Critics' pick

THAI ONE ON
When massage therapist Chuck Duff began our session with a hot, wet cotton ball—pulled from a large Crock-Pot—we were a little skeptical of Thai Bodywork School of Massage’s Luk Pra Kob treatment. But what followed put our doubts—not to mention some nagging hip pain—to rest. The ball contained steamed herbs (ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, kefir lime and others) that Duff slowly pressed onto the skin, paying particular attention to that sore hip. The steam brings out the aromatherapeutic properties of the herbs and releases essential oils that work as an anti-inflammatories, flushing out toxins and loosening the body in preparation for the Thai massage that typically follows. Performed on a mat, Thai massage is essentially assisted yoga, combining deep stretches with applied pressure for a relaxing treat that’s ideal for athletic types or anyone looking for a more interactive massage experience. We’re happy to report that despite our initial hesitation, we had a ball. $80–$100 for 60 minutes. 537 Custer Ave, suite 3, Evanston (847-869-1861, www.thaibodywork.com).—Amy Carr

Photograph by Donna Rickles

BOOK SMART
For most of us, exercise tends to conjure thoughts of sweating on a treadmill or lifting weights at the gym. But a new book—The Chelsea Piers Fitness Solution by Elena Rover (Black Dog and Leventhal, $25)—aims to eliminate exercise’s gym-rat rap and instead help you blast calories through a sport or an activity. It begins with a quiz that determines your “fitness personality”: You’ll answer questions to discover whether you’re meant for meditative, solo pursuits, or better suited for team sports or group workouts. Next, you’ll use that info to choose a sport or an activity that is ideal for you from more than 25 options (including rock climbing, soccer and yes, even running). Detailed chapters walk you through an overview of the sport, how to get started and what gear you’ll need; another section contains websites and organizations to contact so you can participate in your activity locally. Also included are inspiring testimonials from ordinary people who’ve taken up the sport, nutrition suggestions and advice on progressing as you get more skilled. It may still be cold outside, but for gymphobes looking to slim down this spring, this book could be just the ticket. Available at www.amazon.com.—Liz Plosser