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E F G H I J K L M
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A
Acupressure: An ancient Chinese system of healing based on apply finger pressure and massage to meridians (energy
points) which releases muscle tension related ailments.
Acupressure Facial: Finger massage to acupressure points in the facial area, to obtain deep relaxation and
prevent stress wrinkles.
Acupuncture: An ancient Chinese system of healing based on inserting small needles into meridians (energy points)
throughout the body to dissolve obstructions in the flow of energy and to correct organ imbalances.
Aerobics: Exercise performed to music which stimulates the aerobic capacity of the heart and lungs.
Aikido: A Japanese martial art.
Alexander Technique: A posture, movement, and massage system designed to improve the way we sit, stand, and move
in our daily routine, in order to relieve and prevent pain and stress.
Aloe vera:
Also known as aloe
pryi, also known as aloe barbadensis. This plant is colloquially called the first-aid plant. There are numerous species, in excess of 300, of the aloe plant and it is commonly
indigenous to South Africa. The cream inside the plant contains a significant percentage of water, aloins, sterols, albumin, and other essential oils. It has been used medicinally
for thousands of years, and is referred to in the Bible. There is no scientific evidence to date that aloe vera has any benefits in cosmetics according to recent information put
forth by the American Medical Association, yet it is commonly prescribed for the treatment of burns.
Algotherapy: The use of seaweed in facials, body wraps, and baths for detoxification and rejuvenation (See also
Thalassotherapy).
Alpha Hydroxy Acids:
Alpha
hydroxy acids, or AHAs, are commonly found in different concentrations in many products. The most commonly used alpha hydroxy acids are glycolic, lactic, malic, citric and tartaric
acids. These mild acids serve to remove the outer layer of dull skin and leave skin with a rejuvenated appearance.
Amino acids:
These are the body’s protein building blocks. There are 22 amino acids, 8 of which cannot be made by the body but need to be replaced in one’s diet.
These are known as the essential amino acids because of their necessity in maintaining life. A 9th amino acid, histidine, is known to be required only in children. They are
commonly used as emollients and moisturizers in many skin products, and are thought to help the basic products penetrate the skin.
Arnica:
This herb is found typically in the Northern Hemisphere. It can be applied externally to help treat bruising, particularly in the postoperative period.
Taken orally, preoperatively it can help reduce bruising in patients having surgery. It is also known as wolf’s bane.
Aqua (water) aerobics: Aerobic exercise performed in a swimming pool where the water provides support and added
resistance. Reduced impact to the body makes this a particularly advantageous form of exercise for the overweight, elderly, post-medical trauma, or pregnant exerciser.
Aromatherapy: The practice of stimulating the senses through fragrance by using natural botanical essential oils from
plants, leaves, bark, roots, seeds, resins and flowers. Aromatherapy refreshes and relaxes the skin while soothing the mind by helping to induce a sense of well-being and. Each
individual essence is used to produce a specific beneficial effect. (See Essential Oils, below, for more information).
Ayurvedic Treatment and Massage: This ancient Indian "Science of Life" states that
the skin is the mirror to inner health and the body manifests everything that happens inside. 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. Massage techniques include Abhyanga
- individually prepared herbal-oil massage that deeply penetrates the skin, relaxes the mind-body, breaks up impurities and stimulate both arterial and lymphatic circulation.
Enhances the ability for nutrients to reach starved cells and for the removal of stagnant waste. Heightens awareness that will direct the internal healing system of the body.
Vishesh - deep muscular massage that breaks up adhesions and improves circulation deep within the muscles.
Pizichili - a continuous steam of warm herbalized oil soothingly poured over the body by two Ayurvedic therapists as they massage
the body in unison. Deep tissue cleansing. Heightened state of awareness. Udvartina - deeply penetrating herbal paste
lymphatic massage. Exfoliating treatment conditions the skin while pressing stagnant lymphatic toxins out of the body. Shiro-Ahhyanga-Nasya
- luxurious combination of a deep head, neck and shoulder massage, a facial lymphatic massage, followed by deep inhalation of therapeutic aromatic steam and a nasal and sinus nasya
with herbalized nose drops. Balances most head, neck and respiratory disorders. Pinda Swedna - deep cleansing treatment where
rice boiled in milk and herbs are massaged deeply into the tissues and joints. Relaxing, rejuvenating, and detoxing.
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B
Bach Cures: Healing with floral essences and oils.
Balneotherapy: The use of water to improve circulation, strengthen the immune system, and reduce pain and stress.
Beeswax:
This is taken from
virgin bees and is used as an emulsifier. It is nearly water insoluble. It is used in many cosmetics as well as baby creams, cold creams, and many types of makeup. It can cause
contact dermatitis but is usually considered quite safe.
Bindi: Bodywork combining exfoliation, herbal treatment, and light massage.
Bioenergetics: Energy exchange between the giver and receiver of massage.
Bio-Lifting: A non-surgical facial lifting treatment performed with galvanic stimulation.
Body Composition
Analysis: Method of measuring the percentages of body fat,
lean muscle mass and water, done with skin-fold calipers, a bio-impedance mechanism or a hydrostatic tank.
Body Polish: A gentle buffing or massaging of the skin with botanical or marine extracts or salt for exfoliation
and smoothness. Similar to a salt glow.
Body Sculpting:
The application of suctions cups to the
body, creating a vacuum which stimulates the arterial, venous and lymphatic systems, which in turn drive blood circulation toward congested tissues to eliminate fat toxicity.
Reduces the appearance of orange-peel skin and irregularities of cellulite, and aids in a smooth, supple look.
Botox Injection: Available at reputable medi-spas, Botox relaxes muscles to soften wrinkles on
the forehead, eye area and neck. The treatment lasts approximately 3-4 months.
Brush & Tone: Dry-brushing exfoliating of skin to remove its dead layers and impurities and stimulate circulation.
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C
Cathiodermie: The use of low-voltage electric stimulation to revitalize and oxygenate the skin, and improve
circulation.
Cayce-Reilly Massage: This massage is intensively therapeutic, manipulates tissues
and joints, and uses moist heated castor oil and glycothymaline packs.
Chemical Peel: This facial treatment temporarily counteracts limited sun damage and helps
diminish or even-out scars.
Chi Kung / Chi Kong / Qigong: A Chinese energy exercise
where breathing and body movement recharge energy.
Circuit Training: Exercise using weight-resistance equipment in an aerobic manner.
Clay mask:
A clay mask is a deep
cleansing treatment for the pores. It is usually a mixture of different kinds of clays mixed with a creamy base. Clay masks are helpful at keeping the skin clear, and clogged pores
cleaned out. It helps lift off debris and impurities on the skin due to the clay’s strong drawing ability. Clay masks should not be used for more than 30 minutes, as it tends to
dry out which makes it extremely difficult for a clay mask to be removed. These are very effective for people who have normal to oily skin and who have clogged pores.
Club Spa: A facility whose primary purpose is fitness and which offers a variety of professionally administered
spa services on a day-use basis.
Cocoa butter:
Also known as
Theobroma oil. This serves to lubricate and soften the skin. It comes from the seeds of the cocoa plant and is used in many products. It can cause an allergic skin reaction.
Collagen Injection: Freeze-dried collagen is used to plump the skin to fill in the fine lines acquired by
stress, sunbathing, or the environment. Collagen is a purified protein. The treatment lasts approximately 5-6 months.
Colon Therapy: A high colonic enema that cleanses using water. Benefits include detoxification, cleansing of the blood,
and the stimulation of internal organs.
Colonic: Irrigation of the colon for the purpose of cleansing trapped debris, which is believed to recycle toxins back
into the system.
Compression Wrap: A localized treatment for cellulite and fatty deposits on arms, legs and buttocks.
Contouring: Deep toning of muscles using calisthenics.
Craniosacral Therapy: A gentle hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing
the function of the Craniosacral system (the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord).
Cruise Ship Spa: A spa aboard a cruise ship providing professionally administered spa services, fitness and
wellness components and spa cuisine menu choices (definition by International Spa Association).
Crystal Healing: Healing by using energy believed to be generated by quartz and other crystals and minerals.
Cure: A course of treatment. Also known as kur.
Cybex: Patented exercise equipment used for isokinetic strength training.
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D
Dancercise: Modified modern dance steps and movements to provide an aerobic work out.
Day Spa: Services will vary by provider, however, Day Spas typically provide beauty, health, and therapeutic
treatments which can be started and completed in a single session, either by the hour, or by the day. Overnight accommodations are not usually available. See
Resort Spas and Destination Spas.
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 Muscle Massage
/ Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy: This
type of massage eliminates knots, locked up areas, and emotional blocks in the body due to prolonged stress. It includes various leverage techniques and kneading for a very firm
massage.
Deep Tissue Massage: Frees 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.
Dermabrasion: Dermabrasion is not a new technique -- it has long been used to treat scars from acne or
trauma as well as fine wrinkling. Its use for treatment of fine wrinkling has been supplanted by most of the lasers and topical chemical agents. It still is an effective treatment
for scars, since it rounds out depressed or elevated scars. Dermabrasion has similar effects in increasing collagen and elastin as the carbon dioxide laser, erbium laser and
chemical peels. The risks of dermabrasion can be depigmentation, infection, scarring and persistent redness.
Destination Spa:
A spa whose sole purpose is to provide guests
with lifestyle improvement and health enhancement through professionally administered spa services, physical fitness, educational programming, and on-site accommodations. Healthy
spa cuisine is served exclusively (see also Day Spas and Resort Spas).
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E
Ear Candling: A natural remedy for those suffering from wax build-up, swimmer's ear,
itching ears, and allergies. Hollow tapers made of beeswax coated muslin are placed gently into the opening of the ear, while you are laying prone on your side. Your
attendant monitors the slow burning of the "candle" while the gentle, slow, warm smoke trickles from the inside of the hollow candle into the ear candle, loosening and comforting
the ear, while at the same time creating a mild vacuum to draw out moisture, excess wax, and in some cases, pus from an infection. Although advanced cases of ear infection are not
recommended for ear candling treatment, in many cases, a session of ear candles will draw out enough of the moisture and "funky stuff" created by chronic swimmer's ear to help
speed healing and "pop the pressure" of plugged ears. A deeply relaxing experience, many clients fall asleep. Ear candling promotes the process of cleaning and healing, and
offers a natural alternative to chemical solutions or those who have an intolerance to antibiotics.
Effleurage: Massage technique involving quick, long strokes at the beginning and end of a treatment.
Emu oil:
The emu is a very large
bird which cannot fly. The cosmetic properties of emu oil were initially studied in Australia at the University of Sydney. They are found to have anti-inflammatory properties which
penetrate the skin. It allegedly has very good moisturizing properties which are better than mineral oil and have a lower incidence of pore clogging.
Endermologie: This is a relatively new method which is purported to help treat cellulite. It was developed in
Europe and became popular in the United States over the last several years. This is thought to work by helping to break up pockets of fat underneath the subcutaneous area. A hand
held device picks the skin up between two rollers, and drops it back against the skin. This is non-invasive, and relatively painless. The benefits of Endermologie are still
undetermined.
Equilibropathy:
A method of balancing the body which can be used to therapeutically treat
ailments from asthma, migraines, sore muscles, sinus congestion, vertigo, stiff joints including gout, arthritis & rheumatism, lowered immunity and many more common conditions and
is particularly useful in the prevention of all types of illnesses.
Ergometer: Exercise machine designed for muscular contraction.
Essential Oils: Natural substances extracted from grasses, flowers, herbs, shrubs, trees, resins and spices, usually
through a process called steam distillation. Oils can soothe, relax, rejuvenate, heal, energize or relieve pain, thereby affecting the body's physical, psychological and emotional
levels. Essential Oils used in this manner is traditionally called aromatherapy. For a complete list of essential oils and their properties,
click here.
Esalen Massage: A long, gentle and stroking style of massage.
European Facial: A skin care treatment which 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.
Exfoliating Facial Treatment: Peels away dry skin cells and removes deeply-trapped secretions that impede oxygenation.
Marine sediments, mineral salts, and lipoamino acids can be used to stimulate circulation and add moisture.
Exfoliation: Peels away dry skin cells and removes deeply-trapped secretions that impede oxygenation.
Extractions: The manual cleaning of sebum, debris, and dead cells from the pores.
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F
Fango Body Treatment: Thermal fango (fango means mud in Italian) from Italy is applied to the entire body to gently
cleanse, release toxins, remineralize, nourish, and soothe the skin. Also used to relieve muscular and arthritic pain.
Fascian Injection: This filler helps smooth deep wrinkles around the mouth. The treatment lasts approximately 3-5
months.
Feldenkrais: A method to reprogram the nervous system through movement augmented by physical pressure and manipulation.
Flotation: Float in tanks 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.
Free radicals:
These are
molecules which are formed from various pollutants, smoke, and sun exposure. They are unfortunately unavoidable in day-to-day life. Free radical molecules can cause significant
damage to the skin. Antioxidants serve to diminish the effects of free radicals. Common antioxidants are Vitamin C, E, superoxide dismutase, and certain forms of Vitamin A.
Antioxidants can be taken in orally with any form of fruit or vegetable, as well as in oral dietary supplements, and can be applied directly to your skin. Many antioxidant vitamins
are a very important part of many skin care regimens
Fruit Acid Wash: A mildly acidic peeling application to the skin, which both lowers the pH of the skin's surface
so that the substance which keratinized cells is loosened, and, permits dead cell layers to slough off more easily. The result is smoothing, refining, with smaller pores.
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G
G5: Percussive hand massage to relax tense muscles.
Glycolic Facial: This breaks down the glue bond that holds dry skin on the face, then creates a rapid exfoliation to
soften lines and smooth the skin.
Golden Spoons:
A unique treatment
utilizing gold plated massage spoons with a shape ideally designed for the
anatomy of the face. This is one
component of the various healing treatments endorsed by Father Sebastian Kneipp
(See "Kneipp", below). The cold-warm-cold stimulation used in a Golden Spoons
treatment triggers a natural feedback permitting cells, connective tissues and
organs to get a better supply of blood, and it believed, appropriate nutrition.
Enhanced blood circulation is achieved through the warmth of the WARMER spoon,
and then through subsequent use of the COOLER spoon, namely a rhythmic
expansion and contraction of blood vessels. Read more about this
treatment by visiting our spa member and source online, Spa 415 in Beverly
Hills, California.
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H
Heliotherapy:
The treatment of disease by exposing the body to the sun's rays;
the therapeutic use of sunbathing.
Hellerwork: Deep tissue bodywork, stress reduction and movement reeducation.
Herbal Wrap: The body is wrapped in a cloth soaked in a herbal solution to eliminate impurities, detoxify the body, and
induce relaxation.
Herbology: Therapeutic use of herbs in treatments and diet.
Holistic Health: A philosophy of well-being that considers the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of life as
closely interconnected and balanced.
Holistic Spa: Spas focusing on alternative
healing methods and nutrition, mainly vegetarian or macrobiotic holistic healing seeks "high level of wellness" integrating body and mind in a higher consciousness.
Homeopathy: Based on the principle that "like cures like," this form of medicine treats patients with natural
substances that cause symptoms much like those manifested by the ailment, thus stimulating the body to heal itself.
Hot Stone (LaStone) Massage: A bodywork involves the use of heated and cooled stones (Thermo therapy) applied to the
body in various ways to bring about relief to stiff and sore muscles.
Hydration Facial: Utilizes enzymes and hylauronic acids which promotes superior hydration of stressed skin cells. A
mask of paraffin and essential oils are applied to rehydrate and revitalize the skin.
Hydrotherapy: Water used as a form of treatment by way of jet massages, showers, and baths.
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I
Interval Training: A combination of high energy exercise followed by a period of low intensity activity.
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J
Japanese Enzyme Bath:
The practice of immersing yourself in wooden tubs, generally filled
with a fragrant blend of finely ground cedar, rice bran, and plant enzymes.
These ingredients heat naturally, by fermentation, creating biologically
generated warmth that mimics the body's natural metabolic process. Learn more
about the reported benefits,
history and
principles of the Cedar
Enzyme Bath from one of our members, Osmosis Enzyme Bath Spa, in
Freestone, California.
Jin Shin Acupressure: Gentle yet deep finger pressure on specific acu-points with body focusing techniques to help
release physical and emotional tension and armoring, assist the immune system, alleviate common ailments, and harmonize the flow of life energy within the body. Performed without
oil.
Jin Shin Do: An ancient art of harmonizing life energy within the body by placing fingertips over clothing on
designated areas.
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K
Kneipp, Kneipp Cure,
Kneipp Kur, Kneippism:
In the 19th century, Father Sebastian Kneipp
revolutionized natural medicine and dedicated his long life to harnessing the
healing power of water, specific plants and herbs. Sebastian Kneipp was
considered both a pioneer and an authority in the field of holistic healing.
During his years of study, through today, an entire town in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps
has devoted itself to Kneipp‘s philosophy. In the spa-village of Bad Wörishofen,
almost every hotel and guest-house offers treatments of the well-known
“Kneipp-Cure“ where physicians practice Kneipp Wellness. The
four core elements of Kneipp wellness are plants, water, exercise, and
nutrition. Popular bath and body products are still manufactured and
available at better department stores and beauty suppliers. Many spas
offer a "Golden Spoons" treatment which is based on Father Kneipp's recommended
kur of alternating cold and hot stimulation, both in water, and using golden
spoons. To read more
about this fascinating individual and to learn more about Kneipp products, read
from our source: Sebastian Kneipp's
legacy at Kneipp.com. See also "Golden Spoons."
Kukui nut oil:
Also known as
aleurites moluccana, also known as candle nut oil, also known as lumbang oil. The oil from this tropically found tree is used to make soap. Hawaiians have been using it for many
centuries to treat dry skin, psoriasis, and other common skin problems.
Kur: A course of treatment. Also known as cure.
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L
Lactic Acid: A naturally occurring substance in the skin and is produced by our muscles when we work out. Lactic
acid build up is in fact what gives muscles cramping when they are over exerted. The most common acids used in skin care are lactic acid and glycolic acid. Those people who are
allergic to the more commonly found glycolic acids should do very well with lactic acid products because they are a naturally occurring substance in the skin.
LaStone (Hot Stone) Therapy: A bodywork involves the use of heated and cooled stones (Thermo therapy) applied to the
body in various ways to bring about relief to stiff and sore muscles.
Lomi-Lomi: Traditional Hawaiian bodywork which uses energy in the form of waves. These waves are produced by the
mind (intent), the body (touch & motion), and the spirit (energy field). The therapist uses long, broad strokes and rocking movements, and may walk on the client's back using
ceiling-mounted balancing bar.
Loofah Scrub: Brisk rubbing with a Loofah sponge to exfoliate the skin and stimulate circulation.
Low Impact Aerobics: A form of aerobics without jumping which spares the body possible injuries.
Lulur: An exfoliation and body polishing treatment in which a paste of sandalwood, turmeric, ground nuts, rice, and
scented woods is painted on the body, left to dry, then gently rubbed off. The treatment is followed by a hot shower and yogurt mix wiped over the body. A warm bath filled
with scented flowers completes the treatment.
Lymphodrainage: Non-evasive therapeutic massage to the face and neck that uses a delicate pumping technique to purge
swollen tissues (lymph nodes) of water and trapped toxins.
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M
Massage: There are over 80 types of massage in use today. They are as many reasons
to seek massage as there are types. In general, massage is based on concepts of human function, anatomy, and physiology and uses a wide variety of soft tissue and manipulative
techniques. A masseur is male massage therapist. A masseuse is a female massage therapist.
Medical Spa: Individuals, solo practices,
groups, and institutions comprised of medical and spa professionals whose primary purpose is to provide comprehensive medical and wellness care in an environment which integrates
spa services, as well as, conventional, and complimentary therapies and treatments.
Mineral Springs Spa:
A spa offering an on-site source of natural
mineral, thermal or seawater used in hydrotherapy treatments.
Moor Mud Therapy / Treatment: Formed more than 30,000 years ago, Moor Mud is a complete nourishing matter containing
over 800 plants with at least 380 having known medicinal value. Treatments remineralize, hydrate & exfoliate the skin leaving it with a vital, healthy glow.
Mud Treatment: Mineral-rich mud used to detoxify the body, loosen muscles, and stimulate circulation.
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N
Naturopathy: Natural healing treatments using plants and flowers.
NIA (Neuromuscular Integrative Action): A form of exercise that encourages free expression and combines dance,
yoga, martial arts, and various cultural practices.
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O
Onsen: A Japanese hot spring for bathing in the traditional Japanese method. The Japanese have
wonderfully civilized bath manners. Prior to bathing, you first take a shower to wash off dust, and then sink into the bath. You exit the tub in order to wash hair and
body, and return to the tub for soaking and relaxation, being careful not to bring bubbles with you. The hot water must be kept clean. Most Japanese people change water
once a day, after all family members finished taking a bath.
Oxygen Treatment: Oxygen is used to cleanse and refresh. In an Oxygen Facial, after
cleansing, steaming and exfoliation, your face is sprayed with ozone, which increases circulation and creates a warm, healthy glow. Oxygen facials may prevent breakouts, diminish
fine lines and buffer the effects of environmental pollution. They're said to be particularly beneficial for smokers.
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P
Paraffin Mud Treatment: Mud mixed in paraffin provides the benefits of both mud and paraffin treatments.
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 soft.
Paraffin 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: A
fitness and exercise trail or other designated area, almost always outdoors,
which consists of several "stations" at which one performs that station's
recommended exercise, before moving on to the next numbered station. Some
stations may be simple, close together and completed in short order, while
others are more comprehensive, spread further apart, and require running or
jogging or recovery time in between. A typical parcourse would contain a
station where you bend, stretch, and warm up, followed by a station where you
do a repetition of calisthenics, followed by a station where you may do chin
ups, push up, or climb a stationary wall.
Perfector Therapy: The use a low current that sends tiny electrical impulses to the muscles, stimulating them which in
turn leads to cell regeneration, lymph cleansing, toxin removal and more toned and firmer skin and muscles.
Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy /
Deep Muscle Massage: This type of massage
eliminates knots, locked up areas, and emotional blocks in the body due to prolonged stress. It includes various leverage techniques and kneading for a very firm massage.
Phytotherapy: Healing through plants, involving the use of herbs, aromatic essential oils, seaweeds, herbal and floral
extracts.
Polarity Therapy: Balancing energy in the body through a combination of massage, meditation, exercise, and diet.
Polish: A gentle process using large sea sponges to cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and soften the body.
Pressotherapy: Treatment with pressure cuffs to improve the circulation of the feet.
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Q
Qigong /
Chi Kung / Chi Kong: Pronounced
"CHEE GUNG", a Chinese energy exercise where breathing and body movement recharge energy.
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R
Rasul: An Oriental ceremony for body care involving a cleansing seaweed soap shower, medicinal muds, and an
invigorating herbal steam bath.
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. Relieves stress and releases energy and pressure throughout the body.
Reike / Reiki: The Ancient Art and Science of balancing the body's energy on a physical and emotional level.
Repichage: A combination of herbal, clay, seaweed or mud face-packs to cleanse and moisturize.
Resort Spa: A spa owned by and located within a resort or hotel providing professionally
administered spa services, fitness and wellness components and spa cuisine menu choices.
Rolfing: Bodywork that improves balance and flexibility through manipulation of rigid muscles, bones, and joints.
Intended to relieve stress and improve energy. This is a very intense, and at times very painful, deep-tissue massage.
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S
Salicylic acid:
This occurs
naturally in many plants. It can also be synthetically made. It is used externally as an antiseptic agent, as well as an antifungal agent and skin sloughing ingredient. It is
commonly used in the treatment for removal of warts in the form of an Occlusal. Salicylic Acid also is currently used for its anti-aging properties in the form of beta hydroxy
acids.
Salt Glow: An exfoliating treatment where the body is rubbed with coarse salt to remove the top layer of dead
skin and stimulate circulation.
Sauna: Dry heat in a wooden room used to open the pores and eliminate toxins through sweat.
Sclerotherapy: Eliminates varicose veins and superficial telangiectasias ("spider veins") by the
injection, into the vein, of a "sclerosing agent".
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 sea water.
Seaweed Wrap: A wrap of concentrated sea water and seaweed which diffuse minerals, rare elements, vitamins,
proteins in the blood stream to revitalize the skin and the body.
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii): Shea butter is natural fat from
the Karite tree grown in West and Central Africa. Shea butter is a wonderfully
therapeutic emollient which helps heal dry, cracked, aged and damaged skin.
Shea butter is rich in Vitamins A and E and is easily and deeply absorbed by
the skin. Shea butter is rich in unsaponifiables and cinnamic esters,
which provide antimicrobial and moisturizing qualities. Some cosmetic chemists
believe shea butter also speeds healing of bruises.
Shiatsu: Japanese 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.
Spa: While many
different origins of the term are bandied about, the most popular is that it originates from the Latin term "Sanum
Per Aqua" or "Sanus Per Aqua" which is "health through water" or "cure of
water." Others give credit to the town of Spa, in Belgium, for
popularizing "taking the waters" as a health measure. We are less convinced this
is the case, since there are thousands of healthful spa regions in the World and
which one, if any, can lay claim to being the first "spa site" is lost to
history.
Spinning: Performing a series of exercises seated on special exercise bikes: stretching, low intensity aerobics, high
intensity aerobics, body contour, yoga, 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.
Excellent when preparing for sports activities or after a strenuous workout.
Sports/Adventure Spa: Hotel or resort providing therapeutic baths and body treatment and
that offer special sports and outdoor adventure programs that include anything from golf to skiing, fly-fishing to marathon conditioning.
Steam Room: Tiled room in which steam is generated at high pressure and temperature. This treatment is used to
open the pores and eliminate toxins.
Step Class / Step Aerobics: Aerobic sessions performed with a small platform used to step up and
down.
Stretching: Various parts of the body are stretched by assuming different positions to help eliminate stress and
tension and increase flexibility.
Structured Spa: Spas with a strict set of rules whose entire facility is geared towards the
achievement of a particular goal such as weight loss, smoking cessation, or fitness.
Sugaring: An ancient hair removal process. A warm mixture of sugar, lemon and water, body sugar can remove hair
from the eyebrows, upper lip, bikini area, legs and underarms. Like waxing, sugaring removes hair at the root so that it grows in finer and the skin stays smoother longer. But,
because the sugar mixture is all natural and goes on warm, it's less painful than waxing and leaves the skin less irritated.
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.
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T
T'ai Chi: A form of Chinese martial art that combines mental concentration, slow respiration and graceful
movements similar to those of a dance.
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.
Thalassotherapy Massage: A massage using seaweed oil.
Trager Approach: A technique developed by Dr. Milton Trager that involves rhythmic rocking and shaking movements
to relieve joint tension.
Tui Na: An ancient system of Chinese body work in which the practitioner uses acupressure and massage to balance
the body's flow of energy, flush toxins, and treat specific ailments.
T-Zone: The T shaped oily area generally extending across the forehead and down the nose, across the lips, and to the
bottom of your chin (T shape).
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U
Underwater Massage: Like an aquatic Shiatsu (see also Watsu) is a relaxing,
back-to-the-womb experience designed to release tension, boost energy and remove blockages from the body's energy channels. (According to Eastern medical philosophy, such blockages
are believed to contribute to illness.) During treatment, a spa therapist keeps you afloat in a body-temperature pool for 45 minutes while pressing on acupressure points and
helping you stretch and perform range-of-motion exercises. Watsu is particularly helpful for people with chronic pain, like arthritis, since the water's buoyancy makes it easier to
move without discomfort.
V
Vichy Shower: A shower taken lying down on a table, usually in a "wet room" where jets of water spray from above and
below, or all sides.
Vodder Massage: A manual lymph drainage massage technique.
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W
Watsu: (See also Underwater Massage) Silent, deeply relaxing aquatic body
work. Done in a pool, shiatsu and acupressure in flowing dance-like movements where the body is supported by water and the practitioner.
Waxing: The removal of body hair with hot wax.
Weight Lifting Work-out: Aerobic exercises that make use of the resistance offered by weights.
Whirlpool: A tub of hot water with jets of high pressure water pumped from the sides and bottom which massage
muscles and induce relaxation.
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Y
Yoga: Oriental practice that uses special positions (asana) 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.
