Natural Body Spa and Shoppe

I’ve been to this location twice, the first time was a dream, the second a nightmare. If I had written this review after the first time I would’ve given it 5 stars, so I’m glad I waited. Most of their staff is very skilled, I’ve had two very lovely (if also very chatty) facials here, one excellent pedicure that lasted me FOREVER, one fantastic massage and one horrible massage. Whichever staff member (s) make and confirm appointments called me enough times to border on harassment to confirm my last appointment and that I wanted a female masseuse. I told her yes EVERY SINGLE TIME. When I arrived, lo and behold, there was a male masseuse, who had rough hands, lectured me on being too stressed, almost covered my acne prone face in oil right after a facial, and didn’t listen to ANYTHING I said about my problem areas that I’d like to focus on. I talked to the manager and I was wholly unsatisfied with how he dealt with the situation. I love that this place uses green products and that the space is LEED certified, but I wouldn’t be returning even if it wasn’t closing after my last visit here.

I got a massage and a facial here as part of a Groupon-​type thing. They actually screwed up the booking and gave me an hour break between the 2, which I didn’t have time for so I had to leave and come back. They didn’t charge me more even though they wouldn’t actually admit that they had made the mistake about the booking. Whatever though, the facial was pretty good — she did a lot of massaging during it, which was nice. I probably wouldn’t go back for a facial.
The massage, on the other hand, was great! I had Whitney who had great pressure and was one of the best massages I have had in a long while. I highly recommend her, especially if there is some sort of coupon cause I think it’s a little expensive otherwise.

This place is fantastic. Everyone who works here is so friendly, it’s clean, it’s quiet. it’s LEED certified. I get the 60-​minute Swedish massage about 3 times a year.
I’m the type who loves hard massages… almost to the point where it hurts… Whitney must have the strongest, most magical hands ever. She has a way of giving really deep massages where it ALMOST hurts but it doesn’t…I’m seriously light-​headed when I get up from the table. She takes the time to tell you what she felt in your back, etc. once she’s done with the massage, suggesting stretches to help you with problem areas, etc.

UGH. Annoying. So, I admit, I didn’t have an appointment but I had an hour and a half to get a mani/​pedi and was on the corner deciding between this place and Ibiza Day Spa where I’d been before and had good experiences. But, for some reason, decided to try this place. I walked in at 4pm, explained that I was in somewhat of a hurry, as I had to be somewhere at 6 so I had about an hour and a half for a mani/​pedi. They said they could do it so I went back in the «waiting area» (more like a hallway). I sat for 15 minutes, went back out front and told them no one had helped me. The girl look surprised and told me to pick out a color while she got someone for me, which I did. At 4:30 a woman came back and took me into a room with one massage chair and a bowl of hot water for my feet. She said I should let my feet soak and then left me in there by myself for 10 minutes. At 4:40 I realized this process was not going to fit into my timeline and got up, dried my feet off and went back out front to tell them I wasn’t going to make my 6pm appointment.
Most annoying was when I went back out to the front to explain that I was leaving the woman who had set me up in the massage chair and who was going to do my pedi was just sitting up there chatting away with her coworkers. Then she told me, «Oh — well your appointment didn’t ‘officially’ start until 4:30 because I was on my lunch break.» #1 I’m the customer and I don’t care about your lunch break. #2 Who takes lunch breaks at 4pm?
I ran over to Ibiza and was able to squeeze in a quick manicure — in a much more hospitable environment!

I was taken here for a gift yesterday and was using the Living Social deal. When I found out we were getting massages and facials, I was extremely excited. However, while we admittedly arrived 7 minutes late — my masseuse cut off 20 minutes of my massage, claiming «we were late.» It was the start of a horrible massage which tampered the overall experience of the spa.
The massage deserves ZERO stars. I asked my masseuse to focus on back and feet, but not to overly concentrate as I was very much looking forward to a full body massage. She spent 30 minutes on my back in a most painful manner which has left me unable to move today because I am so sore. I asked for her to use a lot of pressure — but I do not think extreme soreness is normal post-​massage. She then spent very little time on my feet and never once touched my arms, legs, or head. It was the most unrelaxing painful 40 minutes.
I then sat in their waiting room for quite some time (i.e. for the rest of the hour to expire) before being taken back for the facial. I absolutely loved the facial. The woman was sensitive to my needs, asked me questions and responded to my answers, and gave me an extremely relaxing facial.
That said, much like the other reviews, I would not return to this place for a massage. The waiting time was excessive and the massage itself was horrible.

I bought my mom a living social deal for Mother’s day. So my reviews are based on her experience with the treatments, and my wait in the lounge! :p
We reached there around 15 minutes before out appointment. There wasn’t anybody at the desk! I mean we walked into the store, and it was empty! I actually had to call out to make a lady appear reluctantly from inside somewhere! Anyways, she got us seated right away, directed my mom towards the general direction of the changing room! But imagine to my mom’s surprise, the place was pitch dark, and my mom had to grope around for a switch. She finally came back cuz she couldn’t find one! Sigh. I managed to locate the girl somewhere, she fixed the changing room. We got my mom changed and sat her down in the lounge.
She was then met by Sandra, who did my mom’s facial. My mom’s clearly a fan! She loved Sandra! She was super professional, and super thorough! My mom told Sandra she had very sensitive skin, so she made sure the products she used were for sensitive skin. But the facial did not last the promised 60 minutes, only around 45 minutes. The 3 stars are for Sandra really!
After the facial, she was lead for the massage, done by some one whose name my mom does not remember, but she was ok. She worked well on my Mom’s shoulders, but sort of ignored the rest, leaving my mom relaxed at the shoulders, but dissatisfied otherwise!
On the whole, the whole experience was sort of weird and not so satisfying! I’d only recommend the place for a facial (by Sandra of course), but you’d be better off going to some other place for a massage.
The fact that I got a half off living social deal, is the only reason that took me to the place. I doubt if I’d go here again (with or without mom) if I were to pay full price!
ps: Please make sure you DO take an appointment if you do decide to go here!

I used my Groupon today for the mini-​spa day. They didn’t have an appointment that would allow me to get all three services at one time, but I was able to get a massage and «express» manicure.
I wasn’t sure what to expect after reading the Groupon reviews of the deal which weren’t entirely positive.
I was pleasantly surprised. The massage was one of the best I have ever had.
I had read that the manicure/​pedicure was of an «express» nature, buff and polish change only. I’m glad I had found out before going, otherwise I would have been disappointed.
The space is extremely clean and calming. Tranquil and relaxing music was playing throughout the spa. The staff was very friendly constantly asking if I needed anything or if they could get me a glass of water.
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and am looking forward to going back for my facial.

I went here for a massage/​facial/​manicure (Groupon) and was pleasantly surprised. I had read other reviews and really didn’t know what to expect.
My massage was with Whitney and she did a terrific job. I had tweaked my back earlier in the week and she spent the whole time working my muscles into mush. My facial was with Jo-​Elle and she was very sweet and gentle. My facial was basic, no steam or extractions. The products she used were nice (Jurlique).
The manicure was also no frills, but I think this was a result of the Groupon not that it was bad service. The manicurist did a nice job with the filing/​shaping. Not a big deal, but they only seem to carry Essie polishes, no OPI.
All in all I think this is a pretty nice day spa. The massage and facial rooms were quiet and clean. My biggest disappointment was the mani/​pedi areas — small rooms with no windows and they feel very closed in. They are also pretty sparsely decorated.

Finally used my Groupon for the mini-​spa day and had a massage, facial and manicure. The massage was relaxing and I’m grateful the masseuse asked if I was allergic to nuts (I am!) before using the walnut oil or whatever they had. The manicure was well-​done and lasted for weeks. The facial was relaxing, even if I couldn’t discern a difference for my skin before vs. after.
The individual service was excellent but the mini-​spa day as a whole lacked certain flow; I wish the different specialists communicated more with me and each other so I wasn’t shuffled around/​left waiting and wandering in the hall awkwardly a couple of times. Not the biggest deal but I wasn’t offered access to the steam room and felt a little hustled out after my other services.
Overall, my experience was great but I was dumb-​struck when I went to the website and realized what their undiscounted prices are. Hence the three stars. I will definitely be back if they have another Groupon but their prices are just too darn expensive for the services at the moment.

A good friend of mine and I went here for a facial and a massage. I usually go to Massage Envy for my monthly massage but a friend was great enough to treat me and I was recommended to see Deprice for a deep tissue massage. She was AWESOME!!! I would definitely go back again to see her. I also thought Jackie the Spa Manager was GREAT! I spoke to her about my nut allergies and they made such a great effort to make sure that all the products they used were allergy free as well as using new sheets. Talk about AMAZING service! I also love the fact the place is LEED certified.

I went here for a massage with my BFF. I have these knots in my neck that drive me crazy and I was really excited to have them worked out. I asked the masseuse to focus on my neck and shoulders but she didn’t really do that. By the time she got to the knots in my neck, the time was up. Afterwards she said my back seemed fine and she was sorry she discovered those knots towards the end of the session since they could use another 10 minutes to be worked out. No sh*t chick. I wasn’t please. I was relaxed after it, sure, but my neck still hurt. I considered going in for one of those 10-​minute massages but I haven’t had time to do that yet. Also, everyone in the reviews mentions being given the aromatherapy things but we weren’t offered that either. Womp womp.

If you’ve got the discretionary income, Natural Body Spa is a great place to go.
I visited Natural Body because I had a Groupon coupon for an hour-​long spa at a 50% discount. It’s normally $ 100 so the discounted price is a great bargain. The place was clean, calm, and very soothing upon entering. It’s also very green with LEED certification signs everywhere, which begs the question whether signs itself are green because its superficial. When we came in, they gave us some heated neck pillows and a cup of tea. My massage therapist was named Ray and he was terrific. He did a number on my quads and taught me how I should stretch out my muscles. You know when you’ve had a great massage session when you fall asleep on the table afterward (during the massage is a different story if the therapist is doing it right).
However, for all the great things I have to say about Natural Body, the major deterrent is the price. If it wasn’t for the Groupon discount, I wouldn’t pay $ 100 for a massage or any massage really.
Overall, if you’ve got the discretionary income, Natural Body Spa is a great place to go. And if you’re a guy, you should ask for Ray. [Original Visit: December 2009]

I went for a massage with Ray, who had been highly recommended by the front desk person when I called to book an appointment. Super nice guy, and the massage felt good BUT I found it super odd that after asking me which areas I’d like him to focus on (neck, shoulders) he didn’t massage those areas AT ALL. I’m not kidding! I thought he was going to get around to those spots but then time was up. What the heck is up with that?!? I nearly said something, but clearly it would have been awkward. Also very minimal if any arm massage, and no hand massage at all.
In addition, their website says that you get to take home some aromatherapy oil from the massage, and I had to ask for it – after I’d left the massage room — because it wasn’t offered. They were nice and gave it to me, but strange that I should have to ask when it’s part of their massage!
Super nice and helpful front desk woman, and I really like that the spa is certified by the US Green Building Council as LEED GOLD, which means it’s been designed to be environmentally «green.» For example, the toilets have half and full flush, etc. Overall it was an OK experience, but at the same time it was odd — sort of akin to a few beers short of a six pack. I tipped 20% anyway because he was a nice guy.

I LOVE THIS PLACE! I received a Groupon gift certificate for a discounted mini spa day. I expected that everyone would treat me differently since I was a «bargain getter», but that was not the case at all. Everyone went above and beyond to make my spa experience wonderful! The 30 minute massage was AMAZING… better than any other place I have gone to in DC. She worked out all my knots and kinks and was very firm. The 30 minute facial was so relaxing. The pedicure was a different style… she put me in a reclining chair, put a warm lavender pillow around my neck and a warm eye mask on my eyes! This was new for me and I will never have a pedicure any other way again! It was SO relaxing. You can’t go wrong with Natural Body Spa in DC! I can’t wait to go back! (Sorry for the über enthusiastic review… but I am being honest).

I have been here a couple of times for massage. The first time was ok not great and I cannot remember the masseuse’s name. However, the second time, Whitney did a 60-​minute massage for me. I followed it up with a 20-​minute eucalyptus steam room add-​on. It was heaven — exactly what I needed to beat the winter blues — and, with a 10% off coupon, the whole thing came to about $ 90! I am going again today to Alex and will update my review afterward.
On atmosphere — the back of the spa, where treatments are performed, is very relaxing, with warm neck pillows and tea offered in pleasantly dim lighting while you wait for your technician. The lockers are clean and private and the treatment rooms are quiet, well-​appointed and relaxing.
The retail is very nice. I like the Spa products and Forte teas I’ve purchased. They also carry Jurlique, BareMinerals and Ahava products.
I recommend signing up for their mailing list for great coupons pretty much every month.

Enter the Hobbit door for the spa.
«Ready to rock and roll?» is not quite what I expected to hear enroute to a one-​hour aromatherapy massage.
Layout:
P. S. The staff room is easily within earshot of the waiting area and the bright light from there shines in as well. The shower room is the size of a restroom and is off the waiting room. Way-​finding not apparent.
Sparse décor (mirror and flickr-​style electric candle and small rooms, but all is clean and well-​maintained. They might want to consider a pants-​holder style hanger as well, and slippers, as there is no locker-​room.
Thought it odd that I wasn’t offered a changing room or shower room beforehand. Thankfully, one was offered upon request. (Massage Oils and noted-​on-​sheet sensitive skin on a 90+ degree day = not wanting to leave with it on.)
Massage was quite nice, including warm neck-​roll, pillows and a wake-​up aroma as well. Aromatherapy oil is yours to keep.
Thanks for offering the jelly-​beans, but maybe hide the plastic tubs of them next time. Spas are like Disney, one shouldn’t see «behind the scenes».
VERDICT:
Perhaps. Likely I’d rather check another instead.

This spa is right across the street for my apartment so the location is really what brought me in the first time. I’m always curious about new things opening up near by.
It is pretty pricey $ 95 or a facial not much less for a massage. But I went in last week for a much needed facial and Kathleen was AMAZING. she put my at ease and was so knowledgeable. She wasn’t trying to push any products but seems to really enjoy what she does and she’s great at it. Worth the money for a great facial! I would recommend her very highly!

I didn’t go here for their services, I came here to buy some spa products for a friend for her birthday.
I must’ve came at a bad time because the people who worked there acted like they wanted to be anywhere but there. A woman came in for a massage, and the guy goes in to set her up. When it was found out that the woman wanted a shorter massage time, the girl who worked there said «Good!» and snickered. That was tacky. She then asked her male co-​worker when he was leaving for the night, and he said «A-​SAP!» They could’ve waited to until I was gone to complain about their jobs — dag.
Also, though soothing music was playing while I browsed the shelves to put together a gift package, the girl who worked there would not stop humming loudly, and then she started singing and talking about how she should’ve been on American Idol. Maybe you should be there instead of working here.
I came here because it was convenient to me on the way home from work, but I doubt I’ll come back. Their product selection is nice (albeit pricey), but I don’t want to deal with rude ‘tudes in what should be a relaxing place.

There are some terrible reviews on here, but in my opinion Natural Body is the best value spot for a great massage, facial and relaxing atmosphere. Its my go-​to routine pampering spot. I’ve gone to the DC and Potomac locations. I’d recommend DC for everything, but Potomac for facials only. I got a flustered masseuse there once and have stuck to DC since then for massages.
They have great specials and the staff is really calm and thoughtful. I usually go for a steam room followed by a massage, esp if I’ve just gotten over a cold, or got laid off (last week!) :(Anyway, the place rocks, and it helps keep me rockin.
My advice would be: put your name on their list, get the coupons, and sign up for a 60 or 90 minute massage or a Jurlique facial.
Ray, who is a new masseur at the DC location, is amazing… He is their new secret weapon. but please don’t get him so booked that I can’t get in!

Despite the other reviews — I went to give the spa a go anyway.
I really needed a massage and I heard that the facility was nice. Oh boy was it! I really like the interior and everyone was very nice while I was there. It was spacious and well decorated. They also had a dimly lit lounge area to wait in where they offer you something to drink and snacks like bananas, apples, etc.
I filled out a health survey which is really good. I’ve worked in two spas previously and let me offer you advice: if they are giving you a body treatment (massage, body wrap, etc) they should be asking you about your health and medical history!!! If they don’t, maybe look elsewhere if you can. In any case, I had a nice technician named Jennifer (I think) she did a great job and I had the hour long traditional massage. I was sooooo relaxed afterwards.
I will definitely go back again :-)