Boston Common - Niche Media - A side of Boston that's anything but common.
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/209310
T he Guide EAT, DRINK, SHOP, AND UNWIND THE VERY BEST OF imbibe: cognac cocktails relax: tasty treatments play: winter getaways Look Good, Feel Good PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL BOSTON INNER STRENGTH AND OUTER BEAUTY MEET IN THE NEWEST TREATMENT AT THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL. BY JESSICA LANIEWSKI R elaxation and wellness go hand-in-hand with the Mandarin Oriental's new Inner Strength treatment, created in collaboration with Aromatherapy Associates. Geraldine Howard, founder of the luxury aromatherapy company, relied on an oil she custom-blended to soothe herself while undergoing cancer treatment. It was so helpful during her illness that she decided to produce the elixir—now named Inner Strength oil— for clients. Howard has partnered with the Mandarin Oriental in Boston to introduce the one hour and 20 minute (or one hour and 50 minute) full-body treatment focused on soothing those who are ill or are experiencing an emotionally stressful time. "Inner Strength is perfect for anyone—from those looking to relax from everyday stress to people trying to cope with more extreme challenges," says Sharon Holtz, spa director at the Mandarin Oriental. "The treatment's nurturing massage techniques focus on calming the nervous system and relieving muscle tension. Guests will experience a profound before-and-after difference, and the Inner Strength oil is the perfect accompaniment." The treatment starts with a hot compress that relaxes the body, followed by a massage with the Inner Strength oil; also used are calming clary sage and frankincense, which allow for better focus and clarity, as well as fortifying cardamom and rosemary, healing rose and vetiver, and circulation-stimulating geranium. Following the massage, guests are treated to footwork on their pressure points to leave them thoroughly restored. Through the end of the year, 10 percent of the cost of each Inner Strength treatment will go toward the Jimmy Fund, reaffirming Aromatherapy Associates and the Mandarin Oriental's commitment to fighting and ending cancer. Giving back never felt so good. 776 Boylston St., 617-535-8888; mandarinoriental.com BC BOSTONCOMMON-MAGAZINE.COM 173_BC_TG_Opener_Holiday_13.indd 173 173 10/31/13 5:37 PM