SPA PERFECTION

Recently I purchased a Groupon for a spa which offered a facial and massage for half price ($150 instead of $250). And since I was definitely in need of some MAJOR rejuvenation, I didn't waste any time calling to book my appointment for the following week. Let me preface this by saying that, because I am in the beauty industry, I am VERY selective when it comes to choosing skin care products and spa services. And while I have been less than impressed by most, I seemed to have surprisingly regained my trust in both after my 2 hour spa experience today.











Upon entering Sphatika, the shaded crisp white room accented with calming tones of sand beige and turquoise put me at ease right away. The energy of the immaculate room was tranquil and a hint of aromatic fragrance filled the air. I was greeted warmly by the concierge, Priscilla, who's skin by the way glowed as if she herself just had a day at the spa. Priscilla brought me cozy slippers and had me place all of my belongings (handbag, flip flops, etc.) on a bamboo tray that she would stow away for me until I was ready to leave. Next, she brought me to the changing room where I gladly undressed, put on a luxurious robe, and met her in the "Shanti Loka" room or "Peaceful Abode". It was there that Priscilla impressed me greatly by explaining the philosophy of Sphatika (which by the way means "Crystal" in ancient Sanskrit), a bit about their 100% natural product line, and why the chosen sounds were playing. Very interesting and much appreciated. There were the largest most gorgeous healing crystals I've ever seen placed throughout the room, as well as 3 individual wooden-like pods called "Infrared Saunas", a pitcher of fresh lemon water, some colorfully displayed skin care products on a counter, and a few extremely enticing cushy bamboo lounge chairs covered in white terry cloth and sloped in all the right places. Priscilla handed me a glass of water and my very own tiny crystal (what a lovely gesture) and asked me to set my intention as I sat in the sauna. And so I did. I closed my eyes while sitting in the dry infrared heat (for about twenty minutes) and began to meditate to the sound of relaxing subliminal sounds with crystal in hand. I truly felt like I could have been in a warm desert somewhere. I felt the tension disappear and, as I opened my eyes, noticed through the tiny glass window in front of me the airy hypnotic fluttering motion of the bamboo ceiling fans.










It was time to meet my wonderful esthetician Midori, a very soft spoken petite girl who led me to the next phase of my healing journey. She explained that I would be receiving a Lymphatic Drainage facial and body treatment. I couldn't wait to begin. Midori began by "rocking" my entire body in a very constant rhythmic motion that made me feel like I was being cradled to sleep. She quietly narrated the entire process for me so that there were no surprises that could hinder my relaxation experience. Dry brushing came next...Using a soft bristle brush, long sweeping motions from the tips of my toes and fingers towards my heart invigorated my senses and directed toxins to lymphatic release points throughout my body. A gentle lemon oil massage and mineral masque followed. Afterwards, a clever "tent" was lowered over me, covering my entire body, while warm steam filled the contained area and allowed my body to rejuvenate. My facial began...A cleansing lotion was applied first and Midori's soft hands glided all over my face, neck, and decollete like a well choreographed dance. Each motion more soothing than the next. The delicate Gommage Exfoliating Creme followed and then the fabulous Lymphatic Drainage Machine. Imagine tiny little cups sounding like low frequency melodic tones that ever so gently suction your supple skin as they glide along your face. A few times around the track and my face was ready for a masque. At this point I remember feeling a bit dehydrated and before I could say anything, Midori had a straw ready for me to take a sip of water. Much better. Love the thoughtful attention to detail. I then became quite toasty until a refreshingly cool damp towel enveloped my face and made me feel instantly wonderful. The Lymphatic Facial finished with a Bulgarian Rose Facial Oil (smells lovely), Vitamin A Night Creme, and the magical Gold Finishing Serum that made me glow like an angel.











My zen oasis time came to a close with a peaceful rest in the Shanti Loka room. A tiny plate of mixed nuts, a square of dark chocolate, and a fresh glass of water were awaiting me on a table next to my lounge chair as I entered. I could have honestly stayed there for hours. But, as all things, everything must come to an end. I got dressed, admired my newly glowing skin in the mirror, expressed my sincerest thanks to concierges Priscilla and Karen, then made my way out the door feeling light as a feather and very grateful for such a nurturing experience. I can't wait to go back!

Sphatika is located at 1841 Broadway (Between Broadway and 9th Avenue), Suite 811.
Call 212-265-5885 to make an appointment.

6 WAYS TO GET GREAT SKIN

The quality of our skin is a direct reflection of both internal and external conditions. The list below suggests a few easy yet powerful things we all can do to create skin that's calm, glowing, and crystal clear!

1. DITCH THE DAIRY

Did you know that cow's milk wreaks literal HAVOC on our skin? It's true! As my friend and health guru Kimberly Snyder states, "By the time we are 3- 4 years old, most of us have stopped producing the enzymes of lactase and rennin, which are used to specifically break down lactose in milk. The reason we don’t produce these enzymes anymore is because we really aren’t supposed to be having milk anymore." One of the biggest signs that our bodies are trying to rid itself of such unwanted matter is inflammation, blemishes, and congestion on the skin. If clear skin is something you've been striving for, do yourself a favor and stay away from dairy altogether.

2. DON'T OVER WASH YOUR FACE

While it's true that skin should be maintained and kept free from bacteria, dirt, and pore clogging irritants, many women have the tendency to scrub skin too often and too hard. When you wash your face too much, you essentially remove all the natural oils that keep skin lubricated. The constant scrubbing can result in oversensitivity, dry dehydrated skin texture, and can even make you break out. Instead, use a gentle cleanser in the evenings and, in the mornings, lightly dampen a wash rag with lukewarm water to remove any excess oil or dead skin that might have formed during the night. Your skin will thank you for it.

3. GET ENOUGH SLEEP

Sleep is SO critical for us in so many ways. Not the least of which is in the skin department. Without 6-8 hours of sleep, our bodies become deprived and unable to function properly. Our skin ends up looking stressed, lifeless, dark circles and puffiness appear around our eyes, and lines become much more obvious. Taking the time to get a good night's sleep will contribute to a calm radiant face.

4. INCORPORATE A MORNING DETOX INTO YOUR DAY

Before you go right into the day to day grind of infrequent meals, too much coffee, or skipping meals all together, try drinking a detoxifying elixir immediately after you wake up and before you eat. Drinking something as simple as fresh lemon juice in warm purified water or green tea on an empty stomach will flush out your system and aid in ridding it of unwanted toxic matter. Another wonderful option is freshly blending organic greens and fruit together for a highly healing smoothie that your body can absorb very quickly. It will give you energy while flooding your body with essential live enzymes, vitamins, and minerals. Try Kimberly Snyder's famous Glowing Green Smoothie www.kimberlysnyder.net/blog/2009/07/11/green-smoothie-recipe/

5. ELIMINATE REGULARLY

It is imperative that we consume at last 30-50 grams of fiber EVERYDAY. If we don't, our bodies can "back up" and become very toxic. The more toxic we are the more we become sick and look noticeably unhealthy. Where skin is concerned, toxicity in the body results in graying skin tone, congestion and inflammation on the skin's surface and an overall aged and unhealthy appearance. A trip to the bathroom at least once a day can make your skin sing!

6. WORKOUT AND SWEAT

The combination of sweating and exercise can be incredibly helpful to our skin. Exercising as little as 20-30 minutes at a time significantly increases our blood flow and stimulates our circulation. In addition, the water we are secreting through our pores acts as a kind of transport system which allows the body to naturally eliminate unnecessary toxins as well. The combination of these along with drinking lots of water contributes greatly to skin that visibly glowing, radiant and healthy.