Top 4 Places to Reduce Stress Around Chicago

April is Stress Awareness Month, sponsored by the Health Resource Network. This offers the perfect opportunity to step back, slow down and assess the role that stress plays in your life.

Try these soothing spots around Chicago this month and you may just discover a new ritual that you can use to keep stress down year-round.

1. Chuan Spa
330 North Wabash Ave, Chicago

The Chuan Spa offers indulgent experiences that are designed to help you detox from the stresses of everyday life. Customize a two-and-a-half hour Chuan ritual with your choice of massage, facial and extras for a perfectly personalized treatment. You can also book one of the spa’s signature treatments, like the Yii Valley Dreams ritual featuring an acupressure scalp massage, full body scrub, application of lavender body oil, and warm healing stones. Visit the spa’s website to book your appointment.

2. The Garden of the Phoenix
6401 S Stony Island, Chicago

Located in Jackson Park, the Garden of the Phoenix offers a serene retreat that’s perfect for Chicagoland residents who need a rich infusion of green. Serene water views, picturesque pathways and garden landscaping makes this a charming choice for a quiet afternoon. The garden is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and admission is free.

3. The Art Institute of Chicago
111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago

If your chaotic day needs a quiet dose of beauty, head to The Art Institute of Chicago to unwind and indulge. The collections include everything from ancient and Byzantine pieces to European decorative arts and modern items. The museum is open from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with extended hours on Thursdays offering free admission from 5 to 8 p.m. Standard admission is $20 for Chicago residents, $22 for Illinois residents, and $25 for all others.

4. Cowshed Spa
113-125 N Green St, Chicago

The Cowshed Spa offers a soothingly rustic ambiance with just the right touch of luxury. The extensive spa menu includes something for every budget, whether you want a speedy 30-minute manicure for just $30 or the Sleepy Cow Body Treatment featuring a back exfoliation and massage as well as a neck and foot massage for $150.

Do you have a favorite Chicago destination for unwinding and letting go of stress? Share your top picks with us in the comments section below!