Striving4Zen

Chinese herbal healing For thousands of years, practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine have used herbs to treat illnesses, focusing on the entire body rather than pinpointing symptoms. “Chinese medicine considers the whole system,” says Michelle Lam, owner of Spring Thyme Spa, a calming oasis located on a chain-filled stretch of Nassau Street. The treatment I sought for my dry, sensitive skin—the Customized Herbal Facial ($110)—involves diagnosing a person’s individual health problems, and then treating them with herbs mixed into a soothing, relaxing balm. I first met with Dr. Wei Hai Li, a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist. After asking me some rather personal questions (about my menstrual cycle and “bathroom habits”), he took my blood pressure, felt my pulse, and examined my tongue and skin. My body was full of “hot toxins,” he said, which can cause stress, anxiety and even hormonal imbalances. Then Dr. Li prepared a woodsy, rejuvenating mask, combining different “cooling” herbs. The facial is just one detoxifying step, he said—including removing offending foods from my diet. My face, however, reaped immediate benefits: My skin was still hydrated and radiant two days later.—Amy Plitt
Spring Thyme Spa 75 Nassau St between Fulton and John Sts (212-385-4973, springthymeny.com)

Labels: Chinese Herbal Healing, facial, NYC, Spa