Tuesday 30 June 2009

Use Spa and Hot Tub Steps For Your Comfort

More and more people are taking advantage of the relaxing and therapeutic benefits of having a home spa or hot tub. Whether used primarily for quiet family time or for entertaining friends, hot tubs are popular backyard features. However, if it is difficult for you to get in and out of your spa, or if you are concerned about slipping and falling, you won't be able to enjoy your spa as much as you'd like to. Fortunately, there's a great solution. By using spa and hot tub steps and rails, you can greatly increase your comfort, safety and peace of mind so you can replace your worries and concerns with true relaxation.

Spa steps and hot tub steps are great for enhancing both the safety and comfort of your spa environment. Instead of having to climb over the edge of your spa, spa steps will raise your access point so you can simply step in and out of the water. By providing easier and more convenient access to your hot tub or spa, hot tub steps will make all of your time spent in your backyard oasis more enjoyable. Of course, by eliminating the need for climbing and reaching, spa and hot tub steps also enhance safety. This is particularly true when you use spa steps with non-slip treads.

No matter what style of hot tub you have and no matter what your particular design preferences may be, you will be able to find spa and hot tub steps that will meet all of your needs and tastes. That's because there are so many different styles of spa steps available to choose from. Even individual models are often available in different colors and in different heights. Spa and hot tub steps are also made from plastic or a variety of natural woods. Plastic spa steps are designed to be exceptionally durable and lightweight. Such steps are typically very easy to install and also tend to be almost maintenance-free so you can enjoy outstanding comfort and safety without frequent cleaning and upkeep.

If you prefer the look of wood to plastic, you will still have many models of hot tub steps to choose from. In many cases, wooden spa and hot tub steps are available in a wide variety of color finishes such as Redwood, cedar, espresso, coastal gray and terracotta. The available designs and styles of spa steps are just as numerous and diverse as the color finishes. For example, you can find everything from one tier hot tub steps to four tier hot tub steps. In addition, available styles include standard steps, curved steps and sunburst style spa steps. With such a great selection of hot tub and spa steps available, everyone can find a style that best suits their lifestyle and spa environment.

If you are hoping to create a truly comfortable and stylish patio area, you can also find furniture and other accessories to complement many models of hot tub steps. In many cases, manufacturers that produce steps also make tables, stools, benches and planters to match. As a result, you can continue your chosen design theme throughout your patio area while increasing your comfort both in and out of your spa. This will not only help turn your entire patio and spa area into an enticing oasis, it will also create an aesthetically pleasing set up.

While spa and hot tub steps will provide you with increased comfort and safety, you can further maximize both of those qualities by using spa steps together with spa handrails. By providing a sturdy grip and extra support, grab rails help to prevent falls and offer additional assistance when entering or exiting the water. By accessorizing your spa or hot tub with spa steps and one or more handrails, you will be ensuring that everyone who uses your spa will enjoy a high level of convenience as well as exceptional comfort.

Since maximized comfort leads to maximized relaxation, spa and hot tub steps can truly add to your overall spa experience. Nobody wants to worry about slipping and falling and nobody wants to deal with awkward water entrances and exits. Luckily, none of the above are necessary and such concerns can be completely eliminated simply by adding a set of hot tub steps. No matter what style of steps you choose, you will be increasing your comfort and safety as well as that of everyone else who uses your hot tub. With these you can feel confident that your spa or hot tub provides the most pleasant and comfortable environment possible.

Thursday 25 June 2009

Top Ten Romantic Spa Ideas

Deciding how to spoil the one you love can sometimes be a bit tricky. Here are some ideas to make your life a bit easier.

1: Organize a Spa Hotel / Resort In-Room Massage

Nothing is more romantic then enjoying a massage with the one your love in your hotel or resort room. The spa will do everything for you. Treatment beds, music and everything that is needed to make the experience as romantic as possible, will be delivered and set up in your room. What makes this option even more desirable is that the treatments are performed at the same time and you can even pre-arrange in-room champagne, lunch or dinner with the hotel for an after-treatment treat.

2: Outdoor Treatment Experience

Numerous spas around the world offer treatments outdoors in settings such as: on the beach, in a natural game park location, on the building's rooftop with views of the cityscape, in the mountains etc... The options go on and on. Depending on you and your partner's preferences, choose a spa in an outdoor location that you love and organize your treatments to be performed in this setting.

3: Mobile Spa Experience

Want to have your romantic day or evening at home? Organize a mobile spa to arrange you and your partners favorite treatments in the comfort of your own home. Everything is arranged for you and all you need to do is relax. Perfect for those of you wanting to organize your own romantic dinner or evening at home or purely wanting to surprise.

4: Spa Day Packages

If you want to experience a whole day being pampered at a beautiful spa with the one you love, this option is for you. Most spas offer day packages where you can spend an entire day relaxing using the spa's facilities and having treatments done. Usually breakfast, lunch and drinks are included or are an option and free gifts are also sometimes included when booking on special days of the year. A perfect way to show someone how much you care.

5: Spa Vouchers

A wonderful option if you want to treat your partner but would like to give them the choice of when and what spa treat to choose. Also a lovely extra surprise after a dinner out or with some flowers.

6: Spa Products and Accessories

Pamper him or her with top of the range spa products and accessories for a home spa experience. Spas can assist you in choosing the right products or making up a spa package for your loved one. A wonderful gift or gift addition.

7: Spa Getaway

If you really want to spoil him or her, organize a weekend or holiday away in one of the many spa resorts and hotels scattered around the world. Browse though the Health Spa Guru collection to find the one that suits you best. An exciting surprise that allows you to get pampered in the country or location of your choice for more than just a day.

8: Couples Treatments

If you would like to enjoy the spa experience with your partner, ensure to book a twin treatment room or spa suite when arranging a treatment at your spa. The twin treatment room will allow you both to be treated in the same room and to experience the pampering together. A spa suite is also wonderful, as after being treated together in the suite you can relax in the spa suite facilities exclusive to you and your loved one.

9: Book Exclusive Use of a Spa

Booking exclusive use of a spa can be expensive and is really for those of you really wanting to spoil and splash out. Remember to call in advance if spa exclusivity is your plan. Although not all spas offer this option, it is a wonderful way to spend the day as there will be no interruptions from other visitors to the spa and the spa facilities will be all yours.

10: Create a Home Spa

Want to personally create a spa experience at home for your partner? This is a excellent way to show how much you care by taking the effort to create the spa experience yourself. Spa bath crystals and powders, essential oils and spa accessories can be purchased at many of your local spas. Add some flowers, candles and some music and your spa creation could be the perfect romantic gift.

Monday 22 June 2009

How The Next Step In Your Fitness Plan Might Be A Spa

Spas: The whole story.. A spa is a great form of body relaxation and recovery. After a streneous workout, or even a mild one, taking the time out of your day to enjoy a visit to a spa is a good decision

Due to this fact, many exercise and fitness centers now feature a spa center as these companies realize the advantages of relaxing in a spa after exercise is completed.

The Benefits Of A Spa After A Workout

The benefits of resting in a spa after you finish your workout are incredible to say the least. The most obvious benefit is that the Spa water will cleanse the body of dirt, sweat, and other undesired materials after exercise.

Since the body will eventually need to be cleaned after a workout, it is best to enjoy the additional benefits of a spa to increase the experience of optimal fitness. Another healthy benefit of using a spa is that the water will provide beneficiary for the skin.

For those people who are exposed to the elements on a daily basis, a spa can do wonders for less than perfect skin. Hydrotherapy, a way of using water to treat forms of pain and bodily disease, is yet another benefit of a spa experience.

Hydrotherapy And Spa's

Hydrotherapy is a benefit of the spa system that most spa users have no knowledge of. Hydrotherapy has been practiced by virtually every civilization in history, from the Egyptians to the citizens of today.

While Hydrotherapy is intended to be used as a form of medical treatment for those that suffer from musculoskeletal illnesses (ex: arthritis), it is useful for those who have recently completed a workout session.

As the muscles tend to cramp after an intense workout, the effects of the spa will ease your body, allowing you to think about more important aspects of your life. Releasing the body of toxins and stress accumulated during exercise is another way Hydrotherapy will help your fitness goals.

Relaxing Your Life With A Spa

The main purpose of the spa is to relax the body and mind. The spa improves the body of those who have not exercised prior to arriving so the positive effects for those individuals who have participated in a workout before entering a spa are simply amazing.

There is no real purpose in participating in a workout regiment if you are not going to enjoy the end results. If you only work your body without rewarding your body for the hard work that it has completed, your body will not reward you with good fitness and health. It is vital for you to allow your body to recover after a workout so that you can mentally recover and prepare for the rest of your daily activities and for your upcoming workout. The spa is more than sufficient of a reward for the work your body has put in during an exercise session.

Try Out A Spa

With all of the benefits that can come out of a visit to the spa after a hard workout, you should definably schedule a visit. To get the most out of your visit to the spa, try to schedule it on a day that you will not have to worry about other activities, errands etc: schedule a spa date after a workout on a day that you are out of work and have no plans after the workout).

If your local fitness center does not feature a spa, you should browse through your phone book for a recreational spa location close to your residence.

Sunday 21 June 2009

Spa And Hot Tub Heat Conservation

It is a known fact that hot tubs and spas heat water. This is why it is always better to aim to conserve as much of this heat as possible with these tips.

Covering your spa saves energy:

As heat rises, keeping your spa covered helps in retaining the heat that is generated in the spa. This is why most of the modern spas have well-insulated shells. With a cover that is in good condition, ensuring that the tie straps are snugly fit and latched when the spa is not in use helps in reducing leakage of heat.

However with deteriorated spa covers, heat leaks at the hinge-fold and spa shell rim with improper seating of the edges of the cover. If you find your spa cover to be heavy, it means that the foam core insulation is water logged. However as water logged covers have no R-value, it only leads to wastage of heating dollars. Instead, opt for a high quality replacement spa cover that saves energy, lasts longer, is more resistant to water absorption and helps in improving the beauty of the spa.

The benefits of Creating Windbreaks:

Windbreaks have to be created around the spa not only for privacy sakes, but also for reducing wind exposure that can lead to heat loss. Privacy panels, fencing, spa enclosures, coveralls and shrubs also work as effective windbreaks.

Tips for thermostat settings:

Factory spas have a high temperature limit of 104 degrees F. however by reducing the temperature to 102 degrees F; overall energy consumption is reduced considerably as you need more energy to heat additional degrees of your spa water.

What to do when going for a vacation:

When on a vacation, the thermostat has to be reduced. If you will not be around for a week or more during the warmer months, the heater can either be switched off or set at lowest levels. However in freezing weather, heating has to be maintained to prevent damage to pipes and plumbing during to freezing. Heating can be avoided if the spa is winterized, and its water removed from plumbing system.

Tips for off-peak heating:

Check with your power company to see if they offer reduced rates on power utilities during off peak hours, because of lowest demands. If your spa has a timer circuit, you could program your thermostat to heat the spa during off-peak heating. With a well insulated spa and a good cover, it is possible to maintain heat for a few hours, even when heater is switched off.

Blowers, lights and air jets used in spas:

The air induction jets in the spa offers soothing massage when in the spa. However by inducing air into the spa, it lowers the water temperature that has to be replaced with the spa heater. Do switch off air and water lights when the spa is not used.

Though powered air blowers were once popular, they are not favored. In fact, when buying new spas today, it is recommended not to buy one that has an air blower motor. These spas are not only loud; they consume lots of energy and lowers the water temperature rapidly.

Better and more expensive spas have adjustable hydro jets in them that induces warmed air from the equipment cabinet into the water. This is a better option for your spa than a motor driven blower.

About plumbing system and filter cartridge in spas:

The filters in the spa have to be cleaned with every water change and with non-foaming filter cleaning compound every 3 to 4 months. This is because a clogged spa filter reduces the circulation of the spa water, and strains the pump. Clogged filters also makes your heater element perform less efficiently. Filters have to be replaced annually for the peak performance of the spa, cleaner water and savings in energy.

Use a spa system flush for flushing the plumbing system and heater element when changing the water in the spa. This helps maintain uninterrupted water flow the efficient working of your heater element.

The floating thermal blanket reduces loss of heat with insulation and reduction of evaporation. Though a small investment is required for this blanket, it brings with itself Hugh returns with the added advantage of maintaining the build up of moisture in the spa to a minimum. This helps increase the life of the spa cover.

How to conserve water:

Water should not be wasted. So repair leaks if required, and adjust jets to ensure the streams of hot water are not sent to the deck.

Tips To Follow When Shopping for a New Spa:

When buying a new spa to replace an obsolete and energy wasting spa, shop wisely. Never overbuy horsepower as some manufacturers play the jet and horsepower numbers game. Remember that the more jets they offer, the more horsepower that is required for feeding the jets.
More than the number of jets, the design and engineering of the spa is important. With a well designed spa, you don't need numerous jets for a soothing and vigorous hydro massage. Remember that the larger is the pump motor, the more power it consumes for its running. This in turn leads to huge power bills.

Thursday 18 June 2009

Spa Therapies & Meditation

Earlier, a spa was referred to as a resort with mineral springs or a whirlpool bath where a device is used for aerating and swirling water. But over the years, the spa has come to be known as a place to relax and rejuvenate your senses through massage and an assortment of body relaxing substances. A spa, today, can easily be termed as a synonym of therapeutic healing and health maintenance.

A spa-goer must be able to put a finger on exactly what he/she expects, since spa has now become a blanket term for a number of professional services. A peek into the types of spas and the services they offer are worthy of a second look by any spa-goer. Spas can be broadly classified into day spas, mobile spas, destination spas, eco spas, mineral health spas, medical spas, resort /hotel spas and club spas. Depending upon whether you are interested in pampering you senses, authentic therapy, holistic healing, activity, or simply a deluxe treatment, it is important tot choose the right spa.

Day spa

Starting from half an hour treatments to full day treatments, a day spa is the place to head to if you are looking at a quick break from your routine. These spas do not offer accommodation and are sited at stand alone locations, or shopping centers, airports, and hotels. The menu generally offers the classic European facial, therapeutic body massage, body wraps, plus hand and foot treatments. Some others also offer hair treatments. Any hair or beauty salon, health center or wellness clinic, which provides a minimum of one hydrotherapy treatment comes under the day spa.

Mobile spa

Fast gaining popularity, mobile spas are ‘come home’ spas. They offer their services at a venue of your convenience and are a great way to enjoy a relaxing massage I the comfort of your home. Alternatively, you can treat yourself and a group of friends to the luxury of a spa treatment.

Destination spa

Apart from focusing on the treatments and therapies, a destination spa also carefully chooses its location, so as to offer the benefits of a complete retreat for its customers. The scenic locales that generally house a destination spa complement the state of your mind. These spas are known to offer holistic treatments including a spa cuisine, total health and fitness, and rejuvenating therapies including acupuncture, aromatherapy, detox, body tanning and body wraps. It is a center to interact with like minded and fitness conscious people where guidance is offered on lifestyle improvement, meditation and overall well being.

Eco spa

These are meant for environment conscious populace. They concentrate on using eco friendly substances for treatments and therapies apart from displaying eco friendliness in everything from the building material to the cleaning systems used. Eco spas may also support environment projects such as water harvesting plants, lighting projects and are known to use eco friendly water.

Mineral health spa

Minerals have been known as the source of life since time immemorial. Abundantly strewn with medicinal properties, mineral water helps in rebuilding worn out muscles, expediting metabolism, and accelerating the healing process by improving blood circulation and detoxifying the body. Typically located within a hotel or a resort, a mineral health spa allows access to the miraculous water either on a daily basis or more frequently.

Medical spa

Apart from the regular spa therapies, a medical spa offers preventive healthcare, cosmetic procedures, conventional and modern medicine under the direction of reputed medical professionals. Weight maintenance therapies, skin and hair care therapies, and hair removal treatments are also a part of a medical spa. Weeklong programs are often carried out to help varied requirements including quitting smoking.

Resort/hotel spa

A resort or hotel spa is basically a hotel with an attached spa – it therefore is primarily concerned with accommodation rather than well being. Having said this, it is also a perfect blend of activities teamed with spa treatments. The spa services are offered so as to complement golf, horse riding, tennis, water sports and surfing, and skiing. It is more like a holiday destination where whole families can look forward to indulging in their favorite activity.

Club spa

Usually open only to club members, it is a fitness centre with added-on spa facilities. Apart from the regular facilities that a day spa offers, a club spa will house a swimming pool, a sauna and a steam room.

Cruise spa

A cruise spa has to be necessarily located on a cruise ship. Though the unrestricted food and drink on board is a deterrent to good eating habits and can send your diet on a spree, you will enjoy the festive ambience followed by soothing therapies.

Meditation

Meditation is seducing the soul towards a better life. It is a thoughtful reflection of god and His creation. A brainstorming of utmost supremacy. A quiet ambience and a focused mind kindle the soul to connect with your inner being. This is meditation. Not only does it release the inner knowledge to help you lead a more meaningful life, but it also assists you in recharging your latent potential. By setting aside a regular time and place for meditation, you meticulously proceed towards retarding the incessant meanderings of the mind. This increases your concentration on more meaningful things and helps you gain inner peace. A regular meditator is then led to self inquisition, which is the beginning of the journey within one’s own self.

Monday 15 June 2009

Spa Resorts: Your Guide to Choosing One

When choosing a spa resort, there are almost endless options to choose from. Whether you are looking for something simple and low cost, or if you want a pampered and extravagant experience, there is a spa resort that offers what you are looking for. Spa resorts can be found all over the world too. To find one, you can check with AAA, or a very good option would be to search the internet for exactly what you want. Many online sites specialize in vacation planning, including spa resort information. Below are just a few of the many options you have to choose from when picking a spa resort.

Some spa resorts are very simple. They will often offer physical therapy services, volcanic clay "mud" baths and massages. Facials and body treatments will also be included. Of course, they will have spa facilities as well. These spa packages can be enjoyed anywhere from 4 to 30 days, depending on how long you can stay, and what your budget allows.

When you move up to the mid-level spa resorts, they tend to offer a little more. An exercise facility is one of the extras. Depending on where the spa is located, they may offer hiking or other outdoor activities. Often gourmet food is on the menu and included in the package. Of course, the mid-level spas also offer everything you would find in an economy package.

Things become more exciting when you opt for a luxury spa resort. This is where the services offered become almost endless. At some luxury spa resorts, you are afforded a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. Others offer health improvement, fine dining, yoga and meditation, and low-fat cuisine. Horseback riding and other outdoor activities will often be available. Golfing facilities are common at luxury spa resorts. Watersports and skiing are offered sometimes, too. Regardless of the spa you choose, the goal will normally be stress reduction, relaxation, and health improvement.

You will also find that there are many types of specialty spas available. An example of this would be a Connoisseur spa. These spas are more "upper class", and give more attention to each guest. They usually have more staff available per guest than a conventional spa would have. Wonderful ambiance and cuisine are always offered at a Connoisseur spa. Don’t forget your checkbook, though, as these are at the top of the list of spas.

Mobile spas are a novel idea. With a mobile spa, the professionals bring the spa to you. Well, they don’t bring an actual spa, but they will offer massages, facials, manicures, and other health treatments right to your house. They can even come to small parties.

Your spa resort vacation will only be limited to your imagination and your budget. If what you are looking for is health related, you can normally find a spa resort that caters to it, regardless of how much you have available to spend. All it takes is a little research on your part, and you can have a spa vacation that you will always remember.

Credit: Ian W Anderson of The Spa Resort, the spa information site. For more spa information and articles like this one visit: Spas.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_W_Anderson

Saturday 13 June 2009

The Spas At Walt Disney World

A great way to get rejuvenated and re-energized for the next busy day at the Walt Disney World is to take advantage of one of the luxurious spas that are located at the deluxe resorts from Walt Disney World. Each spa has unique and special features but all of them provide a relaxing environment to unwind and lay back.

Grand Floridian Spa

Walt Disney World's top spa, the Grand Floridian Spa, is located in the Magic Kingdom. Guests at the Grand Floridian resort have direct access to the spa. If you're not staying at the Grand Floridian you can get there by monorail, boat and bus. The great thing about the spa is that it encourages parents and children to relax together, side by side. They even have a special program for the children that features a class on skin care and good health and also a mini facial, pedicure and manicure.

The pampering at the Grand Floridian Spa is over the top as you have so many choices that you don't even know what to start with. However, one of the staff members will help you decide on your treatment program based on your individual needs and prefferences. You can start by enjoying a massage to release the tension and stress in the muscles you have accumulated during a day full of events in the parks. There is a wide range of massage therapies to choose from: swedish, shiatsu, reflexology, a special soothing massage for future mothers and also the Floridian signature citrus zest massage.

After relieving the stress in muscles, the next step is taking care of face and body skin. What woman can say no to a facial that rejuvenates and revitalizes the skin and soothes the senses? Men can also enjoy this part as the spa offers facial treatments for men that provide deep cleaning and conditioning. For the body you can choose body wraps to detoxify and relax, paraffin and OPC body masques and also a sugar scrub.

If you came to spend your honeymoon at the Walt Disney World, you can't miss the special program for couples at the Grand Floridian Spa - a couples massage in a romantic environment with scented candles and everything. Couples can take home a part of the magic by attending a massage class where they can learn more about different massage techniques they can use after leaving Disney World.

The Grand Floridian Spa has a boutique that allows you to purchase many of the treatments used in the spa to be used at home. They have their own line of bath and body care products that are sold exclusively at the boutique.

Saratoga Springs Spa

The Saratoga Springs Spa is located in the downtown Disney area. It recreates the relaxing atmosphere of the healing spas of Saratoga Springs, New York. Its signature program is the Adirondack Stone therapy that uses heated stones to relax tense muscles and soothe nerves. As you would expect from Saratoga springs, the spa is famous for its hydro massage therapy. You can also get swedish, aromatherapy, motherhood, reflexology and shiatsu massages as at the Grand Foridian Spa but you will certainly be interested in the forest inspired massage that combines reflexology and Swedish massage.

Skin care treatments include facials for ladies, men and also teenagers, body wraps and masks. If you want to feel special you can choose the maple sugar treatment or the seaweed wrap that will certainly give you a glowing look.

Mandara Spa

The Mandara Spa at the Walt Disney World Dolphin brings a more exotic touch as it is modeled after a Balinese style retreat and features the relaxing customs and rituals of the East. The spa focuses on both physical and mental feeling of wellbeing. It features two asian interior gardens that set the mood the moment you enter the spa. You're welcomed to visit the tea garden, a replica of a traditional Balinese pavilion used for relaxation, and meditate in the Meru temple before you enjoy the treatments that the spa has to offer.

As expected, all the treatments are inspired by Asian traditions. The signature programs include Bali inspired rituals like the traditional cleansing ceremony practiced in the palaces of Java since the 17th century or a Balinese massage, a combination of stretching, elements of shiatsu, accupressure and Swedish massage. Lime and ginger treatments, coconut rubs, milk ritual wraps or seaweed wraps complete the ultimate sensory experience.

Other specials include tooth whitening, hair and nail treatments and a makeup and styling session for the brides who plan to hold their wedding at the Walt Disney World.

You can also find the Zahanati Spa at the Animal Kingdom Lodge and the BoardWalk Inn, the Contemporary, the Wilderness Lodge and the Yacht Club also offer spa services. Regardless of which spa you decide upon you will leave the Walt Disney World feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Looking for Disney accomodation, dining and recreation info? Pete Anderson has the complete Disney hotels guide - http://www.Disney-Hotels.org - where you will find useful tips for the perfect Disney vacation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pete_Anderson

Tuesday 9 June 2009

Top Ten Romantic Spa Ideas

Deciding how to spoil the one you love can sometimes be a bit tricky. Here are some ideas to make your life a bit easier.

1: Organize a Spa Hotel / Resort In-Room Massage

Nothing is more romantic then enjoying a massage with the one your love in your hotel or resort room. The spa will do everything for you. Treatment beds, music and everything that is needed to make the experience as romantic as possible, will be delivered and set up in your room. What makes this option even more desirable is that the treatments are performed at the same time and you can even pre-arrange in-room champagne, lunch or dinner with the hotel for an after-treatment treat.

2: Outdoor Treatment Experience

Numerous spas around the world offer treatments outdoors in settings such as: on the beach, in a natural game park location, on the building's rooftop with views of the cityscape, in the mountains etc... The options go on and on. Depending on you and your partner's preferences, choose a spa in an outdoor location that you love and organize your treatments to be performed in this setting.

3: Mobile Spa Experience

Want to have your romantic day or evening at home? Organize a mobile spa to arrange you and your partners favorite treatments in the comfort of your own home. Everything is arranged for you and all you need to do is relax. Perfect for those of you wanting to organize your own romantic dinner or evening at home or purely wanting to surprise.

4: Spa Day Packages

If you want to experience a whole day being pampered at a beautiful spa with the one you love, this option is for you. Most spas offer day packages where you can spend an entire day relaxing using the spa's facilities and having treatments done. Usually breakfast, lunch and drinks are included or are an option and free gifts are also sometimes included when booking on special days of the year. A perfect way to show someone how much you care.

5: Spa Vouchers

A wonderful option if you want to treat your partner but would like to give them the choice of when and what spa treat to choose. Also a lovely extra surprise after a dinner out or with some flowers.

6: Spa Products and Accessories

Pamper him or her with top of the range spa products and accessories for a home spa experience. Spas can assist you in choosing the right products or making up a spa package for your loved one. A wonderful gift or gift addition.

7: Spa Getaway

If you really want to spoil him or her, organize a weekend or holiday away in one of the many spa resorts and hotels scattered around the world. Browse though the Health Spa Guru collection to find the one that suits you best. An exciting surprise that allows you to get pampered in the country or location of your choice for more than just a day.

8: Couples Treatments

If you would like to enjoy the spa experience with your partner, ensure to book a twin treatment room or spa suite when arranging a treatment at your spa. The twin treatment room will allow you both to be treated in the same room and to experience the pampering together. A spa suite is also wonderful, as after being treated together in the suite you can relax in the spa suite facilities exclusive to you and your loved one.

9: Book Exclusive Use of a Spa

Booking exclusive use of a spa can be expensive and is really for those of you really wanting to spoil and splash out. Remember to call in advance if spa exclusivity is your plan. Although not all spas offer this option, it is a wonderful way to spend the day as there will be no interruptions from other visitors to the spa and the spa facilities will be all yours.

10: Create a Home Spa

Want to personally create a spa experience at home for your partner? This is a excellent way to show how much you care by taking the effort to create the spa experience yourself. Spa bath crystals and powders, essential oils and spa accessories can be purchased at many of your local spas. Add some flowers, candles and some music and your spa creation could be the perfect romantic gift.

Find health spas and more articles on Health and Wellness at: http://healthspaguru.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colette_Halberstadt

Sunday 7 June 2009

Top Spa Trends - Wellness Spa Equipment, Organic Skin Care and Customized Spa Services

The ever-increasing demand for spas that provide health maintenance in addition to relaxation and beauty services has changed the way spas do business. Many spa visitors are not just looking to be pampered. They want healthy living, fitness, personal growth, eco friendly, natural pain relief, weight loss, organic skin care programs and more. This shift is creating some fascinating new spa therapy trends that indicate consumer choice is a high priority. In today's market spa-goers want superior quality equipment, educated service providers with the highest credentials and a gorgeous location with a luxurious, comfortable atmosphere. Creativity, innovation and a commitment to excellence are the keys to starting and operating a successful spa.

Organic Skin Care Products and Organic Massage Therapy Oils, Creams and Lotions

Around the world people are thinking more about the beauty and skin care products they put on and in their bodies. Successful spas must think not only about the quality of their estheticians, massage therapists and other staff, but also about the quality of the products they use. Organic skin care treatments, such as organic body wraps, facials, footbaths and more are in high demand.

Massage therapists are also now using organic massage therapy oils, creams, lotions and muscle rubs made with organic ingredients such as natural healing herbs and therapeutic essential oils. According to the HealingLifestyles.com article "Spa Trends 2008 The Evolved Spa" by writer Margie Goldsmith, Tracy Lee, vice president of spa development for Auberge Resorts says, "Spas are positioning themselves with more green products, and many skincare companies are getting rid of paraffins and sulfites. Today's savvy spa consumer does not blindly accept the label, 'all natural.' A product needs to be greener, more pure, and must provide more proof."

Spa Equipment and Commercial Fitness Equipment created for Wellness

In 2008 spa visitors don't just want to look better, they want to feel healthier. Exercise equipment has long been a part of the spa experience but the kind of equipment spa-goers will find has changed. In addition to the traditional treadmills, exercise bikes and weight training equipment spas now provide fitness alternatives such as vibration therapy machines like the Power Plate and aquatic therapy equipment. Spas are also offering hydrotherapy tables, hydrokinetic showers, skin scanners, infrared mineral lights, biofeedback machines, low level cold lasers and other equipment that promotes natural healing.

Natural Healing Herbs and Holistic Health Supplements for Detox and Natural Weight Loss

Many people visiting spas each year now understand the importance and benefits of an annual body cleanse. Detoxification has become a standard in the spa industry to improve health and achieve natural weight loss. In addition to traditional cleansing massages and detoxifying skin treatments spas now provide visitors with access to holistic health supplements, nutritional organic vitamins and natural healing herbs. It is essential that spa owners and professionals confirm the credibility and integrity of any detox and natural weight loss products they suggest to ensure safety for all spa-goers.

Customized Spa Treatments

In 2008 spa owners are seeing an increase in the demand for customized spa services. According to the International Spa Association ISPA "customized relaxation" is in. "You can make almost anything your 'own' today from custom workouts built into your Nikes, fragrances blended to suit your nose or a zenned-out playlist on your iPod," states ISPA, "Spas are creating unique experiences for their guests as well with 24 percent indicating that clients can book blocks of time instead of specific services. This time block allows them to create a treatment that is all their own from the music to the products to the room temperature."

Spa Luxury and the Comforts of Home

In her article "Spa Trends 2008 The Evolved Spa", HealingLifestyles.com journalist Margie Goldsmith writes, "Guests used to come to a spa once or perhaps twice a year. Now, owners and renters are living the spa experience on a daily basis. Other lifestyle aspects are now being incorporated such as nutrition, sleeping well, retirement, and how you use your leisure time-things beyond treatments and fitness."

Sylvia Sepielli, a conceptual spa designer states, "There's a movement towards integrating more health aspects within the spa experience, and the term 'spa' has been branching out to include more than just fitness and therapies. We're seeing more mixed-use property, resorts with home-stay components, and a big part of that is the spa/lifestyle component." Goldsmith also mentions an increase in Girlfriend Getaways and Mother Daughter spa trips. As women begin traveling together more the residential living aspects such as full kitchens, in room yoga and fitness supplies, in room spa showers and tubs and access to wireless Internet will continue to become more popular.

Tom Maroney, CEO of Banner Therapy Products in Asheville, NC, was a practicing N.Y. attorney for many years prior to being in a terrible car accident. As the result of severe neck and brain injuries, he was exposed to many rehabilitative products, first hand. This experience prompted him to become an investor, advisor and later CEO, of Banner Therapy Products. Since the inception of the company, 10 years ago, the company has gone from carrying 400 to 6,000 products. His wife, Dianne, is a principal in the business as well and has a medical background in neurology. Currently, she works with children to assist in analyzing medical disabilities. Tom and Dianne continue to travel the world seeking out new products. Email:service@bannertherapy.com or visit http://www.bannertherapy.com for more information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Maroney

Friday 5 June 2009

Imaginative Spa Party Ideas

Imaginative spa party ideas are cropping up every where. Everything from wedding groups, a girl's night out to book clubs, corporations and teenagers are excuses to enjoy spa party events.

What theme is good for a spa party?

Well let's look at a just a few:

Plan a spa party

A spa party is an innovative way to celebrate any occasion while getting spa treatments with your friends. The perfect planning of spa party enhances the enjoyment of the host as well as guests. So firstly decide a location to host the party as it can be arranged in the house or a salon. Now a days various salons offer special packages for spa parties. Now after finalizing the party location send the invitations to the friends and crosscheck that how many are attending the spa party. After that decide about the spa treatments you want for the party. And set the scene that reflects a spa-like atmosphere by using light aromatic candles, dim lights and set up a waterscape along with soothing music in the background. This will provide calm ambiance to the guests and they will also enjoy in it.

With the arrangement of pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room the guests can sit back and relax before and after the spa appointments. You can also offer wine and herbal tea to the guests while they are waiting for their appointments. The host can engage the guests in other activities like designing body glitter and giving each other pedicures and manicures. After the spa activities they all can play some traditional games also.

Spa party ideas

A spa party idea for the mom to be is a great gesture. The soon to be mom won't have a lot of time to spoil herself after the birth of her baby, so now is the perfect time to indulge. Little luxuries like bath accessories, nourishing body treatments and healthy spa food will be enjoyed by all. How about a chocolate lovers retreat? A chocolate theme for a spa party is a unique idea. Whether held at a luxury spa or hosted at home, this party will be memorable. Serve chocolates and chocolate covered strawberries, have chocolate scented candles and invitations. Indulge in thick fluffy towels, luxurious lotions and mini-pedicures. Your guest will think you're the chocolates best.

At home spa parties are popular with every type of party. From bridal showers to sweet sixteen parties, women every where love to be pampered. When hosting a home spa party you have many options to lavish your guests with the little luxuries found at day spas. There are countless recipes for spa treatments. Provide scented candles, fresh flowers and soothing music. Hire a professional massage therapist. Do facials and manicures for each other and provide refreshments of chilled beverages for each guest. Bridal showers are perfect spa party ideas. Instead of the usual tea, cake and games at someone's home, the spa shower has gained in popularity. The invitations should relate to the spa themed. Let your guests know what to expect. This theme works well for a day spa or a spa at home party. The bride-to-be will certainly enjoy a little pamper before her big day. Whatever occasion you are celebrating, the spa party ideas are unlimited.

I'm the owner of http://www.spapartysite.com that provides the Spa Party Ideas and read more content please visit our website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Abha_Duhring

Wednesday 3 June 2009

Water Therapy: Therapeutic and Esoteric Properties for Your Home Spa Smart Bathing

Something New Interesting About Water Therapy.

"The more I find out, the more

I find out I need to know"

Water therapy, or hydrotherapy, or balneology is a powerful natural tool you can use at your home spa.

What do you know about water therapy (hydrotherapy,balneology)? If you could choose a simple quick method in your home spa to enjoy better wellness, more energy and well-being, would you be interested in learning it ?

The good news is that this powerful tool is possible for you …if you have a tub with hot and cold water. And if you want to open your mind to something new.

Do you know One Of the Most Powerful Wellness Tools in accordance with Nature you can use at your home spa any time? It is WATER (water therapy)!

Yes, I am talking about WATER- "this common and ordinary substance" as most the people think. Let's change this phrase to another one: water is one of the most powerful and affordable wellness tools for everyone.

And you can use with water therapy techniques many natural bath products such as bath salts, mud baths, herbal baths, thalasso baths.

Hydrotherapy (balneology, water therapy) is a therapeutic and beautiful way to use water for healing and wellness, to balance body and mind. For general home therapy for easing of stress and strains a home bath can offer many excellent benefits.

Bathing can be a very valuable, effective resource for your wellness and health.

For many years numerous scientific researches and studies have proved the following 5 (five) main therapeutic benefits of bathing:

-Bathing promotes physical and mental relaxation, rest and feeling of well-being, reduces stress.

-Warm water draws blood from the other parts of the body to the skin and muscles. Bathing increases the oxygen-rich blood circulation throughout the body to help dissolve and eliminate toxins through the skin. Bathing improves nourishment to the body. Bathing is a very smart method to increase circulation so mildly and so therapeutically.

-Bathing increases body's metabolism and helps balance body's functions.

-Bathing relieves from muscle pain and spasms.

-Bathing stimulates the immune system.

What about something esoteric?

Subscribe to Free Smart Home Spa Bathing Course at www.tonusworld.com to read:

• Why is bathing (water therapy, hydrotherapy, balneology) such a powerful tool?

• 5 main therapeutic benefits of water therapy

• Esoteric properties of water

Have a good and smart Home Spa bath!

Oleg Moskvine

Tonus World Inc.

www.tonusworld.com

© 2001-2004 Tonus World Inc., All Rights Reserved

Oleg Moskvine,MSc.,held the Senior Scientist position of the R&D department of Technofit cosmetic manufacturing company. He has the extensive experience in research, formulation, development, production, marketing and competitive intelligence of natural products.

Oleg has the good expertise in hydrotherapy (balneology, water therapy) treatments with water, mineral salts and mud applications. He is an author of articles about natural products, skin absorption, water therapy, cellulite treatments, body adaptation etc.

Web-site: http://www.tonusworld.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Oleg_Moskvine