What is a Swim Spa?

A Swim Spa is a counter current swimming pool that also shares the same concept and ideas as a Hydrotherapy and Hydro Massage Spa and Hot Tub.

A Swim Spa is the ideal pool for the practise of regular water exercise, swimming or even aqua-jogging, with the comfort and relaxation of the pleasant soothing warm water.

Considering that all the operating equipment, Heaters and pumps are compact there is even a possibility of being portable, a Swim Spa can easily be placed in a garden, terrace or even in the interior of a house. A roof or pent house terrace is also a possibility subject to the weight and loading requirements.

A swim spa has many advantages some of which are :-

Fitness

With an adjustable water flow of between 730 and 2.200 litres per minute, the swim spa can be adjusted to each and every style of swimming and to varying degree of exercise levels.

With a varying number of high flow hydro therapy massage jets, sufficient pumps and air regulators a swim spa can create the ideal water flow for the intensity of exercise desired.

The water temperature is fully adjustable and can be set up to 40ºC and can be adjusted either for a swimming activity or orientated to relax or for exercise such as aqua jogging.

A swim spa should have an anti-slip floor combined with sufficient depth of say 130cm to 140cm so that it can also be used for aquajogging.

Relaxation

The water temperature of the swim spa can be kept always at the desired temperature so it can be used anytime and indeed at any time of the year.

Swim Spa are usually Equipped with LED lights, so as to create fantastic lighting conditions and environments to be used at night.

Water treatment

Contrary to the conventional swimming pools the swim spa needs low maintenance to keep the water clean and in its perfect condition.

A well made swimspa will be equipped with an efficient filtration system, with three cartridge filters and a sufficient circulation pump.

Also as with modern Jacuzzis a swim spa should be equipped with a ozone generator (O3) to help purify the water.

Efficiency

With proper isolation and a isothermical cover the swim spa is very efficient in the energy consumption to keep the water at the desired temperature.

To maintain the water temperature of a swim spa it will need more or less 1 € per day.

Portability

A swim spa can be equipped with panels and a structure (stainless steel or galvanized iron) and as all the equipment is assembled in its interior, the swim spa can be a portable swimming pool.

The author markets luxury Hot Tubs in Spain and for futher information his web site is at Hot Tubs Spain and for details on designer spas please go to Hot Tubs Fuengirola.

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Take the Guesswork Out of the Spa

With more Americans than ever discovering the spa lifestyle, it would appear the road to wellness is a smooth path. But there are still those who have yet to discover the benefits to this life-affirming approach to living. In fact, for those who yet are unaware of what to expect from a spa and its treatments, the spa concept may seem a stressful venture.

The spa experience is meant to reduce stress, not cause it, according to a spokesperson from the International SPA Association (ISPA). The key to experiencing the full benefits of the spa is to first take out some of the guesswork.

One of the most accessible ways to experience the spa for beginners is a day spa. Day spas are local and most often offer basic treatments such as Swedish massage, facials and body treatments. First-timers should peruse the day spa's website to learn more about the treatments offered and follow that up with a pone call to learn more. Spa staff are always happy to answer questions and help beginners book an appointment. Referrals from friends and family are also a great way to learn about spas.

Some might also be nervous about what treatments will cost, as well as tipping. Just like other service-oriented businesses, spas come in a variety of price points. Check around for treatments that best fit the budget. Also, prices for treatments are typically listed online. Staff can also provide additional information in regards to pricing. When it comes to tipping, if a service has been rendered in a satisfying manner, it's expected the client will leave a tip. Typically, spa-goers should tip 15 to 20 percent for the cost of service, or about $10 to $15 for a treatment. Tips are made the time of check-out and many spas provide small envelopes at the front desk for a tip.

On a first visit, it's important to arrive approximately 30 minutes early. This gives guests time to soak in the ambiance a bit before a treatment. First-time visitors will also need to fill out a medical form listing any existing medical conditions or concerns. This is important for the therapist who will be providing the service. Some treatments can not be provided to clients with preexisting conditions. Staff will also provide guests wit a tour of the changing and relaxation areas, in addition to a robe and slippers.

The issue of clothing, or lack of it, is most often a concern for those new to the spa experience. A professional spa will never compromise a client's modesty. When guests change into a robe for a treatment, they can choose whether to wear underwear beneath the robe. A massage therapist has been trained in the art of draping a blanket, so that only the portion of body being treated is exposed.

During a massage or other body treatment, the therapist may seek feedback in regards to comfort and any areas that might need special attention. It's important that clients communicate to the therapist any discomfort they may be experiencing. In regards to conversation during a treatment, the therapist takes a cue from the client. Some prefer quiet conversation while others prefer to remain quiet.

Following a treatment, the therapist will quietly leave the room, allowing the client to take a few minutes to get up off of the table. While clients are not expected to rush out of a therapy room, it is good spa etiquette to keep in mind the room may be reserved for another client. A therapist should always provide a client with a glass of water following a massage, which will help cleanse the body of toxins.

First-time visitors who schedule a body wrap or hydrotherapy should expect not to be draped so as to receive the maximum results of the treatment. Swimsuits are optional in this case. When using a sauna or steam, clients always wear sandals provided by the spa and sit on their towels as a form of courtesy to other clients and to protect one self from germs.

Next to a massage, a facial is the second most preferred spa treatment. Using mineral essential cleansing products, facials are performed to purify, nourish and tone skin. Typically, most facials take about an hour and it's not necessary to be unclothed during the treatment.

Taking the guesswork out of the spa experience is not hard with a little bit of preparation. Many have already discovered the spa to be one of the most effective ways to reduce stress, achieve wellbeing and indulge in some much-needed pampering. A small amount of research can deliver big dividends.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=304198&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Spa Glossary - A To Z

Know the difference between acupuncture and acupressure? How about Shiatsu and Watsu? The spa world is filled with a dizzying collection of terms and procedures. Following is a sample glossary, thanks to Spa Finder, to help spa-goers speak and understand the lingo with ease.

Acupressure
Used to stimulate the flow of energy in the body, acupressure is a traditional Chinese pressure-point massage.

Acupuncture
Administered using needles, a low-voltage electric current, or acupressure, acupuncture is a traditional Chinese healing technique based on Taoist philosophy.

Body Wrap
Herbal body wraps cover the client in a cocoon-like form with strips of cloth soaked in herbal teas. Sea mud body wraps use mineral essential-rich mud to cleanse and hydrate the body.

Complementary medicine
Unlike alternative medicine which replaces traditional therapies, complementary medicine uses treatments and therapies in conjunction with traditional medicine.

Destination Spa
Property that focuses on improving one's lifestyle, enhancing health, and creating self-renewal in the company of other like-minded people.

European Facial
A treatment that includes deep cleansing, steam, exfoliation, and a professional face massage, followed by a mask that hydrates the skin.

Green
The buzzword that describes a concern with, or promotion of, environmentalism through recycling, creation of biogradable products, or reducing pollution.

Hot Stone Therapy
A treatment in which dark, smooth stones are heated in hot water and then placed or stroked lightly on key areas of the body.

ISPA
The International Spa Association, which represents all aspects of the spa industry.

Lymph Drainage
A type of massage meant to stimulate circulation in the lymph system to drain away excess fluids and trapped toxins.

Medical Spa
These are destination or day spas that offer traditional and complementary medical services including cosmetic procedures, diagnostic testing, and preventative care.

Organic
Food grown without the use of chemicals of any kind, including growth hormones, pesticides, and fertilizers.

Pilates
Developed by Joseph Pilates, this is a body conditioning program that develops flexibility and strength through controlled movements and specially-designed exercise equipment.

Qi Gong (or Chi Gung or Chi Kung)
A group of Chinese self-healing exercises, the term Qi Gong comes from qi (energy) and gong (achievement that comes from practice). The exercises include simple movements, breathing, and mental imagery to relax and strengthen the body and mind.

Salt Glow
Used to exfoliate and stimulate circulation, skin is rubbed with coarse salt combined with fragrant oils.

Shiatsu
This massage technique developed in Japan uses applied pressure to specific body points to stimulate and unblock meridians, or pathways through which energy is said to flow.

Thai Massage
With a client dressed in full clothing, this treatment involves yoga-like stretching and pressure-point massage to release blocked energy, relieve tension, and increase awareness.

Vichy Shower
Meant to hydrate the body and improve circulation, the Vichy shower was inspired by treatments in the French thermal spa city. It involves a client lying beneath a spray of warm water created by a five- to seven-head shower system.

Watsu
This treatment achieves deep relaxation in the client through rhythmic movements and a pressure-point massage administered by a therapist in a warm pool.

Yoga
Aimed at self-development and self-realization, the physical practice of yoga uses positions, deep breathing, and meditation to stretch and tone the body.

Zen
A school of Mahayana Buddhism that asserts enlightenment can be achieved through meditation, self-contemplation, and intuition by focusing on one's essential nature.

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Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=254553&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

For Your Next Break - A Weight Loss Spa Vacation

Are you ready for the weight loss spa vacation of your dreams? A weight loss spa vacation will definitely spoil you with several beauty treatments and fun activities while making sure that you are losing weight. Furthermore, they are designed as an escape from your stressful and unhealthy lifestyle that are two of the major causes for weight gain.

Health and fitness for you

With a beautiful and tranquil environment, the weight loss spa vacation of your choice can serve as your own personal retreat from your regular lifestyle. There are different weight loss spa vacation packages you can avail depending on your choice and all of them are geared towards creating an awareness in you about the importance of health and fitness.

Learning while having fun

At a weight loss spa vacation, you are going to learn about how a healthy lifestyle can benefit you when it comes to weight loss and weight management. The best thing about this kind of vacation? Learning is mixed with a variety of fun, relaxing, and rejuvenating activities.

What do you need from a spa?

Pick a weight loss spa vacation that can fit your requirements and needs for your health and weight loss. There are spas that can enlighten you and your spirit with their silent and calm surroundings for a taste of tranquility. Tranquil environments are usually provided by spas that are near or by the ocean, the mountains, etc.

Something within your budget

Along with the place, choose a weight loss spa vacation package that is within your budget. Keep in mind that these vacation spas are not cheap, so choose something that you can afford but is still within your budget range. Remember that the weight loss spa vacation should be for relaxation and de-stressing and should not be a burden to you just because of the costs.

Phillip England is a weight loss expert and Author of the popular report "The Ultimate Weight Loss Secret". To receive your free information on the secret that doctors, and health companies either don't know, or don't want you to know, please see http://www.theultimateweightlosssecret.com/secret

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Create a Spa Retreat at Home!

In today’s high-stress world, a visit to a spa can provide a much needed renewal for your mind, body and soul. If you don’t have the time and/or money to head to the nearest spa or resort, consider creating your own. Experience the benefits of a day at the spa by creating a near-professional spa in your own home. Here are some ideas for transforming you bathroom into a relaxing spa retreat.

SPA TREATMENTS

Widely used in spas, bath salts or salt scrubs made with sea salts are wonderful for their detoxifying properties. The Romans, Greeks and other European cultures have long believed in the benefits of healing through bathing in hotsprings.

SPA TOOLS

If you’re giving yourself a body treatment, have a body brush, loofah or sponge within easy reach. One of the best ways to revive skin is to exfoliate before you get in the shower. The ancient spas of Japan were known for their dry brushing techniques. Gently brush your body using circular motions with a soft body brush, starting at the feet and working your way up. This light brushing technique removes dead skin cells while stimulating circulation.

DRY OFF

Pamper yourself with classic and elegant spa garb – a luxuriously thick white terrycloth robe. If you don’t have a robe handy, find your fluffiest, softest towel. For an unmatched toasty treat, heat your robe or towel in the dryer before using.

MOISTURIZE

Water from the bath has a drying effect on the skin. To make the most of your skin replenishment, keep a special body lotion for spa days – one with an aroma that you enjoy.

Chere Deshayes is the president of Bath Plantation, a company that specializes in handcrafted bath and spa products. Subscribe to her FREE newsletter at http://www.bathplantation.com/newsletter.html or visit her site at http://www.bathplantation.com.

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Holiday Gift Ideas - Seven People In Your Life Who Need a Spa Break

If you want your gifts to be the best under the tree this year, why not give a spa break? Here are seven people you know who could use one.

Your wife. Show her how much you love and appreciate her by giving her a nice, long break at a luxurious spa destination.

Your mum. There's no way we could repay our mothers for the love they've given us over the years, but a spa break is a great way to show her how much you appreciate her.

Your mother-in-law. Give your mother-in-law a spa break as a gesture of goodwill or as a thank-you gift for all the help and love she's given you, and she'll be impressed.

The young couple. Young marriages are always full of stress. Why not help the young couple in your life reconnect by giving them the gift of a spa break for two?

New parents. Know a couple who's just had a baby? This is a crazy time in any couple's life-and a great time for a relaxing spa vacation.

Older parents. Do your parents, grandparents, or parents-in-law have an anniversary coming up? Why not treat them to a special spa break for two over the holidays?

You. You've taken a week or so to devote to friends and family over the holidays-now take some time to devote to yourself.

Everyone knows someone who is always putting others first. Show these people you appreciate them by giving a spa break this holiday season.

J. Vince is managing director at the online experience days company http://www.thanksdarling.comhttp://www.thanksdarling.com/categories/spa-breaks.htm - For a wide range of experience days including Spa breaks visit

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Spa Gift Baskets

Are you tired and confused looking for a perfect gift for your dear ones? Why not look for gifts that relieve stress? You can always send your loved ones spa gift baskets. This is a basket full of therapeutic bath treatments to ease their, a hair and body spa treatment basket or relaxation treatments. It would surely make them happy, don't you think?

Spa gift baskets are widely available in most therapeutic stores, department stores or specialty gift centers. You can buy a gift basket full of Italian bath treats, home spa treatments or spa accessories. A spa gift basket with specialized spa robe and towels are also available.

Like any other gift baskets, you can also buy spa gift baskets in variety of themes to complement the person you're sending the gift to. You can buy bridal spa gift baskets for your soon-to-become bride friends, travel spa gift baskets for your loved-ones who are about to take some vacation or travel or new mother spa baskets for new moms in your family. You can also avail of any calm spa sets as your gift basket.

How To Choose The Best Basket?

Sending your friends and loved-ones with great spa gift baskets are ideal. However, you cannot just send a basket full of spa items without considering your recipient. Before buying, be sure to know if your recipient has any allergy that can be induced by spa treatments. Also, know if a certain item may induce that allergy. This way, you can be sure that you're sending a really nice spa gifts to them.

Choosing your basket will also depend on the person you're sending the gifts to and the occasion. Be sure to choose a basket that complements the recipient; gift baskets for mothers should be sent to friends or loved-ones with kids. Any friends with foot problems would best appreciate foot spa baskets. On the other hand, your sweethearts would surely love romantic-themed spa gift baskets.

Spa Gift Baskets Online

Whether you're looking for spa gifts for your family or friends, there's no other best way to do so than to look up on the Internet. The Web has many websites that offers a wide variety of gift baskets for you to choose from; and you'll surely find many that offer spa gift items. These online stores offer convenient packages and reliable shipping procedures; hence, you're sure to have your orders delivered on time and in the right place. Live chats and toll-free numbers are available so you can reach them for further inquiries.

Gift Baskets provides detailed information on gift baskets, baby gift baskets, christmas gift baskets, corporate gift baskets and more. Gift Baskets is affiliated with Corporate Holiday Gift Baskets.

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Hotels In Cork, Ireland With A Spa

The Imperial Hotel & Spa claims to be the oldest hotel in Cork city! It's located on South Mall, just steps from all that Cork city has to offer. Guests can relax in the hotel's Aveda Spa with its tropical showers, aroma and salt grottos and its exclusive Evian Hydrotherapy Pool.

The Maryborough Hotel & Spa is located in Douglas and boasts the ESPA - the world renowned spa chain. This spa is a welcome retreat after a busy day sightseeing or shopping in Cork. Hot stone massages, body wraps and facials are just some of the treatments on offer.

Just outside the city...

Sheraton Foto Island Golf Resort & Spa was especially designed by Dr. Christian Jost - an internationally renowned spa designer. It has 18 luxurious treatment rooms and offers up to 60 therapeutic options. This leading spa offers baths, body polishes, hot stone treatments, manicures, pedicures etc

Radisson SAS Hotel Cork is just a 10 minute drive from both Cork Airport and Cork city. Here guests can unwind and relax at the Retreat Spa which offers Elemis treatments and products. The spa also boasts an 18-metre lustrous hydrotherapy pool with jets, fountains, waterfalls, geysers and bubbles to help ooze away those aches and pains.

The luxurious 4 star Oriel House Hotel Cork can be found in Ballincollig, just west of Cork city. When you stay at the Oriel House Hotel, be sure you enjoy a treatment at the Oriel Spa. The spa is superbly designed by the country's leading wellness advocates- Klaffs. It's Georgian in style and is located in the original Oriel House which dates back to 1805!

The plush 5 star Kingsley Hotel Cork is home to the Yauvana Spa, Yauvana meaning "youth". This spa is a holistic lifestyle spa which focuses on the ancient Ayurvedic principles.

Hotels in Cork county with spas

Midleton Park Hotel Cork is located in Midleton, a town about 22 km east of Cork city. The spa at this Cork hotel specializes in Yonka treatments and therapies

Inchydoney Hotel & Spa - This 4 star Cork hotel is located in beautiful Clonakilty overlooking Inchydoney beach and the ocean. At the 'Island Spa' you can avail of body treatments, seawater treatments and beauty treatments.

The exclusive 5 star Capella at Castlemartyr Hotel boasts the 'Auriga Spa' - a pure luxury destination which specializes in using organic products and treatments which have been taken from both ancient and contemporary practices

The luxurious 4 star Blarney Golf Resort & Spa is located in Blarney - just north of Cork city. At this Cork hotel spa you can indulge in body and facial treatments, which use the exclusive Yonka products. The spa at this hotel also specializes in St Tropez spray tanning.

Book a hotel in Cork, Ireland. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_J_Kelly