Chicago - June 17, 2005

Drop in the Bucket

Raindrop Technique

The shocking prices at the pump, the greasy puddle drenching your greens (you asked for it on the side!), the shiny spot that’s taken over your face — if it’s not one oil crisis it’s another.

A slippery slope, fer sure. But let it be known that oil is actually a stress reliever. To wit: the Raindrop technique at Toujours Spa & Salon, which combines massage with the application of therapeutic-grade essentials oils to help get your whole body back into balance.

Part aromatherapy, part reflexology, part Native American healing ritual, and part acupressure, it begins with a foot massage that focuses on the pressure points that stimulate your body’s internal organs. Next, various organic oils — thyme, oregano, wintergreen, cypress, peppermint, basil, lavender (each with its own healing qualities) — are drizzled along your back and spine (hence the name), brushed lightly into the skin, and then you’re finished off with a soothing rubdown.

Leaving you relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to burn the midnight oil.

Toujours Spa & Salon, 5224 North Clark Street, at Foster Avenue (773-784-7851 or toujoursspasalon.com).