“Yelo is not a spa” says its website, but if relaxation, comfort and soothing surroundings are the hallmarks of a spa, then I’d have to prove them wrong and say that Yelo is a spa, and a very good one at that. Yelo Wellness, located at 315 W. 57th St. just outside of New York’s bustling Columbus Circle, is the home of the ‘YeloNap’ a custom-designed powernap that they sell in 5 minute increments from 20-40 minutes ($12 for the first 20 minutes and $3 per minute after that).

The entire space is highly designed, a long yellow (surprised?) corridor has 6 ‘YeloCabs’ off of it; the YeloCab is the cabin that Yelo has designed for its treatments. Yelo tries to do away with usual spa-trappings (the therapists do not accept tips and the check in/out procedure is very quick). Aside from naps, Yelo offers a modest range of services all based around aromatherapy, reflexology and gentle massage. I was led to my YeloCab by a very friendly masseur who settled me in the patented ‘YeloChair’ (anyone noticing a pattern here?) while my choice of music (one can choose from around 10 relaxing options ranging from Nature Sounds to Classical Piano to White Noise) was gently piped in through speakers. The design of the YeloCab is excellent, promoting a very comfortable and relaxing environment with delicate and carefully designed lighting (the YeloNap ends with a LED simulated sunrise).

My treatment, the ‘Peace and Calm’ ($90) included a light shoulder and ear massage followed by a longer foot reflexology massage. The entire treatment was accompanied by a course of aromatherapy (which led me through fields of lavender, citrus gardens and more) and ended with a delicious cup of Body Suisse tea (available for purchase at the front desk or included with most of the treatment packages). The reflexology was, itself, very soothing, if somewhat mild (this could be due to the fact that my care package was ‘Peace and Calm’ as opposed to some of the others, say, ‘Wake-Up Call’ which are probably more stimulating). Although this is not a ‘treatment’ spa - one where you would go for beautifying or serious health reasons - for those who are looking for a welcome and relaxing break in the strenuous city that never sleeps, Yelo will give you a soothing rest - and a delicious sensory treat as well.