Soothing Waters Hopes to Relieve Stress in Chicago Heights: Business Spotlight

It's not always easy to relieve the tension and stresses of the week, and some of us think we have to leave Chicago Heights to find a good massage therapist.

Dawn Latham and Arlene Knowlton want to remind the community about Soothing Waters Beauty and Wellness, a local spa that included massage therapy, manicures, pedicures, facials and a myriad of other services.

Located at 394 W 14th Place, it's a short drive (or even a walk) for anyone living in the Heights.

We stopped by Soothing Waters and asked the two owners a few questions about their business.

Patch: How long have you been in business?

Latham: We've been in business for seven years.

How did you two end up starting a business?

Latham: Arlene is formerly a registered nurse. Then she got into colon therapy and esthetics. I worked for Jewel for 23 years, went to school, became a massage therapist, then went back to school and became a nail tech and esthetician.

We believe in the service of the total person. These are services people need, from getting a pedicure to an eyebrow wax. We like to provide services to people that get them more in tune. And they see the difference in how wonderful they feel.

We found out we have the same passion for the work, and we just wanted to take that passion and introduce it to people.

Knowlton: I got into colonics and therapy because I wasn't feeling well. By doing it, my personal health improved greatly. We wanted people to enjoy the same services you would find in downtown Chicago.

What is your specialty at Soothing Waters?

Latham: Colonica and massages. All of our services are great, but there's a lot of people walking around with stress for different reasons. Coming to get a massage really helps. People have arthritus, rheumatism, stiffness in their joints, and a lot of times they don't know where to go. The massages release a natural serotonin to the brain. After getting it you really feel so different.

What should people look for in a good spa?

Latham: Cleanliness, personality.

Knowlton: Quickness, very few distractions, atmosphere. Even though this is a simple atmosphere, it's very soothing.