#AlliumGoesPink

As September comes to an end each year, we look forward to watching businesses throughout the city get into the spirit of October. And we're not just talking about the spirit of fall, Halloween and all things spooky. While we love the influx of pumpkins, the spirit we're referring to is that of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We love the bright shade of pink that paints the town all month long.

There are always a slew of creative and inspiring events around the city that promote the message of breast cancer awareness, but one that particularly has our attention this year is #AlliumGoesPink.

As part of the 'Think Pink' movement to support breast cancer research, Allium restaurant at the Four Seasons Chicago is offering specialty menu items in a pretty shade of pink. Throughout the month of October, Allium is serving a 'Pink A'Peel' Martini for $14, with 50% of the proceeds benefiting the Lynn Sage Foundation. A pink cupcake will also be added to Allium's menu for $4, 100% of which will go to the same organization. 

To kick off this powerful initiative, Allium is hosting an #AlliumGoesPink launch event this Thursday, October 3rd from 6:00 - 8:00pm. Guests can look forward to Laurent Perrier Rosé, the 'Pink A'Peel' cocktail, small bites and mini manicures courtesy of our spa. Allium is simply asking that guests provide a $35 donation at the event to be awarded to the Lynn Sage Foundation.

Getting pampered while supporting this most-deserving cause? Sounds like a win-win to us!

How are you doing your part to spread the pink love this month? Tweet us at @monikadixonpr or comment below to let us know!

By Emily Cleary, MDPR Social Media Director

Work Out With Public!

With #EXPOSURE2013 coming to an end on Saturday, some of you may be looking for ways to keep up your workout routine this fall.

We're excited to announce that our go-to trainer Alex Vasileski is now offering personal training at Public Hotel! (1301 N. State Parkway in the Gold Coast)

This is a great option for those of you who don't like working out in crowded gyms. Alex's 60 minute sessions get you one-on-one attention to help you reach your fitness goals all in the privacy of the hotel's gym. It's one of our favorites in the city and it has an awesome view. We couldn't think of a better place to workout!

To schedule a training session with Alex, contact Public's front desk or concierge.

By Allison Sickert, MDPR Writer

#TaiChiTuesday

When we got the scoop on Alex Vasileski's Tai Chi class with The Langham Chicago and its Chuan Spa, while we were excited, we were also a bit apprehensive. Why? It's a workout none of us had done before, and let's be honest, we all fear the unknown. But we took a risk and went for it. Though intimidating at first, we soon learned the class would be one of the most relaxing workout experiences we'd ever experienced. On top of it's ease, #TaiChiTuesday also left us feeling like we'd actually burned calories. Talk about best of both worlds!

As Tai Chi first timers, we have three (okay, four) words to pass on to fellow newbies - be positive, breathe and relax. Alex gave us a helpful pre-workout tip -  the worst thing you can do in Tai Chi is try too hard. The key, he said, was to relax and focus on breathing. 

As the moves progressed, we loosened up, giving ourselves the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of Tai Chi - letting the positive energy in and releasing the negative. Breathing is the key to gaining positive energy. Your breathing affects the fluidity of the movements and helps you find your center.

Following all of Alex's guidance, we succeeded in experiencing a sense of calm as the cool breeze flowed through the plaza. We began as uneasy beginners and finished as Tai Chi advocates. Having learned it ourselves, we can vouch for the fact that the class is ideal for anyone who's seeking an effective, calming workout without necessarily breaking a sweat. We will definitely be back next Tuesday at 8am!