I participated in 96th Academy Awards in Los Angeles to support some friends and I had to figure out my version of getting ready for the evening. I reflected on what celebrities were doing to prepare mentally and physically. We heard Bradley Cooper doing cold dips and Jeffery Wright doing a mix of Pilates and Gyrotonics. Being on a quest for wellness, I decided that I would biohack my way to the iconic Oscar ceremony.
I checked into the Fairmont Century Plaza, which has a storied history of hosting presidents, award shows, and music legends. The 14,000-square-foot spa is Moroccan-inspired and I felt like I had landed in Marrakesh with its warm gray stucco tones, high arched ceilings, and cozy wet/dry saunas.
You can get a day pass ($100 for locals and $50 for hotel guests) to simply enjoy the sauna for a quick physical and mental recovery. (Saunas have been shown to help reduce stress.) You can also alternate between the aromatherapy steam sauna, Himalayan pink salt sauna, dry sauna, and experiential rain shower. This, plus drinking the nutrient-rich Spurlina water, already had my skin glowing.
Courtesy of Jaspre Guest
Subsequently, lymphatic drainage massages. We’ve all seen the TikToks of this type of massage – and I’ve done them myself – but does being kneaded with a rolling pin like shortbread really work? Studies show that lymphatic drainage can help remove fluid that builds up in the lymphatic system and lymph nodes, particularly in people with certain health conditions. The benefits are well supported by science and include reduced stress, improved circulation and reduced swelling.
I booked a 60-minute immune massage ($315) to help me look and feel the best version of myself. My massage therapist went around my body and started moving the lymphatic fluid to drain it. My absolute favorite thing is when you find a professional who adds his personal talent and sincere instincts to a service. He focused on my tight psoas on my left leg and unlocked it within minutes. Afterwards I felt lighter, less bloated and more energetic.
Next, I tried lymphatic drainage for my face by booking the aptly named Red Carpet Radiance Facial ($350). Instead of using their hands, they use jet pressure, which allows aesthetic professionals to perform lymphatic massage and gentle exfoliation. I felt like I was on the airport tarmac and the engines were shooting in my face. When my esthetician showed me half of my face that had been treated, I saw a lifted, tighter, brighter version of myself. One of the weirdest facials I’ve ever had, but it really lives up to its name.
Biohacking my beauty routine was only completed when I decided to try the 30-Minute Nap ($150). You’re placed in an anti-gravity chair that features a NASA-inspired curve and tilt that promotes relaxation and includes the HigherDose infrared mat. Infrared heating mats and blankets can help soothe muscles and promote circulation and relaxation.
Courtesy of Jaspre Guest
Then the practitioner placed a NuCalm Disc on my left wrist, which claims to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, making you calmer and more relaxed. I wanted to try the record and felt it made a huge difference. I could wear it for up to 24 hours, which meant a new accessory would come with me to the Oscars.
I was then stuffed into a pair of NormaTec air compression boots (which were supposed to improve on my previous services). This was completed by wearing headphones that played binaural meditation sounds (which are said to be relaxing) and a blackout eye mask. . I felt like I was floating.
When I first started going glam with my team, they kept commenting on how my skin looked perfect even without foundation. My body and mind felt calm, grounded, and unstressed even as I worked, managing my clients, and coordinating the challenge of navigating Los Angeles traffic to the Dolby Theater.
Jaspre Guest is the founder and CEO of PR and branding agency Noise 784.