To Your Health
August, 2008 (Vol. 02, Issue 08) |
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So, with these points in mind, are you ready to take a fresh look at the spas in your area or at your vacation destination and make some informed decisions? The biggest thing to remember is to relax.
Your overall experience is only as good as you allow it to be. So take a breath, plan your spa day with plenty of "you" time set aside, and enjoy the wonders and rejuvenation awaiting you. You will be glad you did
Sample Spa Menu
The following techniques and services are typical offers you might find at a resort, destination or day spa. Many of them can be used in combination to achieve stress release and wellness that can last well beyond your initial treatment.
Swedish Massage - Generally regarded as the most common form of massage, Swedish massage involves a combination of five basic strokes (light touch, kneading, rhythmic tapping, compression and vibration), and concentrates on the muscles and connective tissues of the body for improved circulation, relaxation, pain relief, and overall health maintenance and well-being.
Deep-Tissue Massage - Deep-tissue massage utilizes slow strokes, direct pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles with the fingers, thumbs or elbows. Deep-tissue massage works deeply into the muscles and connective tissue to release chronic aches and pains. Its purpose is to reach the fascia beneath the surface muscles.
Herbal Wrap - A treatment in which herbal infused, warmed and moist linens are wrapped snugly around the body, followed by plastic sheets and then blankets in order to promote circulation, stress relief and aid in detoxification. Generally, a head, neck and face massage accompany this treatment, which lasts on average between 30 and 45 minutes.
Reflexology - This technique is based on a system of points on the hands, feet and ears that correspond, or reflex, to other areas of the body. Reflexologists believe applying appropriate pressure to these points stimulates the flow of energy, thus helping to relieve pain or blockages throughout the entire body. A very pleasurable form of bodywork, reflexology also is used to ease stress and promote relaxation
Hydrotherapy - This treatment involves the use of water in all its forms (internally and externally) to assist in the healing process. These water therapies can include the use of a whirlpool, the application of ice or heat packs, colonic irrigation, steam baths, body wraps and more. Hydrotherapy commonly is practiced in conjunction with other spa treatments.
Stone Massage - A massage utilizing both hot and cold smooth stones usually harvested from natural rivers, springs or volcanoes. Stones are used with massage oil, often in conjunction with deep-tissue massage to provide relief from tight or sore muscles. The alternate use of hot and cold stones in a single treatment creates ahydrotherapy effect that also helps to revitalize the body and restore energy.
Ayurvedicmassage - This type of massage incorporates the knowledge of ayurvedic medicine and uses warm oils and herbs along the specific energy points to help restore balance to the body. Massage strokes, oils and herbs are selected based on a client's specific needs; hence, each treatment is highly customized. Benefits of ayurvedic massage include vitality, stress reduction and relaxation.
