapist.
Carly chose the Sattva Vedic Aromatherapy Massage, one of the spa’s popular offerings that emphasizes Marma therapy, an ancient Indian practice. The Sattva by Simply Peninsula collection comprises eight treatments and rituals that blend Ayurvedic principles with modern massage techniques. The products for these services are provided by Australian brand Subtle Energies and combine active elements such as oils, Himalayan crystal salts, clays and herbs. For her 60-minute session, Carly selected a specific oil and salt blend with guidance from her therapist.
The Sattva Vedic Aromatherapy Massage uses Marma therapy and lymphatic techniques to balance energy while supporting muscles and joints — a calming, restorative treatment Carly described as “perfect after a long day of meetings.”
Other Sattva treatments include the Khushali Reviving Signature Journey, Tulasi Detox Signature Journey, Podi Signature Journey, Vedic Aromatherapy Full Body and Facial Marma Massage, Khushali Himalayan Crystal Salt Scrub, Tulasi Detox Body Polish and Sattva Shirodhara with Facial Marma Therapy.
Facial treatment © THE PENINSULA CHICAGO
I chose the Biologique Recherche Healthy Glow Facial, a treatment introduced at the spa earlier in the year. Biologique Recherche is known for a clinical approach and concentrated, carefully formulated ingredients created in Parisian laboratories. The products are perfume-free and cold-formulated to preserve active components. After the facial, my skin remained smooth, clear and radiant for weeks.
The highlight of my 60-minute facial was a cold mask. At first it was a brisk shock, then deeply refreshing as the therapist used massage tools to work the formulas into my skin. The Healthy Glow Facial begins with a personalized analysis, followed by deep cleansing, exfoliation and a manual lift technique. The mask and treatment are customized to address each guest’s skin type and concerns.
Other Biologique Recherche offerings at the spa include the European Deep Cleansing Facial, the Remodeling Facial, the Second Skin Facial, the CRYO 3R Facial, the Triple Lift Luxury Facial and the Gentleman’s Facial.
When you’re next in Chicago, consider booking time at The Peninsula Spa. The signature treatments are restorative and tailored, and you’ll likely notice the benefits before you even leave the treatment room.
The Peninsula Spa
The Peninsula Chicago
108 E. Superior St.
Chicago, IL 60611
tel 312 573 6860
peninsula.com