A Breath of Fresh Air in the City

Exhale Spa believes you shouldn't have to travel all the way to a destination spa to relax and restore when the place you need it most is exactly where you are, amidst the hustle and bustle of our urban environment. We couldn't agree more.

When visiting Exhale's Santa Monica location (there is another yoga- and fitness-focused branch in Venice), you have the option of parking at the public structure across the street where the first two hours are free, or valeting for $10. The spa is a spacious, tropical environment featuring all the accoutrements you could ask for: designer boutique, eucalyptus-infused saunas and steam rooms, soaking tubs and healing teas. Exhale also offers yoga and Core Fusion fitness classes.

Our Body Enlightening treatment was unlike any massage we've ever received. Massage therapist Lisa led us into a small, dimly lit room with a thick cushion on the floor. She applied acupressure while expertly using her body as a weight and counterweight to assist us into twists, stretches and simple yoga positions. The treatment was similar to Thai massage: imagine doing yoga, but rather than holding yourself in position, a very strong person is guiding you into it and holding you there. It feels divine. Our mind wandered as we relaxed and followed her capable hands through the motions. Afterward, we felt relaxed and energized.

Review originally published 4/20/2006.