A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P-Q-R-S-T-U-V-W-X-Y-Z
Acupressure
Traditional Chinese pressure-point massage used to stimulate the flow of energy,
called chi, in the body.
Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese healing technique based on Taoist philosophy. It can be
administered by using needles, low-voltage electric current (electro
acupuncture), heat generated from lighted moxa cones (see Moxication) or
pinpoint massage (acupressure).
aerobic exercise
Any sustained rhythmic movement (such as brisk walking, running, or dancing)
that uses the large muscle groups of the body and increases the heart rate from
50 to 90 percent of its maximum capacity.
Algotherapy
Form of Thalassotherapy
that applies heated seaweed to the skin. Heating lamps may be used to keep the
seaweed warm.
anaerobic exercise
Opposite of aerobic exercise, anaerobic exercise --such as weightlifting and
bodybuilding-- involves muscular work that causes the body to use more oxygen
than it takes in.
anti-aging
Class of products or treatments that combat or defend against the aging process
internally and externally.
aqua aerobics
Aerobic exercises performed in a pool using the support and resistance of the
water to burn fat, strengthen bones, and increase cardiovascular health and
endurance. The buoyancy of the water greatly reduces the chance of injuring
joints or muscles.
Aromatherapy
Treatments such as massages, facials, body wraps, or hydrobaths that include
the application of fragrant essential oils. Different oils are used for different
therapeutic benefits and to create various moods.
asanas
Various yoga postures or poses. The practice of these physical poses is a
fundamental stage in many branches of the yoga system.
Ayurveda
Ancient Indian system of traditional folk medicine from India using a variety
of techniques, incorporating nutrition, herbal medicine, aromatherapy, massage,
and meditation to restore the organism to perfect balance.
Balneotherapy
The use of water to restore and revitalize the body. Since ancient times, Balneotherapy
has been used to improve circulation, fortify the immune system, and relieve
pain and stress.
behavior
modification
Change in personal habits through repetition of desired behaviors. Most spas
incorporate behavior modification into their weight loss programs.
Bindi
Indian-inspired body treatment that combines exfoliation, a topical herbal
treatment, and light massage.
Biofeedback
Training program that provides information about physiological processes such
as heart rate or blood pressure, with the goal of gaining conscious control
over them.
blood pressure
Pressure exerted by the blood on the walls of the body's arteries. Normal blood
pressure is usually 120/80.
body conditioning
Any exercise program that focuses on overall conditioning of the body. A
body-conditioning routine might combine exercises for strength and flexibility
and use both strength-training equipment and floor exercises.
A vigorous full body scrub with mild abrasive ingredients and heated oil that removes dead skin cells and stimulates circulation.
body sculpting
Fitness program using weight, flexibility, and endurance training; but not
running or jumping, to shape hips, thighs, upper arms, and buttocks without
creating bulk.
body wrap (also known as herbal
wrap)
Treatment in which strips of cloth are soaked in herbal teas and cocooned
around the body.
botanicals
Plant part or extract used in cosmetics, hair or skin care products.
Botox®
Medical protein called
Botulinum A Toxin injected into the targeted area to temporarily paralyze the
facial muscles that cause the wrinkling, and create a smoother, less furrowed
appearance. The effect can last from
4-6 months.
brush and
tone
Dry brushing of the skin intended to remove dead layers and impurities while
stimulating circulation. This is one of many exfoliating techniques used as a
pre-treatment for mud and seaweed body masks that are followed by the
application of a moisturizing lotion.
caldarium
The hottest room in a Roman bath, where the ancient Romans would bathe in
steaming water for detoxification purposes. Modern-day spa caldaria may not
have a pool of hot water, but they all utilize the detoxifying power of steam
heat.
Celtic
Mineral Pool
Minerals imported from the Brittany coast
fill the 16,000-gallon, outdoor heated French Celtic pool. A series of smaller
hot and cold plunge pools lead up to this final stop in this water therapy
designed to stimulate the circulation and purge toxins from the body. (HYATT AVANIA
SPA-SCOTTSDALE,AZ)
cellulite
Deposits of lumpy fat and fibrous tissue that cause dimpling of the skin in the
thighs, hips, and buttocks of some women.
chakra
Ayurvedic term for energy centers in the body. It is believed that there are seven chakras, which are all
interconnected and which must be balanced.
They are: Muladhara (lower body), Swadhisthana (reproductive parts), Manipura (navel), Anahata (heart), Vishuddha (throat), Ajna (eyebrow or forehead), and Sahasrara (top of head).
Chakra
Balancing Massage
Ayurvedic-inspired
treatment targeting energy centers or chakras of the body that correspond to
different areas of our lives. Different gemstones are placed on the chakra as
the therapist recites the healing significance of each. They remain on the body during a hands-on
massage. (SEDONA ROUGE SPA-AZ)
Exfoliation using a chemical solution to loosen and remove the upper layers of facial or body skin. Depending on the depth of the peel, results can improve and smooth the texture of the facial, reduce the appearance of scar and wrinkles, and lighten blemishes and uneven skin tone.
Chromatherapy (also known as color therapy)
Use of color to balance mental and spiritual health through the use of colored
rooms, light bulbs, fabrics, etc. The technique dates back to ancient Egypt.
circuit
training
Exercise regimen utilizing six to ten exercises that are completed one after
another on weight-resistance equipment to increase mobility, strength, and
stamina. Each exercise is performed for a certain number of repetitions.
cold plunge
A circulation-stimulating pool of frigid water designed to be used in
conjunction with sauna or steam room sessions.
collagen therapy
Injection of collagen beneath the skin with a fine needle to fill out wrinkles
and lines.
colonic
Intense water irrigation of the entire colon, intended to release trapped
impurities and prevent the recycling of toxins into the bloodstream.
Complementary
medicine
Treatments and therapies used in conjunction with traditional medicine.
Alternative medicine, in contrast, replaces traditional therapies.
cosmeceutical
Topical cosmetic-pharmaceutical combination intended to improve the health and
appearance of skin.
Cranio-sacral
therapy
Treatment that focuses on the connection between the skull and the base of the
spine along the spinal column. The therapist's palpitations in those areas are
said to release blockages in the circulation of the cerebral spinal fluid and
allow it to flow more freely.
Crystal Healing
Treatments that tap the healing
energy believed to be generated by quartz and other minerals. Crystals are
known to have electromagnetic energy, as does the human body. It is believed
that when a natural quartz crystal comes into contact with a person, the
electromagnetic attraction is capable of drawing imbalanced energy out of the
human body. (HILTON SPA- SEDONA,AZ)
Dancercize
Aerobic workout to upbeat music using steps and patterns derived from modern
dance. Helps improve range of motion, endurance, aerobic capacity, flexibility,
and strength.
day spa
Establishment that provides beautifying, relaxing, or pampering experiences
that can last from one hour to an entire day. Can be freestanding or connected
to health clubs, hotels, or department stores.
Dead Sea mud
treatment
Application of mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea in Israel. Used to detoxify
skin and body and to ease painful symptoms of rheumatism and arthritis. Mineral
content has also been found to provide relief to psoriasis sufferers.
destination spa
Establishment that focuses exclusively on lifestyle improvement, health
enhancement, and self-renewal in the company of like-minded people. Often located in rural settings or areas
removed from urban areas.
detoxification (detox)
Cleansing the body of poisons or toxins that may have accumulated through
addictive habits or poor diet.
doshas
According to Ayurvedic medicine, the body is made up of three biological
centers or doshas: Vata (impulse or
nervous system) Pitta (energy or digestive), and Kapha (body fluid or
circulation). Most people present a combination of types, with one predominate
dosha.
dry brush
Procedure using a natural-bristle brush to remove dead skin and impurities
while stimulating circulation. This is one of many exfoliating techniques used
prior to mud and seaweed body masks.
duo massage
Massage treatment performed simultaneously by two therapists on one person. The
treatment is choreographed so that the therapists mirror each other’s motions
and work both sides of the body in perfect synchronization so that it feels
like one therapist at work. (SPA MAYA UBUD-BALI, INDONESIA)
E
Eco-Spas
Spas that are set in a natural or protected area and have a major commitment to
incorporating environmentally friendly practices such as organic gardening,
water conservation, and ecological building design. They must also encourage
sensitivity to the natural environment and wildlife through education of
spa-goers, and may also promote the well being of local people and culture by
preserving indigenous healing traditions and ingredients.
effleurage
Massage technique involving quick, long strokes used at the beginning and end
of certain treatments.
Electrolysis
A method of lasting hair removal that involves the use of electricity or radio
wave energy to damage hair follicles. This method can sometimes require some
form of pain relief.
Endermologie
French massage therapy said to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
essential oils
Aromatic liquids extracted from flowers, grasses, fruits, leaves, roots, or
trees. This concentrated oil maintains the odors, tastes, and thus the essence,
of the plant they are extracted from.
Estrogen
Generic term for any steroid hormones secreted chiefly by the ovaries and
placenta. Promotes the development of the female secondary sex characteristics
and affects female reproductive system.
European facial
Treatment that begins with deep cleansing, steam, exfoliation, and professional
massage of the face, shoulders, and chest area, followed by special mask that
hydrates the skin.
exfoliation
Process that sloughs the top layer of dead skin cells off the face or body. Dry
brush, loofah scrub, sugar, salt or dried herbs and spices are among the abrasive
agents used in conjunction with soothing ingredients such clay, grape seed oil,
or other essential oils.
eyelash tinting
Semi-permanent dye specially formulated for the delicate eye are is used to darken light colored or sparse lashes.
facial
Generic term for treatment of skin in the face that usually includes massaging,
cleansing, toning, steaming, exfoliating, and moisturizing.
fango
From the Italian word for mud, a treatment that uses mineralized mud mixed with
oil or water and applied over the body as a heat pack to detoxify the skin,
soothe the muscles, and stimulate circulation.
Feng Shui
Chinese art of determining the most propitious design and placement of a structure
or site to achieve maximum harmony between the flow of energy between the place
and its inhabitant.
Feldenkrais
The Feldenkrais method is named for its Russian-born creator, Dr. Moshe
Feldenkrais. The method consists of intensive verbal and touch-therapy
workshops designed to reorganize the body's fundamental movements and
relationship with the central nervous system.
fitness profile/assessment
A test administered by a fitness instructor or personal trainer to evaluate
aerobic capacity, flexibility, and strength, as well as resting heart rate,
resting blood pressure, and body composition.
Flotation Tank
Dark, capsule-shaped tank, filled halfway with warm water for
comfort and Epsom salts buoyancy, creates a peaceful, floating, back in the
womb sensation. Contraindicated for individuals who suffer from claustrophobia.
functional foods
Foods that have been fortified with herbs, vitamins, minerals, or other
supplements to improve their nutritional content.
G
gommage
Cleansing, rehydrating treatment using creams that are applied in long
movements, similar to a massage.
green
Product or action related to promoting environmentalism by recycling, making biodegradable
products, or reducing pollution.
green tea
Tea whose leaves come from the same shrub as black tree but are heated before
oxidation (called fermentation) is complete. It may reduce risk of cancer, prevent
cardiovascular disease and slow the aging process.
H
Hatha yoga
Branch of yoga that is devoted to the physical processes (as opposed to others
that focus on wisdom, meditation, service, etc.) and involves breathing and
physical exercises. There are many types of physical yoga.
henna
Dye from a natural plant substance used in Eastern cultures to decorate skin as
part of ceremonial rituals. It is used also as a natural alternative to hair
dye in Western cultures.
herbal wrap
Treatment using strips of cloth soaked in a heated herbal solution to wrap
around the body. It is used for relaxation and said to eliminate impurities and
detoxify.
Holistic
Medicine
System of heath care that looks at the entire person, taking into account
physical, nutritional, environmental, emotional, social, spiritual and
lifestyle values, and avails itself of all modes of diagnosis and treatment
including drugs and surgery in the absence of a safe alternative. The patient
is urged to make personal efforts to achieve balance and well-being.
Homeopathy
Form of medicine based on the principle of building the body’s natural immune
system. To stimulate the body to heal itself, patients ingest minute quantities
of natural substances that cause symptoms much like those of the disease they
are meant to cure.
Hormone
Replacement Therapy
Medication containing one or more female hormones (usually estrogen) used to
treat women experiencing symptoms of menopause, amenorrhea, or women who have
had a partial or full hysterectomy.
hotel or urban spas
Located in metropolitan hotels, some of these spas are open only to hotel
guests, while others are accessible to the general public.
Hot Stone Therapy
Relaxing, therapeutic treatment in which dark, smooth stones heated in hot
water or hot spring pools are placed or stroked with light pressure on areas of
the body such as the back, in the palms, and between the toes. Cold stones may
also be used.
Hydrotherapy
Treatment using water therapeutically to aid relaxation in a variety of
procedures such as underwater jet massage, different types of showers, and
mineral baths. Thalassotherapy, whish uses seawater for hydrotherapy, has long
been a staple in European spas.
Process that induces an individual into a trance like state and encourages the person to access and use the deep wisdom and natural healing capacity of the Body and Mind. This technique is used to aid individuals with increased confidence, pain and stress relief, smoking cessation, weight loss, and relaxation.
hypoallergenic
Cosmetic products claimed by the manufacturer to create fewer allergic
reactions among those who are sensitive. No federal standards govern the use of
this term.
I
Inhalation
Therapy
Steam vapor treatments that offer relief for those suffering from impaired
respiratory function due to illness or smoking. Vapor is often mixed with
herbal elements such as eucalyptus or camphor. This form of therapy is often
found at spas with access to a mineral or thermal spring.
Treatment used to helps reduce the appearance of cellulite. A thick body masque of micronized marine algae, guarana, amino acids, and ivy penetrates deeper layers of the skin while electrical stimulation causes localized muscle contractions, resulting in the breakdown of fat tissue.
Iridology
Study of patterns and structures in the iris (colored part of the eye) to
diagnose disease.
J
Jacuzzi
The first free-standing whirlpool bath was introduced by Roy Jacuzzi in
1968. Though many companies manufacture
whirlpool baths today, Jacuzzi is the trademarked name for the invention.
Japanese enzyme bath
Relaxing and detoxifying treatment in a wooden tub filled with
aromatic cedar chips and Japanese plant enzymes.
juice fast
Short-term diet regimen consisting of only fresh fruit or vegetable juices.
Advocates claim it detoxifies the body.
K
kickboxing
Boxing techniques, basic kicks, and martial arts moves (all self-defense
tactics) that give the upper and lower body an intense cardiovascular, aerobic,
and body-toning workout.
Kinesthetic
awareness
Sensitivity to the movement of your body through space that contributes to your
ability to balance and move rhythmically and fluidly. It is sometimes developed
as a self-awareness technique for spiritual growth.
Kneipp baths
Water therapies originated IN THE 1800s by German priest, Sebastian Kneipp, a
holistic teacher and proponent of natural remedies. The modern-day therapy
involves alternating immersion in warm and cold water, along with herbal
or mineral baths, nutrition and exercise.
Krauter bath
Based on German natural remedy, this is a strong, aromatic herbal bath
solution.
kur
From the German word for cure, kur is a planned course of spa treatments that
typically involve mineral water, mud baths, algae, and herbs. Taking the “kur"
may involve a 10-20 day process every three months.
L
labyrinth walk
Following a man-made, spiral pattern path (traced on the ground with stones or
constructed with plants in a 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.
laser hair
removal
Use of concentrated beams of light to permanently remove unwanted hair. Best
candidates for the procedure have very fair skin and very dark hair.
Laconium
A dry, gentle sauna whose concept dates back to ancient Roman spas. A session
in the laconium is often enjoyed prior to body treatment because of its
pore-opening action. Many spas combine laconium sessions with a cold plunge treatment.
life enhancement spa
Facility dedicated to helping its guests develop a lifestyle of enhanced health
and wellness. Life enhancement spas commonly employ health professionals such
as nutritionists, registered nurses, psychotherapists, and personal trainers to
assist clients in overcoming obstacles that contribute to a physically
detrimental lifestyle.
Liposuction
Cosmetic surgical procedure that extracts excess fatty tissue out of
various areas of the body using a suction device.
lomi-lomi massage
Traditional Hawaiian massage technique that uses extremely gentle, continuously
flowing strokes. Gentle stretches and joint rotation are often incorporated as
well. Massages may include traditional healing rituals and/or healing prayers
in Hawaiian.
loofah scrub
Exfoliation with a sponge made of the fibrous skeleton of the loofah, a
vegetable from the gourd family. Loofah is used extensively in Europe and Asia
because of its effectiveness in removing dry skin and stimulating circulation.
Lycopene
Natural substance that gives tomatoes and watermelon their red hues, it is also
a powerful antioxidant that may help prevent certain forms of cancer, heart disease
and premature aging of the skin.
lymph
drainage
Form of massage in which hands and fingers apply gentle, wave-like movements
meant to stimulate circulation in the lymph system to drain away excess fluids
and trapped toxins.
M
makeup
application
Art or teaching of techniques for using cosmetics appropriate to an
individual's skin type, style, and age.
manicure
Grooming treatment for the hands and fingernails, including
shaping, cuticle removal and polishing. May also include exfoliation and hand
massage.
massage
Manipulation of tissues, usually manually, to improve health and well-being by
relaxing muscles, relieving tension, and improving circulation.
medical spa or medi-spa
Destination or day spa that offers traditional experiential treatments and
complementary result-oriented medical services supervised or administered by
medical professionals. A spa may specialize in diagnostic testing, preventive
care, cosmetic procedures, or a combination.
meditation
Practice of using mental skills to increase emotional well-being by performing
such feats as focusing attention on a single object for a long period of time;
cultivating compassion, which involves the transforming of negative events; and
creating a state of pure awareness of thoughts, emotions, and sensations
without reacting.
metabolism
Rate at which a body burns up fuel and transforms it into energy.
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.
mineral
spring spa
Spa offering an on-site source of mineral-rich thermal or seawater that is used
in hydrotherapy or thalassotherapy.
mobile spa
A spa “on wheels” or an agency that employs professionals who can travel to a
client’s home, office, or other preferred location to perform treatments.
mocktail
Non-alcoholic drinks made with fresh fruit and vegetables.
moor peat baths
Treatment using mud harvested from a moor or a peat marsh that is rich in
proteins, organic matter, vitamins, and minerals. It can used as a body or
facial treatment to hydrate and exfoliate the skin and in a bath to ease aches
and pains.
Moxibustion
Treats
and prevents diseases by applying heat to acupuncture points or certain
locations of the body. A pea-sized cone of moxa, made from the herbal plant
Mugwort, is placed on the acupuncture points and lit with an incense stick. The
burning moxa is then pinched out or taken away by the therapist before it burns
down completely to the skin. The patient experiences a warming sensation that penetrates deep into the skin. Moxa can
also be applied to the head of inserted acupuncture needles and lit to produce
a warming sensation at the selected point.
N
nutraceuticals
Foods that have been fortified with herbs, vitamins, minerals, or other
supplements to promote health and prevent disease.
O
organic
Food produced with the exclusive use of feed or fertilizer of plant or animal
origin and without the use of chemicals in any fashion, including growth
hormones, pesticides, manmade fertilizers.
oxygen facial
Treatment that involves oxygen and other nutrients being applied or sprayed
onto the face. Often promoted as an anti-aging treatment.
P
Panchakarma
Cleansing and rejuvenating program for the body, mind, and consciousness based
on Ayurvedic medicine and meant to clear the body of toxins, restore balance,
strengthen the immune system, and promote calm. May involve massage, sweat
therapy, yoga, diet, etc.
parafango
Volcanic mud mixed with paraffin wax and spread over specific areas of the body
to alleviate aches and pains caused by such illnesses as rheumatism and
arthritis.
paraffin
treatment
Heated paraffin wax is brushed over the body, allowed to cool and then peel
away from the skin. It is used to
soothe muscles, or to draw out dirt and remove dead skin cells, leaving skin
clean and soft.
Pedicure
Grooming and nail care treatment
of the feet. Includes a foot soak, dry skin removal using pumice or shaving
tool, nail trim and shaping, a foot and leg massage and polishing of nails.
Personal
Trainer
Exercise professional
who is trained and certified to provide safe and effective exercise programs
aimed at weight loss, improving strength and flexibility, toning,
cardiovascular conditioning, or any other fitness goal.
photo rejuvenation
Treatment with laser light to smooth wrinkles, diminish the appearance of age
spots, broken capillaries, and rosacea
Phyto therapy
Healing treatment with plants, such as herbs and seaweed, and in the form of
aromatic essential oils and herbal and floral extracts, applied in conjunction
with massage, packs and wraps, water and steam therapies, inhalation
treatments, and homeopathy.
Pilates
Body conditioning program developed by Joseph Pilates for the purpose of developing
flexibility and strength without building bulk via a system of controlled
movements and specially designed exercise equipment.
placebo
Inactive substance or treatment that has no known medical value but has the
ability to create a health improvement
that can be observed, measured or felt due to patient’s expectation of getting
well.
polarity
massage
Therapeutic, relaxing treatment involving hands placed along the energy
meridians, and stretching and lightly rocking to bring the body's own energy
into balance.
poultice
Paste-like substance of all-natural ingredients such as muds, herbs and
botanicals spread directly on the skin or applied between layers of cloth. Traditionally
used as a remedy to relieve swelling and inflammation, poultices are now used
in contemporary spas as a complement to massage and other therapeutic
treatments.
portion-controlled
meals
Weight-loss program technique used to limit the amount of calories or fat
consumed.
power yoga
Energetic workout involving a sequence of postures (asanas) that flow into one
another and that emphasize building body heat and breaching mindfully.
Stretches and strengthens muscle while creating a calm and clear mind.
Q
Qi Gong
From qi or chi(energy) and gong (the achievement that comes from practice), a
group of Chinese self-healing exercises. They combine simple movement, breathing,
and mental imagery to relax and strengthen the body and the mind.
R
Raharja
Five hours of pampering Balinese style that includes a sauna and Jacuzzi session, scalp massage, body scrub, milk bath, aromatherapy body massage, facial, foot reflexology and a spa lunch served on a luxurious, draped and cushioned Indonesian daybed. (HYATT SPA SANUR BEACH-BALI, INDONESIA)
race
walking
Aerobic, energetic, exaggerated form of fast walking to maintain cardiovascular
health, burn calories, and develop stomach, thigh, and buttock muscles.
Rassoul
A mineral-rich Moroccan mud often used to cleanse and detoxify the hair and
scalp. Many spas have Rassoul chambers where couples can apply the mud to
themselves and each other.
Reflexology
Ancient Chinese technique that uses pressure-point massage, usually on the feet
but also on the hands and ears, to restore the flow of energy throughout the
entire body.
Reiki
Japanese healing technique in which practitioners use their hands to bring
energy into the body for deep relaxation and well-being.
repaichage
Full-body treatment meant that uses a combination of clay, herbs, seaweed, and
mud to deal with the differing cleansing and moisturizing needs of different
parts of your body and face.
resort spa
Spa facility offering treatments and services at a vacation destination that
also offers such activities, such as golf, tennis, horseback riding, skiing,
water sports, and children's programs.
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
System developed by Dr.Ida Rolf to achieve changes in posture and structure by
manipulating the body's muscular-skeletal system. Treatments progress from
localized areas to larger body segments and use extremely deep tissue massage.
Roman bath
Traditionally known as a series of hot, warm, and cold pools, but today used to
refer to a hot whirlpool or Jacuzzi with benches.
rosacea
Common facial skin disorder characterized by any combination of redness, bumps,
or pimples on the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead. Usually affects people over the
age of 30.
Royal Lulur
Ancient beauty ritual originating from the Indonesian island of
Java. It begins with a body scrub of
native spices and tropical flowers, followed by a pH balancing body mask of
yogurt and cucumber. A quick alfresco
shower and a leisurely soak in a petal-studded milk bath under a canopy of
trees and blue sky are next. A full
body and scalp massage using aromatic oils of ylang ylang, sandalwood or
coconut complete the 2-hour multi-sensory experience. (HYATT SPA SANUR
BEACH-BALI, INDONESIA)
S
Saint-John's-Wort
Medicinal herb taken in tablet, brewed as tea, or used as ointment to relieve
mild to moderate depression. May be contraindicated for anyone on anti-depressant
medication or who is photosensitive.
salt glow
Body treatment in which skin is rubbed with coarse salt, sometimes in
combination with fragrant oils, to exfoliate dead skin cells and stimulate
circulation.
Treatment of dry heat in an enclosed wooden structure. The heat open pores, forces sweating and the elimination of toxins. Originates from Scandinavia where it is used to boost the immune system and reduce stress.
Scotch hose
Water massage through high-pressure hose while client is standing. The
therapist alternates hot and cold and fresh or salt water to relieve sore
muscles and stimulate circulation.
seaweed wrap
Body treatment using concentrated seawater and seaweed that contains nutrients
including minerals, rare trace elements, vitamins, and proteins. Said by
proponents to detoxify, increase circulation, and improve appearance of
cellulite.
Shiatsu
Massage technique developed in Japan in which therapist applies pressure to
specific points in the body to simulate and unblock "meridians" , or pathways
through which energy is said to flow.
Shirodhara
Ayurvedic treatment lasting 7 to l0 minutes during which stream of oil is
poured in the center of your forehead (called the "third eye") in
order to improve concentration, and relax the mind and body.
silent hikes
Leisurely solo walk or guided journey in natural setting in which participants
make as little sound as possible in order to connect with their surroundings.
spa
The International Spa Association (ISPA) defines the word spa in the following
way: "Spas are devoted to enhancing overall well-being through a variety
of professional services that encourage the renewal of mind, body and
spirit."
spinning
Indoor cycling on stationary bikes that allow riders to adjust resistance to
make pedaling easier or harder. Class instructors guide students through a
virtual hilly course and cue students about adjusting resistance.
sports massage
This deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements and techniques as
Swedish massage with more intense pressure to release chronic muscle tension or
knots.
steam room
Room where temperatures are kept at 110 to 130° F and humidity is generated in
order to soften the skin, clean the pores, calm the nervous system, and relieve
tension.
step aerobics
Low-impact aerobic activity performed by stepping on and off a platform that
usually ranges from four to ten inches high to tone hips, legs, and buttocks
stress
management
Combination of physical exercise, deep relaxation techniques, and visualization
techniques meant to reduce the ill effects of stress on the body.
sugaring
Ancient depilation process that involves applying a sugar-containing sticky
paste to the skin, then pressing on a cloth or paper strip and quickly pulling
it away to remove unwanted hair. Estheticians in some states must be licensed
to perform this procedure.
Swedish Massage
Classical European massage technique of manipulating muscles with the use of
massage oils. Meant for relaxation and to improve circulation, ease muscle
aches and tension, and improve flexibility.
sweat lodge
Traditional Native American place for ceremonial purification and meditation
involving the use of intense heat in a sauna-like environment.
Swiss shower
Treatment that involves powerful shower jets directed at the body from various
heights, creating the effect of an invigorating massage.
T
Tai Chi
Chinese martial art that uses forms, stylized gestures regulated by deep
breathing, and the movement of the diaphragm to unite body and mind in order to
achieve mental clarity, balance, and improved circulation. It involves mental
concentration, visualization, and graceful, dancelike movements.
Tepidarium
A heated open space, which in the ancient Roman spas was used as a room where
visitors would prepare for a bath. Contemporary tepidaria often feature lounges
and other types of comfortable furniture on which guests can luxuriate before
and after treatment.
Temezcal
Also known as a sweat lodge. 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.
Thai massage
Traditionally done on the floor, with client dressed in loose clothing, a
full-body treatment that involves passive, yoga-like stretching and
pressure-point massage along the body's major energy channels to release
blocked energy, relieve tension, and increase awareness and tranquility. (BALIWIS
DAY SPA-BALI, INDONESIA)
Thalassotherapy
Treatments using sea and seawater products such as seaweed and seaweed wraps.
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. Most commonly used on
facial hair and eyebrows.
Traeger massage
Therapy that uses gentle, rhythmic movements to relieve tension, ease movement
(especially in joints), and induce relaxation. Compressions, elongations, and
light bounces as well as rocking motions are involved.
Transcendental
Meditation
Simple means of meditation that allows you to quiet the mind through repetition
of a personal mantra (word or phrase given you by an instructor) for 20 minutes
once or twice a day.
Turkish bath/hammam
Bathing procedure that involves going through a series of steam rooms of
increasing elevated temperature, followed by a rubdown and massage and finished
off with a cold shower.
U
Ultrasound
Ultrasound spa treatments use low-frequency sound waves to promote subcutaneous
rejuvenation by causing friction beneath the surface of the skin. This
technique is employed in several areas of spa aesthetics, from facials to
cellulite reduction.
V
vegan
One who eats only vegetables and no food derived from animals.
vegetarian
One who eats only fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and sometimes eggs or dairy
products.
Vichy Shower
Inspired by treatments in the French thermal spa city, involves client lying
down on a table atop a cushioned mat and under a spray of warm water from a
five- to-seven head shower system. It is meant to reduce stress, hydrate, and
improve circulation.
Volcano treatment
A revitalizing treatment that begins with an application of the geothermal
mud after which you are lightly wrapped. Foot reflexology is given while
you relax in the mud wrap. After a quick shower the therapy continues with a
deep tissue massage using acupressure. A cup of cleansing tea is the finishing
touch that maximizes the effect of this therapy. The mud, oil and tea are
derived from natural Icelandic resources. (NORDICA SPA-ICELAND)
W
Watsu massage
Massage treatment performed in a warm pool in which the therapist administers
rhythmic movements, pressure-point massage, and stretches to help client
achieve deep relaxation.
Waxing
Depilation process that involves application of warm wax followed by a strip of
cloth quickly pulled away from skin to remove unwanted hair.
Weight training
Use of free weights or weight machines in a series of repetitive exercises
meant both to tone the body and add or replace lean muscle mass and also to
raise metabolism.
Whirlpool
Bathtub designed with a system that recirculates the tub water and mixes in air
to create hydro therapy via jet inlets.
X
Y
yoga
Ancient art and philosophy that involves both mind and body and is aimed at
self-development and self-realization. The physical practice of yoga involves
performing postures (asanas) and using controlled breathing and meditation to
stretch and tone the body and improve circulation.
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.
Advertisement
