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There are 158 entries in the glossary.
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Term Definition
Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy
Recommended for the treatment of chronic low back pain, Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy combines elements of traditional Thai massage, barefoot shiatsu and Keralite Foot Massage (Chavutti Thirummal). Using overhead wooden bar supports, the therapist uses body weight and foot strokes to apply compression massage along strategic points in back muscles. Using a protocol of strokes that are gliding with the pressure of the feet, a "push, pull, pumping" effect is created on the intervertebral disc space. Developed by Ruthie Hardee, this deep compression on the soft tissue around the joints allows the nucleus pulposus (inside the disc) to assume its central position within the annular fibers and relieve irritations on the spinal nerve caused by inflammation and swelling.
 
Energizing
Means literally charging of the body and soul with energy. Selected substances, e.g. pure oxygen or certain flavours are used as stimulants to increase performance. Also a term used for the effect of certain treatments - particularly the stimulating treatments as opposed to the relaxing ones.
 
Fango Therapy/ Bath/ Treatment
The Italian word for ‘mud’. Treatment utilizing various types of mud, rich in minerals and nutrients, which are mixed with oil or water and applied all over the body as a heat pack to detoxify, stimulate circulation and relieve muscular and arthritic pain.
 
Abhyanga

Ayurvedic massage to improve hydration and relaxation without targeting specific areas. A daily ritual, traditionally its purpose is for total well-being and relaxation.

 
Acrosage

Developed by Benjamin Marantz, Acrosage is a combination of massage, yoga and acrobatics. You are placed in an inverted pose atop the acrosager's feet, allowing your head to hang freely. With no pressure on the neck or spine, your difficult points can be easily massaged.

 
Acu-Yoga

Acu-Yoga is a system of exercises that integrates the knowledge of two holistic methods of health maintenance-acupressure and yoga. Both relax muscular tension and balance the vital life forces of the body. Yoga enables the control the breath while holding the body in certain postures. Acupressure allows direct manipulation body energy through a system of points and meridians. Each Acu-Yoga posture will press and stretch certain nerves, muscles and acupressure points, awakening the meridians and releasing the tension in the points so that energy can circulate freely. This energy is the source of all life, and its flow is the key to radiant health. The process balances the body and stimulates it to heal itself.

 
Acupressure

A specific technique of finger massage designed to release muscle tension by applying pressure to the "energy points" or "meridians" in the body. Discovered by medical practitioners in China centuries ago, the pressure applied to these acupuncture points is believed to release blockages and allow the energy (chi) to flow freely. This technique of massage is believed to be very effective in relieving tension and stress.

 
Acupuncture

An ancient oriental healing technique based on Taoist philosophy, where needles are inserted at key points of the body that relate to different organs to balance energy meridians and encourage self-healing. This relatively painless technique is believed to relieve muscular, neurological and arthritic problems, cure disease and relieve pain (as in surgery).

 
Affusion Shower

This relaxing shower of warm droplets of water, seawater, mineral or aromatics is given whilst lying down. A lymph drainage massage can also be a part of the treatment.

 
AHA Fruit Acids
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).
 
Ai Chi
A combination of Eastern and Western methods of Tai-Chi, Shiatsu and aquatic exercise to stimulate both the mind and body. Performed in shoulder depth warm water, Ai Chi combines deep breathing and slow rhythmical movement to improve mobility, increase oxygen consumption, calm the mind and decrease stress by inducing deep relaxation and balances the mind and body.
 
Alexander Technique
A massage technique developed in the 1890s by F.M. Alexander to correct physical habits of posture that cause stress. The technique teaches the use of the appropriate amount of effort for a particular activity and is not a series of treatments or exercises, but rather a reeducation of the mind and body.
 
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, crèmes and beauty packs.
 
Algotherapy

The application of sea products such as algae or seaweed.

 
Aloe Vera
Contains an extraordinary amount of vitamins, amino acids, and trace minerals. Taken internally, the Aloe Vera Gel has been found to help many ailments including Insomnia, Infection, Indigestion, Heartburn, Constipation, Haemorrhoids, Ulcers and Arthritis. USed externally, it is good to treat Burns, Sunburn, Scalds, Psoriasis, Eczema, Acne, Stings, Scrapes, Abrasions and Scalp Care.
 
Amma/Anma
Amma (sometimes spelled anma) is the traditional word for massage in the Japanese language that comes from the Chinese tradition of massage, "anmo." This form of bodywork is based on the principles of Chinese medicine and is more than 5,000 years old. The amma techniques encompass a myriad of pressing, stroking, stretching and percussive manipulations with the thumbs, fingers, arms, elbows, knees and feet on acupressure points along the body's 14 major meridians. Through the structure of kata (choreographed movement), amma teaches the importance of rhythm, pacing, precision and form in massage. Shiatsu was developed from the amma tradition. Amma utilizes no oils and can be done through clothing with the client either sitting up or lying down.
 
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 Aerobics
Gentle gymnastics in the water, sometimes using water jets for increased resistance to stretch, strengthen, increase stamina and tone up muscles. This activity is also commonly known as aquacize.
 
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
Aromatherapy usually refers to treatments such as massage, facials, wraps and baths using essential oils (natural oil oncentrates, distilled from plants) to aid well being and is particularly effective when used to combat stress and anxiety as well as a wide range of other ailments. Oils are inhaled, massaged into the skin in diluted form or placed in baths where they can be inhaled and also absorbed.

 

 
Asanas
In Yoga, the word asana means comfortable, stable pose. Asanas are special positions of the body that will help strengthen, purify and balance the endocrine, nervous and circulatory systems.
 
Athletic Message
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.
 
Attitudinal Healing
A concept based on the belief that it is possible to choose peace rather than conflict, love rather than fear.
 
Ayurveda
Veda means "knowledge", and ayu is defined as "life". Ayurveda is usually defined as the "science" or "knowledge" of life. An ancient Indian practice which incorporates the curative properties of plants, herbs, essential oils, massage, aromatherapy and meditation, Ayurveda aims to balance body and mine, and relieve the stress, tension and emotion of daily life naturally.
 
Bach Flower Therapy
Founded and developed by Dr Edward Bach, this system of healing uses plant and flower based essences to treat the personality, mood and emotional outlook of a patient.
 
Balinese Massage
A dry oil massage that releases areas of tension through thumb and palm pressure techniques. Working along the body's energy meridians, the massage is deep and beneficial.
 
Balneotherapy
A generic term to describe the traditional practice of treatments that use water, including hot springs, mineral springs and seawater. These types of water are used in treatments to improve circulation, strengthen the immune system, and reduce pain or stress.
 
Basti
Ayurvedic herbal purification treatment; usually a medicated, herbal enema used to cleanse the colon.
 
Baths
The act of soaking or cleansing the body, as in water or steam. The water used for cleansing the body. A building equipped for bathing. A resort providing therapeutic baths; a spa.
 
Belavi' Facial Massage
A series of facial massage techniques using acupressure points, lymphatic drainage strokes and facial massage strokes designed to firm sagging skin, stimulate blood and oxygen, release toxins and soften lines. The treatment also consists of cleansing, exfoliating, hot towel wraps and the honeylift massage treatment.
 
Bindi
An Auyurvedic body treatment combining exfoliation, herbal treatment and light massage.
 
Bio Sauna
Comfortably warm temperatures of 40-55°C provide a pleasant climate, which causes no stress for the body. Often combined with essential oils, or the use of colours to relax or stimulate, leaving you feeling calm and relaxed.
 
Body & Beauty Treatment
Various treatments provided by day and destination spas to enhance beauty and overall well-being. Beauty and cosmetic treatments include: beauty salon, facials, image consultation, makeovers, manicure/pedicure, and waxing. Body treatments include massage, cellulite treatments, herbal wrap, salt glow and seaweed wrap and various forms of hydrotherapy, including steam and saunas.
 
Body Contouring
Exercises that work on specific parts of the body, such as the abdomen, buttocks and thighs to improve toning and increased flexibility.
 
Body Scrub (Exfoliation)
A treatment for the exfoliation of dead skin cells using various combinations of sea salt, essential oils, water, skin brush or loofah to massage the body and leave the skin silky soft.
 
Body Wraps (or Body Envelopments)
This type of treatment usually involves strips of cloth soaked in rich, nutrient substances, such as herbal teas or crèmes and cocooned around the body. 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 whist 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!
 
Boreh
Created by rice farmers, this Balinese cleansing and exfoliating body treatment uses a paste of ground herbs, seeds, grains, special oils and grated carrots. It is good for stimulating and increasing circulation. Not recommended for pregnant women.
 
Breema Bodywork
The practice of Breema, from the mountains of Kurdistan, is designed to create harmony and to balance the mind and body through exercises that use nurturing touch, tension- relieving stretches, and rhythmic movements.
 
Brine (salt water) Baths
Water that is saturated with salt (sodium chloride), similar to the sea, offering therapeutic and remedial benefits. The warm brine in the bathing pool will allow you to float in the water weightless.
 
Brossage
A fine body polish using salicylic salt and brushes that literally leaves the skin glowing, soft and silky.
 
Brushing
Dry brushing of the skin to remove dead layers and impurities while stimulating circulation. Best done with a natural bristle brush in long, sweeping strokes all over the body towards the heart.
 
Caldarium
A room containing a steam bath at an approximate heat of 45°C, to which essential oils have been added - great for opening up the sinuses and to aid breathing. Also suitable for loosening stressed muscles.
 
Carrier Oils
Usually vegetable, nut or seed oils that are used to dilute and "carry" essential oils for use on the body. Many have their own therapeutic properties, too. Essential oils, due to their concentration, should always be mixed with carrier oil before using on the skin.
 
Cathiodermie
A skin treatment using a low-voltage electrical stimulation to deep cleanse and improve circulation. It cleanses the face and stimulates skin regeneration.
 
Cayce-Reilly Massage
This massage is intensively therapeutic, manipulating tissues and joints with the use of moist heated castor oil and glycothymaline packs.
 
Celtic Roman Bath
A sequence of hot and cold baths, showers and pools combined with heat and steam rooms.
 
Chakra
Ayurvedic for energy center. We each have seven chakras, which are all interconnected. When balanced, the physical, mental and spiritual aspect of "self" is in a state of harmony, contributing to a state of health and well-being. Chakras run along the base of the spine to the crown of the head. When imbalanced, therapies such as Reiki, color and light therapy, crystal and stones are believed to re-balance the chakras. Yoga and meditative disciplines also contribute to re-balancing the chakras.
 
Chiropractic
The practice of realigning the spine and bone/body mechanics in order to relieve backache and postural problems.
 
Clay / Kaolin
Can be used as body wrap packs or face masks - 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.
 
Club Spa
A facility whose primary purpose is fitness and which offers a variety of professionally administered spa services on a day-use basis.
 
Cold Plunge
Deep cold water pool to stimulate blood circulation and rapidly cool the body. Especially good after a sauna.
 
Colonic Irrigation
Cleansing of the colon using a water based enema. Benefits include detoxification, cleansing of the blood, and the stimulation of internal organs.
 
Colour Therapy
An ancient philosophy based on the law of attraction wherein the vibration of the colour attracts a similar vibration in the human body. The use of colours to change a person's mental health can be done with the use of coloured rooms, light bulbs, crystals, fabrics etc.
 
Complementary Therapies
The objective of the Complementary Therapy is 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.
 
Compression Wrap
A localized treatment for cellulite and fatty deposits on arms, legs and buttocks.
 
Concentrative Meditation
With this form of meditation, the focus is on the breath, an image, or a mantra/sound, to still the mind and narrow your thoughts/focus therefore allowing a greater awareness and clarity to emerge.
 
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

The use of physical training for deep toning of specific muscle groups.

 
Cranio-Sacral Therapy
Treatment that focuses on the connection between the skull and the base of the spine to release blockages and allow energy to flow in the spinal column.
 
Dance Therapy
Combining self-knowledge and personal analysis with studies in psychotherapy, dance has been rediscovered as a healing art.
 
Day Spa
A spa offering a variety of professionally administered spa services to clients on a day-use basis only.
 
Dead Sea Mud Treatment
Application of mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea in Israel to detoxify skin as well as ease the painful symptoms of ailments such as rheumatism and arthritis.
 
Deep Tissue (Muscle) Massage
Deep massage technique to free congestion of the muscle attachments. Muscle function and awareness are balanced, and elasticity is revived.
 
Deep-cleansing Facial
Use of sophisticated machines or manual techniques to open pores, extract blackheads by hand, purify skin, close pores, and revitalize skin.
 
Effleurage
Massage technique of a rhythmic stroking with long strokes normally used in the preparatory stage and at the conclusion of treatment.
 
Electro-Acupuncture
Use of an electrical gadget to generate current through the acupuncture needle to further stimulate the meridian points consistently.
 
Electrotherapy
Stimulation techniques using low voltage electric current. Used to reaffirm muscle, eliminate cellulite and help in weight loss treatments.
 
Endermologie
A French massage therapy using a vacuum and rolling machine to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
 
Energizing
Means literally charging of the body and soul with energy. Selected substances, e.g. pure oxygen or certain flavours are used as stimulants to increase performance. Also a term used for the effect of certain treatments - particularly the stimulating treatments as opposed to the relaxing ones.
 
Facial
There are many types of facials. A standard facial usually includes massaging the face, cleansing, toning, steaming, exfoliating and moisturizing. Other types of facials, mask and skin treatments are available at most spas.
 
Fango Therapy/ Bath/ Treatment
The Italian word for ‘mud’. Treatment utilizing various types of mud, rich in minerals and nutrients, which are mixed with oil or water and applied all over the body as a heat pack to detoxify, stimulate circulation and relieve muscular and arthritic pain.
 
Feldenkrais
A method of bodywork developed by Moshe Feldenkrais 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 that cleanses the body through perspiration. A pile of stones over a stove is heated till red-hot and then water is poured over the stones to generate the steam. To stimulate the skin’s circulation, leafy birch twigs are used to “whip” the body.
 
G5 Massage
A very deep mechanical massage that assists the breakdown of fatty tissues, and is good for thighs, hips and buttocks.
 
Gastein Cure

The Gastein Valley has been famed for its thermal springs where the water, which originally seeped into the earth more than 3,500 years ago, re-emerges with a temperature of 42 to 46 degrees. The healing effect of the thermal water is based on the inert gas radon. Radon is absorbed by the body mainly via the lungs and through the skin and serves to boost metabolism and stimulates the body’s own immune system. The warmth provided by the thermal water also sees a significant increase in blood circulation which leads to improved oxygen and nutrient supply to the individual cells of the body.

 
Gestalt Therapy
Meaning "the whole picture," Gestalt therapy seeks to resolve incomplete or conflicting gestalts within a person to enable one to be more fully aware and enlivened in the present moment.
 
Glycolic Facial
This breaks down the glue bond that holds dry skin on the face then creates a rapid exfoliation to soften lines, reduce age spots, control acne, improve complexion and revitalize the skin.
 
Golden Needles
The use of acupuncture applied to the face as an anti-wrinkle program at Clinic La Prairie. The insertion of golden needles re-stimulates blood circulation, re-intensifies the strength of relaxed muscles, and tightens up the face again. A natural alternative to a surgical face-lift.
 
Hammam
Also known as a Turkish Bath, this is a steam room usually with herbal-scented vapours.
 
Herbal Wrap
Strips of cloth soaked in a warm herbal solution, which are then wrapped around the body to relax muscles and draw out impurities.
 
Holistic Health
A non-medical philosophy of well-being that takes into account the balancing of physical, mental and spiritual aspects of the body.
 
Holistic Spa
A Holistic Spa is one that focuses on alternative healing methods and nutrition, mainly with vegetarian or macrobiotic food. It seeks to provide visitors with a “high level of wellness” by integrating body and mind.
 
Homeopathy
This form of medicine is based on the principle that "like cures like". Patients are treated with natural substances in minute quantities that cause symptoms much like those manifested by the ailment, thus encouraging the body to heal itself.
 
Indonesian Massage
A massage technique using long hand-strokes together with special aromatic oils for relaxing the muscles. The skin is rolled between the thumbs and fingertips to increase blood flow and sensitize the nerve endings although this is not at all painful - more gentle and pleasant sensations. Pressure points on the hands and feet receive particular attention to increase energy levels.
 
Infant Massage
Infant Massage is a holistic and natural way for a parent to bond with their child. It incorporates nurturing touch, massage, and reflexology in a loving, fun, one-on-one interaction that is nourishment for baby’s healthy development of mind, body and spirit.
 
Infra-Red Treatment
A heat treatment to aid muscular relaxation and increase blood circulation.
 
Inhalation Therapy
Treatments involving the inhalation of steam vapor, which may have been treated with medicine or natural herbal / mineral substances. Used for respiratory, pulmonary or sinus related ailments.
 
Iodine-Brine Bath Therapy
A bath treatment used mostly in Europe for recuperation and convalescence. The patient is submerged in a mineral bath naturally rich in salt and iodine, an element that has curative effects.
 
Jacuzzi
A patented design of a whirlpool bath or a mechanism, which swirls water in a bath with underwater jets.
 
Japanese Enzyme Bath
The enzyme bath, taken in a wooden tub filled with fragrant blends of cedar fibres and Japanese plant enzymes, works to break down body wastes in the subcutaneous layer of the skin. By enhancing enzyme function in the body, the bath improves digestion and cleansing organ function, increases the exchange of oxygen from the lungs into the bloodstream, and balances the energy in the nervous system. This treatment is not recommended for individuals with high blood pressure, women during pregnancy or following the consumption of alcoholic beverages.
 
Japanese Facial
Energizing technique used to stimulate acupressure points through the lifting and toning of the face and scalp. When used on a regular basis it is said to have a cumulative effect to firm the skin and prevent aging.
 
Jin Shin Acupressure
Gentle yet deep finger pressure on specific acu-points with body focusing techniques to help release physical and emotional tension, assist the immune system, alleviate common ailments, and harmonize the flow of life energy within the body. Performed without oil.
 
Jungian Therapy
Therapy based on the work of Carl G Jung that focuses on the realization of personality by exploring the subconscious.
 
Kinesiology
Diagnosis and treatment of a disease through muscle testing. Virtually any diseased area of the body will have a structural manifestation, a specific "body language," represented by specific muscle weakness patterns. This system restores the structural, mental and chemical balance of the body through the strengthening of weak muscles, stimulation of meridian points and diet.
 
Kirlian Photography
A special photographic technique that shows the energy field surrounding the body, typically the hands.
 
Kneipp Baths
Developed by Father Sebastian Kneipp, this herbal/mineral bath is used as part of a regimented therapy of healing. Used in combination with nutritional and exercise disciplines. Hot and cold water therapy is a key component of this form of therapy.
 
Kneipp Kur System
There are Five Pillars of Kneipp - Hydro, Phyto, Kinesi, Dietetic and Regulative. These treatments combine hydrotherapy, herbology and a diet of natural foods developed by Father Sebastian Kneipp to achieve physical and emotional well being.
 
Kurs
Much of the European Spa experience centres on the tradition of “Taking the Kur”. The Kur is a series of treatments, lasting a period of three to four weeks, based on the use of natural resources such as thermal mineral water, algae, mud, essential oils and herbs that help to re-mineralize, nourish, and balance the body.
 
La Stone Therapy
Based on American Indian folklore, this therapy uses ancient volcanic stones from the Arizona Desert, which have been molded and shaped by time from water and sand. Some of the stones are heated and others are frozen to provide a very deep massage. As you lay back on the heated stones that have been carefully placed under the back, others will be placed between the toes and fingers and on the Chakra points (energy). You will be treated to a massage with aromatic oil and the heated stones, to wake-up or relax the flow of energy in order to balance the body.
 
Laconium
An evenly distributed dry heat treatment room for relaxing the body.
 
Lap Pool

A shallow swimming pool with exercise lanes.

 
Liquid Balancing
Floating in salt water at body temperature.
 
Liquid Sound
The ancient art of healing with water was practicised by the ancient Egyptians and Greeks at the Temples of Luxor and Delphi. Liquid sound is floating in oracular consciousness with light and music under and above water for deep relaxation, inspirational dreams and visualization discovering the inner and outer world to balance the mind and body.
 
Magnetotherapy
Following an acupuncture treatment, a small magnet is taped over the treatment point and left for a period of approximately one week. This provides for a continuous treatment and is thus more effective.
 
Mandi Lulur (also Javanese Lulur)
An ancient therapy involving a mask of flowers, herbs and spices that are allowed to dry then buffed and rinsed in yogurt. Usually precedes a jasmine or rose petal bath.
 
Manicure

A cosmetic treatment of the fingernails, including shaping and polishing.

 
Marine Hydrotherapy
A form of thalassotherapy bath / shower where water jets massage, stimulate and reduce pain/ inflammation.
 
Massage Therapies
Different massage therapies have evolved throughout the world over many centuries, for stress, muscle and tissue relaxation as well as manipulation of skin, muscle and joints.
 
Naturopathy
An alternative medical practice, which focuses upon “all natural” means of healing using plants and flowers.
 
Neuromuscular Theraphy
Uses advanced concepts in pressure therapy to break the stress-tension-pain cycle. It aims to relax muscle so that circulation can increase and the body will return to normal neuromuscular integrity and balance. The St John Method is a type of NMT.
 
New Age

Refers to the Aquarian Age, which according to astrological calculations we entered in February of 1962. It is the period on this planet that has been predicted to usher in the Golden Age of love, joy and peace on earth. It requires our responsibility to live by nature's ways and to evolve spiritually in order to do our part in bringing this new world into being.

 
New Age Music
A synthesis of many different forms of music, resulting in a peaceful, somewhat "otherworldly" sounds.
 
Nutrition Counselling
Consultation with a qualified nutritional practitioner to review an individual’s eating habits and dietary needs.
 
Oleation
Ayurvedic adapted friction massage treatment using blended essential oils. Similar to an Aromatherapy massage.
 
Onsen
Hot springs are an intimate part of Japanese culture with over 3,000 onsens (hot springs) found in Japan. Onsen are created from water heated naturally underground, and the water varies both in degrees and in mineral composition.
 
Organic
A simple definition of “organic” is food (plant or animal) in its purest form, grown or produced without chemical aid.
 
Oxygen Facials
Oxygen and other nutrients applied to the face to stimulate and reinforce the collagen level of the skin; an aid to preventing aging.
 
Ozonised Baths
Used for relaxation and stimulation of circulation. The bath is essentially a tub of thermal water or seawater with a system of jets that provide streams of ozonised bubbles
 
Panchakarma
An Ayurvedic spa treatment, Panchakarma treatments use nutrition, herbs, massage, and meditation to cleanse and purify the body, and restore the body’s ability to heal itself. It is essentially a detoxification process.
 
Panthermal
A spa technique that requires you to lie in a metal tube, with your head outside of the tube. Into the tube is piped hot, dry air, which circulates around the body, causing perspiration. The air element is followed by warm, soapy jets of water from all directions. This treatment is believed to help break down cellulite. It is not recommended for people who suffer from claustrophobia.
 
Parafango
Combination of fango mud and paraffin wax to detoxify, heat and exfoliate.
 
Paraffin Treatment
Warm paraffin wax, which is applied to the body to hold in heat and draw out toxins. It deeply relaxes muscles, leaving the skin moist and smooth.
 
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.
 
Qi
Literally translated to mean the body’s vital life energy, the ancient Chinese believe that Qi flows through the body along certain pathways, channels or meridians. When the body is stricken with illness it is said that the Qi is not flowing well due to possibly blocked or congested meridians.
 
Qi Gong
A traditional Chinese exercise to balance the flow of qi, life force, throughout the body. Exercise movements relieve qi blockages and improve circulation.
 
Rasul Bath (also Rhasoul Bath)
Self-application of special muds to the face, chest, back and thighs whose remedial qualities are slowly absorbed in a heat chamber as the body perspires. A tropical rain shower is used to wash and cleanse.
 
Rebirthing
A Yoga technique of breathing and meditation to clear the mind thus achieving profound relaxation.
 
Reflexology
A form of massage originating in China and concentrating primarily on the feet to restore balanced energy flow in the body. It works by applying some pressure to points corresponding to other parts of the body.
 
Reiki
“Rei” can be defined as spiritual consciousness and “Ki” as life force energy giving the overall definition of “Universal Life Force Energy”. It is balancing the body’s energy on a physical and emotional level.
 
Repichage (Age Repair Treatment)
A treatment performed on the face and on the entire body with the use of a combination of herbal, clay, seaweed or mud face-packs to produce a cleansing and moisturizing effect.
 
Salt Glow

The body is rubbed with a vigorous, abrasive scrub, consisting of coarse salt usually mixed with essential oils and water. Cleanses pores and removes dead skin. It is usually followed by a gentle shower and body moisturizer.


 
Sauna
Exposure to dry heat in a confined room to open the pores and eliminate toxins through sweat. In combination with refreshing cold showers, saunas can improve the body’s immune defenses.
 
Scotch Hose (also Jet Blitz or Jet Showe

A standing hydromassage using a high pressure hose of alternating hot and cold water.

 
 
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.
 
Siliceous Thermal Body Wrap
A type of bath/body wrap that uses silica or hot sand.
 
Tai Chi (Chuan)
A Chinese martial art form that combines slow movements with meditation.
 
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.
 
Thai Herbal Heat Treatment
A traditional herbal massage using Pai root, tamarind leaves and essential oils to relax tired muscles.
 
Thai Massage
A technique that involves a unique combination of gentle rocking and stretching using a range of motion and acupressure techniques without the use of oils.
 
Thalassotherapy
Therapeutic use of seawater and marine by-products that are rich in minerals and vitamins to restore the balance of the body.
 
Underwater Massage
A powerful water jet directed at damaged or tense muscle groups to achieve a massage or relaxing effect.
 
Vibratory Massage
This massage technique involves vibrating on the tissue and muscles surrounding the problem area. It aids in further relaxing your muscles and the surrounding tissues.
 
Vichy Shower
This massage treatment sees you lying on a waterproof, cushioned mat as water of varying temperatures is sprayed onto your body by a number of water jets.
 
Vinothérapie
A treatment that combines thermal spring water, oligo-elements with wine and grape extracts to strengthen blood vessels and enhance micro-circulation.
 
Visualization
A form of light hypnosis used to create a soothing environment for relaxation.
 
Vodder Massage
A manual lymph drainage massage technique.
 
Warm Mist Grotto
Cocooned in a warm, fine mist which can be enriched with essential substances, a refreshing and invigorating effect is achieved on the skin and in the airways. An increased feel-good factor is achieved by stimulating the basic metabolism.
 
Water Walking
Low impact walking exercises combined with upper body muscle conditioning. The buoyancy of water supports body weight and decreases stress on spine and joints.
 
Waxing
Warm wax applied to face, arms, legs or body. When allowed to harden, it is then vigorously ripped off to remove unwanted hair.
 
Wellness
The state of optimal well being, not simply the absence of illness, but an improved quality of life resulting from enhanced physical, mental, and spiritual health.
 
Whirlpool
A heated pool with high-pressure jets that circulate the water and relax the body.
 
Ylang Ylang
Pronounced “ee-lang ee-lang”, it has a sweet, rich and somewhat spicy aroma. Considered to be an aphrodisiac because it is simultaneously sedating as well as stimulating, Ylang Ylang is known for its unique calming abilities, and is especially useful when nervous tension, anger and anxiety are present. Often considered to have anti-depressant qualities, as an essential oil it can be quite soothing, and is excellent to use when relaxation is needed.
 
Yoga
Based on ancient Indian teaching, Yoga combines posture, breathing and stretching. There are 18 different paths (Hatha, Ashtanga, Bhakti, Sivanda etc) each with their own emphasis. Some are physically very demanding. Ask before you commit!
 
Yogassage™
This massage modality enhances the free and natural movements of the body through gentle, sustained stretching and applied pressure. Gentle vibration and energy work with the charkas, or energy centers, is integrated into a gracefully flowing sequence. Unique positioning with props is incorporated to facilitate myofascial stretching without strain. Yogassage has been compared to Thai massage on a table, and it blends elements from both the Eastern and Western cultures of bodywork.
 
Zen
Japanese art of acupressure to ease tension and balance the body.
 
Zen Shiatsu
This style was developed by Shizuto Masanuga who proposed the treatment of meridian extensions beyond those recognized in the classical Chinese view. He also developed the widely accepted two-hand style; where one hand moves, applying pressure, while the other provides stationary support.
 
Zero Balancing
Developed by Fritz Smith, M.D., Zero Balancing is a simple, yet powerful hands-on method of aligning body energy with body structure. It integrates fundamental principles of Western science with Eastern concepts of body, mind and spirit. By correcting imbalances between energy and structure, Zero Balancing can enhance physical, mental and spiritual health. A Zero Balancing session, which consists of gentle pressing, stretching and bending, generally takes 30 minutes and is done through your clothing.
 


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