Call it kismet: As my flight touched down at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, I came across an article about the new Leaf Spa opening at Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park, becoming intrigued as I read about its wellness practices inspired by Earth’s natural wonders and seasons, believing spa-goers “shed old leaves and blossom anew.”
A quick check of my final schedule showed I could potentially squeeze a treatment in the next morning, between two meetings on that side of the Chicago River. As I read more about the seasonal treatment menu, the potential became a reality, and I scheduled a facial for the next day.
© Alina Alexandra Photography
Nature and the seasons, as mentioned, play a large role in all the elements of Leaf Spa, right down to the names of the treatment rooms: Birch, known for rebirth and new beginning; Holly, for peace and good will; Red Oak, representing a willingness to survive; Red Maple, a symbol of endurance; Sycamore, representing strength; Fern, good luck; Ginkgo, with its hope, love and duality; and Bodhi, for attaining enlightenment, wisdom and compassion.
The treatments are also broken down by seasons; while you don’t need to book treatments only in the associated season, they embody the elements and products of that time of year, therefore adding to the therapeutic benefits. My visit coincided with fall, so I was drawn to the Falless Facial, utilizing pumpkin and cinnamon to even out skin discoloration. Two other fall options included the Dosha Detox Body Treatment and Mindful Meditative Massage. Winter focuses on cleansing from the past and peacefully pursuing the future with offerings highlighting sage and including a Peaceful Pause Massage. Spring, of course, is about renewal, using botanical boosters, re-energizing the skin and incorporating rose aromatherapy. Honey plays a role in sum- mer’s Honeysupple Facial, while the Cool Down Cure Body Treat- ment boasts aloe, coconut and cold therapy. Package options bundle various seasonal treatments together, and other treatments include the Knesko Mask, hot stones, CBD oil, soaks with herbal enhancements and scalp rejuvenation.
The morning of my treatment, Leaf Spa called to inform me, unfortunately, its aesthetician had an emergency and wouldn’t be able to make my morning facial appointment. As I wasn’t available later in the day, I opted to switch my treatment to the Mindful Meditative Massage, which begins with a guided breathing meditation and sound bowl healing, relaxing the mind before the restorative massage.
© Alina Alexandra Photography
But there was much to get to before my massage even started. I was on limited time and couldn’t fully take advantage of everything on offer; however, Leaf Spa is one place where I highly recommend allowing yourself as much extra time as possible. As I opened the spa’s doors, candle-lit lanterns led me to the front desk, situated next to the Wish Tree and Alchemist Bar. The receptionist checked me in and took me over to the Alchemist Bar, full of healing herbs, essential remedies and plants. I selected rose and eucalyptus and, while I was in my massage, the spa created my own therapeutic scrub from my choices. Patrons can also select a topical, oil or tincture instead. This was one of the most unique and personalized touches I’ve experienced at a spa anywhere in the world. The Wish Tree, decorated with different-colored ribbons, collects every visitor’s hopes and manifestations. I joined the others, tying my own ribbon to the tree’s branches and setting my intention for the treatment.
On the way to the locker room area, I passed through the House of Knowledge, a gallery of plants, herbs and leaves from around the world that offer natural healing benefits. In the spacious, well-equipped locker room area, I changed into a plush robe and slippers, perusing the teas, nuts and dried fruits on offer. Soothing background music accompanied me as I made my way to the relaxation lounge’s comfortable seating to await my therapist.
It felt like the rest of my short visit breezed by in a blur once my therapist greeted me and led me to my treatment room. New to Chicago, he shared with me what drew him to Leaf Spa, explain-ing its overhaul and new concept helped him make his decision to relocate. The massage left me feeling revitalized and ready to take on my afternoon of meetings with a renewed vim and vigor. The bag of incredible spa goodies, including my personalized scrub, I was gifted upon my departure ensured that feeling followed me home from the Windy City.
Read This Next
High Peaks Resort Review
March 2023
May 6, 2023
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Sep 29, 2023Spies, Lies and Nukes Weekend at La Fonda on the Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe, New Mexico
Did the new film Oppenheimer rouse your interest in the nefarious world of international espionage? You can go straight to the real-life setting for covert actions this November (Nov. 10–12), when La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe hosts a specially themed “Spies, Lies and Nukes” weekend. The hotel actually served as the retreat location for Manhattan Project scientists, who stayed at La Fonda on the Plaza to take a break from the stress of their work. During the weekend, the property’s La Fiesta Lounge will make a tasty nod to those days by serving up a special Atomic Martini.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Daily
Sep 29, 2023A Shucking Good Time: The Read House Introduces New Lavish Martini & Pearls In-Room Service
Ever want handcrafted martinis and freshly shucked oysters delivered straight to your room? The Read House’s New Martinis & Pearls service has you covered. Shining in 1920s-themed decor, the historic hotel in the heart of Chattanooga offers a true Gatsby-esque experience, now further elevated with this upscale amenity. Guests can now indulge in their perfectly chilled martini, made to order, and “pearls” (oysters) in the comfort of their room.
Daily
Sep 29, 20234 Can’t Miss New York Adventures for Active Travelers
If your idea of fun in New York City is to get the adrenaline flowing and your heart racing rather than engage in more relaxed pursuits like shopping, seeing Broadway shows and visiting museums, here are four activities that are anything but low-key:
Sponsored Content
Business or Leisure? With TAP Air Portugal, You Can Have Both!
Are you looking to enhance your business trip with a little leisure? Look no further than Portugal, a country renowned for its captivating blend of history, culture and natural beauty. And with TAP Air Portugal, you can effortlessly transform your business trip into an unforgettable bleisure adventure. Discover why Portugal and TAP Air Portugal are the perfect combination for an enriching and rejuvenating experience.
Daily
Sep 28, 2023Studio City: The More Mellow Side of Hollywood
There are two Hollywoods: A catch-all name for the American entertainment industry and the physical place where it was born. The latter continues to draw tourists with the original Walk of Fame; historic hotels, movie and live production theaters; and a full spectrum of pop cultural phenomena.
Perelman Performing Arts Center Opens in New York
Daily
Sep 26, 2023Daily
Sep 26, 20234 Sweet Spots for Vintage Clothing Lovers
Whether you call secondhand fashion treasure troves “thrift stores,” “fripperies,” “charity shops,” “vintage boutiques” or something else, shifting the paradigm from “old clothes” to “new finds,” you may find the best, most conversation-starting souvenirs inside these shops and neighborhoods located in the world’s most fashionable cities and a few unexpected places.
Sponsored Content
Greece: A Life-Changing Experience
Experience the life-changing destination of Greece by exploring its island gems in the Ionian Sea. Scattered off the western coastline of Central Greece, to the south of Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands are an island group comprising large and small islands.
eFlyer Reviews
Sep 26, 2023Viking Polaris Canadian Discovery Review
While the 372-passenger Viking Polaris expedition ship, launched in September 2022, falls midway in size between Viking Cruises’ intimate river cruise ships and large-scale ocean ships, it is operated with the same attention to detail and personalized service.
ShareThis