One of the most nerve-racking issues  about stress is the fact that the medical community is constantly preaching the importance of stress reduction. Rather than minimizing the mental strain, suggestions such as “try not to stress” usually end up serving the opposite purpose, thereby causing – you guessed it – even more stress. Since most people wholeheartedly agree that stress reduction is far more than a matter of snapping one’s fingers and bidding stress adieu, many overstressed individuals find themselves seeking outside help in order to achieve the goal of relative mental tranquility. This is where professional massage therapy comes into play. Dr. Ulysses Agpaoa is medical director at Hudson Laser Skin Care, a New Jersey-based medical spa, and he believes that massage therapy can play an important role in helping people recover from physical and emotional aches and pains. For this reason, his facility offers a number of massages designed to target a variety of pain origins.

On a physical level, a good massage help dilate blood vessels and pump added nutrients and energy sources into the body. The right massage techniques can improve circulation and help the body rid itself of toxins, thereby helping the recipient stay strong and healthy. While the physical benefits of massages make them a worthwhile investment, the mental benefits are just as important. A proper massage can help increase energy levels and enhance the recipient’s memory and mood. Massages have also been linked to an improvement in one’s ability to get a good night’s sleep, which can result in added alertness and mental dexterity. Most importantly, the right massage can really help a person alleviate, or at least manage stress, thereby breaking the damaging cycle and increasing one’s ability to stay physically healthy.

In fact, because massage therapy is gaining more and more credibility in the medical world, some insurance companies are beginning to cover the cost of massages as long as a medical diagnosis is associated with the procedure. Unfortunately, as far as the medical value of massage therapy is concerned, many players in the health insurance field still need a lot of convincing. However, Dr. Agpaoa always encourages his customers to appeal to their insurance companies – or beg their loved ones for medical spa gift certificates – before opting out of massage therapy.

A buildup of stress can truly take a toll on a person over time. Rather than suffer in silence, you can take steps to break the vicious cycle by scheduling a soothing massage at your local medical spa. Yes, you might have to pay a bit, but your mind and body will be sure to thank you profusely.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

Related Articles

• Why Women of All Ages Get Liposuction (0)
• What is Photodynamic Acne Treatment? (0)
• What is Laser Genesis? (0)
• Types of Medical Spa Massages (0)
• Top Liposuction Myths (0)

Believe it or not, you can experience the benefits of massage therapy without putting yourself into bankruptcy. With just a little bit of extra effort, you can get a great massage for a great price. Here are some tips for getting blissed out on a budget.

Comparison Shop

Prices for a 60-minute Swedish massage can vary widely, even within the same city. And the amount you’re expected to pay isn’t necessarily reflective of the quality of the massage you’re going to receive. Often, the size of your bill is directly related to “extra” activities you might engage in before and after your treatment. In many cases, “free” add-ons and ambiance-enhancers like mood lighting, water features, saunas, swanky locker rooms and fluffy towels come with a hefty price tag. Plenty of no-frills day spas are out there that offer affordable and effective massage therapy. Some chiropractic offices even offer massage as a secondary treatment at competitive prices.

Comparison shopping may require a few phone calls as smaller day spas, salons and massage centers are not likely to have price lists available online. But the potential savings is certainly worth the hassle. A cost comparison for a basic 60-minute massage in the Dallas area shows prices ranging from a $130 at a hotel spa to (are you ready?) $39 for an introductory session at a reputable, albeit unfussy, massage center.

Become a Great Communicator

There’s a reason massage therapists always ask for your feedback on the pressure of their massage or the way they’re addressing your problem areas—they need it in order to do a good job! It seems like a no-brainer, but it’s something you’re likely to forget as soon as you’re lying on a massage table—you’re only one who knows how you are feeling. What works for one client may not work for another, and massage therapists are certainly not mind readers. There is no reason for you to sit there quietly enduring something you don’t enjoy or is ineffective. You’re paying top dollar for your therapist’s time so it doesn’t make sense to waste it. Don’t be afraid to ask him to pay extra attention to your trouble spots or to skip that portion of the massage you’ve never really cared for. You’ll ultimately get more bang for your buck if you’re clear with your massage therapist about your individual needs. You may even be able to get the treatment you need within a shorter appointment, saving you money as well as time.

Check with Your Insurance Company

Massage therapy is becoming more widely accepted as a legitimate treatment option for conditions ranging from anxiety to certain types of cancer. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, research shows that massage can speed healing and alleviate the pain associated with a variety of serious medical problems. Many insurance plans include a provision for a limited amount of massage therapy if it is recommended by your doctor.

Contact a Massage School

Massage schools often offer low-cost massage sessions in order to allow students to hone their skills before entering the professional world. Granted, a “practice” massage is not likely to be comparable in quality to the massage you would receive from a therapist with 10 years of experience. But if you are willing to communicate clearly and practice a little patience, you can experience the basic benefits of massage—relaxation and stress relief—for as little as $20 to  $30 per session.

If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of being treated by an as-yet uncertified practitioner, consider this: By the time a massage student is allowed to begin working on the general public, he will already have spent countless hours learning technique, studying the body and performing massage on fellow students. Your massage will likely be supervised by an instructor, and the student will probably be evaluated on his or her interview skills as well as massage skills. Your therapist may be tad nervous, and you may have to endure a little back-and-forth with the instructor. But there is a great chance your therapist will be eager to please and will work hard to give you the best possible experience.

Finding a massage therapist you can afford may mean the difference between enduring painful, sleepless nights and finally achieving that state of deep relaxation that is so important for your long-term health and wellness. With a little research and assertiveness, you can experience the stress-relieving benefits of massage therapy without the sky-high price tag.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

Related Articles

• Plastic Surgery on the Cheap (3)
• A Guide to Your Spa Experience (4)
• Your Spa Day (0)
• What is a Design and Build Company? (1)
• Wedding Limo Services (2)

Massage is becoming increasingly popular across the country, particularly as the mainstream medical community is beginning to pay more attention to the potential benefits of massage therapy. In fact, a US Department of Labor report predicts that employment for massage therapists will increase 20% (faster than most other occupations) from 2006 to 2016 as more people become aware of the benefits offered by massage therapy.

Who Needs Massage Therapy?

Many people seek massage therapy when stress, job-related or otherwise, has begun to negatively impact their overall quality of life. The state of deep relaxation that can be achieved by a talented massage therapist is highly sought after by tension-ridden executives and overtired homemakers alike. Of course, there are certainly those who get massages simply to feel pampered, enjoy some peace and quiet and indulge themselves once in a while. After all, massage has long been a staple at day spas and resorts, and a good 60-minute Swedish can make any day feel like a special occasion.

A growing number of people are also turning to massage therapy to supplement their medical treatment for a variety of conditions. Common reasons people see a massage therapist include low back pain, muscle tension, insomnia, anxiety, headaches and sports injuries.

The Potential Benefits

Although massage is often associated with luxury and self-indulgence, massage therapy appears to have real health benefits. The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) reports benefits ranging from stress relief to pain reduction and improved healing times.

Massage therapy also appears to benefit those suffering from sleep disorders. A natural sleep aid, massage has been shown to improve sleep patterns in individuals experiencing stress-induced insomnia.

Studies indicate that massage may be helpful in treating certain types of chronic pain that have not responded to conventional treatments. AMTA cites studies indicating that the effects of massage may help alleviate the perception of pain, and may also help individuals with chronic pain conditions more effectively cope with their pain.

Interestingly, research is also being done on the effects of massage therapy on newborn babies, particularly those that are pre-term. Results indicate that regular massage may help improve the infants’ sleep quality and weight gain, improving their overall health outlook.

Because massage therapy is becoming more widely recognized as a legitimate supplemental treatment option for a variety of conditions, many insurance companies offer coverage for massage in situations where it has been recommended by an individual’s primary care doctor.

Risks

Because massage therapy is still considered an “alternative” therapy, not every insurance plan covers it, nor is there a guarantee that your doctor will recommend it for your condition. As most massage therapists will tell you, the best way to experience the benefits of massage is to undergo regular treatment (usually one or more times per month). Footing the bill for weekly or bi-weekly massages on your own will definitely take a toll on your finances over the long term.

Although solid scientific evidence on the topic is limited, the NCCAM web site states that, when properly performed by a licensed professional, massage therapy appears to be associated with few risks. Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to the oils that are commonly used in massage, and certain types of medical conditions make some people poor candidates for massage therapy. These conditions include bleeding disorders, blood clots, skin infections, recent surgery or weakened bones.

The Bottom Line

Whether you simply want to feel pampered or are suffering from a medical condition that has not responded to conventional treatment, there are lots of reasons to give massage therapy a try. Assuming that you can afford it and have access to a qualified massage therapist, you can expect to, at the very least, enjoy a few moments of relaxation. You may even experience some excellent benefits to your physical health and overall wellness.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

Related Articles

• Shiatsu Massage: Does it Really Work? (0)
• Relieving Muscle Tension, with Rolfing (0)
• Couples Massage: Double the Price, Double the Sensuality? (1)
• Three Signs Sensory Deprivation Therapy May Be Right for You (1)
• Swedish Massage: A First-Timer’s Best Bet (1)

A variety of approved methods can deal with cellulite, but there is no proven cure or treatment.

What is cellulite?

A condition that occurs for the most part in women, cellulite is marked by the deep dimpling and creasing of skin on the lower limbs, buttocks, abdomen, and pelvic area. The cause of the dimpling is from fat deposited in pockets just below the skin’s surface. Collagen connected to the fat stretches or pulls the skin tight in places, allowing the fat cells to stick out in bulges.This causes the rippled look people hate so much.

Cellulite is harmless healthwise. But some consider it harmful aesthetically, which is to say that people are embarrassed by cellulite because they think it makes them look ugly. These people seek treatments to reduce or cure their cellulite.

A number of treatments are available and approved by the Food and Drug Administration. But overall, there remains to be seen a treatment that the medical community can reasonably promote as true and effective. In other words, there are a lot of medically approved ways to deal with the issue, but none are recognized as dependably successful.

What is cellulite treatment?

Liposuction seems to be the first treatment most people think of  though this is by no means the only approved treatment available. In fact, a number of non-invasive, non-surgical treatments don’t even require the puncture from a needle.

But back to liposuction. It is an invasive surgery to extract fat from under the skin’s surface. Removing fat is the MEANS to the END; the end being the reduction of cellulite. This is because some medical professionals maintain that cellulite, because it’s partly caused by the depositing of fat, can be reduced by removing that fat.

In liposuction, a suction tube or an ultrasonic machine breaks up the fat, and sucks it out. That’s right: The process is theoretically as simple as it sounds.

There are alternatives to this surgical procedure:

Endermologie: It is a non-surgical, FDA-approved treatment. It involves two motorized rollers and a regulated suction instrument. It allows deep tissue to be mobilized and shifted around. This service costs $100 to $150 per session, and it takes about 14 sessions to complete.

Ultrasound: This is also non-surgical and FDA-approved.

Massage: It increases circulation and drainage of the lymph nodes, which can break down adhesions. Massages cost $60 to $150.

Electric muscle stimulators: This process directs an electrical current at the affected area with the goal of breaking down the tissue that is thought to cause cellulite. It costs $45 to $65 per session.

You must keep in mind that absolutely none of these procedures is guaranteed to reduce cellulite. Some of them may be approved by the FDA, but they can still come with their share of risks.

Who is it for?

People with cellulite, of course. More specifically, it’s for people with cellulite who are bothered by their condition. Maybe they don’t like how they look at the beach, or in shorts during the summer.

One thing’s for sure: Cellulite treatment is not for anybody who is opposed to taking medical risks.

Related Articles

• VelaShape (0)
• Anti-Aging Dermatology: Can You Fight the Clock? (1)
• What is Endermologie? (1)
• Titan Laser: “Tighten” Up With Titan (2)
• Thighplasty: Getting Rid of Excess Skin and/or Fat (1)

Massage therapy is one of the most effective ways to reward your body.

Massage therapy has become a mainstream way in which to treat a variety of physical and emotional ailments. An estimated 39 million Americans receive at least one massage per year. It is proven effective in reducing anxiety, relieving back pain, lowering blood pressure, and treating migraine headaches. When searching for a vacation destination, many people now take into account whether the resort offers certified massage therapy as part of their amenities. Not only is massage a great way to relax and unwind on a vacation, it has become common in the workplace. Of the 100 companies voted best for working mothers in the United States, 77 of them offer massage as part of their benefits package. It is becoming increasingly popular for businesses to offer employees complimentary chair massage during the week. Many offices believe it cuts down on illness and injury-related absence, and they feel it boosts the morale of those receiving massage.

What Is It?

Chair massage is a quick and convenient way to gain all of the benefits of a body massage without disrobing. The therapist will set up a special chair that is designed to support the body. The chair is heavily padded for comfort and typically has an area in which the massage recipient can rest their head comfortably. It is important for the recipient to have unnecessary pressure off their joints and muscles during the massage. The therapist typically begins by applying comforting touch to the recipient, and then begins the deeper tissue work. They may focus on specific areas of the body if the recipient makes a request.

During the massage, the therapist will check in with the client to make sure that the pressure they are applying is correct. Each person is different, and some may prefer deeper pressure, while some may need a lighter touch for tender and sore muscles. The therapist will work the back, neck, and shoulders of the recipient. Some therapists include arms, legs, and head when performing a chair massage. The massage typically lasts 10 to 20 minutes, which is shorter than a traditional full-body massage. The recipient also remains fully clothed during the procedure, unlike a traditional massage. The therapist may include additional mood-enhancing devices such as candles or soft music while performing the chair massage.

Who Needs It?

Just about anyone can benefit from chair massage. Those that are uncomfortable with the idea of disrobing will enjoy the fact that during chair massage, recipients remain fully clothed. Most people store their stress in their muscles, typically in their neck, shoulders, and back. Chair massage is especially good for focusing on these areas. Those that work in an office and find themselves sitting at a desk during the day will benefit from the effects of a brief chair massage.

Benefits?

The benefits of chair massage are vast, and include relaxation, increased mobility, reduced stress, and increased blood flow. When someone has a brief chair massage during the course of a long day, their circulation will be increased, and they will find themselves feeling refreshed and invigorated. Massage has also been shown positively effect specific ailments such as high blood pressure, muscle pain, and emotional anxiety. Those returning to their work after a quick chair massage will find themselves feeling more alert and productive.

Related Articles

• Top Five Things You Should Know About Spas (0)
• Relieving Muscle Tension, with Rolfing (0)
• Dandruff Treatment (0)
• Craniosacral Therapy: Manipulating Your Brain and Spinal Cord (0)
• Your Spa Day (0)

Getting a massage may feel like a treat for your body, but the benefits it reaps make it obvious that massages are therapeutic as well as relaxing. A few of the benefits of a massage are relaxed muscles, decreased anxiety, improved sleep quality, an increase in your energy, improvement in concentration, better circulation, and a reduction in fatigue.

If you’re in a relationship, you and your partner are bound to hit that plateau. Not the plateau of “where is our relationship going?” but the dreaded plateau of “hey what do you want to do today?” answered with the resounding thud of “I don’t know, what do you want to do today?”

You enjoy each other’s company and want to do something special together but both of you are just too tired to think of anything. If you are lucky enough to think of something, it seems as if it takes too much time, too much preparation, and too much energy to make it worth the while. Why not try a couples’ massage? A couples’ massage is a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend time with someone that you care about as well as doing something good for yourself.

Despite the name, a couples’ massage is not limited to a boyfriend-girlfriend or a husband-wife couple. A couples’ massage can be for any pair of people, whether it be mother and daughter, best friends, sisters, or any other combination. A couples’ massage is when two people receive massages at the same time in the same room from two  masseuses.  The experience can be a quiet one with both partners enjoying the massage in mutual silence or it can be a great time to catch up and talk while getting massaged. How the experience turns out is all up to you and your partner.

Do I need a couples’ massage?

Frankly, anyone could use a good massage. With so many of us earning our keep by sitting at a desk for forty hours a week, our back and shoulder muscles can use all the relief they can get.  As far as needing a couples’ massage, if you want to share a relaxing moment with someone special in your life, then a couples’ massage can be just the thing to do. There are a myriad of benefits ranging from the physical, to the emotional, to the mental for both you and your special person.

Benefits

Getting a massage may feel like a treat for your body, but the benefits it reaps make it obvious that massages are therapeutic as well as relaxing. A few benefits of a massage are relaxed muscles, decreased anxiety, improved sleep quality, an increase in your energy, improvement in concentration, better circulation, and a reduction in fatigue. Along with these physical benefits of massages, experiencing a couples’ massage is a great way to improve your relations. It is rare that a couple takes the time to relax together and a couples’ massage gives you the opportunity to do just that. It is also a great way to introduce men/women to be to massages in a safe and comfortable environment, enabling their first experience to be a relaxing once as they see their partner relaxing.

Related Articles

• How to Find a Divorce Attorney (3)
• Funeral Homes: The Service There for Guidance, Support, and All the Details (0)
• Craniosacral Therapy: Manipulating Your Brain and Spinal Cord (0)
• A Guide to Your Spa Experience (4)
• Your Spa Day (0)

The benefits of a spa day are emotional as well as physical.

A day at the spa is a great way to relax and unwind. You can choose the full menu of services and build a luxurious and expensive experience, or you can create a spa in your own home and have a break for the daily grind for a fraction of the cost. It is not difficult to enjoy a spa experience, but a little knowledge beforehand will make it even easier.

What Is It?

A spa day is a day for you to experience relaxing and healthy treatments. It helps restore balance, emotional peace, and physical wellness. Procedures that are often affiliated with a spa day are manicures and pedicures, massages, herbal wraps, facials, and saunas. Visiting a spa is a great way to experience many of these procedures. Many facilities offer packages that allow visitors to experience several services, often for a reduced fee. Your experience at the spa will begin with a short interview, ensuring the services you will be enjoying are safe for you. Next, you will have time to relax and unwind before the services begin. Some day spas provide robes and slippers. Once you have changed, you may have a few minutes to enjoy a cup of tea and browse through a magazine.

When the clinician is ready, you will be called to your private service room. Sometimes, procedures like manicures and pedicures are not available in a private room. However, if you are having a facial or full-body massage, privacy will be guaranteed. Massage therapists will use products like oils and lotions, and facials will include the application of masks, moisturizers, and astringent. Be sure to speak with the technician in advance to ensure he is aware of any allergies you may have.

For an at home spa experience, you can recreate many of these same procedures. Soaking your hands and feet, moisturizing, and massaging before applying polish is a great way to rejuvenate and boost your beauty regimen. You can find facial recipes online that are all natural and inexpensive to create. Enhance your at home spa experience by lowering the lights, unplugging the phone, and putting on soft, relaxing music.

Who Needs It?

Spa proponents will tell you EVERYONE needs it. However, some are skeptical concerning the medical benefits. Anyone that enjoys being touched will enjoy most spa procedures. Even those that are a bit uncomfortable with physical intimacy may benefit. If your concerned about your appearance, spa experiences can help you refresh your skin and brighten your appearance. If you are suffering from stress-induced muscle spasms or soreness, a massage will be just what the doctor ordered. A spa day is also ideal for a mother-daughter outing, a bridal shower, or a girlfriend getaway.

Spa experiences can be utilized for more severe situations as well. Those undergoing medical treatments may find that massage helps lessen pain. Furthermore, those that have undergone chemotherapy or any other process that alters the appearance may enjoy a day at the spa. It will boost their mood and help them to feel “pretty” and comfortable in their own skin. Speak with your doctor beforehand about medical conditions and be sure to get a signed release from him to share with the spa. When making your appointment, share your condition in case there are specially trained technicians with whom you should make your appointment.

Benefits

Even though studies have shown that stress is a number one cause of other disorders, and it has been proven that procedures like massage reduce stress, there are still those that are unsure of the benefits. Massage loosens the muscles, realigns structural oddities, and flushes toxins. Other procedures to relieve stress and cleanse the body.

An at-home experience gives you time to focus on yourself and turn the stress and aggravation of the world off for awhile. Creating a spa day is like giving yourself a present. Many of the products you can create are all natural and gently nourish your skin. The benefits of a spa day are both emotional and physical.

Related Articles

• A Guide to Your Spa Experience (4)
• Reiki Massage: Complementary Therapy or Crutch? (2)
• Pregnancy and Medical Spas: The Best Treatments (0)
• Three Signs Sensory Deprivation Therapy May Be Right for You (1)
• Thai Massage (0)

If a client follows the correct aftercare procedures of the dermatologist and follows up with the dermatologist and a physician, complication risk will be low.

Benefits and Risks of Removing Veins

Blue lines along the legs are more common than we think. With 15 percent of men and 25 percent of women suffering from varicose veins, it’s no wonder many want they removed. The prominent blue veins make individuals feel less than perfect and more insecure about their looks.

Varicose veins are not only a cosmetic concern though. Along with the protruding veins come aches and pains in the legs. Pressure buildups in the legs and within time if not treated, they can cause other problems within the circulatory system.

More often than not there are several risk factors which will put an individual in a higher percentage for varicose veins. If you have a job which requires you stand on your legs for a long time such as a waitress, you may be at a higher risk. If you are overweight or obese, this can put extra pressure on your legs leaving you susceptible for varicose veins. Women are at a greater risk to develop varicose veins as well as older adults and those who have family members with varicose veins.

So what can be done to reverse the process of varicose veins? While tight stockings and alterations of lifestyle may help to an extent, this will not remove the veins. A Dermatologist, however, can remove the varicose veins allowing for a reversal process.

What is Vein Removal?

Before beginning the process of vein removal, your physician will have to examine you to ensure you are a good candidate for this procedure. Some assessments may include an ultrasound of the legs to ensure there are no blood clots and evaluation to see if any ulcers have developed near the ankles.

Two types of removal methods of veins offered by dermatologists include sclerotherapy or laser therapy. Sometimes, depending on the client, the dermatologist will remove the veins with both the sclerotherapy and laser therapy.

Sclerotherapy involves small needles and injections of solution which will help make the veins fade away. While needles are used, this is a non-surgical procedure for the removal of veins. Clients may feel a slight stinging or pinching, but anesthesia is not needed and discomfort is negligible. This method takes approximately a half an hour and depending on the severity of the veins clients will have need to repeat the process several times. For milder cases, patients will see the dermatologist one to two times. For more several cases, the client will continue treatments on a monthly basis until all veins are faded.

Laser removal involves a laser or beam of light which throbs against the vein to help it fade away. This method is used alone for smaller veins or in addition to sclerotherapy. The lasers heat the veins which allow the veins to disband. The heat causes the blood to clot and allows for the disappearance of veins.

Best Candidates for Vein Removal?

Laser therapy is best for individuals with minor veins, or what is known as spider veins. It is preferred that the client is in good physical health and does not smoke. It is also recommended that the best candidate be in good psychological health. Individuals who have the tendency to get keloid scars are not the best candidates. Keloid scars are scars which happen after surgery and grow beyond the surgery point.

Sclerotherapy is also for candidates in the best possible health. Candidates who should not go for sclerotherapy include:

• Clients with blood-borne disease
• Clients with infectious disease
• Clients with cardiac disease
• Clients with high blood pressure
• Clients with diabetes
• Clients who are pregnant
• Clients who are nursing

Candidates should consult with their physician to come up with a plan for vein removal.

Related Articles

• Thermage, Medical Spa (0)
• The Hairy Truth: Laser Hair Removal (3)
• Mini Face Lift: Face Lift on the Go (0)
• Male Breast Surgery: What is it? (1)
• Laser Hair Restoration (24)

Medical spas perform little repairs that don’t require a trip to the plastic surgeon, such as teeth whitening, collagen injections and skin rejuvenation.

You’ve looked in the mirror and noticed that your face is lined, your skin is dry and your hair, as they say in the commercials, is brittle and lifeless. Time for a body break! A trip to the spa is what you crave, so you scan the local offerings and—shrivel up a little bit more. Too many choices, all sounding lovely and/or clinical enough to fix what ails you … if only you knew what that was.

All the more reason to get thee to the spa. Now is the time to put your face and your body in the hands of professionals. Yes, these people go to school: facialists, massage therapists, hair artists, estheticians. Most states license their work, to make sure that they follow healthy and safe procedures. Medical spas will have fully credentialed doctors and nurses on staff. A licensing board provides quality control and gives unsatisfied customers someone to complain to. But you probably won’t need to file a grievance. In fact, when it’s over, you’ll be begging for your next appointment.

What Types of Spas Await You

It’s easy to sort out the different types of spas. Choose from:

• Residential health retreats
• Beauty day spas
• Relaxation day spas
• Medical procedure spas
• Theme spas
• Resort spas

First, there are day spas that send you home beautiful at the end of the day. Then, there are residential spas, where you stay for a week or more, so that the healthy stuff sinks in. Some of these bed, body and breakfast establishments are educational, such as the famed Esalen Institute in Northern California and Breitenbush Hot Springs in Oregon. Some are housed at luxury resorts, such as Cal-a-Vie in Southern California, or on luxury cruise liners, such as Aqua Spa on some Celebrity cruises.

Of the day spas, some focus on beauty maintenance, including facial, hair, makeup and nail treatments. Others focus on relaxation, with more body and mind work like massage, hydrotherapy and aromatherapy. Medical spas perform little repairs that don’t require a trip to the plastic surgeon, such as teeth whitening, collagen injections and skin rejuvenation.

Any of these salons might have a theme, usually tending toward the exotic and foreign. Thai, Balinese and Tahitian-themed spas offer unique massage and floral therapies.

So, to choose your spa, ask yourself:

• Can I afford a day or a week away from home?
• Is stress, a new look, or aging my target priority?
• Do I need a Tahitian wrap or an Indian head massage?

Who Winds Up in A Day Spa

This kind of elevated R&R is not just for the rich and famous (read, “spoiled”) anymore. The concept of taking a break to focus on physical well-being and mental attitude is mainstream these days. Of course, you can go as over the top as you like with the luxury. Or you can get an affordable facial and come out smelling like a rose.

That means you’ll see both the ordinary and the high-fallutin’ guys and gals at just about any spa. Yes—guys, too. You can thank the cosmetic companies for inuring the fellas to hair gel and beard softeners; now men flock to beauty services, although they may prefer the term “gentlemen’s grooming enhancements.”

So, you’ll rub elbows with men and women of all ages and body types. Kids are welcome at some salons, usually with an age limit by type of service. Salon days and stays are popular activities and gifts for wedding parties, deserving employees, moms and daughters, and guys who like to have their toenails clipped while sipping a beer or scotch.

What’s Not to Like?

Since the benefits of bodywork and cosmetic treatments are more than skin deep, you really get your money’s worth from a spa visit. Massage, reflexology and hot tub soaks send oxygen to tired muscles and improve circulation. Facials and wraps exfoliate and rehydrate skin, the body’s largest organ. Eucalyptus steam baths and aromatherapy clear the respiratory system and heighten your mood.

Even hair and nail treatments and styling keep you healthy and make you feel great when you look in the mirror. There truly are too many benefits to list. Just about any service you can choose from a reputable spa will add vigor and happiness to your life.

Related Articles

• How to Avoid Getting Sunburned (0)
• Hot Stone Massage: Mother Earth Thinks You Look Tense! (2)
• Body Contouring Reshapes Without Plastic Surgery (0)
• Your Spa Day (0)
• Top 5 Things You Should Know About Dermatologists (6)

While insurance will probably not cover CST to treat CP, if the condition was a result of an accident at birth, your pay-out may be able to cover it.

Sometimes a light touch is all you need. At least, that’s what proponents of craniosacral therapy believe. This relatively new type of massage, which has only been widely used in the alternative mainstream for about 30 years, works to alleviate problems associated primarily with pain and loss of function. It does this by applying very light pressure to evaluate and this correct the body’s craniosacral system — connected to the brain and spinal cord.

While the people who seek out cranisosacral therapy are sometimes disabled individuals or parents of babies who have undergone some type of birth trauma, it is also recommended for people who suffer from migraines, tension, anxiety and other relatively minor disorders. People who have it often report a variety of benefits, including improved sleep, better mobility and increased energy.

Unlike many other alternative treatments, there is lots of anecdotal evidence that craniosacral therapy can work – at least in very disabled patients. However, there is very little scientific evidence to back that up. And whether it will help you to sleep better, or make your baby’s colic go away or feed better, it’s still up for discussion.

How Does Craniosacral Therapy Work?

Also known as CST or cranial osteopathy, this therapy centers around a very light massage on the craniosacral area, working the spine and the head together to realign bones, allow the spinal fluid to flow unrestricted, and reduce pain. Like many alternative therapies it claims to help the body heal itself, and says that by doing so it can bolster our ability to fight disease and help treat a variety of problems associated with either dysfunction or pain.

While having someone play around with your brain and spinal cord may sound a bit dicey, the massage is actually completely non-invasive and quite relaxing, involving a cranial osteopath gently manipulating your skull as you lie on a massage table and try not to think of Frankenstein.

It all started thanks to one Dr William G. Sutherland, who believed that the bones in the skull were pliable, and that by gently moving them and touching the membranes, muscles and tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord, other bodily functions could be fixed, enhanced and improved.

According to one massage website, “when blockages occur in spinal fluid, an inharmonious balance in the body can occur, resulting in muscle and joint strain, emotional disturbances, and the improper operation of the body’s organs and central nervous system.”

Sutherland died in 1954, but he began teaching his ideas in the 1930s, and established the Sutherland Cranial Teaching Foundation a year before his death. His work was carried further by John Upledger DO, who has even founded his own institute called, immodestly, the Upledger Institute.

Since then his methods have been expanded on, and while several big academic treatises have been published expanding the technique’s merits, others have claimed that there is little scientific evidence to back them up.

One reason that may be the case is because of the wide spectrum of ailments craniosacral therapy claims to be able to treat. They include everything from chronic fatigue to colic to scoliosis, and also include autism, learning difficulties and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Benefit to Babies
Craniosacral therapy has long been seen as a way to relieve minor problems in newborns and infants. It is thought that during delivery the head and muscles near the head may be traumatised, especially if there has been an aided birth using forceps or ventouse suction.

While there is no evidence that CST can help, no adverse effects have been reported and the vast majority of babies – and their parents – find the whole affair a calming, relaxing experience.

Reasons parents take their babies to a craniosacral therapist include:

• Reflux/colic
• Sleeping problems
• Feeding problems
• Inability to breastfeed properly
• Excess crying
• Asymmetrical head shape

Please note that if you decide to take your baby to a craniosacral therapist yo may be able to get help from your insurance company to pay for it, so get a referral before you go.

Related Articles

• Shiatsu Massage: Does it Really Work? (0)
• Relieving Muscle Tension, with Rolfing (0)
• Three Signs Sensory Deprivation Therapy May Be Right for You (1)
• Reflexology To Treat Everything from Arthritis to Urinary Tract Infections (0)
• Hot Stone Massage: Mother Earth Thinks You Look Tense! (2)