DAY SPA ONLINE

Top 4 Services Offered by Med Spa

2012-01-03T19:06:00.000+07:00

If you are considering one or more cosmetic procedures, you need to find a medical spa that offers the services you are interested in. When you locate a medical spa, make certain that it is properly licensed and that each cosmetologist is also licensed. You may want to check online for feedback from other customers and the Better Business Bureau before making your first appointment. A medical spa will offer you a number of services related to your body, skin, hair and veins.

1. Spa Services Related to Weight Loss

Weight loss is one of the top reasons people contact a medical spa. The practitioners can help you lose weight and become healthier. Typical services offered include liposuction, cellulite treatment with body wraps, a supervised HCG medical weight loss program and various purification and detoxification programs. A consultant will meet you when you first come into the medical spa to determine your dietary needs. You are likely to be assigned a health coach who will assist you with permanent changing of your dietary habits so you don't regain the weight you lose.

2. Skin Care Procedures

Most spas offer facials, chemical peels and microdermabrasion. These procedures are intended to remove wrinkles, age spots, frown lines, acne scars and other blemishes permanently. They are also used to reverse the signs of aging and give you a healthier skin tone. The practitioner at the spa may use a laser to exfoliate the top layer of skin on your face and bring the second layer, called the epidermis, to the surface. These skin care procedures typically take less than one hour with minimal discomfort afterwards.

3. Hair Removal and Restoration

Practitioners can remove hair from unwanted places on your body, including the mouth area of women, the back, the pubic area and other areas of the face. This is done with a laser that breaks up the hair follicles underneath and causes the hair to fall out. The process may need to be repeated every few months as hair grows back again.
Men or women with thinning hair can benefit from the natural hair growth products offered at medical health spas.

4. Vein Treatment

You can have your varicose veins removed with a special laser that causes the blood flow to the veins to stop, clot and eventually disappear. It may take up to several months for the varicose veins to be no longer visible.

Hot Springs to Day Spa - It Will Make You Feel Great!

2011-12-21T22:02:00.000+07:00

In the 1930s there were well over 2000 health resorts built around cold or hot springs. Once the benefits of spending time at a spa had become well-known many people made plans to spend at least some of their vacation time soaking up the healthful waters found in the naturally occurring springs that are found in many places right here in the U.S. Also called balneotherapy, the health filled therapy found in hot springs (even cold springs) draw crowds of people seeking a way to feel better, perhaps to heal sore muscles or over stressed bones. Doctors recommend spa time to their patients who suffer from joint diseases like rheumatism and arthritis because they know of the benefits to be found in those magic waters. But there actually is no magic to the springs, they are part of nature and a natural method of healing the sore and unhealthy.

Greeks and Romans first learned the benefits of natural spring waters

Since Greeks first discovered that bathing in certain waters made them feel significantly better, followed by Romans who turned the art of the bath into something spectacular, bathing in natural spring waters or tidal pools has earned the right to claim its healthy claims. Ancient Greek bath houses first found benefit in the natural mud found in and around hot springs and literally covered themselves with the dark viscous material, hoping to feel better while eliminating those aches and pains associated with bone and joint discomfort. According to Greek mythology, certain tidal pools and natural springs had been blessed by the gods and would cure diseases. The then established facilities for bathing purposes with the intention of healing and those who desired the help could go there and spend time, soaking in the healing waters.

Modern spas may be palatial or sparsely appointed

As the popularity of spas rose so did the price of a spa day. There were traditional baths using the waters from hot springs that were located in areas such as hot springs in Arkansas. The states of New York, Connecticut, Virginia, and Pennsylvania are also famous for their cold and hot springs. Saratoga springs as well as Ballston spa and Kinderhood are noted spas in New York while Pennsylvania has its own Bristol, Yellow, and Bath springs. Virginia's White Sulphur springs, hot springs, and Warm springs beckon to all who come near. Those who travel to such locations are treated to a luxurious spa day and that means all the amenities that comfort allows. They can exercise, practice a healthful diet, and enjoy the healthy benefits found in the soothing waters.

Bath houses could be found everywhere

For those who could not or would not wish to travel far from home, the bath house could substitute as they emulated the healthful benefits of naturally occurring springs by adding salts and various ingredients into warm pools of water and allowing guests to soak in their soothing properties. Bath houses gained a bad reputation yet remain popular in many large cities due to their healthy warm waters and the use of mud therapy, exercise equipment, and a combination including manicures, pedicures, facial and body massages to help relieve the aches and pains of everyday living. Today enjoying a day at the spa remains a popular and healthy activity for all.

Korean Spas Are Truly a Gem

2011-12-07T21:37:00.000+07:00

Exactly what goes on in Korean spas? They are not your typical spas where you relax in a waiting room before your treatment while wearing a comfy white robe all while sipping on unlimited cucumber water. Korean spas are a unique, cultural, all-inclusive experience and one that a real spa aficionado would appreciate. Not only do they provide excellent treatment in clean facilities, they expect you to stay and relax for however long you want. The bigger spas are even 24 hours, and your admission includes a free place to sleep. You might think this is odd, but this is part of the culture and is represented as a second home.

What is unique about Korean spas versus American spas like Burke Williams or Glen Ivy's is that you have to be naked. Of course the spa is gender segregated for the facility pools and the bathhouses. There is also a co-ed area in which you would wear their provided uniform which includes a t-shirt and a pair of shorts. The co-ed area boasts their traditional, specialty rooms like the Red Clay room or the Ice Room, the common area where people can watch television or use the provided computers to surf the internet, the restaurant where you can order authentic Korean food, and finally some have a sleeping area if they are open 24 hours. The Korean spa experience is calming and one can use as much time to get to that state of pure, stress-free, relaxed state of mind.

Korean bathhouses have been part of Korea's culture for centuries. Initially these bathhouses were for the privileged to take part in bathing in special aromatic scents and to scrub their bodies to become whiter. Now they are around for people to relax and unwind but also a place to socialize with friends and family. Parents bring their children and scrub each other's backs, and this is their bonding time. Friends go together and vent about their days while sitting in the Jacuzzi. People even make friends at the spa because they see the same faces monthly or even weekly.

Korean spas are known for their popular treatment which is their body scrub or commonly referred to as the akasuri scrub. The masseuses will thoroughly scrub you in every place imaginable, so this is not for the shy or faint at heart. They use special scrubbing gloves that will make your skin feeling silky smooth and you'll walk out of there feeling like you're a couple shades lighter. The whole concept of the scrub is to make you feel just that - cleaner and whiter. The newer facilities will allow your scrub to be in a private room with just your masseuse, but many spas still have a scrubbing area that will accommodate three or four tables. Again, this is not for people who are uncomfortable in their own skin. The masseuses mean business, and they will maneuver your body to clean certain areas and you might have to do this next to some stranger who's also in a compromising position. Their technique might be strange, but it guarantees results. Your skin will feel just as smooth as a baby, and you'll also feel relaxed because a scrub also comes with a scalp massage.

What is even great about Korean spas is how affordable the services are. A scrub at a new facility will range from $30-$45, and it will include free usage to the showers and pools and the specialty rooms. If you just want to pay admission to use the main facility and not get any treatment done, it will probably only cost you $15-$20. Many of the spas in major cities have already connected with deal sites like Groupon or Living Social. The trend and popularity of these spas have really grown the past few years, and even celebrities enjoy spending time at Korean spas. Emmanuelle Chriqui from Entourage was quoted in Women's Health Magazine that she likes to visit a Korean day spa. Although the majority of spa goers are middle aged Korean women, many of the younger generation are trying it out and finding that they like the experience. If you're curious about Korean spas, just try it one day. Go with a friend (but note, you'll have to see your friend naked), and make it fun spa event. I have to warn you though; it's quite addicting!

The Correct Foot Spa Massager For Personal Total Relaxation

2011-11-25T22:51:00.000+07:00

The Best foot spa massager basically is one of all those products that seem to be a lot more of a lavish than a must have. Still, in today's chaotic world, with a downturn in economic exercise and big unemployment, it might really be a existence keeper. These days persons are extremely in excess of tired, over performed and just simple stressed out. This is a nice luxurious to go out plus get the Best massage or certain type of bath treatment that can make you be thousand percent much better. But, spa therapies are not cheap. One of the particular downsides to intending to the spa is thinking how well they cleanse out their system. There have in fact been circumstances where foot spa treatment options were not completely clean from the last patron and things like staph illnesses could be spread.

But, however that's a most awful case scenario of course. A great time that you might do for you and at your house is to operate with foot spa foot massager or High Quality Body massager . These kinds of devices are small and not overpriced. In fact you can pay for one product as little as actually one visit to a spa treatment. Then you can have one to apply over and over once again.

Many individuals don't comprehend how many crucial benefits you can certainly get from kneading your feet. There are trigger points in your feet that maintain a wholesome liver and heart. The truth is, the trigger factors in your feet are so properly integrated into its rest of your system that because basically they are so regularly neglected, your human body suffers for this cause. Many of any ancient areas have been practice foot massages for centuries. It makes realistic sense simply because as humans, we actually stand, walk plus run on our feet all morning -long.

Exactly what are some of the actual features of a new foot spa massager? This most evident one is sort of "ribbed" roller it massages the underside of your feet. Assuming you've never tried out one, you can not imagine the unbelievable bliss from sensation this excellent massage. One other feature of these devices allow for detoxification of the body. Presently there are exfoliants as well as minerals which draw out your toxins from the body. All the minerals are placed into any bin of your massaging device. Even though you sit in that location getting some sort of foot massage, it's also taking the harmful toxins out of ones own body. Those toxins can certainly include alcohol or perhaps other environmental harmful toxins that have gotten in to your system just simply from breathing!

Spa And Therapeutic Massage Flyers

2011-11-04T23:44:00.000+07:00

Success in the spa and massage therapy business is largely driven through word of mouth recommendations from satisfied customers. Unfortunately, the process required to establish a loyal and substantial clientele can take far too long. To increase store traffic and gain referrals more quickly, well designed spa and massage therapy flyers will help promote a business and its services to a multitude of potential customers.

For the cost conscious therapist or business owner, spa and message therapy flyers are the perfect marketing choice. Since they are inexpensive to produce, frequent printing of updated editions will keep the message fresh and timely. A well designed marketing plan that includes aggressive flyer distribution will ensure that the company name and logo remains recognizable to prospective clients.

Flyer Design

There are a number of design elements that should be included in message therapy and spa flyers to attract and hold the recipients attention.

- Use Color instead of Black and White: Although color printing may be marginally more expensive, color flyers are far more eye catching than black and white. Color printing also conveys a sophisticated business image and a sense of legitimacy.

- Include an Attention Grabbing Headline or Photo: An appealing photograph and an interesting headline will draw the readerÂÂÂ’s attention. Always try and place this type of information in the center of the page where it will be the most conspicuous.

- Contact Information: In addition to the business name, location, email address, and phone numbers, always include relevant practitioner license numbers and the company logo. This can also be an area where a short bio of the owner and key employees can be incorporated.

- Highlight Products and Services: Since customers are savvy in Detroit, spa and message therapy flyers should include a detailed list of services, prices and benefits. Unique specialties can be detailed along with descriptions of the parlor and its atmosphere.

- Special Offers and Call to Action: Discount coupons can serve as an excellent incentive to make a phone call or book an appointment. Whatever the mechanism, the flyer should compel the recipient to seek further information about the business or its services.

Flyer Printing

For salon owners in Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Downriver, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Royal Oak, Troy and Detroit, spa flyers can help to raise visibility and attract new customers to the business.

Spa Party Idea

2011-10-10T20:12:00.000+07:00

You've learned about home health spa parties nevertheless, you don't know how to give a single. Call your neighborhood Pink Pawpaw consultant along with let your ex relieve your stress while you and the friends loosen up. Once you provide you with the friends and some refreshments she is going to take over as well as spoil anyone there!

You are in charge of the method that you want your party. If you need it extremely casual and simple, you can do that. If you wish to go full-scale with an extravagant theme, you can do that too. Spa party concepts are endless.

Here are a handful of spa bash ideas to buy your imagination going:

Retreat night - Possess your guests bring a bathrobe to change straight into. Light a lot of candles to create the mood. Lay out the latest beauty magazines for everyone to turnover through. Fix pretty little boxes associated with goodies to your guests to snack on. Everybody can take one and they will not stir using their chairs when they put their toes up as well as relax. Just remember something special to glass on while everyone is experiencing the evening. How about mimosas or even sparkling cider? After everybody settles within your Consultant may introduce almost everyone to the world of Red Papaya splendor and products with her selection of goodies for you to pamper you with.

Treat night , We simply cannot discuss club party ideas without mentioning a dessert night time! The bash is about dealing with yourself along with your friends consequently go all out. Chocolate dropped strawberries or perhaps a chocolate water fountain with plants is always a hit. Everyone likes cupcakes; pick up several special kinds from your favourite bakery. Treat dips are usually an excellent way to look. Try a self-indulgent, creamy pumpkin dip with apples, it's a divine combination.

Day Spa Retreats And What To Look For

2011-09-30T22:27:00.000+07:00

Day spa retreat epitomizes the best day-time relaxation program that one can ever take. In addition to the pure water that is offered for drinking and bathing, one is also treated to special water based treatments to enhance one's health. By the end of the personal care treatment offered in the retreat, one feels rejuvenated and more at peace with the world.

The staff ideally consists of professional therapists who cater to the specialized needs of customers. Day spas are often recommended to people who have hectic lifestyles that compromise their ability to relax and remain at ease. Doctors often advise their stressed patients to try out a day spa retreat that will revitalize them through the abundance of pleasurable treatments that are offered.

The services that are typically offered include facials that utilize a range of cleansing products that are designed to relax the face muscles, reverse the aging process and clear the skin.

Medical practitioners advise patients who are stressed out or frustrated to go for a day spa retreat that has the benefit of revitalizing them and giving them the chance to experience enjoyable treatments. Facials are commonly offered and are carried out using special products that help the face muscles relax, slow down aging and cleanse the skin.

If you are the sort of person who is a tan lover but cannot afford to sit under the sun for stretched amounts of time in order to attain the tanned look you have several options including specialist UV tanning booths, plus 'fake' tan booths. The latter option is safer but can also give you that golden glow you desire.

Taking full advantage of a spa retreat guarantees that one will leave feeling like a new and refreshed person. Salon services are provided in a truly relaxing manner by incorporating other day spa services. Aside from hair styling, people can also enjoy the experience of relaxing pedicures and manicures. Giving someone a gift voucher for a day spa retreat is a highly rewarding way to pamper a loved one and give them a chance to feel special.

Sensational treatments are associated with professional day spa treatments that ensure customers have a completely relaxing day. It is also a good idea to reward oneself with a day spa retreat from time to time so as to escape the hassles of the demanding lives that most people lead. It is a worthwhile treat that is a pleasure to invest in.

The body is first polished, and then wrapped in a thermal blanket. In the meantime, one gets to enjoy a scalp massage. After some time, the thermal wrap is removed and the body massaged with mineral water. The skin is then hydrated using the suitable moisturizer.

Treat yourself and go on one of the the many day spa retreats around the country now.

Weight Management Through Spa Therapies

2011-08-25T19:19:00.001+07:00

There has been much importance placed upon the fitness quotient of a person in modern times. With individuals leading sedentary and stressed lives, our fit-as-a-fiddle forefathers have given way to obese descendants, who could not care less for their couch potato image. Body weight has been on an exponential rise inflicting adults and kids alike.

Weight reduction on everybody’s mind
Earlier considered to be the Americans’ forte, obesity has now afflicted a tremendous number of people – continents and countries no bar. Surveys reveal shocking figures of people fighting obesity to gain more control on their lives. But, the icing on the cake is that, people have become aware of their bodies and plan to take action to have more control on it. This has seen the weights tilting towards fitness and a healthy lifestyle. Suddenly every Tom, Dick and Harry is concerned about weight management. Little wonder then, that weight reduction has gained the top most priority in hoi polloi’s to-do lists worldwide. Generic populace is frenziedly trying out any method that remotely promises to speed up weight loss. Myriad diets, astonishing exercise routines and the like have all become a part of our daily parlance. Moreover, people are now willing to experiment in order to lose weight and are jumping at any alternative, even if it is not tried and tested.

Weight management and spas
Spas have been known to people as healing centers where alternative therapies cure myriad ailments. Taking a holistic approach, spas can cure in a gentle way, targeting the root cause of the ailment, instead of merely suppressing the symptoms. Though weight reduction through spa treatments seemed to be far fetched a few years ago, people have now started realizing their importance off late. And who can deny a treatment that along with targeting the extra flab, also equally relaxes and comforts you. With spa therapies converging the best of therapies from all ancient cultures, there is no dearth of therapies that target obesity. But here, we will discuss in detail the effect of two therapies on body weight – body wrap therapy and acupuncture therapy. These are known to have both a physical and holistic effect on the patient.

Body wrap
We are what we eat. And now-a-days, with the advent of junk foods, we are unconsciously torturing our systems no end. Excess consumption of alcohol, caffeine, sugar or salt infests the body with toxins that accumulate over a period. These are harmful in that they are the root of acne, skin disorders, and fat depositions under the tissue. A body wrap detoxifies the body of these deadly toxins, within a few sittings, to accelerate metabolism and lose weight real fast. The therapy comprises of wrapping the body in bandages that are soaked in essential oils or solutions.

It starts with the therapist measuring various parts of your body, after which, the body is tightly wrapped in bandages to squeeze it to the maximum possible extent. These cloth bandages are soaked in essential oils or solutions. Light exercises of the bandaged body are then performed, which speeds up the release of toxins form the body. The therapist encourages you to drink large amounts of water before, during, and after exercising, since it is believed that water rids the body of unwanted toxins. After the procedure is over, the therapist will again measure body parts to check the amount of inches lost during the procedure. Repeatedly subjecting the body to this therapy will help you lose weight. Many claim to have lost more than 6 inches within a single session of body wrap. While many day spas offer this procedure with costs ranging between $110 and $150, there are also home versions available at a cheaper rate. Also, most spas offer discounts if you choose a multiple wrap offer. Maximum benefit can be extracted from a body wrap in one or two sessions per week, though it can also be performed twice in a single day.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a five thousand year old healing therapy developed in China has lately become the toast of the spa industry, particularly after its benefits in weight management and weight control were discovered. The west had not even heard of acupuncture, leave alone acupuncture weight loss, till recently. And when it did, it looked askance at acupuncture, a procedure wherein the skin of the patient is punctured using extremely thin needles. The west did not understand this eastern concept of healing, and was initially also a bit apprehensive to embrace this treatment. But, now that it has brought home this concept, there is no looking back, and weight loss through acupuncture is fast gaining acceptance. The treatment focuses on activating endorphins, the happiness hormones of the body. These endorphins curtail your desire to overeat, by getting released in the body. Thus the therapy targets the cravings instead of directly targeting weight.

The therapy essentially starts with the pressure points, the most important one situated just behind the ear. Though our body consists of about a thousand pressure points all to cure various ailments, the weight loss point lies behind the ears. The therapist first inserts five needles at specific points behind your ears. Four of these points are directly connected to the lungs, liver, kidneys and the nervous system, while the fifth one is for relaxation. The stimulation of specific organs releases endorphins to begin the weight loss process, which in turn, target the binges that are experienced by a compulsive eater. The procedure either decreases or completely does away with the craving for carbohydrates, thus decreasing your appetite. Acupuncture improves the function of two nuroendocrine pathways that regulate metabolism, to aid weight reduction. It mainly performs the functions of lowering weight, insulin levels, body fat, and lipid levels. Hence it is effective not only in losing body fat, but also keeping it off.

Best Spa Hotels and Resorts - Drive Away Your Blues in Style

2011-08-07T20:15:00.002+07:00

There is nothing to beat a rejuvenating session in a luxury spa. If the spa in question happens to be part of a luxury resort spa, then the pleasure is doubled, what with all the other amenities on offer. No wonder then that some of the best spa hotels are almost always booked to capacity. The very mention of a luxury resort spa is enough for your mind to conjure up images of blissful peace and plenty of fun. Although spas have been in existence since ancient times, these days they seem to be enjoying some kind of a revival, thanks to luxury best spa hotels.

Spas and resorts seem to be made for each other. In fact, a large number of resorts have been designed around a spa. This is true to a large extent in the case of spa and hotels too. Seldom do you find a hotel that does not have a spa these days. A simple online search is all that you need to do in order to find a lake spa resort or a spa hotel near you.

Whether it is for ensuring your glow on your wedding day or to drive away all the work related stress, you can find best spa hotels are the places to head for. Once you have zeroed in on your choice, you can then relax in the tranquil environment on offer and completely recharge your batteries at the spa and hotels.

Typically a variety of treatment options would be on offer in a luxury resort spa. Manicures, pedicures and of course different types of massages are some of the options that you can choose from. Beauty consultation is another thing that you can look forward to in a luxury spa.

Most people are under the wrong impression that spas and resorts are all about beauty treatments only. Nothing could be further from the truth. A relaxing day at the spa would additionally offer you a variety of health benefits. The sense of relaxation that a session in a spas and resorts would promote is perhaps the best stress buster of them all. spa and hotels are in fact the best places to unwind. The variety of exfoliation and body wraps on offer at the spas can help you get rid of whatever toxins that your body may have. Once your metabolism is stimulated, you can always have fun with the other options available at a spas and resorts. This could typically include, live entertainment or a round of golf.

With intense competition prevailing among the best spa hotels, you can easily find a spa that best suits your needs and budgets these days. Exotic spas are coming up in all sorts of places. A lake spa resort for example, would be ideal if you are someone who prefers absolute silence and wants to be close to nature. A spa and hotels inside the city may be the choice of a few others, who would not want to miss out on their other commitments, while they unwind in luxury. The choice is absolutely yours, although regardless of it, you are bound to have a great time.

A Man's Approach to the Medical Spa

2011-07-16T21:09:00.000+07:00

For most gentlemen, an afternoon at a day spa seems like a laughable idea. Try suggesting that to your friends after work at a pub, you're bound to get some awkward looks. We tend to think med spas are patronized only by women but in fact, that stereotype is quickly dissolving as more guys are discovering the benefits of these establishments. I did a little investigative research and set out to discover what kinds of treatments are becoming popular to rejuvenate and revitalize our man-hides.

Men's skin isn't that much different from a woman's; it is inherently more oily due to overactive sebaceous glands. A man's skin is also thicker than a woman's, although all human skin tends to decrease in thickness as we age. So how does a man use this information when he walks into a day spa? Let's explore some popular procedures aestheticians and cosmetic dermatologists are performing on today's gentlemen.

Chemical peels
Due to our naturally oily skin, men are prone to more forms of acne and other sub-cutaneous irritations. A chemical peel is designed to help invigorate skin that might have been damaged by acne in the past, in some cases it is also recommended to help treat acne. Some spas will design a custom peel treatment for your specific needs, depending on the chemicals used, the recovery time can vary. Typically redness of the face and minor swelling can occur, but as cosmetic procedures go, this is very non-invasive and you can expect to be able to get back to your normal routine with no downtime.

Laser skin rejuvenation
Another non-invasive procedure that guys are signing up for, laser skin rejuvenation can help with the adverse effects of sun exposure. The skin tone improvement treatment is designed to smooth and firm the face. Laser rejuvenation can help treat unwanted facial veins, shrink large and blocked pores and smooth out irregular pigmentation. No downtime associated with this procedure, so you can expect to be able to hop in your car and get back to your business immediately after the procedure, sometimes mild redness can occur.

Laser hair removal

This one is pretty self-explanatory. Sure, you have a razor and have the ability to shave - but laser hair removal has lasting power that a razor can't offer. Popular locations for laser hair removal are eyebrows, neck, shoulders, chest and back. This will reduce the amount of ingrown hairs associated with constant shaving as well.

The wrap up
Let's face it; keeping an eye on your outward appearance is manly. There's a certain feeling of confidence that comes from being well-groomed. So ditch your pride, and schedule a consultation at your local med spa. I'm sure that special lady would appreciate this newfound attention to detail, who knows, maybe your pub buddies will too!

Spa Days - Improve Your Health and Well Being

2011-06-29T00:04:00.001+07:00

Spa days are an excellent way to relax and recharge your batteries, far from the worries of everyday life.

Giving the gift of a spa day to someone you care about has never been easier, with many health resorts offering gift vouchers in a variety of different denominations, so you can give as little or as much as you please.

The history of the spa goes back to prehistoric times, as the belief that hot or cold springs have beneficial health effects has proved pervasive throughout history. The first real spas as we would know them, however, were introduced by the Romans, who were renowned for their love of ornate bath houses and elaborate bathing rituals.

While the idea of "taking the waters" as a health cure has largely fallen out of favour in modern times, the benefits of visiting a spa are still as evident as ever, especially in terms of reducing stress and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

The best spas take a holistic approach to health, providing you with a range of treatments and therapies designed to rejuvenate and restore your wellbeing from the outside in. From facials to massages, manicures to aromatherapy sessions, every inch of you can be preened and pampered, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalised and ready for anything.

However, spa days are not just about rest and relaxation. Most spas have extensive gyms with a range of high-tech fitness equipment installed, so you can really get your muscles moving and work up a sweat before proceeding to some of the less strenuous pursuits.

The aim of spas is to promote health and wellbeing in their clients in every respect, so to this end some spas are now also providing "mind gyms" for their visitors. These gyms are innovative installations that allow you to flex your mental muscles and focus your concentration with a little mind training.

There is an increasing body of evidence which suggests that exercising your brain actually improves cognitive function and leads to less of those "senior moments" that many of us occasionally experience. As with physical abilities, it seems it really is a case of "use it or lose it" when it comes to brainpower!

Spa days are becoming increasingly popular as birthday, Christmas or anniversary gifts, and spas are even being frequented by hen parties as a more refined alternative to the traditional raucous night out. They genuinely offer something for everyone, and provide a valuable source of health and fitness information and advice for those serious about wellness.

While the efficacy of some spa treatments may be in question, there is no doubt that having care and attention lavished upon you in a calm and peaceful environment cannot fail to have a beneficial effect on your health, raising your spirits and helping decrease your stress levels significantly.

Spa days truly can work wonders when it comes to making you feel better both physically and mentally, and giving the gift of a spa day is a great way to tell someone you really care about them.

Day Spa Facial - Treatments To Know Before Your First Visit

2011-06-13T19:46:00.001+07:00

There are different day spa facial treatments to try so you can relax for an hour or two while your face is given the care it deserves. But if you are just new to these types of treatments better check out these types of facial services before you finally call for an appointment soon:

Basic Facial

This is the simplest yet a good way to treat your face to a treatment that compose of performing light exfoliation procedure, then doing pressure point massage on the vital parts of your face. Applying hydrating lotion is done at the end of the procedure for softer skin on forehead, cheeks and chin.

Signature Facial

This facial spa treatment usually carries the brand of the day spa. They usually use their own brand of creams and lotions in this treatment, depending on your skin type. Most of the time, they also include facial masks right after the procedure to close down and minimize pores.

Detoxifying Facial

This is what others call as anti-acne facial treatment. This involves thorough check up of your face before working on their customized procedure to address your concerns over these bigger acne. This involves cleansing, opening of the pores and extracting these pimples to minimize the appearance of breakouts.

Half of the procedure will require them to properly apply a mask on your face, clean it again and apply lotion based on your skin type to finally close the pores and prevent exposure to infection after extraction.

Whitening Facial

If you want to have a fairer look, then you need to attend sessions of day spa facial whitening treatments to achieve the results you wanted. They will provide you with the necessary tests and check ups you need prior to this procedure. It is best to tell them if you have some allergies over facial lotions or cleansers before they begin so they can test some of their formulations safely on other parts of your body before applying these on your face for a fairer look.

Anti-Aging Facial

If your skin needs rescue from all the signs of skin aging, then this might offer a temporary relief for you. Same thing with whitening facial, the staff will definitely ask you some questions and examine your skin before you undergo this type of treatment. They might also take pictures of your face before starting the procedure for your reference and protection as well.

Aside from those included in the basic and signature spa procedures, you may also be given treatment to improve the production of collagen inside your body to help you achieve a younger-looking and healthier skin.

Just like the whitening facial, you may be asked to go back for some more sessions until you reach the look that you want out of this treatment. Most of the time the new day spa staff will provide you with a card or a small notebook to monitor the dates where you had your treatments as well as those improvements observed after each procedure.

Day Spas - All About Membership

2011-05-26T22:20:00.002+07:00

Spas, nowadays, are starting a new trend that is popular in gymnasiums and body building institutions. They are now offering membership programs that promise benefits to its members. Patrons are encouraged to join their tempting offers.

Why become a member of spa Institutions? Members have free access to selected and special spa zones like Jacuzzis, steam rooms, and lifestyle showers that are normally available upon booking a treatment.

Members also have unlimited use of indoor pools, steam rooms, saunas, and gymnasiums. Some spas provide members with their own personal trainer at no extra cost.

Some spas offer big discounts to their members. Some offer free services. Some promise personal trainers. And, some grant unlimited usage of spa facilities.

Some spas offer different types of memberships. Signature memberships are for those who plan to be an annual/long term member of a certain spa. They pay fees which correspond to the number of months; the longer, the more expensive. They have access to all the services offered by the spa and more.

Flex Members are those regular patrons who make spa visiting a habit. There are also asked to pay fees. Benefits also await the members.

Those who do not visit the spa regularly but still want to enjoy benefits that members do, Daily Memberships are provided. Each visit requires you to pay a certain amount to use the services a member experiences.

Here is a run down of some of the benefits of being a spa member:

Spa members can enjoy free usage of all spa facilities whenever they please. They can use the gymnasium and pools with no restriction. Some spas offer sauna and hydrotherapy tub usage to their patron members. Non members are usually not allowed to use these facilities unless they pay for it or services that concern the facilities and equipment.

Another advantage is that some spas, usually destination spas, allow a full array of resort concierge services. Day spas offer members their personal trainers or therapists which will guide them throughout their stay in the spa.

Some spas offer unlimited passes for the member's spouse or significant other. There are many spas that offer couple's packages and memberships to encourage people to join and support them. There are also spas that have complimentary guest passes. However, not all services that the member can get will also be offered to the guest.

Discounts. No need to say more. This is one of the main reasons why frequent spa visitors become members. Spas offer discounts to members. These may be in the services they use or the products they purchase. The discounts may range from as little as 10 percent to as big as 50 percent. Frequent visitors of the spa will surely benefit the membership status they have in the spa because of the discounts given.

A number of spas also give complimentary spa treatments, products, or services to members who are celebrating their birthday. These serve as a birthday gift to their client and their way of showing their gratitude for the member's support and patronage.

One could not take away the special classes offered to those members. Some spas offer a free dance lesson or free dance sessions from talented instructors. Pilates and aerobics classes are also sometimes offered for free to members.

Destination spas offer discounts to resort room rates, usage of facilities, and services utilized by members of the spa. They also offer free meals and special cuisines for members who often use their services.

A member would never miss out on the spa's important events and happenings because invitations will be given to her and other members of the spa. Poolside parties, inaugurations, promo launchings, you name it. They may also offer special educational and entertaining events that may add that spice to your social life.

Some spas offer benefits and discounts for their members. They give Membership VIP cards that can be enjoyed by its patrons if they acquire the number of month's membership quota of a certain spa.

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

2011-05-17T00:21:00.003+07:00

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 massage 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.

Spas - The Total Canadian Experience

2011-05-03T22:13:00.003+07:00

In a sense Canada has it all. It has great cities - Montréal and Vancouver being perhaps the best of a choice lot. In the immense countryside -- skiing, sailing and wilderness viewing that goes on forever. Because it is so large visiting Canada all in one trip is a massive undertaking.

Over 5,000 Kilometres separate St. John's, Newfoundland from Victoria, British Columbia (about the same distance separates London and Riyadh, or Tokyo and Calcutta).

To drive from one end of the country could take 7-10 days or more (and that assumes you're not stopping to sight-see on the way). A flight from Toronto to Vancouver takes over 4 hours.

When speaking of specific destinations within Canada, it is better to consider its distinct regions.

In this quite vast country it has most things including, because of the French influence, some amazing restaurants. But, above all, because of its fixation on the healthy life, Canada has a range of spas almost unrivalled elsewhere.

If you know that people come from the United States (especially from California) to Canada for spa treatments - some on a regular basis - then you begin to understand the attractions.

Note that although most of the country, by law, is bi-lingual even in the most French parts around Montréal you will never have a problem with the language.

Let us leave all thought of governments and politics and concentrate, instead, on spas and healthy living. Which is what many Canadians do.

BREAK OUT

Use of each language outside government varies widely across the country. In almost all of the province of Québec, as well as parts of New Brunswick and Ontario, French is the dominant language; in most of the rest of the country, English predominates. Montréal, Ottawa and Moncton have large concentrations of fluently bilingual people. Canada spans six time zones and borders three oceans and covers 9,017,699 sq km (3,481,753 sq miles). now promotes itself as a country of peace and governs itself independently. But it still has the British monarch as its head of state. And, no, that is not easy to explain.

For spa lovers Canada is pretty much the ideal country to visit. It has it has it all, scenery, wonderful sport, exciting cities. So how do you choose in this vast country?

A personal preference is Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Here is where the spa comes to near perfection.

Start by knowing here we are talking about two different destinations: Vancouver Island and Vancouver which is NOT on the island of the same name. Close - a few minutes way - but Vancouver is on the mainland. Both are wonderful places. But very, very different.

Vancouver Island rejoices in climate which is the mildest in Canada, with temperatures on the coast even in January being usually above freezing and in the summer the weather is warm but not oppressive - say 28-33 degrees Celsius. But there is a rain shadow effect so that the west coast typically is very wet -- Henderson Lake on the west coast is the wettest place in North America - down to very dry in the provincial capital of Victoria on the southeast coast's Saanich Peninsula. In a sense you can chose and if you bear in mind rain is most common in the autumn and winter you can be very precise.

Getting there is part of the experience for you can take an awe-inspiring seaplane over the Pacific coastal isles; a journey from Vancouver by ferry; or from Seattle aboard the high-speed ferry via the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Near the centre of Vancouver Island is the 2,500 square kilometres Strathcona Provincial Park, which is part of a group of peaks that include the Comox Glacier. Note that Vancouver is not the only island in the area. There are several others.

For example, Galiano is a long and narrow island, the second largest of the Gulf Islands, and the driest. 25 kilometres long and 9 kilometres wide, it has a population of about 1.000 residents, while Saltspring Island, the largest, has a population of over 12,000.

As far as spas are concerned there are probably over thirty in the whole island group so you are not restricted for choice. Note most of them are destination spas - you stay there as if it was a hotel and some of them are on islands off Vancouver Island. There is a sort of alternative life-style feel about most of these spas. They are for get-away-from-it-all visits.

One great exception. The 1905 classic Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Empress is an urban hotel spa in Victoria on the island. It is a very modern spa which is located in something of a Victorian - in two senses of the word -- grande dame of a hotel, The Fairmont Empress.

Much of the clientele of the spa are staying at the hotel and many of them have come up from the United States - people from California for some reason make up the majority -- to experience a rejuvenation and a period of rest and calm.

If you stay at this hotel - and you should if you can afford it - you will be following in the footsteps of a very young Shirley Temple, Barbra Streisand, Harrison Ford and many others. And, yes, of course, it serves afternoon tea.

The spa itself - the Willow Stream -- is far more modern than the hotel and is a blend of traditional and contemporary designs. There is a waterfall and marble floors and soothing colours create. Your spa experience begins as you step through the doors into an elegant space.

All spa treatments begin with 'The Spa Ritual,' which is complimentary. The 30-minute ritual includes five minutes each in the Finnish sauna and steam room, followed by a 10-minute Hungarian bath and ten-minute rest with a glass of cold water.

Note that, as with the other six Fairmont resorts' Willow Stream Spas dotted around the country, it's definitely upscale and not inexpensive.

Luckily, locally there are places locally which are less expensive if not, perhaps, quite so gorgeous.

For example, less expensive and more relaxed, is the casual Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa. This ocean front resort and spa has views of Gartley Bay, Denman and Hornby islands and the snow-capped Coast mountains beyond.

The two-storey, 64-room hotel includes 36 new beachfront suites with beach rock fireplaces, driftwood-tone furniture, fir timbers and peeled cedar logs. The 14,000 sq. ft. spa has 22 treatment rooms, an outdoor pool, hot tub/sauna, fitness room and the Pacific Mist Hydropath.

Very relaxed and laid back.

Poets Cove Resort & Spa, is so secluded you have to take a ferry or water taxi, It is on South Pender Island, just off the east coast of Vancouver Island and overlooks Bedwell Harbour Resort and Marina. You can also take a water taxi from Sidney (on Vancouver Island) to Bedwell Harbour or travel by BC Ferries.

The hotel has a 22-room lodge, 15 seaside cottages and nine country villas.

Coastal Trek Vancouver Island, B.C. (2009) is for people who are not going to just laze in a spa. The family-run retreat in the Comax Valley is all about health and hiking. From a selection of about 100 nearby hiking options, a different hike is scheduled each day based on the interests and fitness levels of guests. Structured programs which include yoga sessions and healthy cooking classes are all part of the deal.

There are spa treatment rooms but healthy activities followed by a spa are more the theme of the retreat.

The there is Galiano which is 10 minutes from Vancouver by float plane, or 50 minutes by ferry. This is a quiet island refuge where the majority of island residents are engaged in tourism and the arts.

The Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa has its own dock and offers special spa and room packages. So you are staying in a hotel which is also a spa on an island which is near Vancouver and near Vancouver Island but not part of either.

Then there is Ocean Palm Spa, Sidney and yes, the address is often misspelled a if it was in Australia. This is a new resort spa environment for men and women, located at the Sidney Waterfront Inn and Spa.

Think of this spa as being totally focussed on spa treatments although, being part of an Inn, all the other facilities are available.

Again on Vancouver Island Oh Spa, Courtenay is on the banks of the Courtenay River, in the Comox Valley. It has a range of exclusive treatments and natural products which are, as it were, part of the ambience of the island.

Brentwood Bay Lodge and Spa is on an inlet in the heart of Victoria's wine country. The spa is called Essence of Life and some of its treatments work with locally harvested seaweed; heated basalt stones and aromatherapy.

And so it goes on. There are at least 30 establishments in this area but mostly they are more suited for a hotel stay/spa experience. Not places you would fly into for a three hour treatment.

Now we come to the city of Vancouver which is not on Vancouver Island, although very close, and is probably the most liveable city in the world. It is somewhat reminiscent of Hong Kong - one in five of the two million inhabitants is Chinese - but with more style and more understanding of design in an urban setting.

Because of the high percentage of Chinese population the Chinese food there is quite remarkable. The people of Vancouver think it is the best Chinese food in the world. In that they are wrong. But it is certainly quite, quite excellent.

As a designed city it is probably the best in the world. There is general agreement that Vancouver is one of the world's greatest cities. Certainly the most liveable city.

When it comes to spas the problem is counting them. Possibly over a hundred. Certainly every need is catered for and some of the spas are seriously world class.

A good example is Solace Spa which has all sorts of packages which include, Couples Romantic Getaway, Vino Therapy, Solace Signature Divine Bride, New Mom's Renewal. (If you run a spa in a highly competitive area you have to think of new and focussed treatments which make your spa unique. Plainly Solace has worked very hard on this aspect of spa management.)

Note that it is in the Holiday Inn so that, in a sense, it is both a residential and a day spa.

Vida Spas are big in Vancouver (there are three of them - Sheraton Vancouver Wall Center Hotel, Sutton Place Hotel and the Westin Bayshore as well as others in Whistler and Seattle.) There are seven different Ayurveda therapies are based on the idea everyone is typically dominant in one of three doshas (Vata, Pitta or Kapha). Ayurvedic treatments work from the inside out to bring your dosha into perfect harmony so you can enjoy optimal health. Vida also has an Ayurveda-inspired product line customized for the various doshas, and they send clients home with tips on how to eat for your dosha. For the record the writer's dosha is Vata.

Then, a considerable way away for it is right on the other side of the country, there is Montréal in the province of Quebec (which also contains the smaller Quebec City). Montréal is very French Canadian and has an amazing history, has more spas than you can easily count. Probably several hundred and almost all of them are day spas. Spend a few hours there and emerge refreshed, relaxed and in the perfect mood to enjoy the local cooking which is quite amazingly good. Probably because of its French heritage. Note that Montréal's Underground City is a set of interconnected shopping malls (both above and below ground) in and around downtown Montréal. It is the largest underground complex in the world. Go down there in the winter and the weather is totally irrelevant.

No point in listing all the spas in Montréal because there are so many.

Rather just a few examples from a very small area which is Downtown Montréal. You can then you make your own discoveries probably either in the hotel at which you are staying or very, very close nearby. There are that many spas.

Izba Spa is on the 12th floor at Hotel Le Crystal. We are told the Izba Spa incorporates the traditional Russian Banya (steam bath) with therapeutic massage and modern methods of holistic therapies to encourage health, facilitate rehabilitation and reduce stress.

Rainspa which is at Place d'Armes Hôtel & Suites 55 St-Jacques Street in Old Montréal has a Hammam - a traditional Middle Eastern steam bath. As well Rainspa offers high-quality paramedical treatments such as micro-dermabrasion, Intense Pulsed Light and VelaSmooth Spa anti-cellulite treatment.

Spa Savanna 4032 Notre-Dame West is very much the urban spa with a wide range of massage therapies and advanced skin care treatment.

Spa Eastman at 666 Sherbrooke West in Downtown Montréal was among the first urban spas in the city. Now it has been revamped but it still has staggering views from its panoramic lounge and offers a wide range of treatment.

Espace Nomad Holistic Spa at 4650 Boulevard St-Laurent calls itself Montréal's first organic spa. It offers a massage, yoga and spa treatments and a line of products inspired by Indonesian beauty rituals.

Relatively near to Montréal is Toronto which is a bustling modern city - the largest in Canada -- quite near to the smaller Ottawa which is the seat of government. The number of spas is, again, quite amazing. Well spoken of is Elmwood Spa Toronto which is in downtown Toronto and has couples' suites - the Royal and Sapphire Suites both have two treatment tables, fireplaces and in-room showers under gabled ceilings.

Or, if you prefer, getting away for it then it is a 90-minute from downtown Toronto to one of Canada's oldest and best known spas - Ste Anne's which is in Grafton, Ontario. This is a residential spa with outdoor hydro-therapy options include a large swimming pool, plus a year-round field-stone lap-pool and hot tub. Plus, of course, a full menu of treatments and therapies. Not inexpensive but a total experience.

Wrong to suggest that the only places you can have the total spa experience is Vancouver, Vancouver Island, Montréal and Toronto although the first three would have to be on any visitor's list. There are spas all over Canada.

Take Ottawa which is the government city with all that implies. Yet it has the Holtz Spa which is possibly one of the most authentic spa experiences in Canda. It has one special which is Spirit of the Forest. They describe it as a 'Vibrational Healing Experience which is a unique 80-minute experience involving the vibrational resonance of the essences of Canadian trees. Following the lineage of Bach Flower Remedies, tree essences are believed to have special healing qualities that speak to emotional well-being and vitality.'

Note that this includes a relaxing tree essence beverage post treatment.

Then there is Infinima in Ste Foy which is about a 15 minute drive from Old Quebec City. This is truly a 'green' spa in that it is all about minimising the use of electricity and maximizing the use of natural materials.

The décor is stunning and the treatments, as you would imagine, follow a routine of green, alternative practice. In fact, it is a total spa treatment which gives an excellent example of how to minimise the use of energy.

Then there is Spa Ofuro at Morin-Heights, Quebec which is, as it were, a Japanese themed 'nature'spa. Ofuro' has a full menu of spa services including exotic-sounding signature treatments such as Summo, Tao, Yin and Yang.

And so it goes. On and on. Spas in abundance in every city with perhaps the greatest concentration being in Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Once you have been there you will no doubt agree that Canada is one of the great spa destinations of the world. With the added plus of great cuisine, staggering scenery and a pleasant and welcoming population.

Tag : spa,canadian,experience

Captivating A Captive Audience - Resort Spa Marketing

2011-04-18T22:56:00.003+07:00

In spite of the fact that guests often do not have the option to really leave a resort unless on a trip organized by the tour desk or renting a car and exploring on their own, clients do not simply come into the spa unless there there is a focus on bringing them in. While at the resort, guests are by choice and default limited to the activities they can find within the compound. Sports activities, entertainment, casinos, restaurants and bars, and of course the pools and beaches. All these distractions are immediate competition for the guest budget and attention. In spite of a captive audience, many opportunities are missed to educate, inform, promote and rebook clients for spa service while they could enhance their stay with a series of visits to the spa whether to take advantage of the amenities or to book services and make an improvement to their health, well being and overall vacation experience.

Educate

Although the spa world is growing and more and more guests are becoming spa savvy, the majority of resort visitors are not, and waiting on the ones who are familiar with the process, not hesitant to book treatments and intentionally seek out the spa is missing out on a substantial market potential. Many spas also provide very practical services for hair, makeup and nails and wait for the necessity to arise rather than proactively approaching their market. In general the first action item is to develop an educational program for guests who have never been to a spa or had a massage. This can entail direct hands-on trial experiences such as chair massages in the lobby or poolside, personal interaction with the service providers in a regular Q&A session in an accessible area or written material readily available "What you always wanted to know about a spa". De-mystifying and factualizing the spa experience often evens the way for men and women to take that leap of faith for a first-time visit. This information should be more detailed than the basic "spa-etiquette" in the menu and detail the experience discuss benefits and give testimonial to the service.

Inform

Too many comment cards are seen and statement heard with comments stating "I only found out you had a spa just before I left". Guests are overwhelmed in the beginning after a lengthy trip, and the obligatory resort tour with a wave from the bellman in the general direction of the spa does not do the trick. If at all possible a brief tour of the facility with a welcoming personal greeting from the manager or front desk needs to be incorporated. Guests who have never had a massage don't know the benefits. They will never translate feeling tired, sore or stiff into needing a massage. Here is where information needs to be provided. Men who have never had a facial cannot imagine the difference they feel and see after receiving professional services. Taking it to the next level is a personal call by the manager or a senior staff member to the new guest once they have settled in with the delivery of a small amenity together with the menu and an invitation to stop by to receive a personal tour and maybe even a taste of therapies offered. For some reason many resort spas don't bother to track their clients although a good experience often leads to repeat visits and loyal customers year after year. In knowing the preferences and reviewing treatments, spas operators can anticipate behavior and offer custom arrangements based on documented history.

Don't hesitate to make guests aware of the spa using different media. A call to action and an incentive is always a must. Tent cards will stand out better than flat menus that disappear into the standard room setup and a small gift will do wonders. Short videos shown on a flat screen in the lobby of spa treatment where guests tend to stand and wait will whet their appetite. Information should be readily available at the activities, front desk and with the concierge services who need to be briefed regularly, made part of the spa team and have regular treatments in the spa so they can genuinely recommend and generate personal packages for their guests. Placing spa information at key points should be a daily ritual. Breakfast is a great time to make the rounds an connect with guests while they plan their day. Knowing availability and being able to book a service right then and there is a great way to kick off the day.

Promote

One of the most overlooked opportunities to promote the spa are hotel employees themselves. Often there are hundreds of potential ambassadors that have guest contact all the time. Every spa should tap into this resource. Spa managers are encouraged to become part of every new hire orientation, making a point of giving every new hire a tour of the facility, a menu and an understanding what the basic services are about, nipping any second-guessing in the bud. Spa managers should make a point of attending staff and department meetings presenting new products and services and giving team members a direct experience as often as possible. Most often it is easy to identify those employees who by the nature of their position or their personality and personal preferences become key referrers to the spa. Identifying those individuals and developing a rewarding relationship will keep the flow of customers coming and the work will spread that it is rewarding to refer.

Conferences, functions and meetings offer a great opportunity to present the spa either in an introductory orientation or during breaks with small spa services for attendees. Inviting the facilitator, organizer for a complimentary treatment will always ensure that the spa is mentioned. Anticipating client demand is an important part of promoting spa services. Group arrivals are a great way to connect with guests while they stand in line to be checked in. Designing specific customized services for particular groups is a perfect way of saying "you are special to us". Groups are always booked well in advance and connecting with the group coordinator can provide valuable information on the anticipated needs.

A group of seniors will have other needs than a fam trip. What happened to creating a buzz with a guest tour of the facility? Setting the mood and making it a special experience for each individual guest will certainly bring them back for more. So it's not just: "Here's the locker room and the toilet and these are the massage rooms but we can't go there 'cause there's a treatment going on". It's a cup of tea and a personal conversation, interest in the guest and finding out what their needs are. Spa directors should be where the action is, where the guests congregate and where they can keep their finger on the pulse of what is going on. Analyzing the booking patterns might reveal slow times that can be worth promoting by offering a spa happy hour. From time to time hours of operation need to be reviewed if they are still capturing the available business. Weather plays a significant role. Rainy day specials and poolside services on sunny days can make a contribution to your revenue as can upgrades and special services such as sunblock application, hair masques for sun protection and packaging other available activities around the resort with dedicated spa treatments.

Rebook

Capturing the client at the beginning of their stay is always an opportunity to design a custom schedule with your spa guest. Discussing their needs and offering solutions for special events they might be having during their stay, suggesting to share a service with their spouse or friend, complementing their treatment with additional services over their stay and much more. These procedures must be scripted and the spa team must be trained to realize this opportunity and act on it. This is the single unique opportunity to substantially raise the per guest ticket.

Following up the next day to find out if the service had the desired effect will not only give you a good sense of your staff and menu performance but also offer an opportunity to reconnect with the client and offer them specials or additional services. Creating an ambience where the guest will want to linger will increase the possibility of booking additional services. Once the seed is planted some might need time to reflect. Having a positive experience after a service will lead to more services. Areas can serve multiple functions and serve as a reading lounge, a fresh juice bar, relaxing individual listening stations, an aroma therapy experience and more. A little knowledge of the nature of communication can be very helpful. Setting the stage for a positive response rather than giving too many options and being assertive with recommendations will give the client a better experience and the spa better revenues. Clients rely on the expertise of you as an institution of health and wellness. When you prescribe additional treatments for their benefit, they have no reason to decline. If you expect the client to make the self assessment, request the service and persevere through the booking process you are selecting to serve only the few who know.

Tag : spa,resort spa,spa marketing,captive,resort

Spa in a Thai Style

2011-04-07T21:12:00.003+07:00

For many consecutive years Thailand is one of the big winners of numerous spa awards. Thailand's spa industry continues to look healthy and evolve with the changing requirements of spa clientele to a focus not far removed from the ancient purpose of traditional Thai massage and herbal healing techniques. Even with the need to mingle with Western practices, the Thai spa industry's edge is its ancient heritage: the rituals, treatments and massage techniques that have survived down through the ages. It has an authenticity that spas elsewhere in the world look to duplicate and "Thainess" has also become a focal selling point of Thai spas. It is relatively vital to discover why Thai spas with Thainess or in Thai style have contributed to many awards and have also astounded the world!

Thainess refers to both the therapists and the cultural qualities that have made Thailand the spa capital of the Asia-Pacific region as well as a must-have component for spas all over the world. Whilst it can mean different things to different people, when applied to Thai therapists, Thainess seems to encompass ancient healing techniques, folk wisdom in its rituals and, perhaps above all, graciousness. Maintaining wellbeing through an improved balance of the body, mind and spirit and with the environment has become the key protocol for Thailand's award-winning spas and emerging ventures. Thailand is now set as a medical hub featuring traditional and alternative treatments.

Dubbed as the "Land of Healthy Smiles", Thailand affords its health and beauty minded tourists the wonder of the pampering and holistic spa treatments of the body, mind and spirit. The revelation of health and wellness comprises a full-fledged array of world-renowned day spas, destination spas, hotel/resort spas and medical spas to choose from. Spa treatments in Thai style will help you to get in touch with inner you at numerous places across the nation. Rewarding yourself with a Thai spa is certainly a valuable treat that provides an ultimate spa experience. This, without doubt, makes meticulous tourists and recipients always fall in love with Thai spas with Thainess or in Thai style!

A delicate blend of cultural heritages and diversities is the central element that makes Thailand a spa destination in the world. A focus of health and beauty, Thai spas involve the method of relaxation and health promotion both physically and spiritually. They blossoms in Bangkok and major tourist cities countrywide. The Thai spa experience embraces a choice of indigenous resource, unique tradition and local wisdom that have been passed down through centuries. Recognizing the lucrative market niches for spa business, spa operators look into this ancient trove to create and present the best Thai style spas to ensure worldwide spa recipients a lasting spa expectation.

In fact, the spa theory in Thailand is adopted and adapted into traditional Thai style, making its spa treatments a whole lot different from that of offered at leading spa centers in the globe. An imported spa recipe combined with an exotic Thai touch has impressed the world! Spa facilities in Thailand too are of premium and great value for money. A tropical haven boasting natural and cultural richness, Thailand is considered one of the world's most famed holiday getaways. This is a remarkable plus that helps develop the country's basic strength as an eternal spa paradise. In addition, first-class spa products truly open a new notion and familiarity to foreign spa recipients.

Thai spas allow recipients to capture various essences of traditional Thai living. The Thai spa experience is notable as spa practitioners are naturally service-minded and always smiling. Gracious hospitality and quality service are complemented by the caring nature as well as gentle manner of the Thai people, thus enhancing a unique Thai touch to worldwide recognition. Gentleness, compassion and the act of comforting to others, as advocated by the Theravada Buddhist tradition, is very much part of everyday life. The gesture is intuitive and genuine as well. Besides, most of spa venues are designed with typical Thai characteristics intrinsically admired by all foreigners.

Boasting a variety of spa offerings, the Land of Healthy Smiles has devised a vast range of retreats, alternative therapies, personal consultation and life coaching. The common Thai spa menu includes traditional Thai, Swedish, Javanese and Sports massages, foot reflexology, aromatherapy, acupuncture, acupressure, hydrotherapy, skincare treatments like facial scrubs and body wraps, treatments for face, skin and hair, herbal steams and floral baths. The Thai spa experience also comes with body and mind activities - be it meditation, yoga, tai chi, pilates, stress management, holistic wellness, spa cuisine and physiotherapy, along with healthy eating and detoxification.

The Thai wellbeing therapy also makes Thai spas popular globally. Many of the healing techniques, holistic remedies and wellbeing programs are mainly based on the therapeutic power of Thai herbs and plants specially formulated to rebalance, restore and rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit. A variety of other curative treatments meanwhile accentuate meditative practices which reflect deep-rooted Buddhist influences. Significantly, the traditional Thai massage is regarded as an act of compassion in which the therapist performs the physical application of loving kindness and renders a curing touch in the spirit of giving. The traditional Thai massage exerts substantial health benefits.

In a word, the real Thai spas enable spa recipients to fully experience varied facets of Thainess and unique Thai style. Therefore, whilst here in the Land of Healthy Smiles explore yourself as well as indulge your body, mind and inner spirit in Thai spas for an unforgettable spa experience...

Tag : spa,Thai,Thai style,massage spa

Luxury Spa Types - Which Ones Are Right For You?

2011-03-15T21:36:00.001+07:00

The word spa is taken from the name of the famous mineral springs in Spa, Belgium. Its therapeutic mineral springs and baths, frequented since the 16th century, made it an internationally fashionable watering place. Its name became so well known that the word spa has become a common noun used to designate any health resort devoted to overall well-being achieved through a variety of professional services, encouraging the renewal of mind, body and spirit.

So now you know a little bit about the history and evolution of spas and you're ready to dip your toe in the water, so to speak. There are many different kinds of spas and because of this, it's important that you educate yourself on spa types and available services in order to choose the establishment that's right for you. In the next few paragraphs we will be discussing the most popular types of spas.

Fitness/Club Spas

Fitness spas focus on getting fit, losing weight, and adopting a healthier lifestyle. These spas are specifically designed for the fitness enthusiast, even though you can also expect to find many relaxing services like massages and body wraps at a club spa. Fitness spas seem to be a growing trend in resorts across the country, offering guests the benefits of their favorite workouts at peak level. If you need to re-energize a workout, ramp up your athletic regimen, or just try some new activities with new people, a fitness spa is a great way to accomplish these goals.

Cruise Ship Spas

A cruise ship spa provides professionally administered spa services, fitness programs and wellness components, as well as spa cuisine menu choices. For obvious reasons, a cruise ship spa is probably one of the most expensive kinds of spa. You can expect to pay quite a bit for spa services while on board, but then again, you get the added benefit of the ocean waves lulling you into a weekend of relaxation.

Luxury Hotel Spas

A resort spa is usually owned by and located within a luxury hotel resort. These resorts are often found in out of the way locations and are known for their consistently high level of service as well as their unbelievable cuisine. These establishments offer a full menu of professionally administered spa services, body treatments and fitness a la carte. Not surprisingly, the cost of your stay may be fairly pricey, however most patrons feel that the service and ambiance more than make up for the cost.

Destination Spas

A destination spa is a short term residential/lodging facility with the primary purpose of providing services for spa-goers aimed at developing healthy lifestyle habits. Historically, many such spas were developed at the location of a natural hot spring or source of mineral water. Typically over a seven-day stay, such facilities provide a comprehensive, all-inclusive program that includes spa services, physical fitness activities, wellness education, healthy cuisine and special interest programming.

Day Spas

Last but not least, there's the day spa. This option is perfect for people who opt to stay close to home but want a relaxing respite from their daily grind. Most day spas offer their guests a full menu of products and services and allow them to choose whatever they desire. This is one reason why gift certificates to day spas are a favorite of women everywhere. They are perfect for special occasions such as bachelorette parties, birthdays and anniversaries, or if you just feel that someone you love is pushing themselves a little too hard and could use a break.

While these are some of the most popular types of spas available, keep in mind there are also many spas that focus on only one service. For example, stress management spas focus on stress management and relaxation. Spiritual spas focus on developing and maintaining peace of mind through introspection and reflection. Pampering spas provide their clients with luxurious treatments in glamorous surroundings.

When choosing a particular type of spa, first narrow down your choices by considering the atmosphere and services that you are looking for. Then, simply factor in your personal preferences as well as the desired outcome you hope to achieve. If you consider these factors carefully you will certainly find the perfect spa type for you.

Tag : spa,luxury spa,dar spa,hotel spa

Spa Etiquette 101 - Your Complete Guide to Spa Etiquette

2011-03-07T23:15:00.002+07:00

1) Tardiness- As a common courtesy, please arrive at least 15-20 mins before your scheduled appointment at your spa. This will allow time for a leisurely check-in, a change of clothes and a few moments to relax before your wonderful spa experience.

You want to be able to get the full effects of this special treat. Rushing and arriving late will unfortunately limit the time for your treatment, thus setting you up to feel tense, anxious, and prevent you from enjoying this blissful occasion. Your treatment must end on time so that the next guest's service will not be delayed. Your scheduled time is your table time. If you arrive late to your day spa , you will be charged in full and that will truly be unfortunate.

2) Cancellations or Appointment Changes - Spa services are booked months in advance. If you must cancel or change your appointment time, the usually give you 24-48 hours prior to your scheduled time to avoid any charges. Be sure that you are clear on the spa's cancellation and appointment change policies. Otherwise they may very well bill you for the full amount.

3) Walk-ins - Most day spas do their best to accommodate you with walk-ins. However, a specific time that you desire may not be guaranteed, so it is always best to make an appointment in advance if you require a certain time.

4) Dress Code - I would suggest you wear casual attire something you can easily slip off and on without fussing. Not all spas allow you to bring your own robes or slippers into the spa. Find out ahead of time if they will allow you to have treatments in your own undergarments or swimsuit, however please understand that they are not responsible for any damage or staining to these articles. To protect your clothing, most day spas provide you with disposable underwear, robes and slippers while at the day spa. Again always find out before hand.

5) Modesty - The best way to receive a massage or other bodywork at the spa is to be unclothed. HOWEVER, they should "never require" you to disrobed if it makes you uncomfortable. Only Disrobe To Your Comfort Level! If modesty is an issue please don't hesitate to speak up while you still have you clothes on. You can also ask about spa treatments that can be done while you're fully clothed. Most therapists are trained in the "art of draping." They will leave the treatment room while you get under the sheet on the table, keep you covered at all times, except for the area of the body they are working on, and will leave the spa treatment room before you get up from the table. Depending on the service and your needs, you may receive a robe and slippers for your treatment. Make sure the spa will provide you with any necessary towels, robe and slippers for you to wear during your visit.

6) Valuables - Check to see if the day spa you are visiting provide you with secured lockers, showers and a variety of personal items for your use. Most spa therapies flow more easily without the interference of jewelry. I recommend removing all jewelry and placing them in a secure locker. Never put them in your robe pocket! Frantic searches in robe pockets or nooks and crannies in the treatment room are stress producing for everyone involved. Please do not bring valuables into the spa as the staff cannot be responsible for loss or damage of such items.

7) Shaving - If you need to shave (particularly beardless men receiving a facial), do it at least two hours before your spa appointment. If you have booked a body scrub, I highly recommend shaving the day before. Rubbing salt into the slightest razor wound is not a very relaxing experience. Ouch!

8 ) Courtesies and Comforts - OK gadget-aholics....Please turn of all cell phones and pagers before entering the spa. The spa is an oasis of peace and quiet. Although spas try to disguise outside interference with music, fountains and sound-absorbent walls, loud voices and noises do filter through. Please be mindful of the other spa goer's enjoying their peaceful moments, and try to keep the volume of your conversations to a minimum. Be mindful that most day spas are a smoke-free environment.

9) Food and Beverage- It's best not to receive bodywork on a full stomach before going to the spa. Schedule meals or snacks at least an hour before your spa treatment. Drink water, especially if heat therapies are part of your spa package. Since bodywork introduces clean, oxygenated and nourished fluids into your tissues and stimulates your body to purge toxins, it is important to flush them out by drinking plenty of water. Be aware of what you're putting into your nice clean body after your spa treatments, especially refined sugars, high fats, caffeine and most importantly, alcohol - these may have a stronger effect on you than normal. Toxins that are not flushed from your body can be reabsorbed and may give you a "toxin hangover". Drink more water if this happens.

10) Age Restrictions- Children are a delight to have in your company whether you are a parent or not. However, so that the ambiance within the day spa remains as relaxing as possible for all of the participants (many of whom are enjoying a retreat from their little people), please do not bring them to the spa. Most day spas do not allow children under 14-18 years of age depending on the spa so please call ahead to find out the age restrictions. Some spas require a written consent for teens between 14-17. There are some spas that do make accommodations for toddlers and babies for specialized services on an availability basis.

11) Groups of Three or More- Proper coordination of your group reservation requires additional time by the spa staff to ensure that your spa visit is a success.

12) Communicating- Your spa treatment, your time, and your body are yours, you want to be able to thoroughly enjoy your day spa experience. Please be sure to communicate preferences to your therapist - the amount of pressure, room temperature, or whether you want conversation or silence. If you don't tell your therapist, they won't know if you're feeling discomfort. Let your provider or staff member know immediately if you are feeling discomfort for any reason for any reason.

13) Pre-Treatment Forms- You may be required to complete a Pre-Treatment Form prior to your day spa service. Some medical conditions may prevent them from performing certain spa treatments. The information that you provide them will help to ensure that the spa services are provided in a safe manner, minimizing risk of injury.

14) Medical conditions and Health Consideration- If you have any type of medical condition or special needs, please be sure to inform the spa staff of it when you book the appointment. Certain spa treatments may not be advisable for you. Also, before your spa treatment begins, let your therapist or aesthetician know of any medical concerns. If you are pregnant or have high blood pressure, avoid any heat treatments. It is advisable to disclose medical conditions, pregnancy and medications. Some medical conditions and/or medications may prevent them from performing certain treatments. Be sure to inform your therapist if you are using Retin A, accutane, or have had laser surgery.

15) Pregnancy Safety Policy- Please note, no body treatments (massage or hydrotherapy) are performed during the first trimester of pregnancy. Manicures and pedicures can still be enjoyed be expecting mothers at the day spa, but please inform your therapist ahead of time.

16) Spa Gifts and Spa Discounts- Most day spas offer spa gift cards and spa gift certificates. Be aware that spa gift cards and spa gift certificates are non-refundable, non-transferable, may not be redeemed for cash or credit, and irreplaceable if lost or stolen. Please present all spa discounts, promotional coupons, spa gift certificate, and spa gift cards at check-in.

17) Pricing and Packages- Most often spa services and prices are subject to change without notice.

18) Payment- Day spas normally accept all major credit, special spa gift cards, spa gift certificates, spa discounts, cash, and some also accept personal checks. Be sure to call ahead to see what form of payment options are available. Most of the time the setting of appointments are held with a credit card.

19) Gratuity- It is customary to provide your therapist or esthetician a 15-20% gratuity if you were happy with the services provided. Usually gratuities are accepted in cash and sometimes checks. Gratuities aren't normally included with spa services and are your discretion.

20) Last but not least, Take it all in- Enjoy yourself. This is a special time to take for yourself or with someone special at your spa of choice. A time of tranquility, A time of rejuvenation, A time of relaxation, and most of all A time of blissful elations!

Tag : spa,spa etiquette,etiquette

Top 10 Places in Britain For a Spa Day

2011-02-27T01:50:00.002+07:00

1. Best for spa days in Scotland

Glasgow: Spa in the City

Guaranteed to find a spa treatment to suit you, this day spa will cater for your every need. If you are unsure of what spa treatment to have let your beauty therapist recommend the perfect spa treatment for your lifestyle. Using only the finest ESPA products, the team of expert therapists offer luxurious spa treatments in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Edinburgh: Norton House Hotel

Part of Hand Picked Hotels, Norton House is a sanctuary of tranquillity and harmony. The day spa, which has been carefully designed to create a sense of warmth and blissful relaxation, boosts a luxurious pool, therapeutic hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam rooms innovative fitness suite and studio, and Rasul mud room, as well as a range of holistic spa treatments.

Aberdeen: Saks Hair and Beauty

The award winning salon offers every spa treatment that you would expect from the Nationwide Salon Group of the Year. Whether it's cut, colour, hair-cut, extensions or a spa treatment, Saks offers it all.

2. Best for spa days in the South East

London: Six Senses Spa at Pan Peninsula

An ideal base to escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital, Six Senses Spa at Pan Peninsula offers every spa treatment you can imagine for a relaxing spa day. Featuring eight luxurious treatment rooms, two couple's treatment rooms, bio-thermal circuit with chromotherapy steam cabin, crystal laconium, and traditional dry sauna, this day spa is the perfect place to relax for hours.

Kent: Brandshatch Place

Set in twelve and a half acres of lush country side, this hotel spa is the perfect retreat for a spa day. It features everything you could possibly need, including a swimming pool, squash court, state of the art gym, tennis courts, as well as treatments rooms where you can enjoy a variety of spa therapies. What more could you want?

Surrey: Nutfield Priory

Situated high on a thickly wooded ridge next to the extravagant architecture of Nutfield Priory Hotel, this hotel spa provides the perfect tranquil setting for a relaxing pamper day. Using Espa, Clarins and Essie it offers a range of spa treatments, all carried out by experienced therapists.

3. Best for spa days in the North West

Manchester: The Spa Co Urban Oasis at Debenhams City Centre

With a warm and welcoming atmosphere this spa provides the perfect setting for a spa day. Boasting private treatment rooms and an open plan area where individuals and groups can enjoy a range of spa treatments together, it's a great spot for city pampering.

Cheshire: Rookery Hall Hotel

At this hotel spa you can enjoy a relaxing spa day amid acres of parkland and woodland. Offering eight treatment rooms, a relaxation room, glass roofed indoor pool, fully-equipped gym and brassiere, there really is something for everyone.

Lancashire: Dove Spa at re-aqua Ormskirk

Dove Spa at re-aqua Ormskirk offers a range of spa treatments to cater for your every beauty need. So whether it be a manicures, facial or massage this day spa makes the perfect place to get groomed and gorgeous.

4. Best for spa days in the South West

Somerset: Green Street House

Nestled in the heart of Bath, this day spa is makes for a luxurious pamper day. It's peaceful and tranquil surroundings and range of holistic spa treatments will help to encourage relaxation. The perfect antidote to nourish the mind, body and soul.

Devon: Neal's Yard Therapy Rooms - Exeter

Offering a variety of spa treatments from acupuncture to shiatsu, Neal's Yard Therapy Rooms is the ideal place to relax and unwind with some much needed me-time.

Bristol: Pure Face Works

Focusing on the health and vitality of your skin, Pure Face Works aims to help your skin look and feel it's best whatever your age. Offering a variety of relaxing spa treatments from facials to massages, it's a great retreat where your face is under focus.

5. Best for spa days in North East

West Yorkshire: Waterfall Spa

A ladies-only day spa offering luxury spa facilities and spa treatments in the heart of the city centre. It's the perfect place for busy ladies with little time on their hands to unwind and catch up over a little pampering.

North Yorkshire: The Devonshire Health Spa

Housed in a converted barn, the Health Spa is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. With experienced and friendly staff to attend to your every need, this day spa will make you leave as a fresh and happy new you.

County Durham: Broom Mill Day Spa

With views over tranquil meadows it's hard to find a better setting for a relaxing day out. Its purpose built treatment suite, thermal suite, swimming pool and relaxation area provides the all you need to sit back and put your spa-slippered feet up.

6. Best for spa days in East of England

Hertfordshire: Dove Spa Chorleywood

Offering an array of spa treatments including customised facials, massages, manicures and pedicures to name just a few, this well known spa aims to make women feel more beautiful every day by inspiring them to take great care of themselves. Sounds good to us!

Essex: You Spa at The Radisson SAS Hotel

You Spa brings together the perfect combination of integrated spa treatments and signature therapies for you to enjoy - a great choice for any avid spa-goer

Cambridgeshire: Amanda Allport in Huntingdon

Armed with years of spa experience, this spa offers exclusive spa treatments for you to enjoy. Catering not just for the skin, but also for the mind, body and soul, this day spa is the place to be for bespoke pampering

7. Best for spa days in East Midlands

Nottinghamshire: Eden Day Spa

This beautifully designed haven is the perfect retreat for a spa day to melt away all your cases and stresses of modern life. Their friendly professionals are ready and waiting to energize your mind and body with a range of pampering spa treatments.

Leicestershire: Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa

Combining state-of-the-art facilities with the charm of traditional Victorian architecture, Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa is the perfect place for a pamper day. Providing traditional spa treatments, and extensive spa facilities it is an ideal base for you to relax.

Northamptonshire: Rushton Hall Stableyard at Rushton Hall

Feel refreshed and rejuvenated with a relaxing spa day at this hotel spa. Surrounded by tranquil countryside, awaken your senses with fresh air and top treatments.

8. Best for spa days in the West Midlands

West Midlands: New Hall Hotel and Spa

Hidden away in the grounds of a hotel this spa offers the ultimate pamper day in a welcoming environment. Make the most of your spa day and treat yourself to one of its many spa treatments or relax in its extensive facilities.

Staffordshire: Eden Day Spa at Hoar Cross Hall

Unwind and relax in this impressive hotel spa with a luxurious treatment. And if that's not enough, this hotel spa has a salt water pool, steam, sauna and saunarium, Jacuzzi, and gym to keep you occupied.

Warwickshire: Pure Bliss

This day spa lets you choose where you would like to enjoy your spa treatments. So whether you want your spa treatments in the comfort of you own home or in the tranquil settings of the day spa there is something for everyone.

9. Best for day spas in Wales

Cardiff: Derma Skin Clinic

This specialist non-surgical day spa offers all the latest spa treatments, including Botox and fillers to leave you feeling great about yourself and looking ten years younger. What's not to love?

Clyd: Glow

It's not just the name that will bring sunshine into your life, at this day spa you're guaranteed to leave feeling happy and refreshed. The spa's comfortable surroundings and luxurious spa treatments make for a great spa day.

Dyfed: St Brides Spa Hotel

At St Brides Spa Hotel, you will feel like you have just stepped onto the beach. This day spa has been specifically designed to reflect its seaside location, with spectacular views from its cliff top setting.

10. Best for day spas in Northern Ireland

Dublin: French Beauty Day Spa

You've guessed it. This French day spa offers every French spa treatment you could imagine. Trained to the highest standards, in France, this day spa's therapists will leave you feel invigorated and de-stressed after a much needed pamper day. Parfait!

County Carlow: AromaSpa at Kilgraney House

Situated in a restored apple storehouse this aromatherapy centre offers a variety of spa treatments for both men and women. As well as enjoying a relaxing spa treatment why not make the most of your spa day and indulge in their aromatherapy inspired experiences?

Cork: Beauty Regain Clinic

An award winning day spa, for the last 7 years, this day spa sets itself apart by offering new types of spa treatments. Through constant research and investigation, it is able to invite customers to try out the very latest pampering spa treatments.

All the above venues can be found on Wahanda.com which offers a huge selection of spas, health and beauty locations in destinations across the UK and around the world. If you're looking to buy a spa voucher or send someone on a luxurious spa day, then you'll find everything you need on Wahanda.

Tag : spa,spa day,spa massage,home spa,spa shop

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

Asia's Top 10 Destination Spas

2011-02-20T01:36:00.003+07:00

Destinations spas are those hotels and resorts which promote the sole purpose of helping people to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle. They promote

a healthy, nutritious diet
simultaneous fitness classes and programs for stress reduction
massages and other therapeutic spa treatments
sessions to ensure healthy lifestyles

Destinations spas are usually situated in rather remote areas and serve very few guests at a time. This helps maintain a calm, tranquil atmosphere that encourages relaxation and stress relief. They usually offer meals, activities, spa treatments and classes, as part of their overall package. Unlike resorts, all activities and meals at destination spas are complementary to the overall health and relaxation purpose of the spa. These spas stipulate a minimum duration of stay to ensure the customer properly benefits from their stay.

Depending on their focuses, spas can be of different prices and destinations. The Asian Subcontinent houses one of the most exotic collections of destination spas.

In no particular order, the ten of Asia's top destinations spas are;

Chiva-Som

Location: Hua Hin, Thailand

One of the first spas of its kind in Asia, Chiva-Som merges western and eastern influences to create an opulent spa with superb hospitality, service and treatments.

Banyan Tree Bintan

Location: Thailand

Originally starting their ventures in Thailand, this resort group has branched out to form one of the largest chains of resorts and destination spas in the Asian continent.

Ananda in the Himalayas

Location: India

Situated at the foothills of the Himalayas, this spa features many well-known Indian health regimes such as Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yaga.

COMO Shambhala Estate

Location: Bali, Indonesia

This spa offers everything from lifestyle training to luxurious spa treatments, creating an opulent atmosphere for its guests.

Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi

Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand

Inspired by the aesthetic and historical traditions of Chiang Mai, this spa has accommodations facilities and restaurants housed in buildings reminiscent of the colonial mansions and the wooden rice barns of times past.

Grand Hyatt

Location: Hong Kong, China

Placed amongst the finest luxury hotels in the world and with a magnificent view of Hong Kong's famous Victoria Harbour and the Wanchai district, Grand Hyatt hosts the excellent residential spa, Plateau Spa.

W Seoul - Walkerhill

Location: Seoul, Korea

Aside from its superb view of the river and mountain range, this spa offers many spa treatments as well as other down to earth entertainments.

Six Senses Destination Spa Phuket

Location: Phuket, Thailand

This all-inclusive spa, located on its own private island Naka Yai, offers visitors splendid views and beach luxuries alongside lavish spa treatments.

Pudong Shangri-La

Location: Shanghai, China

This award-winning spa offers excellent dining as well as excellent service and a great range of amenities that will ensure guests a wonderful visit.

Mandarin Oriental

This award-winning luxury hotel group is famous for its excellent service and hospitality. Located in prime destinations in over 25 countries, the group is dedicated to ensuring the best for their visitors.

Tag : spa,spa massage,destination spa,home spa,foot spa,spa product

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

Eight Common Spas and The Services They Offer

2011-02-08T00:10:00.002+07:00

There are a whole host of different spas now available in the Dallas/Fort Worth area to the public at large. The Dallas/Fort Worth area is quite large, one of the biggest metros in the U.S. As Dallasites we're often bombarded with advertising from billboards, to radio commercials, to even trollies in Uptown!

One common activity of the well-to-do crowd Dallas is known for, is to seek spas for a variety of services. We do this for a variety of reasons: get fit, to get beautiful, to remove unsightly hair, to remove wrinkles, to look younger, to detox, and rejuvenate to name just a very few. This said, how do you keep track of what kinds of spas are available, which ones offer which services, and consequently, which spas you would be most benefited by seeking the services of? Below, we review the most popular types of spas available to you, what their common services are, and why they might be the best choice for your particular needs.

1. Wellness Spas: Wellness spas focus on holistic care, not just giving the services to the patients while they are there, but also teaching them how to administer this inner healing on their own. Common sessions include introduction to yoga and the mind/body connection, maximum health, and avoidance of disease. Many of these are in Uptown, around Mckinney, or Downtown Dallas. Look for ads in the Observer, Envy, or Paper City. If you're in Fort Worth, pick up the Fort Worth Weekly.

2. Medical Spas: Medical Spas offer a variety of medical services offered by doctors- which include laser hair removal, acne treatments, chemical facials, botox injections, and other related services. There are several billboards featuring many of these types of spas along Central Expressway in Dallas. Laser hair removal and Botox are two of the most used services in DFW of all the spas combined.

3. Day spas: Day spas are characterized by the length of treatment and can apply to many different types of spas offering different services-though more often than not- a day spa will refer to one that is for the purposes of pampering. Many of these exist between Dallas and Fort Worth, along I-30 west. I'm sure this is so they can be seen from the highway.

4. Stay Spas or Spa Resorts: Stay spas or spa resorts refer to the types of spas that allow you to stay overnight. The lodging is a part of the spa experience, and these spas can vary in the types and nature of services offered there. Common stay spas include weight loss spas, health spas, and rehab spas as mentioned in this articles. The Gaylord Texan in Grapevine has a resort type spa popular for those visiting Texas.

5. Pamper Spas: Pamper spas are probably the most common spas there are-the ones you may recognize in movies or other media outlets. Pamper spas do just that-offer their clients a wide range of pampering services and products to ensure that they feel as rested and relaxed as possible. Common services include: decadent foods, facials, massages, etc. Some spas specialize in these services, but many have them along with their other main services.

6. Health spas: Health spas-though easily confused with wellness spas-center on a health experience that is holistic and comprehensive-including exercise, healthy foods, meditation, and other health practice. Some may even call this a gym. There are several hundred gyms and workout facilities in the DFW area.

7. Weight Loss Spas: Weight loss spas are typically stay spas as they require a commitment to the weight loss services offered there over an extended period of time-whether it be for a weekend or a week. These clinics focus on offering exercise and food regimens that promote weight loss in a healthy, detoxifying manner. They may also specialize in body wraps. Again, look in the local magazines such as D Magazine, or the Observer.

8. Rehab Spas: Another type of spa is a rehab spa-common to celebrities-which is characterized by offering a refuge from a variety of stressors and addictions. This type of spa is a stay spa which incorporates a feeling of escape, while also ensuring that only positive influences are present, while negative ones-such as addictions, stress, over work, etc-are not a part of the environment.

Tag : spa,common spa,foot spa,spa massage,bath spa

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

Top Ten Romantic Spa Ideas

2011-01-29T23:52:00.002+07:00

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.

Tag : spa,romantic spa,spa ideas,home spa,spa massage

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

Canadians Find Spa Parts in Canada

2011-01-16T00:05:00.002+07:00

Hot tubs in Canada are mainly manufactured either in Canada or the States. Industry estimates have the amount of hot tubs in Canada sold approximately 1/10th the number sold in the U.S. This goes hand in hand with the population of Canada being about 1/10th of the U.S. population. When something goes wrong, it can be costly to pay import duties and high shipping costs when buying parts in the U.S. so finding a reliable Canadian spa parts distributor saves time, money and gets your spa repaired quicker.

As with any electrical repair, it is best to let qualified spa professionals handle the task of spa repair. Your Canadian hot tub parts distributor is a great source for referrals of local spa technicians qualified to perform hot tub repairs. Whether you live in Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia or other Canadian province, you can find the part and service you require for your hot tub locally from knowledgeable experts in spa troubleshooting and parts sourcing. Spa repair companies that have an ongoing relationship with a local parts supply house can assure speedy repairs and less downtime.

Some of the most popular spa parts needed include spa pumps, spa circuit boards, packs and electronics, topside controls, ozonators, air blowers and a host of other hot tub components. When replacing parts, it is best to use brand name components to assure trouble free operation. Canadian spas undergo a harsher winter and may be subject to freezing and the associated damage a frozen spa can receive.

Leaving a spa empty can cause some problems in both Winter and Summer months. In the wintertime, an improperly drained spa can have water remaining in low areas of the piping such as in spa manifolds and other plumbing areas. As a result, during a freeze, the remaining water can freeze, expand and crack some of the plumbing parts including a spa manifold, creating a costly repair. The manifold plumbing parts may only be a few dollars, but finding and repairing the leak can cost much more, so it is best when one thing goes wrong with the hot tub to take care of the problem right away and avoid lengthy downtime.

Most spa components can easily be replaced such as pumps, spa packs, spa topside controls, blowers, ozonators and other electronics. Other spa repair situation such as leaks can involve lengthy troubleshooting, especially in fully foamed spas where the leak may not be easy to find without digging out a lot of sprayed on foam.

Just like when something goes wrong with the car, a hot tub in Canada may require service to troubleshoot and repair a condition that becomes apparent when using the spa. It is then time to call a local spa repair professional with connections to local spa parts stock to assure a speedy repair. Even better, you can contact the spa parts stocking facility to assure your part is in stock and they can refer you to a local qualified technician to complete the repair with the in-stock part. In this way you are not relying on a technician to install an off-brand part or leave you hanging for weeks while a particular part is on order from a far away supplier.

One of the biggest points to realize about the way spas are manufactured is that most hot tub manufacturers use similar parts or select from a relatively few spa component manufacturer' components. So many of the Sundance spa parts, Hot Springs spa parts, Cal Spa parts made in the United States are the same as the Canadian Beachcomber or Arctic spa parts or spa components. Wherever the spa is manufacturered, the actual spare parts needed for repair may come from the same source. For example, Pleatco filters can be found in dozens of brand name spas, the plastic plumbing parts originate from the same supplier, even some of the electronics are made by Gecko, Balboa, Newport Controls or CTI. Consequently Canadians are finding these spa parts in Canada and not having to pay high shipping expenses or wait a long time to get the hot tub working again.

Knowing they can source pumps and heater spa from a Canadian supplier can save a freezing hot tub in the winter from bursting all of the pipes when time is of the essence. Many Canadians are unaware that just because they purchased their American spa at a big box retailer, they don't have to buy the parts in the U.S. and risk their spa freezing over in the mean time.

If your spa is located in any province of Canada, save time and money by sourcing a local Canadian hot tub parts distributor that has the spa part you need in stock rather than opting for costly cross border shipping. Many local service companies have a basic stock of generic spa parts that they can complete hot tub repairs in their region right away. These professionals can also source American or Canadian parts directly from a Canadian spa parts distributor to assure a speedy repair.

Tag : spa,spa massage,foot spa,home spa,hot tub spa

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

Miracle Spa In The Palm Of Your Hands!

2011-01-05T20:56:00.001+07:00

Dermaglow Miracle Spa, is a NEW range of organic and natural home products that wrap your skin in a luxurious spa sensation. Developed by leading pharmacist Calvin Davies founder of Vital Science skin health in Canada, this exclusive range combines gentle Dead Sea salts and sea mineral exfoliants in delicate blends of the finest essential oils. Inspired by nature Miracle Spa creates a spa good feeling from head to toe taking you a step closer to the skin you were born in!

Miracle Spa Exfoliants
Dermaglow Miracle Facial

Massage this miracle facial scrub into the skin and reveal a softer, regenerated complexion. Using a mild exfoliant Miracle Facial detoxifies and purifies the skin. Rich in natural botanicals and essential oils skin is intensely nourished and hydrated and is ideal for sensitive skins with its anti bacterial and healing properties. Use twice a week for radiant and healthy skin.

Dermaglow Miracle Bath salts
Relax and indulge in a sea of purifying mineral salts. The detoxifying formula speeds up biological healing and skin regeneration with naturally cleansing and toning properties.

Dermaglow Miracle Body Buff
Relieve dry skin instantly with this unique buff containing a blend of dead salts, nourishing botanical oils that stimulate blood circulation, balance skin acidity and reduce water retention. Used once a day this healing and repairing scrub is ideal for the treatment of eczema and psoriasis and can help reduce ingrown hairs and back acne.

Dermaglow Miracle Manicure and Pedicure Scrub
Soften skin on hands and toes with this intensely exfoliating scrub. Massage into the palm of dry hands or sweep over feet, push back cuticles, rinse under water for instant spa luxury. A rich blend of oils such as peppermint and orange oil with antiseptic and antiviral properties care for and the skin and invigorate the senses. Ideal for daily use and suitable for diabetics.

Dermaglow Miracle Manicure and Miracle Pedicure Crème
For perfect nails and toes these products relieve dry, rough hands and feet, repair cuticles and cracked heels and heal skin with natural antiseptic and anti fungal properties. Foot care is particularly important for people with diabetes and Miracle Pedicure contain Grapeseed Oil. This healing antioxidant helps fragile capillaries and poor circulation, binding the capillary walls making them less likely to breakdown, reducing the risk of infection and damage.

Dermaglow Miracle Cuticle
Nourish nails with this rich crème using Marine Protein that helps skin regenerate and diminishes the signs of ageing. Collagen maintains the skins integrity and strengthens nails. Evening Primrose Oil and Vitamin E nourish the nail and maintain hydration.

Tag : spa,miracle spa,day spa,home spa,spa massage

Are Bath Spa Gift Baskets The Latest In Therapeutic Indulgence?

2010-12-28T23:35:00.002+07:00

The kids are screaming. The approaching deadline for the proposal lurks in the back of your mind. The spouse has issues that need attention. The television news spews forth a constant flow of negativity. Alas, the strain of existence has taken its toll on you both physically and mentally!

You search for a soothing and invigorating outlet to ease your troubled mind. What is a good way for you or someone that you know under trying times to take a step back and relax a spell? What can be experienced within the privacy of the home without the pitfalls of trekking throughout the highways and byways?

Bath Spa Gift Baskets just might be the sea of tranquility that you are looking for. They also may be the ultimate way that you can quickly convey your sympathy and understanding to a friend or family member who simply needs a break in the action of a busy and challenging life. These as gifts can be that refreshing reminder to someone fatigued that you sincerely care and would like to offer the gentle spirit of a helping hand.

Life gives us a variety of ways to gain a more blissful balance. There are choices of ways to rejuvenate, relax, unwind, and cleansing ourselves of the tension that surrounds us. Travel, fine dining and entertainment of sorts, however, may not be within the realm of possibility due to budget or time considerations. There will always be limits as to what can be accomplished regarding life's luxuries.

That's why Bath Spa Gift Baskets can be the solution to easing life a tad without adding a burdensome price tag later. You can get or give the melting away Aahhhhhh's without the grimacing credit card Eeeeekk's next month! A pampering spa weekend at home could be exactly the remedy for what ails you or a friend in need.

Tag : spa,spa gift,home spa,spa massage

Essential Safety And Care Tips For The Hot Tub/Spas

2010-12-21T21:57:00.002+07:00

Ownership of a hot tub/spas is a big responsibility because not only does it require regular maintenance, but there are also safety considerations. Should any accidents occur in the area, the owner will be held accountable. Responsible owners regularly perform maintenance, enforce safety rules, and purchase spa covers to keep the area secure when it is not in use. These steps ensure that the health and safety of those in and around the area is maintained.

Hot tub/spas owners should establish safety rules and actively enforce them, making sure they are always setting the proper example. Drowning is one of the most common accidents that can occur, especially with children age five and younger. Supervision and enforcement of the safety rules can prevent these accidents from happening. The area should be completely enclosed and youngsters should not be permitted inside without an adult present.

Keeping infants and toddlers away from the area completely is the best approach, so adults should keep the house doors closed and locked. This way, children cannot wander outside and accidentally fall into the hot tub/spas. If adults do permit children near the area, these youngsters should never be out of eyesight. Adults should reinforce the seriousness of the issue and never allow children to "play scream" for help while nearby.

Children are not the only parties at risk in and around hot tub/spas, as adults should also exercise caution. People with diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure issues, or other serious illnesses, as well as women who are pregnant, should get physician permission to enter the water. Individuals should not go into the water during or after drinking alcohol or certain prescription medications. Those who have just consumed a heavy meal should wait a while before entering. In all cases, people should not soak in 104-degree Fahrenheit water for more than 15 minutes.

When entertaining, if the hot tub/spas are going to be used, owners should inform guests how to safely enter the water and where the seats can be found. If a rainstorm or lightning is present, everyone should stay out of the water, minimizing their risk of electrocution. Only unbreakable beverage containers, utensils, and dishes should be used in the area and electrical appliances should be kept a safe distance away.

New owners should ensure that the type of water being used to fill the spa or tub is proper. Water should be neither too hard nor too soft and spa products can be used to make adjustments to this as required. The water should also be sanitized and tested on a regular basis and the filter and tub should be cleaned according to a recommended maintenance schedule.

These are just a sampling of the responsibilities that go along with hot tub/spas ownership. New owners should read the usage and maintenance guides and may want to attend seminars on the topics. All owners should keep safety at the forefront of their minds whenever anyone is in or around the water, regardless of the person’s age or experience level.

Tag : spa,day spa,hot tub,home spa,massage spa

Luxury Spa Types - Which Ones Are Right For You?

2010-12-10T21:08:00.001+07:00

Fitness/Club Spas

Cruise Ship Spas

Luxury Hotel Spas

Destination Spas

Day Spas

Tag : spa,luxury spa,foot spa,spa massage,home spa

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louise_Revelas-Canham

Treatments for the Successful Spa Therapist and Manager

2010-12-05T00:24:00.001+07:00

Working with Core Professional Protocols and Techniques

A growing spa-savvy general public expects availability and high quality execution of spa treatments. As a massage therapist, manager or spa technician you are well advised to learn how to perform them well, especially since they are a path to finding more clients as well as generating more revenue by adding them to your menu of services and promoting them to your clientele. Depending on your ambition and goals, this might mean becoming a successful spa and body technician in addition to your existing training as a massage therapist or esthetician by learning proven and creative techniques to add to your repertoire or this might mean becoming a thoroughly informed manager or owner in order to make informed decisions about service programs and implementation.

As an esthetician or cosmetologist it is good to know the ins and outs of spa treatments whether you perform them or not, so you can refer your clients to other complementary treatments, or answer questions posed by clients, as well as understand how spa treatments can work together with your practice. Finally you can become more flexible in your with the jobs you apply for and at the same time make it more interesting.

Even if you never apply the techniques personally because you are involved in management or another role in the spa business, it makes sense to know as much about these processes as possible as they form one of the core components of the spa business and become instrumental in distinguishing your facility in most people's minds as a spa.

It is recommended that you build a foundation of knowledge and general understanding of spa treatments and hopefully it will complement and expand your interest in areas of natural health and beauty care that you previously did not consider.

Whether you are a novice or a seasoned professional, you know that spas are not a new invention, but that they are becoming increasingly popular and new adaptations are forming all the time. Spas are becoming an integral part of many healthcare and hospitality operations ranging from resorts to hospitals, and spa services are penetrating new areas of our lives all the time. They are building a bridge between lifestyle choices and health.

Spas have been in business since ancient times with waxing and waning presence in culture and society. All ancient civilizations developed treatments to cure ailments and increase wellbeing - all using the natural products and resources they found in their environment. Hundreds of years of protracted observation, trial and error and spontaneous discovery refined products and treatments that we are now rediscovering.

A large part of our Western spa culture today evolved from "taking the waters" at mineral baths throughout Europe and Eurasia. These waters had a combination of beneficial minerals and trace elements as well as thermal qualities that occurred naturally.

Healers, doctors and health practitioners were knew about these sources and collected their patients around them. Massage and scrubs were an integral part of the process. Spending time in one of the Roman baths, such as those in Baden-Baden, Germany, or Vichy, France one can still feel the spirit of ancient times, oftentimes little has changed in the architecture, method and ambience. With growing consciousness around body, mind and spirit, there has also been an increased interest in alternative health starting in the 60's and 70's that continues to grow strongly until today.

One theory suggests that the word "spa" came from an old town in Belgium by the name of "Spa" famous for its mineral baths. Resident doctors developed methods and techniques to improve results introducing products such as Fango, a volcanic mud from Italy, hydrotherapy, Kneipp therapy, body brushing to exfoliate, and hosing down with cold and hot water to activate blood circulation and detoxification.

Ancient cultures integrated their own philosophies of healing such as Ayurveda in India, Jamu in Indonesia, Huna in Hawaii and the Polynesian Islands, Tibetan Medicine and others, to structure and inform the healing procedures around the natural healing properties of spa waters. Today we are reconnecting and reactivating not only traditions from cultures we encounter where we live, but also those of our ancestors from all over the world, as well as embracing age-old traditions that are very alive and well in their originating cultures and taking them to new places with new availability.

Back to the present: Whether you are a new therapist, recent graduate, seasoned spa professional, or exploring options in a new skill or career, I would like to inspire you to become adept at practicing spa therapy as well as creating your own body therapies and increasing your spa/practice client satisfaction not to mention increasing your own joy at providing these services.

New clients will often be overwhelmed and confused when presented with a standard spa menu that typically features a long list of services with little explanation. Before embarrassing themselves by displaying a lack of knowledge, many will resort to the one thing on the menu they recognize, which is in most cases a Swedish massage, missing the opportunity to experience the many additional beneficial spa treatments.

This is a shame because spa treatments have many advantages when delivered professionally including substantial health benefits as well as the opportunity to offer alternative treatment forms that are gentle or which appeal to niche markets. On top of that, they are ideal complimentary treatments to every other service available and can top off revenue and profit very nicely. And so spa treatments do not have to lead an unpopular life at all. In fact they can be the power and the glory of your spa.

To some spa mangers and owners, it might seem appealing to go straight to the exotic, unusual and rare spa treatments following a line of thought that the client always wants something new, better and different, but for many new and also regular clients, results, quality of delivery and understanding of value are higher on the scale of desirable attributes than fancy.

Tag : spa,day spa,foot spa,spa massage

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

Hot Tub Cover And Spa Cover Buying Guide

2010-11-30T22:08:00.001+07:00

There are many hot tub covers & spa covers available on the Internet and in your local stores. This guide is designed to educate you on the attributes that make up a hot tub cover and spa cover, so you can choose the best spa cover for you, at the best price available.

Foam thickness

All spa covers these days are tapered so that the rain, snow and ice will runoff much like the roof of your house. You will find covers ranging in thickness starting at a 3" x 2" taper to a 5" x 4" tapered spa cover. The difference in the thickness of the foam is not only size but also load capacity, and that is the most important part of the thickness. The thicker the foam the more load the cover can withstand. For example a 4" x 2" tapered cover can withstand approximately 75lbs. of load capacity before it will break whereas a 4" x 3" spa cover can withstand 125lbs. of load. And lastly a 5" x 4" tapered hot tub cover can withstand a load of 250lbs. As with everything there are tradeoffs the more load capacity the heavier the cover. The most important thing to look at is your climate, the more snow load the heavier the cover you require. If your spa is at deck level and people are possibly going to walk on it you will need a 5" x 4" hot tub cover.If your spa is indoors you can get away with a 4" x 2" taper. The best cover for most conditions is the all season cover, the 4 x 3 hot tub cover taper which is manageable weight and great load capacity.

Foam density

Foam density plays a vital role in your insulation value and again the load capacity that your cover can endure. There are 3 levels of foam density being used today 1lbs., 1.5lbs., and 2lbs. The foam density is measured by pound per square inch. The lower the foam poundage the more open the cells of the foam are. This results in lower R-value, lower weight capacity and higher saturation points. These three points are important to the performance of your spa cover. The density of your foam will enviably determine the years of service your hot tub cover will provide. The higher the density the longer it will take for the cover to become waterlogged. The higher the density of foam, the lower your operational cost will be. For this reason alone always go for the highest density foam available 2lbs. regardless of your location.

Vinyl

The vinyl used in today's high end spa covers is 32 oz. and is treated with UV and mildew inhibitors which allows for more hours in direct sunlight and keeps mildew from building on your cover. Always look for covers with marine grade vinyl. With the new treatments available on marine grade vinyl fading is minimal and you can choose the darker colors to accent your yard.

Scrim

The Scrim is the material used on the underside of your spa cover. The primary function of the scrim is to protect the foam core from moisture. There are many different types of scrim available ranging from cheap mesh to the latest and greatest reflective full backing. We recommend only full scrim for the underside and protection of your foam cores. There are different types of full scrims as well. Some are water repellent and some are not. The best scrim out there is the reflective scrim which deflects the radiant heat from your spa back into the spa reducing your heating cost, but more importantly this material is water repellent saving your foam core and adding years of service to your cover.

Poly wrap

Poly wrap is moisture barrier around the foam core. Most poly wraps are 3 mil. and are vacuum and heat sealed. The first thing to look at is the thickness of the poly wrap do not accept anything less than 3 mil and if you can upgrade to 6 mil or a double vapor seal, it is well advised to make the investment. Look out for poly wraps that are taped, these will not stand up to the moisture in your spa and cause your hot tub top to become waterlogged.

Locks

This is very important as there have been increased reports of accidental drowning among small children in spas. There are options available 2 locks or 4, we highly recommend 4 locks, 1 in each corner for as stated safety, and as well to keep your spa top in place due to wind. Remember to always insure that new hardware is installed for your locks as the plastic will wear over years of use. Try to replace your locks in a different location from where they were originally as the original location will be worn.

Reinforcement

All spa covers should have a reinforcing c-channel either aluminum or galvanized steel. Either one is fine with the galvanized steel being slightly stronger but a little heavier. This is a minor tradeoff and either is sufficient.

Cover Protection

There are many ways to protect your spa cover. The best way is to use a Spa Cover Cap which is a tarp like cover with an elastic hem that goes over your cover and protects the cover during the winter months. Floating solar or thermal covers will also protect you spa cover from harmfull chemical filled condensation that will eat away at the underside of your spa cover. Hot tub & spa cover lifters not only make removing your cover a one person job, they help save your cover by reducing the wear and tear on them. Lastly keep your cover clean and conditioned with special formulated hot tub cover cleaners and wipes.

Top 10 Places in Britain For a Spa Day

2010-11-23T23:42:00.001+07:00

1. Best for spa days in Scotland

Glasgow: Spa in the City

Edinburgh: Norton House Hotel

Aberdeen: Saks Hair and Beauty

2. Best for spa days in the South East

London: Six Senses Spa at Pan Peninsula

Kent: Brandshatch Place

Surrey: Nutfield Priory

3. Best for spa days in the North West

Manchester: The Spa Co Urban Oasis at Debenhams City Centre

Cheshire: Rookery Hall Hotel

Lancashire: Dove Spa at re-aqua Ormskirk

4. Best for spa days in the South West

Somerset: Green Street House

Devon: Neal's Yard Therapy Rooms - Exeter

Offering a variety of spa treatments from acupuncture to shiatsu, Neal's Yard Therapy Rooms is the ideal place to relax and unwind with some much needed me-time.

Bristol: Pure Face Works

5. Best for spa days in North East

West Yorkshire: Waterfall Spa

North Yorkshire: The Devonshire Health Spa

County Durham: Broom Mill Day Spa

6. Best for spa days in East of England

Hertfordshire: Dove Spa Chorleywood

Essex: You Spa at The Radisson SAS Hotel

You Spa brings together the perfect combination of integrated spa treatments and signature therapies for you to enjoy - a great choice for any avid spa-goer

Cambridgeshire: Amanda Allport in Huntingdon

7. Best for spa days in East Midlands

Nottinghamshire: Eden Day Spa

Leicestershire: Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa

Northamptonshire: Rushton Hall Stableyard at Rushton Hall

Feel refreshed and rejuvenated with a relaxing spa day at this hotel spa. Surrounded by tranquil countryside, awaken your senses with fresh air and top treatments.

8. Best for spa days in the West Midlands

West Midlands: New Hall Hotel and Spa

Staffordshire: Eden Day Spa at Hoar Cross Hall

Warwickshire: Pure Bliss

9. Best for day spas in Wales

Cardiff: Derma Skin Clinic

This specialist non-surgical day spa offers all the latest spa treatments, including Botox and fillers to leave you feeling great about yourself and looking ten years younger. What's not to love?

Clyd: Glow

Dyfed: St Brides Spa Hotel

10. Best for day spas in Northern Ireland

Dublin: French Beauty Day Spa

County Carlow: AromaSpa at Kilgraney House

Cork: Beauty Regain Clinic

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

Spa in a Thai Style

2010-11-19T20:48:00.000+07:00

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

Spa Etiquette 101 - Your Complete Guide to Spa Etiquette

2010-11-16T22:07:00.000+07:00

11) Groups of Three or More- Proper coordination of your group reservation requires additional time by the spa staff to ensure that your spa visit is a success.

17) Pricing and Packages- Most often spa services and prices are subject to change without notice.

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

Treating Your Body At The Spa

2010-11-07T00:17:00.000+07:00

If you feel like you are overworked, stressed out, and not getting enough sleep, then perhaps it's time to stop working and pamper yourself a little bit. Everyone needs time to get away from the daily grind and focus on relaxation. Without time away from work, our bodies become stressed and tense. One of the best ways to relieve that tension is to spend the day at the spa. There is no other place that is focused 100% on the care of your body and soul.

Spa treatments offer many options for relaxation and rejuvenation. One of the most popular types of spa treatment is a massage. Just hearing the word "massage" makes you think of relaxation. There are several types of massages available at most spas. The most common is a full-body Swedish massage. Swedish style massage are the kind most people are familiar with; they use long, flowing strokes over the body. A deep tissue massage focuses on relieving tension in the muscles just under the surface. Most spas offer either type of massage as a spa treatment choice.

Another popular spa treatment is a facial. Facials offer a variety of skin treatments and most are specialized to treat a specific need, such as acne treatments, exfoliation, masks, steam, peels, and chemical treatments. A facial is a great way to provide your body with a little bit of the pampering that it needs. If you need relaxation, contact a local spa and treat your body to a massage or facial.

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

Top 10 Places in Britain For a Spa Day

2010-06-06T22:43:00.000+07:00

1. Best for spa days in Scotland

Glasgow: Spa in the City

Edinburgh: Norton House Hotel

Aberdeen: Saks Hair and Beauty

2. Best for spa days in the South East

London: Six Senses Spa at Pan Peninsula

Kent: Brandshatch Place

Surrey: Nutfield Priory

3. Best for spa days in the North West

Manchester: The Spa Co Urban Oasis at Debenhams City Centre

Cheshire: Rookery Hall Hotel

Lancashire: Dove Spa at re-aqua Ormskirk

4. Best for spa days in the South West

Somerset: Green Street House

Devon: Neal's Yard Therapy Rooms - Exeter

Offering a variety of spa treatments from acupuncture to shiatsu, Neal's Yard Therapy Rooms is the ideal place to relax and unwind with some much needed me-time.

Bristol: Pure Face Works

5. Best for spa days in North East

West Yorkshire: Waterfall Spa

North Yorkshire: The Devonshire Health Spa

County Durham: Broom Mill Day Spa

6. Best for spa days in East of England

Hertfordshire: Dove Spa Chorleywood

Essex: You Spa at The Radisson SAS Hotel

You Spa brings together the perfect combination of integrated spa treatments and signature therapies for you to enjoy - a great choice for any avid spa-goer

Cambridgeshire: Amanda Allport in Huntingdon

7. Best for spa days in East Midlands

Nottinghamshire: Eden Day Spa

Leicestershire: Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa

Northamptonshire: Rushton Hall Stableyard at Rushton Hall

Feel refreshed and rejuvenated with a relaxing spa day at this hotel spa. Surrounded by tranquil countryside, awaken your senses with fresh air and top treatments.

8. Best for spa days in the West Midlands

West Midlands: New Hall Hotel and Spa

Staffordshire: Eden Day Spa at Hoar Cross Hall

Warwickshire: Pure Bliss

9. Best for day spas in Wales

Cardiff: Derma Skin Clinic

This specialist non-surgical day spa offers all the latest spa treatments, including Botox and fillers to leave you feeling great about yourself and looking ten years younger. What's not to love?

Clyd: Glow

Dyfed: St Brides Spa Hotel

10. Best for day spas in Northern Ireland

Dublin: French Beauty Day Spa

County Carlow: AromaSpa at Kilgraney House

Cork: Beauty Regain Clinic

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

What to Look For in Selecting a Good Day Spa

2010-06-02T20:43:00.000+07:00

There are several types of spas according to your needs, length of stay, amenities, and facilities that you can use: resort spa, destination spa, medical spa, and day spa. If you're just looking for a place to drop in for a massage, facials, and body treatments without staying longer than a day the last type of spa is perfect for you.

Ever since the emphasis on wellness became the in thing, many people now desire to pamper themselves once in while by having a relaxing time at a spa. This resulted in the fact that day spa locations started appearing.

So what important qualities should you look for in this type of spa to be able to settle yourself on one?

Asking family and friends for their opinion is as easy as reaching for the phone and calling them. With people you know, you can be sure they will give you their honest assessment.

It's possible that you would still be not satisfied with the opinions of those who are close to you. The next thing that you can do is make a list of spas that are near your location don't forget to include their phone numbers or email address.

After that, establish contact to see how helpful and accommodating the staff is by calling or sending email. You should ask for the following: the services they provide and their description, their rates, and to be sure they are legitimate, ask for their license number.

Next based on their answers choose a day spa from your list and go there, but before you book that appointment ask for a tour of the place. The important things to learn here is how they treat a would-be customer and their regular clients, and also how they value hygiene and sanitation.

It is important that you understand the facilities that a particular day spa has to offer i.e. sauna, steam room, or spa pool. If they do, ask if they are included in the price of a treatment you're availing.

You also must find out what sort of products they use in their essential oils, massage lotions, and creams. These products could have ingredients that can be harmful to you if yours is a sensitive skin.

The atmosphere of the spa contributes to the client having a relaxed feeling afterward. Choose one that has a quiet and peaceful environment, piped in relaxing music is fine as long as it is kept at low volume.

The spa should also have a secure locker where you can leave your precious belongings while you are having treatment.

When you finally book that appointment you can still do some evaluation to help you decide whether you'll do repeat business or not. You must observe the treatment room if the linens and robes they make you use are absolutely spotless also take note if the room is orderly and that there are no unusual smells.

And finally, observe the therapist assigned to you: Is he a professional, pleasant, courteous, and neatly dressed person? Did he start on time? Does he talk too much? Is he sensitive to adjusting his level of touch to your preference?

This is your health and well being therefore choosing the perfect day spa ensures you that you are properly taken cared of and leave the spa feeling fresh, relaxed and rejuvenated.

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

Tips For Creating a Spa-like Environment at Home

2009-08-28T21:15:00.002+07:00

You can't always travel to your favorite spa o that takes lots of time and lots of money. It's easy to create a spa environment at home and it doesn't have to be expensive. If you have lots of time, follow all these tips. If you have minimal time, choose the tips that appeal most to you.

In the bathroom:

• Towels - Some towel manufacturers have a "spa" towel line, such as Chris Madden at JC Penney. The Chris Madden Spa Towels are a thick waffle weave and at one time they had a matching spa robe. Think thick, soft and super luxurious to remind you of the towels at a fine spa. You might roll or stack a group of towels decoratively in a basket or on a shelf.

• Candles - Aromatherapy candles can have a variety of benefits. Lavender for restful sleep. Citrus for invigorating. Eucalyptus for clearing sinuses. There are also a variety of blended candles scents. Choose a scent you enjoy or choose a blend that has the benefits you are looking for. Place them around the room and light them (safely, of course) when you want to turn your bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary.

• Music - I keep a portable CD player in the closet in my bathroom. When I want the full atohome spa experience, I play a relaxing CD. I have 2 that I like just for this purpose. Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy - Hydrotherapy Soothing Music for a Healing Bath. Gentle ocean sounds combine with soft instrumentals for a "just chill out" feeling. I especially like track #3. I also like Aromatherapy Music for Relaxation by Musical reflections. There are 6 tracks on this disk and each one is named after different aromatherapy oils.

• Hydrotherapy - The healing power of water. Take a bath. Plan to soak for 20 to 30 minutes uninterrupted. Longer soaks can dry out your skin. Shorter soaks aren't relaxing. Add 5 to 10 drops of your favorite essential oil or your favorite bath salts. Play relaxing music, light candles, have plush towels and comfortable pajamas or a robe waiting. If you have a jetted whirlpool tub, even better. If you don't, you can still enjoy a hot soak.

• Shower - If you don't have time for a bath, a shower can have similar benefits. When we remodeled our bathroom, my husband installed a combination heater/fan. When I'm ready to turn my bathroom into a spa, I warm the room up for a few minutes to take the chill off, especially in cold weather. I sprinkle a few drops of essential oils into the shower and the steam activates them to scent the entire room. In the evening, I might use lavender oil. In the morning, something more energizing. If I'm congested, I use eucalyptus oil. I'm immediately transported back to a spa experience when a eucalyptus steam rooms comes to mind. Caution - the oil can make the surface of the shower slippery. I try to sprinkle the oil on surfaces where my feet won't need traction.

• "Spa treatments" -

- Exfoliation - A loofah or dry brush is a great tool to add to your home spa. Use the dry brush before your shower or bath. Use the loofah in the shower or bath. If you don't have either of these, a washcloth can exfoliate skin in a pinch.
- Scrub - Buy a great smelling scrub, or you can even make your own with basic ingredients found in your grocery store, like seat salt or sugar, olive oil or nut oil, fruits and other ingredients.
- Facial - Use high quality, natural products to give yourself a mini-facial. Cleanse and tone, then apply a mask. When the mask is rinsed off, moisturize.
- Hair - Now is a great time to try a deep conditioner while you are soaking in the bath or taking a spaolike shower. Apply conditioner or hair mask, put your hair in a shower cap and let the conditioner work. Rinse according to the directions.

• Beverage - A glass of wine or champagne is the standby for relaxation in the tub, but there are other choices for the at-home spa too. A cup of herbal or green tea is wonderful. I love Teavana teas. You can also try fruit or herb infused water. Add cucumbers, mint, citrus fruit, berries, even watermelon to a pitcher of water. Or try a blend of your favorites. Chill the water for several hours, the longer the better for more flavor infusion. Sip this during your home spa experience or anytime to stay hydrated without added calories.

In the bedroom, you'll want to emulate your favorite features of a fine hotel room:

• Sheets - Choose high thread count Egyptian cotton sheets for the most luxurious feel. It's worth spending a little bit of money here for the best quality. Egyptian cotton gets softer with washing and wear, but can fade a bit.

• Pillows - Choose whatever kind of pillows you are most comfortable with, but have lots of them in different shapes and sizes. Not only does this look cozy, it's comfortable too. I like a variety of pillows o foam, synthetic and down to mix it up a bit. Maybe a bolster or two for added texture and comfort.

• Blankets/Comforter - Like the finest hotels, a down or down alternative comforter is luxurious, yet simple. You can find a duvet to add a pop of color, texture and to protect your investment. Choose a year round weight o one that will keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Include a plush or cozy throw in a fabric like chenille or a soft yarn for added comfort on cool nights or to snuggle under while relaxing or reading.

• Candles - Avoid heavily perfumed candles to prevent allergic reactions. A lavender or lavender blend is a perfect choice to help you drift off to sleep.

• Loungewear or robe - You'll want to have some really soft and cozy lounge wear or a great robe to wear during your at-home spa experience.

• Music o Play music that relaxes and de-stresses you with a slow tempo.

In just a few easy steps, you can turn your bathroom or bedroom into a spa environment and have the benefits of a spa in your own home. Enjoy!

Tag : spa,home spa,beauty spa,bath spa

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

Replenishing Your Body Through Spa

2009-08-18T01:33:00.002+07:00

Everyday our stress level increases manifold with daily chores of life. Most of us seek well being through various channels like entertainment, family, companionship and so on. All of these are good in their own ways but mankind by nature has always sought for holistic centres for physical and mental make-up. Traditionally, spas originated from holistic method of rejuvenate mind and body. In a strict sense we can say it is just a ramification of traditional Ayurvedic treatment. Spas are also known as "peace palaces", help us regain control over out sanity and allow us to splurge our senses in the holistic world of wellness, making one truly feel 'heavenly'.

There are many spas across India that can provide us best of rejuvenation through spa therapy. Below there are few centres in India.

• Amatrra Spa - Amatrra Spa is located at Hotel Ashok and at Le Meridien in Delhi. The silence between two successive chants of Om is called Amatrra. This silence is salvation and in a flowery term one can experience that bliss after an hour of Lomi- Lomi Hawaiian massage and Dry Floatation at Amatrra Spa. One can enjoy a herbal bath, prepared with Ayurvedic concoctions and flower petals. The Vichy showers also provide a rain massage, focusing on points and relieve tension and stimulate the mind and body. This therapy helps to reduce pain relief, boosts energy, reduces blood pressure, counters addiction, and eliminates toxins.

• Kaya Kalp - Located at Agra, ITC Mughal plays host to one of India's largest spa, Kaya Kalp - The Royal Spa. A visit to the spa may be considered a journey through a world of luxury and pampering... In this regal lifestyle, Kaya Kalp - The Royal Spa captures the spiritual and medicinal legacies of the Mughal Dynasty. For instance, Babar's legacy of fruit is highlighted through a luxurious 'Pomegranate Aromasoul Massage', which serves to detoxify, revitalise and elevate the senses. The 'Pomegranate Ritual Scrub', followed by the 'Pomegranate Infusion Bath', may be considered the ultimate in relaxation therapies - within a private garden atmosphere while sipping a glass of freshly squeezed pomegranate elixir.

• Ananda - Tipped to be South Asia's finest resort and spa, 'Ananda', means happiness and self-contentment in the Sanskrit language. Once the abode of the Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal, Ananda is obviously the chosen destination of today's traveller - leisure, lifestyle and business all rolled into one. Ananda offers wide range facials using fruit acid, pure plant oils, marine nutrients and collagen, the spa offers it all.

• Kaivailya Spa - This may not enough luxury to compete with ITC or Meridian but the small spa at Pushkar Resorts is worth to visit if you are in Pushkar. There are standard three type of massage facility are provided by Pushkar Resorts; a) Sewara body massage b) Standard body massage c) Head and Shoulder massage. Apart from those there are pedicure, manicure, steam bath and Jacuzzi available. One can also order organic food and beverages that is freshly grown in their own orchard.

• Asian Roots - Asian Roots is a Luxury Day Spa for women in Delhi - a Mecca of beauty for the body and mind, bringing to women a world of their own to completely unwind and rejuvenate. Inspired by the ancient cultures worldwide, Asian Roots has created a treatment concept, which merges techniques and philosophies from around the world into a potent blend of treatments suited for our time. Been recently granted the best luxury spa award, Balinese Massage is a unique massage offered by this spa that incorporates rhythmic strokes like a Hawaiian dance against your back, limbs and neck, which helps to relieve muscular tension.

Tag : spa,home spa,foot spa,beauty spa

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

Big Apple Spa: Experience the Best Day Spas in New York City

2009-08-14T01:33:00.002+07:00

Planning a visit to NYC? In the midst of deciding what Broadway show to see, where to shop, sleep, and eat, don't forget a little pampering. A visit to a day spa is a perfect way to unwind and indulge during your stay. But there are countless day spas in the city. How do you tell which day spas are the best? Following are a sampling, including spas for the budget-minded and extravagant luxury spas.

One of the true originals, Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa on Fifth Avenue still commands a loyal following. The Red Door's celebrity colorist brad johns defines color from around the world. Botox, Restylane and Juverderm services have recently been added and are performed by plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryan G. Forley, voted one of the "Best Doctors of 2005" in New York Magazine. Guests may enjoy their classic 50-minute massage for $105.

An exquisite day spa tucked away on the sixth floor of Takashimaya, the luxury Japanese department store on 5th Avenue, Barbo at Takashimaya is an intimate spa, featuring only two treatments rooms, and no plans to expand. While the products in the spa are from the German line, Barbor, the treatments themselves have an Asian influence. The Sea Creation facial ($250) is one of the spa's most popular treatments - designed to regenerate the skin and boost cell energy. Make sure to order tea service after your service at the Teabox Cafe where more than 48 different types of tea are available.

Located on Broadway, Bliss Soho has been voted Conde Nast Traveler's "Best Urban Day Spa." The flagship spa was created by Marcia Kilgore in the 1990s. The atmosphere mixes a modern, tongue-in-chic approach to grooming with a vast menu of facials, massages, manicures, pedicures, body treatments, and more. There are two other locations at East 57th Street and Bliss 4 in W Hotel.

Hailing from the Peninsula Hotel, Cornelia Zicu is a star esthetician who now owns her own spa. Cornelia Day Resort is located in midtown and is the first in NYC to have a watsu pool massage treatment. The watsu takes place in warm-waist-deep water. The spa's specialized watsu pool is heated to the exact temperature as the body. Because of the pool, the treatment is relatively unusual to the city.

Boasting a "wet lounge solarium," Great Jones Spa, located in Manhattan, features hot tubs, cold plunge pools, and saunas, which are available to guests up to two hours prior and one hour following spa treatments. Their 60-minute Swedish massage is offered for $130.

Offering affordable serenity in Manhattan, Haven, located on Mercer Street, is a cozy neighborhood day spa with a hospitable environment. Services include body therapy, facials, hand and foot therapies, waxing, and massage packages. One-hour Swedish massages run $115, while the "80 minutes in Haven" facial treatment ($150) leaves guests glowing.

For those who are seeking more than just a pampering treatment, Juva on 56th Street is a medical spa offering therapies which tackle issues such as sun spots and acne. Under the medical supervision of Bruce Katz, M.D., the Juva products used during treatments provide long-lasting benefits with mineral essentials and surpass normal spa techniques.

Designed to impress the most jaded spa goer, Juvenex combines Asian, European, and American spa remedies which are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Walking through its doors, guests are transported into another place with unusual saunas, plunge pools, and the Jade Igloo - made from 20 tons of semi-precious stones. The spa is open to women only, daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and for couples during the evening from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Go for something truly unforgettable with a visit to the Spa at Mandarian Oriental, affording great views of Central Park and featuring amenities such as the "Heat Expereince" rooms. Considered one of the best hotel spas in New York, services are pricey, but luxurious. Bamboo, natural stone and gold leaf set the tone for an amazing Manhattan spa experience that focuses on rebalance and an enhanced sense of well-being. The spa's latest addition is the Thai Yaga room, designed especially for their exclusive Thai Yoga Massage.

Tag : spa,day spas,product spa,home spa

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Ann-Knapp/28724

Planning A Relaxing Spa Break In Britain?

2009-08-11T01:17:00.002+07:00

In today's fast-paced and often hectic modern world, relaxation is the key to maintaining not only an active and healthy body, but also a fresh and alert mind. Historically people have chosen to relax in a variety of ways, whether it's by playing golf, visiting a beautician or even indulging in a bit of retail therapy. However, a new trend has been emerging among both men and women over the last decade – that is to chill out by paying a visit to a spa.

Taking a short break at a spa hotel or a popular spa destination can prove to be one of the most rewarding ways in which to escape the hurly burly of everyday life, particularly if you live or work in a fast-paced environment. The idea of the "spa" takes its name from the Belgian town of Spa, which is famous for its hot thermal baths and mineral water treatments - known respectively as balneotherapy and hydrotherapy. A typical spa service can include facials, massages and waxing, as well as body treatments (such as body wraps and aromatherapy) and skin exfoliation treatments, such as chemical peels and micro-dermabrasion.

While the medical value of spas and similar hydrotherapy clinics has been scientifically proven and are more than just attractive destinations for tourists, they are also considered excellent centres of rehabilitation; whether its from long-term medical conditions or substance abuse. Some of the most popular treatments to aid relaxation and rehabilitation in spas involve applying pressure to muscles and tissues in the body, using Swedish massage techniques, or the principles of Chinese acupressure.

“Zone therapy” is another popular form of spa treatment and involves the stimulation of points on the feet and hands - a treatment which is believed to offer benefit to other parts of the body. Techniques such as this, coupled with modern methods of aromatherapy have proven themselves to be crucial in maintaining the success of day spas and luxury spa hotels alike. In fact, one of the main attractions of spas is that people can choose to indulge themselves in a treatment even if they can't afford to take a whole weekend break. Alternatively, those wishing to indulge in longer spa breaks can opt to spend an entire weekend relaxing at a spa getaway.

Britain is home to several exciting spa locations. In England, many excellent spas can be found in cities such as Chester, Stratford-upon-Avon and in the Cotswolds. In Scotland, there are fantastic spa locations to be found in Edinburgh and Dundee, while Ireland and Wales are also catered for, with Belfast and Cardiff offering top-quality spa hotels. So if you're looking for a place to take a short spa break, you're sure to have plenty of options to choose from which are close to home.

Tag : spa,day spa,home spa,spa massage

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

Home Spa Bath Oils

2009-08-05T22:45:00.002+07:00

No home spa experience is complete without the magical effects of aromatherapy – a spa therapy exploiting the therapeutic aromatic properties of some pleasantly fragrant, plant-derived, volatile essential oils called bath oils. Some of these bath oils can be directly massaged into the skin before entering the home spa, while others are added to the water in the home spa. Alternatively, the vapors of these bath oils can be inhaled directly from the air if you infuse them in your home spa area, say by spraying or by lighting a scented candle.

Nature has a storehouse of aromatic plants and herbs – some known and some still unknown – that yield beneficial bath oils for spa use. The bath oils derived these aromatic plants have long been known for their medicinal properties. When used in spa therapies, they help get relief from aches and pains (muscular as well as rheumatic), stress, fatigue, depression, anxiety, etc. and have a relaxing and soothing effect on the body and mind. Aromatherapy is believed to work through stimulation of the olfactory nerves by these aromatic bath oils.

In today’s times, everyone feels stressed out due to pressures at work and home and is always hard-pressed for time. A home spa experience with aromatic bath oils is just what you need to rejuvenate your body and spirit, and bring peace to your mind. Here are some of the bath oils you can use in your portable home spa to bring joy and harmony into your life even under stressful situations.

Spruce Pine Bath Oil

This bath oil offers a fascinating combination of natural aroma and home spa experience. It eases sore muscles, makes you energetic and helps to relax and sleep. It makes the skin feel soft and smooth after use.

Rosemary Bath Oil

Rosemary has long been associated with memory and/or remembrance of the past in Europe. Rosemary bath oil has a stimulating effect on the nerves, and helps in treating headaches, improving poor blood circulation and energizing the body and spirit. A home spa bath with rosemary bath oil in the morning will awaken all the physical functions and make you ready for another hard day ahead. For best results, a slightly higher water temperature is recommended.

Hayseed Bath Oil

Hayseed bath oil in your home spa is recommended for anyone seeking respite after a hard day’s work. It rejuvenates you by easing fatigue; even after a hard day’s work you will feel ready for a romantic evening by soaking yourself in a home spa containing hayseed bath oil. A slightly higher water temperature is recommended for relaxing and relieving sore muscles.

Lavender Bath Oil

Lavender bath oil is one of the most commonly used in aromatherapy. It has a unique and strong herbal fragrance and has many medicinal properties. It has calming and relaxing effect on the nerves and helps in inducing sleep. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A portable home spa bath with lavender bath oil is recommended for easing tensed muscles and headaches, and for skin inflammations.

Camomile Bath Oil

Camomile bath oil is very good for the skin. Moya's camomile essence bath oil has a special extract to protect sensitive and harshly treated skins. It protects the skin from sunburn, strong wind and air pollution.

The use of these bath oils in your portable home spa can make your spa experience unforgettable.

Tag : spa,day spa,home spa,spa massage,bath spa,hot tub spa

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

Beauty Day Spa: Ways To Rejuvenate Your Skin

2009-08-02T00:15:00.002+07:00

The beauty day spa is becoming an oasis of health options. It's not just a place for pampering anymore, although that is still an important component of health care, as well. When one thinks of skin care at a spa, the face is often the first thing that might be thought of. But in reality, your entire body should be thought of and cared for. All areas should be the best that they can be.

One fairly classic way to rejuvenate your skin at a spa is with, of course, the tried-and-true facial. This is a procedure where a face is cleansed,massaged and treated with the appropriate topical products for the individual.

There are specific types of facials that may be appealing depending on a person's needs. There are some that focus on extractions, or collagen enhancement. There are some that include aromatherapy which adds an additional sensory level to the experience.

Some other options which have been added recently to spas' menus are actually physician administered procedures. Botox and Restylane are injectibles designed to promote an attractive complexion. Botox is used for relaxing the lines in a face while Restylane is effective in plumping up lips, adding fullness and smoothing wrinkles.

Sclerotherapy and Photofacials are used in the treatment of spider veins visible in one's appearance. Sclerotherapy is a method of injecting a solution into the unattractive affected area which collapses the blood vessel and therefore makes the spider veins disappear from sight. A Photofacial does essentially the same thing except it uses pulsing beams of light to target the unsightly spider veins.

Photofacials are also wonderful in the treatment of rosacea, which is a condition of red blotchy patches on the surface of a face. Acne can also be helped with this treatment.

Mesotherapy is another new advancement in the arena of cutting edge skin care. This is a process where medicine and vitamins appropriate to healing an individual's unique dermatological concern are injected into the middle layer of skin. This procedure is used in the treatment of cellulite and other types of body correction and sculpting.

Microdermabrasion techniques have also become a popular item offered at spas. It is another method to enhance the smoothness and silkiness. It is a great way to get rid of sun damage and scarring.

By: A Aaronson

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Tag : spa,day spa,foot spa,beauty spa

Health Spa- How to Relax

2009-07-31T00:38:00.002+07:00

In these modern days when you have enormous list of choices for your Spa location wise, service wise a proper planning and organized approach is very much necessary to make your Spa Visit a grand success.

Indulge in Spa visits as often as possible to learn what heals and nurtures your body and soul, and to determine what works for you. With each trip you will be able to find and learn what you like and don’t like so that with the passage of time you will be able to chart your own Spa Program that really worth the effort, time and money you spent on your spa visit.

As anything worthwhile needs a planned action so is your Spa visit. So don’t forget to call ahead and book your slot well ahead to avoid disappointment or a not so good spa experience.

On your first visit , don’t hesitate to talk to the Spa people of anything that bothers you or of concern to you about your spa visit and treatment and try to find out what are all the things you are going to get and what are all the other options open to you.

A Spa visit requires more effort, time and money and it is your duty to get the most out of it , to get the best value for all that you have spent. So speak with the Spa people, collect all info form them about the various options open to you, and make a well informed decision about your treatment, ask questions and get all clarifications before you commit anything.

It is always a good idea to drink good amount of water before, during and after your Spa visit as water is a best hydrating Agent. It makes the body cleanse itself from the lowest level and offers a good medium of fluidity and prepares your body to receive the treatment with best effect. The well watered muscles respond better to the stimulations and relaxations received during your Spa treatment and allow the treatment to penetrate deep into your body.

As the Spa treatment aims at detoxify your body it is a good idea to cut back your consumption of stuffs like Sugar , caffeine, alcohol and hard to digest food stuff like meat especially the red meat etc.

No matter with whom you go to spa, the experience, and the treatment are yours alone to feel and enjoy, so plan your visit in such a way that you have ample time before and after the appointed time of your spa visit. A good spa session, becomes even better when you communicate with the therapist and let them know what you like or don’t like. Don’t forget that you are in charge of the session, and you need not accept anything that is not your liking.

If you feel that you will be comfortable with a particular Gender, it is always wise to make it known to the Spa at the earliest

Tag : spa,home spa,day spa,health spa

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

Bathroom Design Trends: The Home Spa

2009-07-28T20:57:00.002+07:00

Defining the Home Spa
Those who talk about spa today know little or nothing about the word's origin. We do not include in this category scientists, spa resort owners, hot tubs manufacturers, geography and history passionate learners or Belgian citizens. Why not Belgians? Well, just because the famous mineral springs in Spa, Belgium, are the reason why the common noun spa is so often used nowadays, denoting not only places with medicinal and mineral springs, but also a "tub for relaxation or invigoration, usually including a device for raising whirlpools in the water."

It is the very tub for relaxation we have to consider when we think about the home spa, and a few other elements necessary to create a comfortable atmosphere. The ones who visit spa resorts seek tranquility in a healthy environment. And they pay for it. Every time. If you are a busy businessman, or woman, with just about no free time, visiting a spa to release stress might sound like a nice option, as long as you can make it there before the closing hours.

Many people have too much to do and close to no chances to find the time to combat the effects of the stress. Besides, there are also people who cannot afford to spend each week a small fortune to experience the benefits of a day at the spa. So let's bring the spa resort home...

What is a home spa? To put is simple is a spa resort in the comfort of your own house. No schedule, no entrance or club fees. You can go in and out whenever you want. There is just one catch to it: if you want to socialize there's no one around but your cat (that's if you have one).

Tips for Creating Your Own Spa Bath
Whether you plan to build a new bathroom, or just to remodel an existing one, plan a step ahead and create a modern, comforting environment. "Modern" doesn't refer to a futuristic design. In fact, building a bathroom that reminds of the Roman thermae is as modern as building one that takes you on a trip to Mars. A modern design combines technology and fantasy to create the bathroom of your dreams: a unique space where you can relax after a hectic day at work. Many of the contemporary bathrooms are more practical than relaxing. Some are small and uncomfortable, some are large and cold. No matter the space you have to work with or your budget, a bathroom can become a pleasant, luxurious spot. All it takes is careful planning and the will to succeed.

Don't get this wrong: luxurious doesn't necessary mean expensive. In this particular case we refer to "something inessential but conductive to pleasure and comfort" as the "American Heritage" dictionary defines luxury. With so many offers and manufacturers out there, you'll find options to accommodate any plan.

The building consultants from EEKHOF Objektberatung have gathered a few tips you might want to consider when planning your relaxing bathroom. Let's take a look at what they could come up with:

Water, combined with other elements such as light, aroma and sound, is a perfect relaxer. For large rooms bathtubs are a must. The long, rectangular bathtub is out. Nowadays there are hundreds of different styles, shapes, and features including massage tubs and soft bathtubs available for everyone to choose from. The most durable bathtubs are also the heaviest ones since they are made from enameled cast iron. So, if you go for the best, that's your choice. Acrylic reinforced with fiberglass tubs are lighter and come in more complex styles than cast iron. Fiberglass bathtubs tend to scratch too easy - so we wouldn't recommend them as a long-term investment. When it comes to color and revolutionary materials, for more design options we would recommend Quarrycast bathtubs. Quarrycast is a mineral crystal composite developed by Victoria & Albert, a UK manufacturer. There are also bathtubs designed to fit in small spaces. All you need is to browse the web and you will find the right one.

Built-in showers are a good choice for small rooms. Yet, don't think that showers cannot bring you that spa feeling you long for. Showers have evolved and now they are able to bring you as much pleasure as a sophisticated bathtub. Such products are also known as "shower towers". Designer showers provide new relaxing means: therapeutic massages, rain-like feelings, or experiences similar to a steam room at a health club or spa.

To perfect the luxury feeling, more and more people prefer to warm up the cold floor tiles in their bathrooms with electric heating systems that fill the room with floor-to-ceiling warmth. Try the Uponor products if you are looking for a market-leading manufacturer, or look for other products such as the ones offered by Radiantec, Warmup, Heatlink. No more chills after a hot bath on a cold winter day.

Another modern accessory is the towel warmer. There are plenty of styles and types to choose from including portable, wall mounted or floor mounted, spiral, circular and more. You can see a large selection at Stacks and Stacks.

Bathroom is not just about toilet, sink and a bathtub. Bathroom furniture, also known as bath vanity units, is the "magic touch" needed to create the perfect ambient. Most of these units are protected against warping in normal moist conditions.

Mirrors are a stylish way of giving small rooms a sense of openness, but they are perfect accessories for large rooms as well.

For larger budgets we recommend a product that conquers the market more and more today: the bathroom TV. The LCD bathroom TV has heated screen for condensation free viewing, inbuilt water resistant speakers and a 90 degrees wide angle-viewing screen.

The shower CD players are already there for those who plan their wellness spa on a budget.

With LEDs dominating the lighting industry there is a large selection of shapes and light and color controllable fixtures you can choose from. LEDs have many advantages if you look for dimmable illumination or for hidden lights. If you look for a unique light source or for light effects to complete the spa feeling, there are also many controllable fixtures "out-of-the-box" you might consider purchasing.

To make a long story short, the modern bathroom should be a perfect environment in which to relax and rest, and should provide a refuge from the tensions of daily routine. This is why spa resort trends such as chromatherapy, aromatherapy and music therapy are successfully applied in the design of the contemporary domestic bathroom. Obtaining that spa feeling in the comfort of your own home is not an impossible task. And when you don't have the courage, experience, ideas and time to start such a task on your own, a building consultant has the answers.

Tag : spa,product spa,home spa,bath spa,hot tub spa,bathroom design

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

Choosing the Best Day Spa for a Holiday Gift Certificate

2009-07-21T23:49:00.000+07:00

Day spa gift certificates are among the most popular gifts for every occasion. Providing relaxation, pampering and stress-relief is one of the best gifts anyone could receive. However, it can be difficult to know how to choose the best spa and the best treatment for a loved one. The following are some questions to ask to ensure that your spa gift certificate is a success:

Does the spa offer weekend and evening hours?

Having a variety of hours available to enjoy a treatment is important.

Does the therapist ever leave the room during a treatment?

Believe it or not, there are some spas that leave a client alone during a portion of a facial and will actually perform a second treatment while the client waits alone. This is unacceptable. A therapist should be in the room at all times providing pamepering and results.

Do the therapists have quotas?

A relaxing spa visit can soon turn stressful when a therapist begins aggressively pushing products. Professional skin care products are wonderful and can make a tremendous difference in the skin, but when products are being pushed by someone who has a quota to meet, often, the client’s best interest might not be the reason for a recommendation.

Does the spa have a website?

A website can be a wonderful way to learn about a spa. Upscale spas will have a virtual tour which will allow you to experience the environment of the spa. The spas philosophy and background will also help you decide if a spa is ideal for you. Gift certificate packages are typically described on a website. This will help you decide on the perfect package for you or a loved one.

Is there a physician affiliation?

Although, a traditional day spa does not require a physician to supervise treatments, it can be an indication of a high level of care. Medical spas are the fastest growing type of spa. Medical grade treatments like laser hair removal, laser skin tightening, and medical grade peels do require physician supervision.

When thinking of a day spa package, consider a treatment that will provide relaxation and results for the one you love.

To search for a spa in your area, you may go to websites such as www.spaindex.com or type in key words "best day spa" followed by your city. To find a day spa that offers the results of a medical spa, type in medical spa and the name of your city.

Tag : spa,day spa,spa treatment,spa package,spa hotel

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

5 Tips For Buying A Spa Hot Tub

2009-07-19T01:04:00.000+07:00

Buying a spa or hot tub for your home is a big decision, although the introduction of the portable soft spas can lessen the risk associated with spending a lot of money on a larger, roto-molded spa. But whatever spa you are considering, here are some things to keep in mind during the decision-making and buying process.

1. Portable or in-ground? Portable spas and hot tubs tend to be cheaper than in-ground ones, and this may be the biggest determining factor. In-ground spas do add to the value of your house, however, and they can be nicely integrated into a deck or outdoor entertaining area. Of course, if you move frequently, or are planning to relocate soon, you may want to get a portable spa hot tub to take to your new residence as well as being able to enjoy it at your current one. Of course, if you are renting, this decision is already made!

2. Make a list of the extra features available and then decide if you really need or want them. You could also list them in order of priority, in case they make your ideal hot tub spa more expensive than you're comfortable with.

Some of the features available include drink holders, removable jets, radio and CD players, contouring, spa pillows

3. A hot tub cover is not an accessory! Some salesmen will try and make it look like they're doing you a favor by giving you a hot tub spa cover . But what they are hoping you don't know is that a cover is not an accessory, but an important part of the whole basic package. If you don't have an insulated spa cover, you may also void your warranty.

It's worth looking at the quality of the spa cover provided with the model. Spa covers play an important role in maintaining the temperature of your spa hit tub. They can saver you a lot of money on your power bill as well.

4. Keeping your spa and hot tub clean - You are going to need a system to keep your spa hot tub clean. Some people use ozonators, which can help with cleaning a little bit, but they are not a replacement for chemicals. Just like a swimming pool, you'll need water balancers and cleaners. Fortunately, you don't have to worry about having your spa smell like a chlorinated swimming pool, as there are cleaners available today that keep you spa water healthy and clear - and odorless!

5. What sort of jets do you want? This is one of the most important decisions in the hot tub and spa buying process. The jets can determine what type of therapeutic experience you'll have in a hot tub (if you want one). For example, you can get jets that are geared towards a shoulder and neck massage, and jets in various strengths and types of pressure on your muscles. If you just want a spa to relax, this won't matter so much, but if you have aching muscles or joints, this will become important.

It's important to note that just having a lot of jets may in fact be overkill - it certainly will be on your electricity bill! Rather than getting swept away by the sales specs, think about the ongoing running costs of the spas you are looking at buying. You may find a model with less jets, but of different types, and designed therapeutically, that is more suitable.

And look at whether that high number of jets in a model is actually made up of lots of cheap jets, yet few high quality, and more expensive ones. Look at the jets in the model, and the types of jets (based on the type of spa experience you want) match up. And look at how those jets are positioned in the design. All these things differentiate a high quality spa from a low quality one.

Tag : spa,hot tub spa,day spa,spa home

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

Spas - 7 Ways to Enhance Your Spa Experience

2009-07-18T03:03:00.001+07:00

Have you ever imagined being pampered in one of the world's top spas? Or have you been thinking about having that rejuvenating facial or relaxing massage at your local day spa? Whether you are going for a single treatment, a spa resort vacation or a complete body overhaul, you need to know how to get the best from your visit.

1. What do you want?

Don't choose a spa before first thinking about exactly what it is you want to take away from your experience. If your idea of heaven is a facial, manicure and pedicure, followed by some relaxation by the swimming pool, then you don't want to go for a spa that focuses on health and fitness regimes. Alternatively, if you are after that leaner, fitter physique, then be realistic about what you might have to do to achieve it. Work out what balance of relaxation, rejuvenation and complete overhaul would really suit you. For that truly unique and exotic experience, the location and the theme of its treatments may be more important to you than the health aspects.

2. Booking your treatments

If you are going for a spa mini-break, always book your treatments well in advance to make sure that the therapists will be available during your stay. For a half day or day spa ask if they have extended treatment times or a package of treatments to get more out of your visit. If you want the flexibility to choose what you want based on how you feel when you arrive, enquire whether you can reserve a block of time instead of a treatment. But be aware that the treatment you want may not be available at short notice.

3. Know what to expect

Before booking a treatment, make sure you get it properly explained to you - as descriptions may not always lead what you expect. Always ask for an experienced therapist and tell him/her exactly what you want from your treatment. If anything makes you uncomfortable, such as having a particular area of your body massaged, say so before the start of the treatment. You may also want to make enquiries about hygiene. Ask what measures the spa takes to avoid infection, for example for pedicures.

4. Anti-ageing and rejuvenation

Although high-quality pampering is a big factor in spas, get the most out of your experience by looking for rejuvenating health and anti-ageing treatments that really deliver results. Some spas offer a one-stop shop for your body maintenance. You'll find specialist advice from dermatologists offering skincare and cellulite treatments to nutritionists advising on weight loss programmes. Spas are also increasingly including medical and dental checks. If you lead a busy life, this is an ideal way to get a complete wellness check for men and women all under one roof.

5. Your own personal spa

You can also get the spa to come to your hotel or resort room. Resorts and hotels now offer spa suites with massage facilities adjoining your bedroom. After treatment from your personal therapist, you can relax in your own personal spa- bathroom.

6. Go in a group

If you're uncomfortable with going on you own, spa suites are a popular way to accommodate several people at the same time for treatments. Go with a group of girlfriends or book some treatments for your business associates. Something special to celebrate perhaps? You can purchase a spa gift certificate for someone and go in a group. Where family groups are welcomed, you can get your kids to learn healthy- eating habits, grooming skills and the importance of living a balanced life, while you are someplace else being pampered.

7. Take it home with you

To really benefit from your spa experience, look for ways in which you can take it home with you. From lessons on lifestyle, healthy eating and stress management to products that extend the experience long after your treatments have ended. Spa decor for the home is also very popular now. Recreate the spa experience in your own bathroom, shower or hot tub, with spa products such as bathrobes, towels and candles.

Tag : spa,spa experience,home spa,day spa

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

How to Select a Day Spa

2009-07-16T01:14:00.001+07:00

There is nothing more relaxing than going to a spa to soak away the stress and soothe those aching muscles. Selecting a day spa is the key to making the most of this experience. The choice you make should benefit you not only for a short while but in the long run as well. Know what the spa's primary purpose is so that you will find out if it can help you out with your needs.

It is imperative for any spa patron to choose the day spa that is compatible with his or her taste. It is not enough that the service they wanted is available.

Seek out a day spa if you want to pamper, refresh, rejuvenate, nurture, and recharge your mind, body, and spirit. It may seem to be easy to choose the spa that is best for you. Everything out there offers the same pampering experience so why not just pick one and get on with it, right? Wrong. The variety of spas offering more services are available anywhere, anytime, yes. But that is just one good reason to be more cautious about selecting a spa.

The service they offer may sound way too enticing: from scalp treatment to hydrotherapy baths, the choices are endless. Selecting a spa can be more confusing than you think.

It is not only women who are looking forward to a day of pampering in the spa but men as well. Men are now experiencing the relaxing atmosphere of spas and returning. Athletes, or people with active lifestyles, most likely use the massage services that the spa provides. However, those who spend a lot of time outdoors also get facial treatments and products that can protect their skin from damage.

1) Licensed Professionals
It is important to check the basics upon selecting a spa. There are more important things to look for in addition to the services that you wanted to use. According to the Day Spa Association, the spa should be licensed and should employ licensed therapists and aestheticians. They should feature spa products that are professional. The therapist and aestheticians should have received training in administering these products and/or services.

2) Atmosphere Wise
The spa should maintain a safe, clean, nurturing, and calming environment. Observe if the spa has private treatment rooms for clients that want a personal service such as changing facilities for men and women, shower room, shoes and spa robes for all sizes. It is important that the staff are also licensed aestheticians and therapists.

To reiterate, utilization of professional spa products and techniques should be done by the aestheticians and therapist who are professionally trained to do it. Almost all of the treatments need to be handled by professionals. To mention some, Stone Therapy Facials, medical treatments such as chemical and micro peels, microdermabrasion, and acne treatments.

Massage therapists must be able to do and offer these following techniques professionally: Therapeutic Massages, La Stone Therapies, Swedish Massages, Aromatherapy, Reflexology Massage, Couple's Massage, and Lymph Drainage Therapies.

3) Spa Neophytes

First time guests and visitors of a spa are asked to fill out a registration form. You should arrive on time for your appointment so as to maximize the time in the facility. Any medical conditions should be considered upon availing spa services.

Let your therapist know your comfort level as well as any problem areas you wish to put more focus on or the other way around. If you are undergoing massage treatments, let him or her know if the pressure is sufficient or too much. It is important to let your massage therapist be aware of this because people have different preferences on massage pressures. Some may prefer deep tissue massages while others enjoy soft stroking therapies. Don't be afraid to let your therapist know what you want.

Tag : spa,day spa,home spa,spa hotels,spa massage

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

The Truth About Spa Skin Care Products

2009-07-14T00:45:00.001+07:00

The concept of the spa visit has expanded and exploded over the last decade or so. The amount of treatments available at spas for the body, hair, and the skin is staggering. With the rise in spa popularity, there has also been a proliferation of spa skin care products.

Spa skin care products are now available both on and off spa premises, and have become an integral part of the spa experience. There are more choices available then ever before. Spa products can become a wonderful component and memory of your spa visit, but it is important to keep a few essentials in mind when planning any skin care product purchases.

The most traditional way skin care products are offered is usually at the end of the spa visit. If you are receiving a facial, usually the Esthetician will recommend several products during your treatment. The Esthetician may emphasize several key areas of skin improvement, and when you are ready to leave the spa, will have products available for you to purchase. You should not be made to feel pressured to purchase a number of expensive skin care products. Ask about less expensive products, or purchase the 1-2 products that have the highest priority for you.

As with all skin care products, spa skin care product development takes advantage of the current innovations in treating problems such as aging, wrinkles, and acne. Spa products often emphasize clinical study results, and the research and technology behind the product. Demand is high for products that manage or prevent sun-damage to skin. You may want to spend some time reading the material and doing some initial research into the clinical studies before purchasing.

Many spa products are available for purchase before, during, and after your spa visit. Spas may offer exclusive lines on their website, and many spa skin care products are now being offered at a variety of retail outlets. If products are available to purchase during your visit, see about any type of discounts that are available. Many spas will offer you a discount if you purchase at the spa directly, instead of telephoning or going to their website.

Private label products are prevalent at spas. Private label means the spa has purchased the product directly from a manufacturer and have added their own logo and label. It's a similar concept to the food products you see in the supermarket, the grocery store will have a product with their own logo on it, although they did not manufacture the item itself. While, private label products are often just as effective as spa developed products, keep in mind that you are not receiving anything that is particularly unique to the spa, other than the packaging. You should ask whether the spa creates the skin care products themselves, and let that be a deciding factor for purchase.

Buying and using spa skin care products can be a rewarding experience if done properly. By doing some research and asking questions, you will come away from the spa with effective products, and without breaking your budget. That way, you can put more funds toward your next spa relaxation holiday!

Tag : spa,skin care,home spa,spa massage,hot tub spa

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

The Spa Break

2009-07-12T02:36:00.001+07:00

How about a nice weekend escape, a visit to s romantic hotel or inn, and a few nice and calm candle lit dinners… this is almost any young adult dream in these days, some break off work, and time to completely relax and rest. The traditional weekend break was once a low cost, small hotel weekend which usually started on Friday night and ended on Saturday noon, today things have changed, the small hotel is usually replaced by a fashionable spa hotel or better yet a resort with a spa in it.

Spa services are what most weekend guests are looking for, it makes perfect sense to compliment your weekend away with a few body treatments that will take off that extra stress and anger that has been accumulating in you for the whole month. Spa treatments are not so cheap, but if you ever used one you would probably know that on some level they are well worth the money time and effort.

So there is no wonder that some people prefer to stay in a place that has the Spa treatment option in the facilities it offers, rather than having to go outside to look for a good treatment. On the other hand there are some places that you will want to research the Spa in the location, because sometime the best sap is not located inside an hotel, and is not associated with any of the hotels in the area. The best example is the city of Spa in Belgium, this is the place that started it all, and you will find that the main Spa location is not inside a hotel but a facility by itself.

Some Spa treatment centers are located near a place of interest or provide some special services, the dead sea spa services have a large variety of treatments that are unique for that area of the world, a place rich with minerals and salts, and the spa uses these in its treatments, so you can research the place in which the spa is located in order to get a better idea on the unique things you can find at that location, not only special features are different from spa to spa but sometimes the people giving the treatments are also qualified in different arts. You should always try and research the level of professionalism the spa has, and that its employees have been properly trained for giving the treatments.

If you are looking for a weekend break with some spa treatments you should also think about the other things you want to do, if you had some sports in your mind you will need to think carefully of when you want to have your spa treatments so you don’t find yourself in bed relaxing just half an hour before your tee time, a spa weekend should be dedicated to relaxing and resting so keep that in mind when you make your plans, reserve in advance and have fun.

Tag : spa,spa break,day spa,foot spa,spa hotel

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

Destination Spas Total Spa Vacation Package

2009-07-09T21:13:00.000+07:00

Destination Spas are a total spa vacation package, with physical fitness facilities and programs, accommodation and spa cusine. You can choose your destination spa vacation by location, type of program, interest or from one of their current promotions. The study also showed that spa travellers like to include elements of destination culture, history, cuisine and shopping in their vacations. On a destination health spa vacation, guests can feel better than they ever imagined.

Tabacchi But for destination spa visitors, it's a different story, according to a recent survey of vacationers by Mary H. Tabacchi's study is believed to be the first to quantitatively measure the effects of a destination spa vacation. If you visit a destination spa your vacation is aimed at total wellness and the spa is full-service. Paradise Village is the ultimate destination among Puerto Vallarta resorts for family vacations, beach vacations, spa vacations and golf vacations. For the ultimate in vacation relaxation, nothing beats a destination spa!

Discover how rejuvenating and relaxing a Spa vacation package can be. You may also choose a honeymoon vacation package or spa vacation customized especially for you. Continental Airlines Vacations makes it easy to create your own customized spa vacation package in just a few clicks. If you're looking for the ideal spa vacation package, you've just found it! Choose a honeymoon vacation package or spa vacation customized especially for you. A spa vacation package with Spatacular-spas.com will do it every time.

Its ventures include the Luxury SpaFinder Magazine and spafinder.com, which helps vacationers find the spa most suited to their needs. Comfort zone: Luxury spas are hot, and for vacationers, money appears to be no object. What else could be better than enjoying a relaxing Caribbean spa vacation aboard one of the finest luxury cruise liners. We look forward to planning a relaxing luxury health spa vacation in South Africa for you and making your dreams a reality! Enjoy a luxury spa vacation with wonderful spa therapies.

We hope that your health spa, weight loss vacation experience is a pleasant one. Find the delight of health spa vacations and treatment products. Beauty, relaxation and health come together for an ideal spa resort vacation in Orlando. Cruises, too There's no reason a health spa vacation has to take place on land.

Plan a spa getaway or some time at a vacation resort. Get practical advice on how to select and plan your spa vacation. Get practical advice on how to select, plan and get the most out of your spa vacation. Either way, you'll return home feeling completely relaxed, refreshed, and probably wanting to plan your next spa vacation.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/destination-spas-total-spa-vacation-package-29453.html

Spa Guide for Men

2009-07-01T21:35:00.000+07:00

The new metro sexual male phenomenon has taken over all the spheres of our existence. With men increasingly lending themselves to household chores, it is almost taken that they are not to lag behind in taking care of themselves. The rise in the number of spa-going men is ample proof this very fact. And though an increasing number of men are swearing by their personal experience at a spa, this is only the tip of the iceberg. While men constitute an incredible 35% of the spa industry’s clients, this figure is projected to grow exponentially in the coming years. This not only goes on to show that men have started buying the concept of healing through therapy, but preferring spending time at a spa over playing a round of golf.

Having said this, it remains equally true that men typically hate mush. Sensing this, the spa industry, which desperately wanted to include men into its female dominated bastion, started projecting the spa experience as a necessity instead of luxury, and naming massage as a therapy instead of mere pampering, and successfully so. Today the industry is more than reaping the benefits of the seeds sown, and is witnessing a booming number of males thronging to spas to get a taste of life.

Men’s spas – a paradigm shift from the women’s version

Men’s spas no longer mean mushy places with an over abundance of pinks florals. These spas are tailor made for men’s needs right from special bathrobes for men to longer tables that are spacious enough for the average male to get treated upon. They offer unscented products to appeal to their clientele. For tougher men, the spas offer sports massages, sports buff manicure, yoga and the like.

Some of the most popular male treatments that men take to in the spas are listed below.

Seaweed body wrap

Love handles wrap

Body scrub

Facial

Manicure & pedicure

Massage (Includes Swedish, Reflexology -- foot massage; Acupressure,Deep tissue, and Aromatherapy.)

Hot and cold stone therapy

Herbal or mud bath

Steam and shower

Hot springs

Cold plunge (involves 55°F water)

Research before enrolling for treatment

Though all the abovementioned seems good enough to entice you into a visit to a spa, it is important to research on a select few spas, lest you come out unsatisfied. To make most of the visit, take your own time zeroing in upon the desired spas by researching widely over the net or through friends who have already visited one. Once the decision is made, read about the spa on the web, and go through various comments that clients and patrons have posted. Also talk to the front desk staff to clear any queries and doubts that you might have. Do not forget to check the credentials of the spa and see if it is registered with the International Spa Association.

Get into the mood

Though this does seem a little weird, it makes sense because you won’t be able to enjoy the experience if you are not prepared for it. A fortnight before the visit, start using skincare products before hand to check if they suit you well. If you find them satisfactory, you can continue their use between your visits. Enjoy a soak in warm water to which necessary oils have been added. In short, pamper yourself, before the spa takes over the reins. This is necessary so that you feel comfortable being handled by somebody else, however professional he might be.

Avoid spas that also ‘welcome men’

Understand that spas that proclaim ‘men are welcome’ signs at the bottom of their advertisements are basically spas for women who do not want to let go off that male client. They might really not be experts in treating men or could lack the equipment needed for men’s treatment.

Crossover spas are well

Visiting a spa alone for the fist time can give shivers to most of the men. Having a female companion to escort you is a better option. In such cases, crossover spas are the answer. A unisex area with a special lounging area for men is what they essentially offer, where first timers feel comfortable in the company of female companions. But, they are not couple spas by any means.

Hybrid spas

For a first timer, a heavy duty spa environment can be uncomfortable. Hybrid spas, a hybrid of a salon and a spa are places where men can enjoy regular salon services along with special spa services. They are the ‘only men’ versions of women’s beauty salons that have gained immense popularity in the recent past.

Men only spas

Some men enjoy being either with themselves or with fellow men. Such men can get pampered at men only spas that prohibit female clients. Enjoy the healing properties of a massage in a no-holds-barred environment where men can truly be men.

Conclusion

Getting used to a lifestyle where ‘you’ are the nucleus is definitely wonderful, and a visit to a spa will get you started on this. So go ahead and benefit form the knowledge of the therapists and the professional care of experts.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/spa-guide-for-men-125232.html

Use Spa and Hot Tub Steps For Your Comfort

2009-06-30T21:16:00.000+07:00

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.

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

Top Ten Romantic Spa Ideas

2009-06-25T00:02:00.000+07:00

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

2: Outdoor Treatment Experience

3: Mobile Spa Experience

4: Spa Day Packages

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

7: Spa Getaway

8: Couples Treatments

9: Book Exclusive Use of a Spa

10: Create a Home Spa

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

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

2009-06-22T20:20:00.000+07:00

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.

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

Spa And Hot Tub Heat Conservation

2009-06-21T23:42:00.001+07:00

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.

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

Spa Therapies & Meditation

2009-06-18T22:45:00.001+07:00

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.

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

Spa Resorts: Your Guide to Choosing One

2009-06-15T22:24:00.000+07:00

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.

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The Spas At Walt Disney World

2009-06-13T00:12:00.000+07:00

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

Top Ten Romantic Spa Ideas

2009-06-09T01:34:00.000+07:00

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

2: Outdoor Treatment Experience

3: Mobile Spa Experience

4: Spa Day Packages

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

7: Spa Getaway

8: Couples Treatments

9: Book Exclusive Use of a Spa

10: Create a Home Spa

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

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

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

2009-06-07T21:51:00.000+07:00

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.

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