Have you heard of Blue Mind Theory? The theory, coined by marine biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, follows the idea that being near or in water makes people happier, inducing a sense of calm similar to a meditative state. Furthering the idea, BMT theorizes the color, sound and feel of water can lower heart rate and blood pressure; reduce stress and anxiety; stimulate the release of positive neurochemicals like dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin; and decrease the stress hormone cortisol.

I felt this in full effect on a recent trip to InterContinental Miami, located in an urban area but situated on the water. Once inside the glass doors of the luxury property, one finds the traffic, construction and other elements of the concrete jungle disappear.

Overlooking the cruise port, the hotel is so near the water, it could almost be a cruise ship itself, preparing to set sail. And considering I was in the throes of packing up a house to move with a toddler before departing for Miami, I really put Blue Mind Theory to the test while in the 305.

mySpa loungers © InterContinental Miami

I and several other members of the Global Traveler team were in the city to host our annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards event. Our entire group explored and enjoyed the countless amenities of InterContinental Miami, from settling into comfortable guestrooms; enjoying lunch and cocktails at Toro Toro; spending time at the pool; and visiting the hotel’s executive lounge, Club InterContinental, to, of course, experiencing the banquet and catering services and meeting and event spaces. We even took to the water ourselves, chartering a sunset catamaran cruise. I was lucky enough to sneak off and enjoy another of the hotel’s amenities worth mentioning: mySpa, named No. 1 Spa in Miami on TripAdvisor. Unpretentious and welcoming, the space offers the perfect spot to escape the hubbub for a little bit, center oneself and work toward better health.

The spa and pool area share an entrance through the spa shop, boasting everything from skincare products to swimsuits and flip- flops. Continue through the second set of glass doors outside to a spacious patio area that opens into the pool, cabanas (available to rent) and a bar, or do as I did and find the spa’s reception desk to the right of the shop and check in for your indulgent treatment.

The pool will still beckon post-spa bliss! The hotel’s state-of-the- art fitness center is also found on this level, boasting TechnoGym equipment, free weights, a stair climber and a spin bike, and is open 24/7. mySpa, open Monday–Thursday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., and Friday– Sunday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., offers the full complement of treatments, from massage and facial treatments to nail services, waxing, and hair and makeup. Groups of five or more enjoy 10 percent off spa party services on 50-minute or longer services, while visitors can purchase a $75 day pass to use the fitness center, sauna/steam, locker room and four hours of validated pool parking. These services are complimentary to those booking a 50-minute or longer service.

mySpa lobby © InterContinental Miami

Always keen to try the spa’s signature treatments, I was immediately drawn to the Signature Raindrop Experience on the massage menu, available in either 50- or 80-minute increments. But my warm, hospitable experience began the moment I checked in. Ready and waiting for me, it really felt like a personal welcome. I was offered water, tea or Champagne as I completed the spa questionnaire before being led on a mini tour of the facilities.

While I’m not a huge fan of saunas and steams, especially when temperatures outdoors were creeping past 100 degrees, these
facilities were spacious and meticulous — and they are available to hotel guests as part of their stay.

During my indulgent treatment, my experienced masseuse drizzled seven warmed essential oils along my spine — the “raindrop” as described in the treatment’s name. The oils included basil, thyme, wintergreen, cypress, marjoram, clary sage and peppermint; and the therapist explained each one’s benefits as she dripped them across my back, following the oils with hot stones to really induce relaxation and meditation. The many benefits of the oils include skin health, mental clarity, stress relief, respiratory support, immunity, anti-inflammation, muscle relaxation, pain relief, cardiovascular health, better sleep, hormone balance, hair health and digestion.

The rest of the massage used Swedish massage techniques to combat my tight, sore muscles from the move and daily, oh-so undeniable toddler requests for “Mommy, up!” With the soothing water nearby, the first-rate amenities of the luxury hotel and the absolute Zen of the spa, this trip to Miami was good for the soul.

mySpa
InterContinental Miami
100 Chopin Plaza
Miami, FL 33131
tel 305 577 1000