When we visited Allen Edwards Salon & Spa in Studio City one evening in mid-October, we were a little overwhelmed at first by the hustle and bustle of its busy salon. But once we stepped through the doors to the separate spa area, we were pleased to find a welcoming sanctuary with private changing rooms, showers and lockers.
We were there for a Stone Therapy massage and body wrap. Our massage therapist CaryLynn started by having us select a Bioelements essential oil to help us achieve our desired effect during the treatment, whether it was increased energy, healing or pure relaxation.
CaryLynn began the treatment by placing toasty stones on our hands, feet and sacrum, allowing us to start relaxing immediately. After applying a wonderfully silky blend of Bioelements citrus oil and moisturizer with a soft paintbrush, she began the rhythmic process of massaging our neck, back and shoulders with smooth stones. Allen Edwards warm stone massage process is elaborate and involved, and it was obvious from her skilled motions that CaryLynn was well versed in the treatment.
The heat from the stones intensified as the treatment went on, creating a calming and detoxifying effect similar to being in a mild sauna. Toward the end of the treatment, CaryLynn wrapped us in warm sheets to further intensify the heat. As we lay cozily cocooned, she devoted some more attention to our feet, and then our head, neck and shoulders. This was no doubt the perfect treatment for a chilly autumn night. Review originally published 11/3/05.
