Marie Aspling certainly knows the true health benefits of combining organic foods with even better lifestyle choices for a healthier mind and body. As the owner of Balans Wellness Studio and Balans Organic Spa that offers everything from organic facials, body treatments and makeup to meditation sessions and even nutritional consultations, she embraces the Swedish spa’s philosophy of radiant beauty begins with a healthy habits. The first and only organic spa on Newbury Street, Balans also features the float treatment where guests unwind in a private spa tub filled with just 10 inches of water combined with therapeutic epsom salts to decrease stress and promote total relaxation.
Photo Credit: Balans Organic Spa
We caught up with Aspling recently to find out what she loves most about Boston.
Where were you born: Mbabane, Swaziland (South Africa. My family lived there for three years starting a glass blowing studio for the community there. Raised in Sweden)
How long in Boston: Moved here from Sweden in 2004.
Neighborhood: Newton, near the BC campus.
Occupation: Owner of Balans Wellness Studio (Boylston Street) and Balans Organic Spa (Newbury Street)
Favorite Restaurant: My kitchen! (If that’s not an option: Elephant Walk)
Best Sushi: Genki Ya. Organic and love their cucumber martini!
Best Italian: Being dairy and wheat free I typically choose other types of cuisine
Best dessert: A glass of Muscatelle
Best place for a romantic date: Massage at the spa then dinner at Tangierino, Charlestown
Best Sunday brunch: Take out from Dig Inn and picnic in the park. Winter: Fireplace in Brookline.
Best place for a power business meeting: A walk or jog around the Charles!
If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? Taj, Mandarin or Four Seasons, depending on the type of person.
Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Online, Marshalls and TJMaxx!
Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: Folklorica, Newton Centre
Best Spa: Balans Organic Spa
Favorite Charity Event: Horizons for Homeless Children
Favorite Cultural Event: The Swedish Yuletide at The Cyclorama
Favorite Cultural Institution: Museum of Fine Arts
Best Steakhouse: Grill 23
Best Pizza: Bowling + gluten and dairy free pizza at Flatbread Company in Somerville!
Best Lunch: Dig Inn or Sweet Greens
Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Equinox (used to work on Dartmouth St 2007-2010)
Best Massage: Either of our locations, we got the best massage therapists! (I’m also a LMT)
Best Limousine/Driving Service: Commonwealth Worldwide Chauffeured Transportation out of Boston, Commonwealthlimo.com
Best Museum/Exhibit: Museum of Science
Describe Boston in three words: Beautiful, professional and diverse
Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Battle Road Trail, Minute Man National Historical Park in Concord MA
All-around favorite spot in Boston: Blue Hills Reservation
Best Aspect of Boston: To live in a city yet have easy access to the mountains, ocean and lakes. I am a country girl at heart.
