SPA INDEX NEWS / MARCH 10, 2002
ISSN: 1533-6417
WWW.SPAINDEX.COM
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SPA
EDUCATION: EAR CANDLING
"I suffer from sinus
headaches and a co-worker who is sort of into alternative medicine told me
to go to a Spa that offers ear candle treatment. I had this vision of my
head on a pillow with a birthday candle sticking out of it. What is ear
candling?" -- Roberta P., Tampa, FL
Our response is courtesy of Robert Arthur, Spa
Director for Cypress Bend Golf Resort,
Conference Center and Spa at Toledo Bend Lake, Many, LA.
"Ear candling is an ancient remedy that has been
used for centuries by many different cultures and is very popular throughout
Europe. This remedy has many physical and energetic benefits. Over the past few
years it has experienced a surge in popularity here in North America as we look
towards more holistic and non-intrusive answers for our health challenges.
First of all the quote "candle" used in this
treatment is actually not a candle at all, but a tapered hollow tube
approximately 10"-12" in length. Most commonly made of muslin which has been
dipped in wax (beeswax or paraffin), wrapped/shaped into a slender hollow tube,
which then hardens into the desired shape. Note: The taper at the end of each
candle is such that the candle can in no way enter far enough to damage the ear
drum, so relax.
During treatment the candle is gently inserted
into the ear canal, with an ash guard at the base, then it is lit at the large
end. The practitioner will monitor and trim the burning candle as it slowly
burns down over the course of 10-13 minutes. Afterward, the candle is removed
and usually cut open to show some of the wax residue which has gently been
removed from the ear.
The benefits range from relief of wax build-up,
hearing problems, ringing in the ears, sinus problems, headaches, and even
infection -- as well as the less obvious energetic benefits from the energy
spirals and cleansing effects of the smoke, which may offer relief from
pressure or energy blockages. I've heard of the Native Americans using a similar
technique for stomachaches, by holding the 'candle' over the belly button, which
is obviously an energy based treatment.
One other overlooked benefit is 'down time'. This
is generally a very soothing and relaxing experience. The majority of my clients
end up snoring through a large part of the session.
In our Spa we highly recommend a session in which
we use 2 candles in succession in each ear. This definitely enhances the
efficacy of the treatment. A four candle session in our Spa lasts approx 1
hour at $65, and the two candle session lasts approx 1/2 hour at $45.
The only contra-indications I know of is if the
ear drum is perforated, or if their is an advanced ear infection present.
How often is ideal? It takes approximately 24 hours for our ears to
replace the protective coating of wax once it has been removed. Consequently, a
daily treatment would not be advisable. Consult with your practitioner for their
recommendation, and use your common sense.
Ear Candling is a much needed preventative that
is well worth your time and investment in your health.....Enjoy!
Robert Arthur, Spa Director
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SPA FEATURE: MOTHER'S DAY SPECIALS
We are happy to provide our subscribers with a sampling of limited time
offers for special packages, special rates, and workshops from spas that
provide this information to us. You will find a complete list of Spa Deals
at the home page.
Whether you are the Mother of a passel of
kids, seeking a getaway weekend for yourself, or, a terrific son or daughter
wanting to send Mother to a Spa for a Day of Beauty, or even if your an
expectant mother hoping to get a head start on the Mother's Day
festivities, Spa Index has some specials and bargains for you:
Spa at Doral, FL is offering
Massage for the Mom to Be. Massage for expectant mothers offers a
relaxing and safe way to common discomforts associated with pregnancy.
A combination of styles ranging from Swedish massage and acupressure is used
in sessions by therapists certified to treat even high-risk pregnancies.
The Spa at Doral offers several year-round special packages.
Spa Renewal 7 Night
Program / Spa Renewal
4 Night Program /
Grande Getaway 2 Night Program /
Spa Escape Sampler
Program / Spa
Mid-Week Special .
Already been there?
Write a review!
Lake
Austin Spa Resort, Austin, TX is
an ideal setting for
Mother-Daughter getaways. Share some quality time while enjoying our
fitness activities, discovery programs and workshops. Certain weeks of the
year are dedicated to mothers and daughters and make the perfect time for
the ultimate retreat. Call for dates or to inquire about special rates and
packages, which are also recommended and available for other combinations of
family members. For reservations call 1-800-847-5637.
Already been there?
Write a review!
More
than just another weight loss spa, health resort or diet program,
Green Mountain at Fox
Run, VT is the country's foremost women-only retreat for healthy
living without dieting. It offers a practical, livable healthy lifestyle
approach where, for the past three decades, women have discovered how to lose
weight and keep it off. Beyond that, they have discovered that success means
much more than a number on a scale. Perhaps Green Mountain's best
recommendations come from past participants who depart feeling rejuvenated, fit,
more positive and hopeful. Call for special rates for Mother-Daughter
packages.1-800-448-8106 or 1-802-228-8885, P.O. Box 164, Fox Lane, Ludlow,
Vermont 05149. Email: change@fitwoman.com.
Already been there?
Write a review!
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SPA CUISINE:
If you can't get Mom away for a Spa Weekend, you can
always create a Spa envirionment at home, and serve this taste brunch dish from
Green Mountain Spa at Fox Run, Vermont.
RASPBERRY CUSTARD BRULÉE STYLE
GREEN MOUNTAIN SPA AT FOX RUN, VERMONT
2 cups fat-free (skim) milk*
3 eggs, slightly beaten
½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon raspberry liquor
½ teaspoon vanilla
6-ounce container fresh raspberries
6 teaspoons sugar (for topping)
*For a creamier texture, replace 2 tablespoons of
skim milk with 2 tablespoons of half and half. This small amount adds only a
trace of fat but provides a richer texture.
Preheat oven to 325°F (or 300°F for convection oven). In
microwave or small saucepan, heat milk until it begins to steam. Meanwhile, in a
medium bowl, blend eggs, ½ cup sugar and flavorings. Gradually add milk to egg
mixture, stirring constantly. Place about 5 fresh raspberries into each
individual (6-ounce) custard cup. Pour egg mixture into custard cups. Set
custard cups in a deep pan. Pour hot water into pan to within ½ inch of the top
of the custard cups. Bake until custard is just set, about 40-45 minutes (or
until a knife inserted in the center of the custard comes out clean). If
using a convection oven, bake about 35-40 minutes. Cool immediately.
Custards can be stored in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to serve,
sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of sugar on each custard, and using a kitchen torch,
caramelize the sugar following torch instructions. If using the broiler
method, set custards under the broiler about 4 to 5 inches from the heat and
broil about 2 minutes, watching carefully so they don't burn. To
serve, set custard cups on small plates and garnish with the remaining
raspberries.
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SPA GIVEAWAYS
Spa Giveaways, Promotions, and Freebies are back!
Visit our special page at Spa Index where we have assembled a list of
participating spa facilities offering you the opportunity to win free spa trips,
days of beauty, beauty products, and other freebies! Some of these
specials begin anew each month, so bookmark them and register every month of the
year for your chance to win.
Visit Spa Index Giveaways!
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