By The Editors By The Editors | September 25, 2023 | Lifestyle, Feature, Style & Beauty, Guides,
These eight sanctuaries of solace offer the perfect getaway any time of the year.
Balian Springs
Balian Springs is a new, 10,000-square-foot social club for wellness in Alexandria. Three floors of amenities include 16 hydrotherapy pools, eight saunas, a fitness center, a sushi bar, a cafe, relaxation lounges and a 13-room day spa. “Wellness goes beyond the prioritization of just our physical health—it’s about self-care and taking a holistic approach while balancing our physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social well-being,” says Stephanie Chon, president of Balian Springs. “Our mission is to create a sanctuary for wellness exploration and provide our members’ access to unique therapies in one central location—and to be a part of a community centered around spreading wellness.”
Chon says she’s excited about unveiling the center’s wellness workshop calendar this spring and summer. “Each week, we’ll host different classes centered around one aspect of well-being. From hot yoga, Reiki, hypnotherapy, biohacking, and boxing to movie night, meditation, IV and botox pop-ups, these workshops expand on the experience found at Balian Springs,” she says.
S+P MedSpa
From flawless facials and peels to lights, lasers and microneedling, Dr. Somenek and Dr. Pittman are redefining the definition of luxury skincare. S+P MedSpa believes that taking care of your skin is just as important as eating well or getting enough sleep, and the team’s lengthy lineup of treatments is the proof. The miraculous mandelic peel, derived from natural bitter almonds, targets discoloration and wrinkles. The Diamond Glow dermal infusion uses advanced technology to exfoliate, extract and infuse, revealing radiant and rejuvenated skin.
BlueWater Day Spa
Adorned with numerous awards and praises adorning its walls, Blu Water Day Spa’s proprietor, Julie Nguyen, faced high expectations when aiming to integrate a hair salon into her existing award-winning spa layout. Julie imagined seamlessly transforming the area, previously housing a significant retail section and part of the nail area, into an oasis within the spa. The vision for Blu Water Day Spa and Salon was realized in December 2012, embodying the seamless fusion of health, wellness, natural beauty, and the essence of nature.
Four Seasons Washington DC Spa
Relax and unwind at this Forbes 4-star spa, which sets the standard for excellence in the region. Indulge in innovative, opulent facials by Biologique Recherche and Ionixlight at The Spa. Offering the epitome of effective pampering, the spa team extends an invitation to experience medically-guided treatments in the venue’s calming and revitalizing ambiance. The Sweet Suite Staycation package includes
Georgetown Massage & Bodywork
Georgetown Massage and Bodywork has prioritized a client’s well-being and serenity for over 15 years. Founder Alison Alleva and her team of compassionate, highly trained and licensed professionals have been dedicated to assisting clients in attaining wellness, alleviating pain and achieving relaxation through various therapeutic practices. These encompass therapeutic massage and bodywork, infrared light therapy, herbal wellness consultations, natural product offerings, and informative workshops.
Clients experience a range of wellness treatments and explore the apothecary shop. Stocked with over 50 essential oils, handcrafted teas, eco-friendly candles, bathing essentials, natural skincare products, CBD topicals, crystals, unique jewelry, and more, the venue’s shop is a haven for self-care and holistic living.
Insider tip: Visit the DIY aromatherapy bar, allowing you to craft your own herbal bath salts, body oils, and natural perfumes, as well as aromatherapy roll-ons—an empowering opportunity to personalize a well-being journey.
Pendry Washington DC Spa
The Spa here is another little epiphany. The elegant space features a gorgeous lounge, locker rooms (comfy robes and slippers, of course), eucalyptus-infused steam rooms and five treatment areas, including one for couples. Treatment options include everything from the Harbor and Stone Massage to the Protect and Rebalance Facial.
Spa at MGM National Harbor
Spanning an expansive 27,000 square feet, The Spa at MGM National Harbor is a haven of luxury. It boasts eleven exquisitely furnished spa rooms, a comprehensive salon, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an array of exclusive facilities. Delight in selecting the spa’s signature services, all delivered with unmatched attention to detail, ensuring relaxation, restoration, and rejuvenation.
Waldorf Astoria Spa
This gorgeous spa encompasses six treatment rooms, a serene Himalayan Salt Therapy Room, and The Sanctuary—an inviting relaxation space featuring private resting cocoons and a tranquil fountain. This environment offers an exclusive haven for superior care and the utmost rejuvenation. Rest assured, our adept therapists will personalize your experience to align with every guest’s unique needs.
Not to miss: Enhance your special occasion with our exclusive offering—a 60- or 90-minute signature massage shared with your beloved in our lavish Couples Suite. Elevate the experience further by extending your relaxation time by 30 minutes, allowing you to unwind with Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries in our private couple’s wing. Complete with a rain shower and the salt therapy room, adding an unforgettable touch to your intimate retreat.
Photography by: Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria DC