Leisure

Serenity Now

How to Shed That Holiday Stress

Ah, the holidays. A time of joy. Of festive gatherings. Of unmitigated stress. You know, you should really decompress from it all. No, not with another cup of eggnog. With one of these...

DIAMOND CLUB

Diamond Facial at Lorien Spa

You Require: Precious metals and gems. On your face.
You’ll Receive: This new facial at the Old Town spa that has them putting platinum powder on your face, before finishing with a diamond mask. Yes, they’re really small diamonds.
Zen Level: 3

COUPLING

The Couples Delight at Salamander Spa

You Require: Some stress relief in the guise of an epic date.
You’ll Receive: The run of Salamander’s couples suite for three hours, complete with fireplace, soaking tub and outdoor terrace with hot tub. Oh, and body treatments and massages for two.
Zen Level: 4

THAT’S SO EXTREME

The Extreme Sports Massage at Bliss Spa

You Require: A massage therapist who isn’t afraid to dig in.
You’ll Receive: An hour of deep-tissue work with “spasm-soothing oil.” No, you needn’t be into heli-skiing to book this.
Zen Level: 2

SWORDPLAY

Chinese Swordsmanship at Great River

You Require: Some mind-clearing discipline, Chinese-style. Also: some ancient fighting techniques.
You’ll Receive: Training from this nearly 30-year-old center that specializes in tai chi as well as ancient Chinese swordsmanship.
Zen Level: 5

FIGHT OR FLIGHT

Fighting Fit at Off Road

You Require: The absence of relaxation. Just a release of aggression.
You’ll Receive: An insane workout, combining boxing, kickboxing and krav maga, including plenty of punches and kicks thrown in the direction of other people.
Zen Level: 1