“New season, new you” was my mantra as I walked through Midtown Manhattan to review Naturopathica’s latest outpost. There was just a hint of crispness in the air, but already New Yorkers were sporting their sweaters and their plaids as if it were ten degrees colder (New York loves a wardrobe change). I, for one, was ready for a reset after a long, hot summer.
If Naturopathica’s original location on 26th Street feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere, its new spa at New York’s Chatwal Hotel feels like the center of the universe–just off Times Square. The grand and quietly luxurious Chatwal stands mid-block on 44th Street, minutes from Times Square and Grand Central Station. A former hideaway for Condé Nast editors, one might still spot a sleek blonde gliding in for a power breakfast at the hotel’s Lamb’s Club restaurant.
I was surprised, though, at the intimacy, of the new spa. Unlike the vast lobby, all dark woods, polished brass and plush velvet, the smallish spa is tucked in the sub-sub-basement, sharing a floor with the hotel’s pool. You won’t find ocean views or a vast relaxation room here; otherwise, the spa’s decor and atmosphere don’t disappoint. Typical for Naturopathica, the space is minimal and well-lit, and, for a basement, it smells nice. Visitors are greeted by a gentle fog of Naturopathica’s signature botanicals and whisked into lushly appointed changing rooms.
A treatment room at the new Naturopathica Spa
My esthetician and masseuse greeted me warmly and started our session with their “Clear” facial, which promises “clearer, smoother skin and attention to visible blemishes.” The session began with a bit of ceremonial aromatherapy followed by a brisk cleansing. Complimenting my skin, the therapist said she could “see the effort”. Thanks, but, um, my “effort” is laughable—a daily wash with whatever soap is in the shower and every-other-day shaving. Guess I’m lucky in the skin department, with a naturally oily complexion. I’m not blemish-free, but my therapist seemed happy–perhaps even eager–to do light extractions and pore-cleansing. Those with combination skin will appreciate the bracing, maximum-strength salicylic acid, and the cool, high-frequency LED light treatment.
Visitors are greeted by a gentle fog of Naturopathica’s signature botanicals and whisked into lushly appointed changing rooms.
At my request, my therapist kept up a steady narration. I was interested to hear about their process and training. Naturopathica requires estheticians to be professionally trained and certified, but the company provides additional training, emphasizing botanicals. I was glad for the blow-by-blow. At my last Naturopathica facial, I had just started to doze off when I was unpleasantly surprised by what smelled and felt like pumpkin pie on my face–the spa’s signature cleanser/acid treatment. With the proper trigger warning, though, the stuff wasn’t so bad this time, and it left my skin feeling tingly and refreshed.
Sometimes a good scrubbing and polishing is in order, especially as the seasons change. After the facial, my skin was extra-clean, springy, and cool to the touch, as if I’d been caught in a rainstorm.
During my massage, I was determined to stay awake. I appreciated my therapist’s strength and firm pressure, as well as her insights: “Next time, you need a ninety-minute session, okay?” She found all my usual trouble spots–desktop shoulders and computer-bag neck. It was a good idea to stay alert and work with the therapist, leaning into the pressure. Later that day I felt a bit sore, as I expected, but my neck and shoulders had opened up from the deep pressure. All in all, a rewarding day.
Although Naturopathica Spa & Healing Center at The Chatwal is not exactly a sanctuary, it is an excellent example of an urban hotel spa and is the perfect choice for a bit of mid-week spa-ing. The convenient location and discreet, business-like vibe are perfect for a quick reset before—or after—those holiday cocktail parties.