Taylor Stevens Salon & Spa

4610 West Algonquin Rd. in Lake in the Hills

At Taylor Stevens Salon & Spa, relaxation come easily. In fact, they even have a room designated for just this purpose. Before and after and spa treatment, guests are invited to take advantage of their Relaxation Room. Sounds too good to be true, huh? Well, it’s true. Clients can sit on curved tile benches that are heated from below in a room similar to a dry heat sauna. A table fountain lulls them into a blissful, relaxed state before they’ve even begun to experience the wonderful treatments the spa has to offer.

All spa treatments can be customized for each clients needs and wants. They boast a very unique couples retreat perfect for any couples anniversary or brides-to-be and their mothers. Every effort is made to make the experience as pleasant as possible. Hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries can be enjoyed while receiving a pedicure. If you’re a man who is shy about getting his toes done, don’t worry. The pedicure area is within the spa, so you won’t have to go out to the salon in your robe. The choices are endless at Taylor Stevens Salon & Spa.

For more information visit www.taylorstevens.com. To make an appointment call 847-515-2041.

The Bridge Spa at Centegra Health Bridge Fitness Center

200 East Congress Pkwy. in Crystal Lake

The Bridge Spa is located in Centegra’s Health Bridge Fitness Center. Their signature Bridge Spa keeps fitness in mind. Each client receives a customized massage to fit their body’s needs: Swedish, sport, deep tissue, muscle therapy, trigger-point or any combination of the above. Massage at the Bridge Spa is performed by state-licensed therapists and is essential for the intricate balance of body, mind and spirit. Your massage can address your problematic areas, improve circulation, let you de-stress and promote good health.  Non-members of Centegra Health Bridge Fitness Center may also use the fitness facility on the day of their spa services. Amenities include a steam room, sauna, hot tub, lap pool and extensive fitness floor.

Stop in for Parents’ Night Out on February 15 and March 21. Enjoy dinner and a movie which your children are entertained by Health Bridge childcare providers. The Bridge Spa also offers manicures, pedicures, facials and waxings. Childcare is available while you receive your treatment! Call 815-444-2900 to schedule your appointments today!

Distinction Salon and Spa

88 Railroad St. in Downtown Crystal Lake

For something different, Distinctions Salon and Spa has developed the Oriental Essence Ceremony. This blissful ritual softens skin with an exfoliating ginger-infused balm. Aromatic bags are used to perform a massage inspired by South East Asia that envelops the body in deep relaxation, sooths the spirit and leaves the skin hydrated, soft and luminous. You cannot pass up this unparalleled sensory experience.

For more information visit www.distinctionssalonspa.com or to book an appointment call 815-788-1320.

The Spa Experience

By Julie Benson,| Manager, Distinction Salon & Spa

In today’s fast-paced, stressful society, the benefits of a spa experience are often necessary to protect the well being of our mind, body and soul. Day spas offer a calm, peaceful atmosphere. There are soft, comfortable robes and slippers for you to wear, as well as lockers to store your personal belongings throughout your day. The private treatment rooms are made up with fresh linens, soft lighting and professional products. The basic spa services include massages, facials and body treatments.

People new to the spa experience should understand a few things before turning the idea of a treatment down. First off, relax! There is nothing to worry about. First-time spa goers are often anxious about disrobing for a treatment. Your technician will let you know how much you should undress for your treatment. Remember you only have to undress to your own personal comfort level. Also, keep in mind you are always draped during your treatment; the only area exposed is the area being treated.

The most popular spa treatment and a good place to start is a massage, which has been around for thousands of years and has a number of health benefits. A massage calms the nervous system and promotes a sense of relaxation and well-being. Massage also reduces tension and anxiety, as well as improves blood circulation, stimulates the lymphatic system, relieves muscle cramps and can also help with pain management of conditions such as arthritis and sciatica. You should not get a massage if you have a fever, infection, inflammation, osteoporosis or other medical condition. If you are unsure if a massage would be right for you, speak to a massage therapist or your doctor before you make an appointment.

The next most popular treatment is a facial. This will cleanse, exfoliate and nourish the skin to promote clear, healthy, well-balanced skin. During a facial, the esthetician will analyze your skin, exfoliate, extract blackheads if necessary, apply a mask and steam-massage the face muscles, then finish with a protective cream and toner. Finally, the esthetician will give advice on at-home care to maintain the treatment. You should try to have a facial at least four times a year, as the seasons change.

Another popular treatment is a body treatment. This is essentially a facial for your body. It is just as important to cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate the skin on your body as it is the skin on your face. Salt glows or sea-salt scrubs are the most common body treatments. The technician rubs a mixture of sea salts and essential oils into your skin. This exfoliates the skin and leaves it feeling velvety soft. A body mask and wrap are other treatments. If you are covered in mud, algae or seaweed and then wrapped in a thermal blanket, it’s a detoxifying body treatment that stimulates your metabolic system. If the product is a cream or lotion, then it’s a hydrating treatment.

In a spa setting you will become relaxed, physically rejuvenated and spiritually renewed. For more information please visit www.distinctionsalonspa.com. Or stop by for a menu at 88 Railroad Street in downtown Crystal Lake. 815-788-1320.

Want to try something new

Akasha Yoga offers Reiki

Reiki is a Japanese technique that promotes physical, emotional and spiritual healing naturally. When your life energy dips too low, you become vulnerable to stress and illness. Reiki increases and balances the energy. Reiki is a channeled healing performed by the “laying of the hands,” which feels like a glowing radiance that flows through and around you and gives a relaxed, peaceful feeling. Reiki has been beneficial in helping every known illness; it can be used in conjunction with other therapies.

For more information call 815-356-7089 or visit them at 121 North Main St. in downtown Crystal Lake.
Jennifer Ewert, Owner and Instructor

Mario Tricoci

265 Cog Circle in Crystal Lake

The moment you step into the Mario Tricoci spa your body relaxes. The tranquil lighting and soothing music take you into another world, one in which your only responsibility is to let go and enjoy time for yourself. The spa offers a variety of pampering options. Our favorite is the Indulge package.

Your indulgence begins with an Oxygen Glow Facial, a stimulating and revitalizing facial that increases oxygen the levels of your skin, purifying it. Next is the Hot Stone Therapy Massage. You’ll attain deep relaxation when warm stones are placed to release tension from your muscles.

After that (yes, there’s more), your body is treated to a Warm Shea Butter Wrap, an intensely hydrating and healing treatment that leaves your skin smooth and silky. After you’ve completely relaxed and rejuvenated, inside and out, you’ll be treated to an Olive Oil Manicure and Pedicure, a haircut and style, New Image makeup lesson and a gourmet spa lunch. Now, you’re just asking yourself, “Where do I sign up?” To book an appointment call 800-TRICOCI or visit www.tricoci.com n