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To help you understand everything that a destination spa vacation can offer we've prepared a Destination Spa Vacations Glossary for your reference.
A
Acupressure: Finger massage that releases tension and improves the flow of energy (chi) throughout the body by applying pressure to the "energy points" or meridians in the body.
Acupuncture: An ancient oriental healing technique discovered and developed more than three thousand years ago, acupuncture is based on Taoist philosophy. The aim is to balance the energy meridians to permit the body to "heal itself. A relatively painless technique, it is administered by inserting fine needles at key points of the body that relate to different organs in order to relieve muscular, neurological and arthritic problems, cure disease and relieve pain.
Acutonics : This system of sound healing uses the power of vibration to bring body and mind into greater harmony. Tuning forks applied to acupuncture points, chakras and trigger points awaken and align the meridians and energy centers of your body, bringing them into balance. The treatment takes place in a healing sound-environment created by bells, gongs and drums that together create a moving, and at times mystical, experience.
Aerobics: Rhythmic exercises performed to music that stimulates the aerobic capacity of the heart and lungs, burn calories, and improve endurance.
AHA Fruit Acid: Natural acids (alphahydroxy-acids) which are mainly present in fruit, sometimes used in beauty treatments for natural skin peeling to reveal fresh skin. (Similar to exfoliation but effected through natural fruit acids rather than exfoliation creams).
Alexander Technique: A method that develops and maintains the alignment of the head, neck and spine in order to reduce unnecessary strain on the body and release tension in the muscles. The Alexander Technique is a simple and practical method for both self-improvement and self-help. Can help with poise and posture, vitality and co-ordination, enabling movement to become freer and lighter.
Algae: Specific marine-based products derived from marine plants rich in vitamins, minerals and trace elements, which supply the skin with valuable nutrients. Applications include bubble baths, cr?mes and beauty packs.
Algotherapy: Seaweed bath. See Thalassotherapy.
Alternative therapies: Treatments based on speculative or abstract reasoning as compared to common practice.
Anthotherapy: Treatments in humid caves where the atmosphere is very vaporous (between 30°-42°C / 86°-107°F). In dry caves the atmosphere takes the heat from the spring (between 50°-70°C / 122° - 158°F).
Aqua (water) aerobics: Aerobic exercises performed in a swimming pool where the water provides support and resistance.
Aqua Aerobics: Aerobic workouts performed in a swimming pool. Water resistance is utilized to stretch, strengthen and increase stamina. This activity is also commonly known as aquacise or aquacize.
Aquacise (Aquasize): Aerobic workouts performed in a swimming pool. Water resistance is utilized to stretch, strengthen and increase stamina. This activity is also commonly known as aqua aerobics.
Aquafit: See aqua aerobics.
Aquabalance: Involves passive and active movements while floating in 35°C warm water. Sessions take place with a qualified therapist and promote well-being and a relaxed, balanced sensation.
Aromatherapy: The use of fragrant, natural, botanical essential oils from plants, leaves, bark, roots, seeds, resins and flowers as a healing art. Aromatherapy refreshes and relaxes the skin while soothing the mind by helping to induce a sense of well-being. Each individual essence is used to produce a specific beneficial effect. Used in massage and facials.
Asanas: Yoga postures.
Ashiatsu - Deep Barefoot Massage: The ultimate deep massage therapy. In this compression massage, the therapist uses overhead bars for balance while using the feet to bring about release and structural change in chronically sore, tight tissues. Ashiatsu provides deep relaxation and stimulates the lymphatic system. This is the modern version of a classic Asian therapy for persistent back and neck pain.
Astrology: The study of planetary (and heavenly) influence on human psychology, character, and relationships. Using the time and place of your birth, an astrologer interprets life patterns and offers insights. Planetary symbolism can be used to examine and understand life direction for individuals of all ages. Popular topics include relationships, Astro*Carto*Graphy (power spots for you around the world), personal archetypes, and spiritual paths.
Athletic Massage: A very deep penetrating massage that concentrates on all muscle groups, but is particularly focused on muscles primarily used in a person's chosen sports activities. See Sports Massage.
Ayurveda Treatment: An ancient Indian folk medicine that employs a large variety of treatments by waters to restore and revitalize the body. Ayurveda utilizes the curative properties of plants, herbs and essential oils to improve the skin's health and relieve the stress, tension and emotion of daily life.
B
Bach Flower Cures: The use of flowers as a means of healing.
Balneotherapy: The use of water to improve circulation, strengthen the immune system, and reduce pain and stress.
Baths: The act of soaking or cleansing the body, as in water or stream.
Bindi: Bodywork combining exfoliation, herbal treatment, and light massage.
Bioenergetics: The exchange of energy between persons giving and receiving massage. This psychotherapeutic bodywork is based on the interconnection between chronic psychological defense mechanisms.
Body Composition Test: Computerized evaluation of lean body mass determining the percentage of body fat. This test is usually part of an overall fitness analysis and is used to develop a realistic weight loss goal and create a nutrition and exercise program suited to individual requirements.
Body Scrub (also see Exfoliation): Body Scrubs/Skin Care which includes Brush & Tone, Dulse scrub, loofah scrub, paraffin treatment, repaichage and Vichy shower.
Body Sugaring: Hair-removal process said to date from the time of Cleopatra.
Body Wraps: Also known as body envelopments - this type of treatment usually involves the application of rich, nutrient substances or cr?mes. Heat and humidity make the skin particularly absorptive to active substances and this is often enhanced by the wrapping of the body (sometimes with heated towels while lying on heated massage bed). This can increase the heat of your body and thus increase absorption of the applied lotions, potions or creams and will depend on what type of product is being used. This treatment can also sometimes include a relaxing scalp massage whilst the wrap does its good work!
Brossage: A fine body polish done with a series of brushes and salicylic salt. Used to create a fine texture of the skin's surface.
Brush & Tone: Dry-brushing exfoliating of skin to remove its dead layers and impurities and stimulate circulation.
C
Capoeira: Combination of acrobatics, dance, boxing, and martial arts invented by Brazilian slaves. Widely played in South America and gaining popularity in the United States.
Cathiodermie: A rejuvenating treatment for the skin using electric stimulation in a low voltage dose. An electric machine is employed, using both galvanic and high-frequency currents that are claimed to deep-cleanse and revitalize your skin and oxygenate its outer tissue layer.
Chakra: Refers to the seven energy centers of the body. Taken from the Sanskrit word meaning "wheel".
Chi Kung / Chi Kong / Qigong: A Chinese energy exercise where breathing and body movement recharge energy.
Circuit Training: A high-energy aerobic workout combined with weight resistance equipment in a series of stations, stopping only briefly before each exercise to keep your heart rate within an acceptable range.
Clay Treatments ("Clay Play"): Natural compounds rich in aluminium which retain warmth well and stimulate blood circulation, allowing active ingredients applied beneath to penetrate the skin more effectively and leaving skin re-energized and feeling fresh and stimulated. Can be used as body wrap packs or face masks
Clairvoyant Reading : A clairvoyant reading is a safe, secure way to gain more insight into decisions and changes. A reading of the energies of your aura can illuminate your life experience in a way that can provide clarity and understanding.
Cold Plunge: Deep pool for the rapid contraction of the capillaries, intended to stimulate circulation after sauna.
Collagen Facial: Freeze-dried collagen is used to plump the skin to fill in the fine lines acquired by stress, sunbathing, or the environment.
Colon Therapy: A high colonic enema that cleanses using water. Benefits include detoxification, cleansing of the blood, and the stimulation of internal organs.
Color Therapy: Colors of the spectrum are used to balance, harmonize and balance the mind and body. Also known as Light Therapy and sometimes used in conjunction with Audio Therapy which allows you to have a visual and aural experience - total chill out!
Complementary Therapies: A collective term used to describe any treatments or practices which specifically create a feeling of well-being through rebalancing the body, alleviating the effects of stress, increasing energy levels and reducing aches and pains. Many conditions respond particularly well to complementary medicine and the benefits you derive can continue long after the treatment. Certain treatments are ideal to have on your day of arrival as a relaxing start to your stay.
Compress: a folded cloth or pad applied so as to press upon a body part.
Connective Tissue Massage: Deep intensive massage aimed at relaxing tense muscles. Manipulation of the reflexology zones harmonizes the functions of the inner organs. Very suitable if you are highly active and take regular exercise as a relaxing massage, which corrects minor muscle aches!
Contouring: Deep toning of muscles using calisthenics.
Craniosacral Massage: A gentle hands-on massage centering on the head, spinal column and sacrum to reduce physical and psychological tensions
Creative Visualization: A relaxation technique that involves the use of mental energy to transform and greatly improve health, beauty, prosperity, and the fulfillment of one's desires. It is usually done while lying in a quiet, dark room while an instructor asks the participants to imagine themselves in a serene, relaxing environment eventually bringing the participants to a state of deep relaxation.
Crystal Facial: This scientifically advanced facial delivers antioxidant vitamins and micro-crystals to deeply exfoliate and stimulate. Manual microdermabrasion instantly reveals smoother healthier, more beautiful skin. Ideal for men and women, and beneficial for both dry and oily skin.
Crystal Healing: Healing energy believed to be generated by quartz and other minerals. Crystals are known to have electromagnetic energy, as does the human body. When a natural quartz crystal is brought into contact with a person's etheric body, the electromagnetic attraction is capable of drawing imbalanced energy out of the human body.
Cybex: Patented exercise equipment used for isokinetic strength training.
D
Dancercise: Modified modern dance steps and movements to provide an aerobic work out.
Dead Sea Mud Treatment: The application of mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea to detoxify the skin and the body and to relieve rheumatic and arthritic pain.
Deep Cleansing Facial: Use of sophisticated machines or manual techniques to open pores, extract blackheads by hand, purify skin, close pores, and revitalize skin.
Deep Tissue Muscle Massage: A type of massage designed to free congestion of the muscle attachments. Deep work brings about realignment of postural distortions and restores proper range of motion. Liberation of emotional tensions may also result. Muscle function and awareness are balanced, and elasticity is revived.
Deep Muscle Relaxation: Excellent relaxation technique which is simple to learn and very effective in achieving a subsequent relaxation as the result of tensing muscles and then relaxing the tension and repeating. Deliberate and consistent deep muscle relaxation can help to lower physical and emotional anxiety and you can learn and then continue to practice at home!
Destination Spa: A spa whose sole purpose is to provide guests with lifestyle improvement and health enhancement through professionally administered spa services, physical fitness, spa cuisine exclusively served, educational programming, and on-site accommodations. Aka: health spa.
Detoxification: The process of cleansing the body of accumulated poisons often from over-taxation due to addictive behaviors.
Dietitian (Registered Dietitian, R.D.): A food and nutrition expert qualified in the practice of dietetics. A registered dietitian denotes a four-year college graduate and registration by the Credentialing Board of Dietetic Registration.
Doshas: According to Ayurvedic medicine, the three metabolic types (vata, pitta, and Kapha). Most people are a combination of types, though are predominately one.
Dry Brush Massage: See brush and tone.
Dry Floatation: This is a superbly comfortable and relaxing treatment, as you lie floating, totally enveloped in warm water but dry. Aromatic essential oils calm the mind and relieve tension.
Drumming: Rhythms and sounds, used by spas to promote emotional and spiritual release. Drums may come from African, Middle Eastern, Native American, and South American musical traditions.
Dulse Scrub: A vigorous scrubbing of the entire body with a mixture of powdered dulse seaweed and oil or water to remove dead skin and provide a mineral and vitamin treatment to the skin. This is a gentle treatment for sensitive skin which leaves the skin incredibly smooth.
E
Endermologie: French massage therapy said to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Energy balancing: A general term for techniques which channel and stimulate energy in the body.
"Energy therapies" are based on the premise that all matter in the universe is composed of energy, therefore methods exist by which energy can be manipulated in order to heal human body. Examples include: Acupuncture and acupressure, laser therapy, light therapy, magnetic therapy, qi gong, energy psychology, Reiki, Johrei, Healing Touch, Therapeutic Touch, Touch for Health, Applied Kinesiology, Emotional Freedom Techniques, NAET, Tapas Acupressure Technique, Brennan Healing Science, Eden Energy Medicine, distant healing, intuitive medicine, and intercessory prayer.
Esalen Massage: A long, gentle and stroking style of massage.
European Facial: A skin care treatment that includes deep cleansing, steam, exfoliation and professional massage of the face, shoulders and chest area, which nourishes and refines the skin. This is followed by a special masque that hydrates the skin.
Essential Oils: Aromatic liquid substances which are extracted from certain species of flowers, grasses, fruits, leaves, roots, and trees. Used in aromatherapy, massage and facial products.
Exfoliation: Skin treatment where the upper layer of dead skin cells is sloughed off. A variety of techniques can be used and the treatment is called accordingly: loofah rub, salt scrub, body glow, brush and tone, etc.
Exfoliating Facial Treatment: Peels away dry skin cells and removes deeply trapped secretions that impede oxygenation. Marine sediments, mineral salts, and lipo-amino acids can be used to stimulate circulation and add moisture.
Exfoliation: Peels away dry skin cells and removes deeply trapped secretions that impede oxygenation.
Eyebrow threading: Ancient method of hair removal developed in the Middle East and Asia that uses a cotton thread to pull out unwanted hair at the root.
F
Facial: A three-step treatment for the face that is designed to cleanse, tone, and moisturize the skin.
Fango Body Treatment: A body treatment that involves the application of highly mineralized thermal mud to the entire body in an effort to gently cleanse, release toxins, remineralize, nourish, and soothe the skin. Also used to relieve muscular and arthritic pain.
Fast: To abstain from certain or all food and drink (except water) for a period of time for the purpose of physical detoxification and rejuvenation.
Feldenkrais: A system of bodywork designed to reprogram the nervous system through movement augmented by physical pressure and manipulation.
Feng Shui: Usually used as description of room layouts but is relevant to any environment in which you are in, including treatment rooms. Ancient knowledge has been taken and used to balance the elements and achieve an undisturbed flow of energy to promote well-being.
Finnish Sauna: A simple form of traditional bathing aimed at cleansing the body through perspiration. A pile of stones covering a stove is heated by wood, preferably birch, spruce or pine until it turns red hot. Water is then thrown over the heated stones to generate steam; leafy birch twigs are used to stimulate the circulation by beating the body.
Floatation (Isolation) Tank: An enclosed tank filled with sterile salt water regulated so that its temperature is precisely the same as your body temperature for a sense of buoyancy and weightlessness. You float in complete sensory isolation so that no nerve impulses move from the skin to the brain for a unique feeling of relaxation. Can be used in complete silence, music or guided imagery.
Flower Baths: Selected flower petals are strewn over pleasantly warm water for a stimulating or relaxing effect. Used alone or as part of a complete therapy (e.g. Lulur).
Free Weights: Hand held dumbbells or barbells used to isolate and tone selected muscle groups.
G
Genomics Consultation: Genomics testing is particularly helpful for people with a family history of significant disease, people wanting to take a proactive stance on their health, and those who have an especially challenging medical issue. Using information about your genetic inheritance, you can learn how to optimize your health through lifestyle, dietary and medical therapies.
Glycolic Facial: An alpha-hydroxyl acid based facial that breaks down the glue bond that holds dry skin on the face, and then creates a rapid exfoliation to soften lines and smooth the skin.
Gommage: A massage-like treatment using creams to cleanse and moisturize.
Guided Imagery: A relaxation technique that involves listening to music and/or a persons voice for the purpose of allowing imagery, symbols, and deep feelings to arise from the inner self.
Gyrotonics: an exercise system that employs movements found in swimming, yoga, gymnastics, and tai chi, using machines. The system is intended to improve flexibility and balance as well as muscle strength, and to increase overall flexibility and mobility in joints. It has been compared to and contrasted with Pilates but offers much more flexion.
H
Haiku: Traditonal Japanese form of poetry consisting of three lines, which have 5, 7, and 5 syllables respectively.
Hammam: Turkish-style steam bath.
Hand and Foot Treatment: a spa treatment that includes a standard manicure and pedicure, followed by a seaweed or paraffin mask to soften and smooth the skin.
Hatha Yoga: Branch of yoga that is devoted to the physical processes and involves breathing and physical exercises. There are many types of physical yoga.
Healing Touch: An energy modality which encourages healing. Practitioners place their hands near the cleint to detect and manipulate the charkras and human energy fields, which allows them to assist the natural healing process. It is especially useful for stress reduction, anxiety, addictions, fatigue, grief, transitions, chronic immune-related diseases, cancer care, physical pain, general well-being, spiritual growth and awareness.
Henna: Dye from a natural plant substance used especially in Middle East in many cultures to decorate skin as part of ceremonial rituals. It is used also to color hair in West.
Herbal Wrap: The body is wrapped in a warm cloth soaked in an herbal solution to eliminate impurities, detoxify the body, and induce relaxation. Herbal wraps help relax the muscles, soothe soreness and soften skin. However, some people find the heat oppressive and the cocoon effect of the wet sheets and blankets smothering. To avoid feeling claustrophobic, the arms may remain outside of the wrap.
Herbology: The study and therapeutic use of herbs in treatments and diet.
Holistic Health: A non-medical philosophy of well-being that considers the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of life as closely interconnected and balanced.
Hot Plunge: Deep pool for the rapid expansion of the capillaries.
Hot Spring: A place in the earth's surface, often volcanic, where hot mineral waters rise to the surface.
Hot Stone Massage Therapy: A bodywork that involves the use of heated and cooled stones (Thermotherapy) applied to the body in various ways to bring about relief to stiff and sore muscles.
Hydrotherapy: Water used as a form of treatment by way of jet massages, showers, and baths (Swiss Shower, Thalassotherapy, Jacuzzi, etc…).
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Inhalation Therapy (Room): A wood-paneled room filled with hot vapors and/or steam from sea water, mineral water, or thermal water, sometimes augmented with pine eucalyptus and other oils for relieving respiratory congestion and enjoying the pleasures of aromatherapy. Hot vapors, or steam combined with eucalyptus oil, for treatment of respiratory, pulmonary and sinus problems are breathed through inhalation equipment or in a specific steam room. In Europe, this sometimes refers to breathing vapors piped from below ground for varying treatments.
Interval Training: A combination series of high-energy exercise followed by a period of low intensity activity.
Iridology: A science by which a doctor or practitioner can determine, from the markings or signs in the iris of the eye, the condition of various organs in the body.
Iyengar Yoga: Exercise system developed in India by B.K.S. Iyengar.
J
Jin Shin Do: An ancient art of harmonizing life energy within the body practiced by placing fingertips over clothing on designated areas.
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Kinesiology: The study of muscle structure and movement.
Kur: A planned course of treatment or supervised series of spa treatments over a period of time.
L
Labyrinth walking: Following a man-made, spiral pattern path (traced on the ground, as in many cathedrals, or constructed in garden) to meditate, focus, and calm the mind. Not a maze, the path follows a number of circuits to the center of a circle and back out.
Lomi-Lomi massage: Traditional Hawaiian bodywork massage that uses rhythmical, rocking wave movements.
Loofah Scrub: Brisk rubbing with a Loofah sponge to exfoliate the skin and stimulate circulation.
Low Impact Aerobics: A dance-like exercise that does not involve jumping, hopping, or jogging movements, sparing possible injury to joints.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage: Therapeutic massage that uses a delicate pumping technique to drain lymph nodes of water and trapped toxins.
M
Macrobiotic Diet: An extremely restricted vegetarian diet, low in fat and high in antioxidant vitamins to achieve a fuller sense of balance by synchronizing eating habits with the cycles of nature.
Magnet Therapy: The use of electromagnetic fields to treat a variety of conditions, including circulatory problems, certain forms of arthritis, chronic pain, sleep disorders and stress.
Manicure: A cosmetic treatment of the fingernails, including shaping and polishing.
Marma Chikitsa: This ancient, holistic treatment combines touch therapy with transdermal aromatherapy. Fragrant essential oils, chosen for your dosha (body type), are applied with light pressure to marmas - energy points on the skin where, according to Ayurvedic thought, your subconscious mind communicates with your body. These doorways, when stimulated, send messages to internal organs and vital functions, helping to regulate the flow of information and nutrients throughout the body. This is a profoundly relaxing and energetically balancing treatment.
Massage: The manipulation of skin, muscle, and joints (usually by hand) to relax muscle spasm, relieve tension, improve circulation, and eliminate wastes. Over 80 types of massage are in use today. Various forms include: acupressure, athletic, polarity, reflexology, rolfing, shiatsu, sports, Swedish, traeger, and watsu.
Meditation: A state of focused attention through which one emerges into an ever-increasing clear awareness of reality.
Microdermabrasion: Facial exfoliation procedure in which skin is "sandblasted" with ultra-fine crystals of aluminum oxide or other ingredients to remove top layer of skin.
Mind/Body (Connection): Category of activities based on speculative or abstract reasoning. These include: Reflection: Breathing exercises, gardening, meditation, nature walks, relaxation classes, stretching techniques, Tai Chi and yoga. Creative Activities: Arts and crafts, music, painting, poetry and writing. Workshops: Astrology, emotional health, lifestyle interview, relationships and couples, smoking addiction and stress-management.
Mindfulness: Non-judgmental, undistracted state that is a goal of meditation and involves being aware of oneself and one's surroundings.
Mineral Waters: Water from springs and wells, which contain a minimum of 1,000 mgr./l solid components of rare, biologically active elements or compounds. Mineral waters can be cold or hot, but their mineral composition is essential.
Moor/Peat (Baths): A natural, peat preparation (often imported from Austria), rich in organic matter, proteins, vitamins and trace minerals, applied to ease aches and pains. Can also be applied on a cloth as a pack.
Mud Treatment: A treatment which involves the application or submersion of self into mineral-rich mud in order to detoxify the body, loosen muscles, stimulate circulation, and hydrate & exfoliate the skin leaving it with a vital, healthy glow.
N
Naturopathy: Natural healing treatments using plants and flowers.
Nautilus: Patented strength-training equipment intended to isolate one muscle group for each exercise motion.
Neuromuscular Therapy: NMT is precise soft tissue therapy for the purpose of releasing hyper-contraction and spasms in the soft tissue, eliminating trigger points that cause pain and restoring postural alignment and flexibility. Each service includes a measurement of the skeletal frame and an assessment of postural patterns with specific manual therapy to the problem areas. NMT is excellent for the reduction of chronic complaints such as sciatica, headaches, shoulder pain and other painful conditions that aren't responding to traditional therapy.
Nia: Pronounced "nee-ya". Previously known as Non-Impact Aerobics and Neuromuscular Integrative Action, now referred to simply as "Nia". Nia Blends three dance arts (Isadora Duncan dance, modern dance, and jazz dance), three martial arts (aikido, tae kwon do, and tai chi) and three healing arts (Alexander Technique, yoga, and Feldenkrais). It is a form of aerobic exercise that can be practiced by people of nearly all ages and physical conditions. Nia classes are choreographed and accompanied by a wide variety of music styles. Nia teachers lead students through a series of 52 basic moves, each of which can be performed at three levels of intensity (high, medium, and low) and planes of movement (high, medium, and low). Nia practitioners claim the practice can help people tune into ways of moving that not only prevent or avoid discomfort, but also increase pleasure and joy in movement.
O
Onsen: Japanese natural mineral hot springs.
Oriental Facial Rejuvenation: This comprehensive experience of Chinese medicine includes facial needles, massage, herbal poultice and, possibly, body acupuncture to vitalize and rejuvenate facial tissue at the cellular and energetic level.
P
Panchakarma: Succession of cleansing and purifying treatments from Ayurveda, using nutrition, herbs, massage and meditative techniques aimed to restore the body's own ability to create health.
Parafango: A spa treatment that combines mud and paraffin wax.
Paraffin Treatment: Melted paraffin is applied to the skin to trap heat, absorb toxins, and induce relaxation. After solidifying, it is briskly whisked off leaving the skin silky smooth.
Paraffin Body Wrap: A process of removing dead skin cells with hot oil and Japanese dry brushing techniques. Then an emollient wax is applied to the entire body for an intense hydrating treatment.
Parcourse: An outdoor path or trail with exercise stations along the way provided with instructions and equipment.
Pedicure: Nail care and treatment of the feet. Includes soaking feet in warm soapy water and removing dry skin with a pumice stone or a special razor. Also includes a foot and leg massage and concludes with polishing of nails, if desired.
Phytotherapy: Healing through plants, involving the use of herbs, aromatic essential oils, seaweeds, herbal and floral extracts.
Pilates (Method): An exercise system with and without apparatus based on eight basic principles. The aim is to improve flexibility and strength and to create a balance in the body. It includes comprehensive regulation of the physical functions and leads to physical and mental relaxation. Particularly effective for back and posture problems.
Polarity: Polarity work synthesizes ancient Eastern and modern Western healing systems. Polarity therapists view the entire body as a dynamic energy field with positive, negative and neutral poles. The bodywork techniques used may include gentle touch, rhythmic rocking, passive unwinding and resonance-of-energy work. The therapist aims to restore balance to the body's energy field, bringing about deep relaxation and emotional calm.
Polish: A gentle process using large sea sponges to cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and soften the body.
Power Yoga: A form of yoga with an accelerated succession of yoga body postures.
Pressure-Point Massage: Selected acupuncture points are manipulated by the therapist using fingertips rather than needles thus releasing energy blockages and regulating physical functions.
Q
Qigong / Chi Kung / Chi Kong: A gentle Chinese mind-body practice that integrates physical movements, coordinated breathing and meditation. Your trainer teaches you a series of movements that restores and balances chi - the life force - and releases unhealthy inner tension and stress.
R
Rebounder: A miniature trampoline.
Reflexology: An ancient Chinese technique in which specific pressure points (usually on the feet, but also on the hands and ears) are massaged in order to re-establish the flow of energy throughout the body.
Reiki: The Ancient Art and Science of balancing the body's energy on a physical and emotional level. For the treatment the practitioner places his or her hands on the client's body to channel energy into the body; blockages are released and energy stimulated inducing a deep state of relaxation. Leaves you feeling calm, relaxed and more in control.
Repaichage: A combination of herbal, clay, seaweed or mud face-packs to cleanse and moisturize.
Restorative Yoga: Passive yoga poses lasting up to 20 minutes, supported by pillows, towels, etc., and meant to encourage relaxation via the release of tension in the muscles and spine. Also quiets the mind, rejuvenates the body-mind connection, and doesn't require flexibility or athletic ability of other forms of yoga.
Rolfing: Bodywork technique that improves balance and flexibility through deep manipulation of rigid muscles, bones, and joints; intended to relieve stress and improve energy.
Roman (Pool) Bath: Roman baths consisted of a series of hot, warm and cold pools. Today the term usually refers to a hot whirlpool, with benches to sit on for one or more persons.
Russian (Steam) Bath: A steam bath.
S
Salt Glow: An exfoliating treatment where the body is rubbed with coarse salt to remove the top layer of dead skin and stimulate circulation.
Sanarium or Saunarium: Somewhere between a sauna and a steam room. Usually used to describe low temperature sauna (40-50°C), in which essential oils, e.g. eucalyptus, are used to bring calmness and relaxation to the air passages.
Sauna: Dry heat in a wooden room used to open the pores and eliminate toxins through sweat.
Scalp (& Hair) Treatment:
A thorough cleansing, conditioning and scalp massage that leaves hair shiny and full of body.
Scotch Hose Massage: A massage received in a standing position performed by a therapist who uses a hose to spray strong jets of water on the body alternating hot and cold water or using seawater.
Scrub: Skin peeling (otherwise known as skin exfoliation) using fine-grained substances such as salts, ground fruit seeds, fine sand and others, which are often combined with a cream to ensure that you are comfortable whilst this is used on your skin. Highly effective in sloughing off the old skin cells to reveal newer, softer and younger looking skin.
Seaweed Wrap: A wrap of concentrated sea water and seaweed which diffuses minerals, rare elements, vitamins, proteins in the blood stream to revitalize the skin and the body.
Self-Tan: Application of self-tanning products applied to face and body usually following a full body exfoliation to slough off old skin to reveal the newer, fresher skin beneath - this ensures that the tanned effect lasts longer and is not patchy!
Shamanism (Shamanic): Spiritual and natural healing performed by a medicine man.
Shiatsu: Acupressure massage technique in which pressure is applied to specific points of the body to stimulate or release the 'meridians' (paths of the body) through which energy flows.
Shirodhara: Ayurvedic treatment lasting 7 to l0 minutes during which stream of oil is poured in the center of your forehead (on your "third eye") in order to help you focus, concentrate, and relax your mind and body.
Sitz Bath: A bathtub shaped like a chair in which the hips and lower body are immersed in herbal hot water, followed by cold water, while soaking feet in water alternating from cold to hot to stimulate the immune system. Also a Kneipp treatment for constipation, hemorrhoids, prostate problems, menstrual problems, and digestive upsets.
Spa: Derived from "Sanus Per Aquam" (health through water!). Used to describe the facilities offered at venues with not just swimming pool, but usually sauna, steam, and hot tub and offers treatments such as massage and facials.
Spa Cuisine: Fresh natural foods that are conscious of the health of the individual as well as the environment. The emphasis is on seasonal whole foods [grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, low-fat dairy products, and the avoidance of added or artificial salts, colors, flavors, or preservatives].
Spa Day: A full or half day which would normally include lunch & full use of facilities such as sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, pool etc. Packages are chosen depending on how many treatments & how much pampering you want. Most venues on Spabreak offer these packages, described in detail under "Day Spa"
Spinning®: An aerobic series of exercises seated on special exercise bikes: stretching, low intensity aerobics, high intensity aerobics, body contour, yoga, and meditation.
Sports Massage: Massage of foundation tissues directed specifically at the muscles used in athletic activities. This is a deep muscle massage often used around the joints. It combines classical Swedish style with trigger points, compression and electro-neuromuscular techniques to reduce soreness.
Steam Room: Tiled room in which steam is generated at high pressure and temperature to open the pores and eliminate toxins.
Step Class / Step Aerobics: Rhythmic aerobic sessions performed with a small platform used to step up and down.
Sugaring: An ancient hair removal process.
Sweat Lodge Ceremony: An ancient Native American body purification process involving the use of intense heat to provoke visions and insights.
Swedish Massage: A classical European massage technique of the muscles with special oils by therapeutic stroking and kneading of muscle tissue to promote stress relief. It is used to improve circulation, relieve muscle pain and tension, increase flexibility and induce relaxation. It combines three basic strokes to the skin: long, firm strokes; kneading strokes; and small circles. This is the most requested and one of the most enjoyable massages.
Swiss Shower: Powerful shower jets that alternate hot and cold water are directed onto the body at various levels to produce the effect of an invigorating massage.
T
T'ai Chi (Chuan): A form of Chinese martial art that combines mental concentration, slow respiration and graceful movements similar to those of a dance; "meditation in motion".
Tarot : Uses cards forming a series of transformative images whose origins are rooted in Western mystic tradition. Through these images, one may draw forth information from the unconscious, illuminating and clarifying the profound meaning of the moment in question.
Temazcal: A traditional healing method involving heat that is practiced by indigenous North and Central Americans. Inside a dome-like structure, participants gather around a pit where water is poured over heated stones. The steam is meant to relax and detoxify, and thus to create a relaxed, balanced, contemplative state. Also known as a sweat lodge.
Thai Massage: A technique that involves a unique combination of gentle rocking and stretching using range of motion and acupressure techniques applied through clothing without oils.
Thalassotherapy: The use of sea products used to detoxify, exfoliate, balance the skin's pH, and hydrate.
Trager Massage: Massage that relieves tension and realigns the body by use of slow, effortless, and easy movement.
U
Underwater Massage: A powerful water jet directed at damaged or tense muscle groups to achieve a massage or relaxing effect.
V
Vapozone: Deep cleansing of the skin by steaming. A fine jet sprays the face with steam to intensify deep cleaning, soften hard skin layers and open the pores.
Vegetarian Diet: A dietary regime of natural foods, specifically no animal product that results from the killing of that animal. Animal by-products may or may not be included in the diet (i.e. dairy, eggs, honey).
Vichy Shower: A shower taken lying down on a table, usually in a "wet room" where several overhead jets release water of varying temperatures and pressures.
W
Watsu®: A massage treatment that is performed with the therapist and client are in a pool of water. The technique combines shiatsu and acupressure in flowing dance-like movements where the body is supported by water and the practitioner. Watsu is extremely gentle, and can benefit anyone - including people with acute and chronic pain, postural imbalances and stress-related disorders. It's also just a great way to relax.
Waxing: The removal of body hair with hot wax.
Whirlpool: A tub of hot water (105-115° F) with jets of high-pressure water pumped from the sides and bottom which massage muscles and induce relaxation.
Y
Yoga: An ancient practice that uses special positions (asanas) and breath control to stretch and tone the body, improve circulation, calm the central nervous system and induce a meditative and all-embracing state of being.
Z
Zen: Japanese teaching with origins in ancient China whose belief is that the only path to enlightenment is through direct, intuitive insight-by focusing solely on your essential nature. |
