Put some spring in your step with a relaxing spa weekend.

WRITTEN BY KHRISTI ZIMMETH

f you've ever needed an excuse to treat yourself (or your
morn) to a spa vacation, here it is: A recent study by Cornell
University supported what thousands of women (and an
increasing number of men) have known all along — that a spa
visit is good for both the body and the soul. Respondents report-
ed feeling better connected to family, friends and work associ-
ates after a spa stay, and spa-goers also reported feeling a much
greater understanding of themselves, says Mary H. Tabacchi, the
professor iArho conducted the first-of-its-kind study
"A destination spa vacation encourages positive interactions
that have a 'halo' effect that surrounds and influences the person's
relationships, work associates and social life," she says.
Even better, you don't have to go far to enjoy a great spa
getaway. Here are four top-rated spas within a weekend's drive
— plus a few right here in town.

Solace Spa, Boyne Falls

A Hot Toddy for the Body? That's one of the signature treatments

offered at the new Solace Spa, where "Chaos disappears. Noise fades

away. Balance is restored." The 18,000-square-foot spa is part of Boyne

Mountain's new $70-million Mountain Grand Lodge, which opened

in 2005, and was quickly recognized as one of the "Best Spas In the

World" in Spa Magazine's 2007 worldwide spa guide.

Located on the lodge's first and lower levels, the full-service spa

offers 19 treatment rooms and signature and seasonal treatments

including a Lime Ginger Pedicure and Spring Rejuvenation Facial. Also

popular are the Matterhorn Mud Mask (a detoxifying body mask of

volcanic ash, China clay and botanicals) and the Tropical Mist Wrap

featuring botanicals from the Brazilian rainforest. Massages range from

traditional Swedish to a 50-minute Four Hands massage, administered

by two therapists at the same time.

The spa also offers a variety of special events, including a recent

wellness seminar featuring weight-loss expert Rena Greenberg and the

Vibrational Sound Healing Workshop, offered May 4-6. Overnight spa

getaways and Mother's Day packages, including lodging, breakfast and

your choice of a 50-minute treatment. start at $127 per person. Bringing

the family? On-site golf and the lodge's indoor water park keep every-

one else happy, too. (800) GO-BOYNE; mountaingrandlodge.com

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MAY 2007 •

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