Spa Addicts

Rudra Ayurveda
New York, NY
by TeriBloom
on May 6, 2010 @ 1:10 pm

I wish I had met ayurvedic doctor, Dr. Reetu Rudra, 18 months ago, shortly after I turned 50 and just wasn't feeling myself. For 18 months, I had spent so much time and money going from one medical doctor in NYC to another, getting nowhere. Although I knew and was so thankful to be "healthy" on paper, I was low on energy, not sleeping well, was anxious and had various symptoms that couldn't be attributed to anything "medical" according to the MDs in New York City. Over the years I had heard about Ayurvedic medicine, the ancient medicine practiced in India for over 6000 years. I understood that Ayurvedic medicine probably held many answers, given the wisdom intrinsic in a 6000 year-old science. Then a friend told me he was working with a wonderful Ayurvedic doctor trained in India. Of late, he was looking so much better and full of energy, so I wanted to see this doctor! He told me about her academic accomplishments -- that she had graduated at the top of her ayurvedic class, then became a naturopath and spent a year working in a hospital, that she had an Ayurvedic center in London before coming to NY -- and that she was devoted to the art of healing with natural means. Dr. Rudra immediately understood the issues I was dealing with, and knew how to help right away. She explained that I was in a state of imbalance called by too much "Vata" and gave me three things I could do to immediately start feeling better: 1) Based on my ayurvedic body type, she told me how to adjust my diet and which foods to eat at specific times of day -- she said this was 50% of the problem 2) She taught me a specific type of yogic breathing exercise called pranayama that would bring vitality and energy into all my organs, and 3) She gave me specific herbal supplements and herbal medicines that would restore balance over a period of a few months. I was so excited!! Finally a doctor had understood my complaints and gave me the tools to help myself. Immediately I changed the foods I ate, began pranayama and meditation in the morning, and started Triphala and other herbal medicines to restore balance. I began to feel better! Because I have a "vata-imbalance" which happens to many people after age 50, Dr. Rudra suggested that I go through a detoxification called "Panchkarma". My panchkarma has involved a series of medical massages -- using a variety of herbal-medicine oils rubbed into specific areas of the body-- as well as some herbal home treatments. Also Dr. Rudra, who is a yoga teacher as well and lifelong practitioner of the ayurvedic lifestyle, have given me various yoga exercises to also help my condition. What I like so much about Dr. Rudra and her NYC clinic is her common sense approach to natural healing. I've always believed that the body can heal if given the correct support and treatments. I've always believed herbs were much more healing than pharmaceutical medicines because of their subtle qualities. There's still so much to learn about the science and art of Ayurveda -- so much common sense, everyday practices and guidelines for living a holistic and peaceful lifestyle. Every step of the way, Dr. Rudra has been there to answer my questions and facilitate healing. One final word: do not be fooled when you meet Dr. Rudra, for she is young and unassuming. But she is an old soul with a deep gift for healing and has a heart overflowing with compassion and good humor. This young woman, with high academic honors and a life devoted to the art of healing, has travelled very far from her home in India -- to bring ayurvedic healing and wisdom to those of us in NY City. She puts all the older gray haired medical doctors I've met with to shame, for she knows how to heal imbalances that these men do not even come close to understanding. For ayurveda is 6000 years full of wisdom, and the medicine practiced by western doctors is less than 300 years old. Now that you know about Ayurvedic medicine and Dr. Rudra, it should be obvious where true healing can be found in New York. read more >>

Rudra Ayurveda
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Feb 27, 2010 @ 9:27 pm

A disabling spinal neuromuscular condition causing chronic pain, stiffness, spasm and weakness, especially of my neck, shoulders, and arms, led me to Dr. Rudra, seeking pain relief and improved mobility and strength. She has helped me greatly. Having benefited from acupuncture and Tuina, Chinese medical bodywork and looking further into Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) I learned of Medicine, which in large measure, predated and formed the foundation of TCM’s approach to illness, use of herbs and even acupuncture. Ayurvedic Medicine appeared to have a highly developed system of diagnosis, and treatment, incorporating constitutional factors with diet, yoga, breathing exercise and use of medicinal herbs and oils. My TCM experience taught me an important lesson concerning the training and credentials of practitioners which I applied in seeking a doctor of Ayurvedic Medicine. In China, acupuncture and herbal preparations together with Tuina, therapeutic bodywork, involving massage and manipulation, are taught and administered in University settings and require multi-year study and clinical training in University Hospital In the US one can receive acupuncture treatment from a licensed acupuncturist who is not a formally trained Doctor of TCM and who, most likely, has not had the equivalent depth and breadth of training and clinical experience. I always got the greatest benefit from Chinese trained TCM doctors and Medical Tuina therapists In India, Doctors of Ayurvedic Medicine undergo a multi-year full time medical school curriculum of study with hands on clinical training at the hospital or clinic affiliated with the particular college based or university based program. A wide variety of patients with the full range of medical maladies are treated in these hospitals and clinics. In addition to the proper use of herbal medical preparations that are ingested, another fundamental treatment procedure and essential doctor's skill is the preparation and application of medicinal oils, herbs, and poultices to the body, with specialized massage techniques and also directly to the ears, nose, and other areas of the body using poultice dams and continuous flow e.g., to the forehead with Shirodara. Special therapists trained and certified by Doctors of Ayurveda Medicine can also administer these procedures under the doctor's supervision. In the US, however, Ayurvedic massage and related procedures are increasingly offered in spa type operations, whose purpose is not dedicated to Ayurvedic medical evaluation and treatment of disease. Because of my frank and chronic medical condition, I considered only an Indian trained and credentialed Doctor of Ayurvedic Medicine with clinical training, preferably at a university hospital, who could directly offer the full range of treatments. My experience with the Ayurvedic treatments has been very satisfactory. Dr. Rudra has been most professional, attentive and patient; explaining her approach and recommendations and fully addressing any questions and concerns I had. The series of massage treatments with medicinal oils and, particularly the Shirodara, the spinal Basti and both the Nasya and Karnapurna procedures for the sinuses and the ears, have been very helpful in reducing pain, stiffness, spasm and improving mobility. The Basti procedure performed by Dr. Rudra, is one that have not I have not been able to find elsewhere within New York City, that is regularly offered, even by equally credentialed practitioners. Together with the dietary guidelines and recommended yoga and breathing techniques, shown to me by Dr, Rudra, I have been able to maintain and even increase the improvement over time. read more >>

Skintology: Total Skin & Laser Spa
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Feb 6, 2010 @ 6:29 pm

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Purple Lotus Holistic Healing Studio
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Jan 29, 2010 @ 11:33 pm

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Purple Lotus Holistic Healing Studio
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Jan 29, 2010 @ 11:32 pm

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Exhale
New York, NY
by gveret27
on Dec 28, 2009 @ 11:49 am

I went for a True Facial and Fusion Massage. First of all, it doesnt look like a spa but more like a gym, loud, no spa ambience, hectic and out of control. Front desk was not very welcoming, more like buying a sandwich in a quick stop store! My massage was done by Haylee, this was THE WORST MASSAGE I have ever had in my life! My nail salon girls can give me a better massage than she did! I paid for 60 min but only had a 45-minute massage, no music, inconsistent tecniques, very low pressure. The facial was better, it was done by Mila, she was very nice and experienced. Even though, I didnt see any results after it, the experience of the facial was very nice. Overall, i think this place is overrated, overpriced, and I will never ever go back!!! Save your money, go to Finesse Spa. read more >>

Spa Chakra on Fifth
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Dec 17, 2009 @ 10:32 am

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Soie Aroma Skin Care Salon
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Nov 26, 2009 @ 11:29 pm

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LAVILASH
New York, NY
by NYC Mom
on Nov 2, 2009 @ 1:07 pm

I have to admit I was quite hesitant to go the first time as I am usually not comfortable with having anything near my eyes. Kiki is very friendly and patiently answered all of my questions which immediately put me at ease. The results are better than expected and the fact that I have a couple of extra minutes each morning because I am NOT curling my eyelashes is priceless! Especially for a working mom! read more >>

Skin Laser Rejuvenation
New York, NY
by reviewer
on Oct 10, 2009 @ 3:41 am

They results were life changing and very noteable! The prices are unbeatable 2tx for $700 it also includes a pro peel after. 3 weeks apart.Very happy great service and value. read more >>

Skin Laser Rejuvenation
New York, NY
by reviewer
on Oct 10, 2009 @ 3:22 am

I had many other consultations.This was by far the most educated staff. Clean,newest equipment.Best results. This is by far the best in NYC, found out later many of my friends already go there I am ready to spread the news to everyone hence no staff has every been on there game and work as a team.The best overall service and attention to detail. read more >>

Skin Laser Rejuvenation
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Oct 10, 2009 @ 2:42 am

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LAVILASH
New York, NY
by babo720
on Oct 5, 2009 @ 10:11 pm

My eyelashes are very short and they are very stubborn. I spend so much time in the morning trying to get them to curl with an eyelash curler, but it never works. I even lose some of them during the process. BUT, I went to get my eyelashes curled and I was so happy with the results. I was hesitant at first because I wasn't too sure what chemicals they would use and if the chemicals were safe for my eyes. Kiki, the aesthetician, did it carefully, making sure the chemical didn't go in my eyes. She also answered all of my questions and made me feel comfortable throughout the whole process. I couldn't believe the results. My eyelashes are still curled, even after washing my face with cleansing oil! i love that I don't have to spend time in the morning trying to curl my eyelashes. I would definitely go back and get them done again! read more >>

LAVILASH
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Oct 5, 2009 @ 10:05 pm

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LAVILASH
New York, NY
by tulips
on Oct 5, 2009 @ 2:21 pm

A friend of mine had referred me to Lavilash, and I decided to go last week, as I've never gotten my eyelashes permed. I was greeted by Kiki, who is very friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating. Overall, the procedure took about an hour (most of your time is spent lying down with your eyes closed.) It was painless, and the results were AMAZING! I've washed my face since, and my lashes have stayed curled. It's definitely brightened up my eyes and face. I will definitely go back to her! read more >>

LAVILASH
New York, NY
by GMG
on Oct 5, 2009 @ 12:29 pm

I suffer from eyelashes that constantly go down. As soon as I curl them, they go back south almost immediately. Plus, curlers always seem to cut my lashes :( I've tried eyelash extensions, and although they look great, it's way too pricey to do on a regular basis, your real eyelashes fall out with the extensions, and sometimes they can be too dramatic. A friend at the gym recommended Lavilash. I was scared at first to have chemicals near my eye, but decided I'd give it a try...I will do anything for the sake of beauty! After going to Lavilash, not only am I NOT blind, I also have eyelashes that curl up in a natural way! I can't stop looking at them....even without mascara, the perming makes a noticeable difference. The process itself was very, very easy...like getting a hair perm (with a baby curling rod and everything), but simpler and less time (under an hour..a good time to take a short nap). Thankfully, the woman who did the perming (Kiki) is a pro...no hesitation; it's obvious she's done this a lot, so there were no worries about chemicals leaking onto my eyeball or my eyelashes burning off. My eyelashes are now curled and ready to go without any work; and so far, absolutely no irritation in my eyes or anywhere close to them. The only reason I'm leaving off a star is b/c it's still early on (just a few days), so I'm waiting to see how the curls hold up in the next few weeks (it's supposed to last 4-6 weeks)....but as of now, I am totally satisfied and glad I found a cheaper alternative to eyelash extensions! read more >>

Rodolfo Valentin, Salon and Spa.
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Oct 3, 2009 @ 6:43 pm

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LAVILASH
New York, NY
by scallionpancake
on Sep 21, 2009 @ 3:52 pm

I use to spend so much time trying to curl my lashes, obsessed with buying different curlers, heaters, mascaras… I’ve also tried eyelash extensions. $300 and it takes forever. Those lashes are synthetic and start to go in many directions and look bad after a week. I’ve finally found the solution all in one, Kiki and the Lavilash Eyelash Parlor! My Lashes look great with and without mascara, natural and hassle free. I must admit I was a little nervous the first time since I did not know what to expect, having chemical solutions so close in proximity to the eyes… but Kiki is truly fantastic. She has many many years of experience and it shows. There is no pain and she will tell you what she is doing so there is nothing to worry about. No pain, no irritation at all! And it truly lasts 4-6 weeks! After my first lash appointment with Kiki, I immediately signed up for the unlimited yearly pass. It is a great deal and worth every penny. I am definitely hooked and would never do back to curling or extensions again. read more >>

LAVILASH
New York, NY
by scallionpancake
on Sep 21, 2009 @ 3:51 pm

I use to spend so much time trying to curl my lashes, obsessed with buying different curlers, heaters, mascaras… I’ve also tried eyelash extensions. $300 and it takes forever. Those lashes are synthetic and start to go in many directions and look bad after a week. I’ve finally found the solution all in one, Kiki and the Lavilash Eyelash Parlor! My Lashes look great with and without mascara, natural and hassle free. I must admit I was a little nervous the first time since I did not know what to expect, having chemical solutions so close in proximity to the eyes… but Kiki is truly fantastic. She has many many years of experience and it shows. There is no pain and she will tell you what she is doing so there is nothing to worry about. No pain, no irritation at all! And it truly lasts 4-6 weeks! After my first lash appointment with Kiki, I immediately signed up for the unlimited yearly pass. It is a great deal and worth every penny. I am definitely hooked and would never do back to curling or extensions again. read more >>

Le Cachet Holistic Day Spa
New York, NY
by BonnyGr.
on Aug 19, 2009 @ 8:55 pm

I am an African American women, who was always told, that since our skin color we cannot have a successful laser hair removal. I also seen some news report where African American clients have been scarred by lasers during hair removal, and that kept me a way from doing it. I am so glad that I found Le Cachet Laser Hair removal center, I knew that in order to perform Laser hair removal for our skin it has to be laser specially designed for black skin. It is my last treatment and I have no hair nor any scaring. As a young women I had a problem with facial hair which contributed to my acne problem. At Le Cachet I felt from the very beginning that I am in good hands, I had a strong impression, that they knew what they are doing, they made me feel comfortable and secure. I had 5 treatments and I am pleased to see such a wonderful result. My laser hair removal being done by Larisa who is using a special YAG laser for black skin. I already recommended Le Cachet Laser Hair removal to my girlfriend. I also like the fact that the place is spotless clean, the staff is professional, I found them very ethical since they told me from the very beginning that I will need at least 6 treatments. In many other places they tell you, that most is 3 treatments you will need, don’t believe in that , they just want you to start. I also very much recommend Le Cachet Laser Center read more >>

Le Cachet Holistic Day Spa
New York, NY
by LaryS
on Aug 17, 2009 @ 9:42 pm

Le Cachet, Le Cachet, you guys are great!!!!!, my girlfriend asked me to go with her to help her to negotiate a business deal…when we got to the place it was Le Cachet Day Spa, and the business deal was a wonderful relaxing couples massage in a private room with aroma candles. The room was a bit small, but the atmosphere, the romantic music, the aroma oils, candles on the entire wall, and the massage was superb. I thought my girlfriend actually going to be kind of jealous since my massage therapist was a really pretty, tall , blond young lady. After the massage, me and my girlfriend were escorted to a private relaxation room with candles, where we had a glass of fine wine with organic chocolate, and where we concluded our business deal. The staff of Le Cachet was professional, pleasant and courteous; I am looking forward to have an other surprise couple’s massage at Le Cachet Day Spa any time. Highly recommended Relaxing atmosphere, clean, professional staff. Recommended for Couples, The spa uses a very pleasant Organic Essential Massage oils. read more >>

Le Cachet Holistic Day Spa
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Aug 17, 2009 @ 9:21 pm

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LAVILASH
New York, NY
by Tomoko
on Aug 9, 2009 @ 7:38 pm

Eyelash perms are very popular in Japan. When I moved to NY, I was hoping to find a quality Japanese-style eyelash perm salon. I tried several places, but I was never happy with the results. Once you become used to having your eyelashes permed, it is very hard to go without it. Using an eyelash curler every day is no longer an option for me. Eyelash perms save me time every day when I do my make-up, and I don't lose or cut my eyelashes like when I am using an eyelash curler. I’ve been getting eyelash perms for more than 15 years. They are safe and effective. LAVILASH offers different sizes of curling rods, and they make beautiful curls that last 5 to 6 weeks. I can request natural perms or perms with different degrees of curl. I believe that LAVILASH is the best quality eyelash perm salon in NY. They have techniques for all types of eyelashes. It was very hard to find a good quality salon in NY, but once I tried LAVILASH, I could no longer live without it. read more >>

LAVILASH
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Aug 9, 2009 @ 7:33 pm

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LAVILASH
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Aug 2, 2009 @ 10:20 pm

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Rodolfo Valentin, Salon and Spa.
New York, NY
by anonymous spa addict
on Jul 31, 2009 @ 4:12 pm

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LAVILASH
New York, NY
by blomma
on Jul 23, 2009 @ 12:17 pm

I had my eyelashes permed recently and have to say I am hooked on this service. Kiki at Lavilash did an awesome job. It gives instant results and does take around 55 minutes. Kiki is very informative about the procedure. NO discomfort at all. Worth every penny!! Your eyes really do look wider and your lashes longer - honest. read more >>