Jessica Herman

After exfoliating old layers to reveal its new and matured self, Wicker Park's "spa for the spirit," Ruby Room (1743-45 West Division) has reawakened.

It's one of those you-have-to-see-it-to-believe-it kind of places, incorporating more services dealing with chakra cleansing and energy healing than you can say in one breath: yoga, meditation, massage, facials, acupuncture, astrology readings, cupping, a crystal bar, a healing sanctuary, an elixir bar and a library replete with health-minded cookbooks, kid lit and a bevy of literature regarding spirituality and well-being. Clients who sign up for spa services may also opt to check in overnight to stay in one of eight suites.

While much of Ruby Room emphasizes inner beauty, the street-level storefront and hair salon just behind it are all about the exterior. Described as the "beauty bar," the selection of makeup and skincare lines include Sue Devitt and Susan Posnick as well as Arcona products used in their signature massage treatments. Just beyond the store lies the hair salon, where stylists stick to Bumble and bumble and Aveda products.

Fortunately there's plenty of room for growth in the mere 13,000 square feet that Ruby Room now occupies-one woman at the grand opening compared the expanded space to the Taj Mahal. The brick outdoor corridor dividing the two buildings in which Ruby Room resides will lead to a garden, where clients may host wedding ceremonies and receptions, ordained by the staff's non-denominational ministers.

With services averaging around $90-$150, a day, or even an hour, at the Ruby Room doesn't come cheap. So make sure that your cleansing and healing will last until it's time for the holiday bonus.

Check out www.rubyroom.com or call (773)235-2323 to find out about upcoming events, classes and services offered at Ruby Room.

(2005-10-18)

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