As leaves flutter to the ground and a faint chill enters the air, nature reminds us that its cycles are mirrored in our own lives. Fall is a time for letting go, healing and releasing all things that burden. Four Seasons Resort Aviara, North San Diego, introduces a nourishing new treatment to welcome this beautiful season.

Beginning the first day of autumn, on September 22, 2009, the 50-minute Fall Foliage Ex “Foliation” is a three-in-one healing treatment that incorporates an exfoliating scrub, a mud mask and a soothing massage.

Guests are welcomed to The Spa at Aviara with a pre-treatment ritual combining both meditation and hands-on preparation for their treatment. While relaxing in the skylit atrium, guests receive reflection cards designed to remind them of the meaning of the autumn season.

As the mind tunes in with nature, guests are invited to choose from an array of fall-toned essential oils, including bergamot, cypress and cedar wood, as they hand-mix their own treatment oil. The custom-made massage oil is then given to the therapist – and the journey through fall begins.

First, a warm exfoliating scrub with a hint of rosemary is applied to the back, arms and shoulders. The scrub increases circulation, opens the pores, and allows the skin to breathe, leaving guests with a clean and invigorating feeling.

Next, a mineral-enriched mud mask is applied to the back. Vitamins A, C and E are all introduced to the body, removing toxins and other impurities with nature’s assistance. As the earth’s elements penetrate the skin, guests are treated to a soothing foot and shoulder massage, using the very blend of essential oils they created themselves.

The Fall Foliage Ex “Foliation” concludes with a relaxing cup of hot tea for reflection in the Atrium Lounge.

The 50-minute Fall Foliage Ex “Foliation” is priced at US 140. For an additional US 200, guests can upgrade to a two-hour experience in a private suite (including 50-minute treatment), complete with a Swiss shower, a relaxing space with chaise longues, a fireplace and an outdoor courtyard with whirlpool.

For more information or to make a spa reservation, please call 1 (760) 603-6902.