Ease Into Spring With Spa Specials

Old man winter sure is taking his sweet time leaving our fair city, so outdoor activities may have to wait a little while longer. Spa treatments and events are a year-round pleasure, however, so book some pampering time while you have the chance. Allyu Spa (600 W. Chicago Ave., 312-755-1313), a chic retreat in River West, is bringing its A-game this April, with an array of workshops, classes and events that you won't want to miss.

On Sunday, April 5, Allyu will host "Yoga From the Heart," a yoga session taught by Alison Preston that uses breath work, relaxation and therapeutic poses to focus on the heart chakra. (11AM, $16) The "Yoga From the Heart" classes are held the first Sunday of every month.

"Weight No More: Ending the Weight Loss Struggle," a workshop led by wellness coach Jessie Schoenfeldt, will lead participants in an interactive conversation about overcoming self-defeatist approaches and discovering a path to the healthy body you seek. (Wednesday, April 8, 6-8PM, free)

Victory of the Heart, an ongoing men's group aimed at connecting mind, body and spirit, will present its first Open Circle at Allyu Spa on Monday, April 13. A donation of $20 is recommended. (6:30-8:30PM)

Jean Tindle of Spirit Dancer Crystals will teach the seminar "Crystals and the Chakras: A Healing Journey Through the Energy Body" on Wednesday, April 15. Students will learn how different stones resonate with specific energy centers in the body and how to use crystals and minerals for healing. (6-8PM, $35)

"Let Your Sun Shine: An Introduction to Astrology" will be lead by noted Chicago astrologer Barbara Schermer on Wednesday, April 22. You will provide the date, time and place of your birth when reserving your spot, and Schermer will walk you through the position of the planets at the exact time you were born. You'll then learn how your sun sign shapes who you are. (6-8PM, $35)

Learn the art of Thai massage and therapeutic touch during a workshop co-sponsored by Allyu Spa and the Chicago School of Thai Massage on Thursday, April 23. The two-hour session is designed for pairs to learn how to give and receive this healing body therapy. (6-8PM, $35 or two for $60)

"Listen, Your Body is Talking" is a session led by massage therapist and healer Randy Wolferding to help participants learn how to decipher various signals your body is sending you, from temporary aches and pains to chronic symptoms. (Sunday, April 26, 12-3PM, $50) Also on Sunday, April 26, Allyu will host a Spa Day Sampling event from 11AM-5PM, giving guests the chance to explore various complimentary sessions (pilates, yoga and belly dance classes plus community acupuncture) and discounted services (the "Listen, Your Body is Talking" workshop and an Aviva Organic spray tanning session).

And, finally, send April off on a high note on Wednesday, April 29, with a belly dancing class presented by world-class dancer and choreographer Taj. (6-8PM, $35)

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