If we put half the energy we do managing outside forces on our lives towards managing our age, everyone would look much younger and much healthier, explains Monica Gavin, M.D., of the Azani Medical Spa in Pennsylvania and diplomat of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. Without your health, you have nothing, she says.

Regaining Power: When it comes to the aging process, you don’t have to raise your white flags and surrender. You can fight back, and it won’t take much. All you need is awareness and the determination to say that you are going to become an active part of your aging process.

Staying Active: The best way to stay healthy as your birthdays come and go is with exercise. According to Dr. Gavin, being physically active is your first line of defense. You have to have a plan of action and to think ahead about how you will continue to make exercise enjoyable while catering to the abilities of your body. There is an equal balance between testing your body and pushing it too far.

Eating Right: Being an educated consumer is a large part of the age management process. Reading labels, counting calories and being accountable for what you consume will eliminate unnecessary weight gain and loss of stamina generally blamed on aging.

Reducing Stress: Stress can speed the aging process. It is important to evaluate the biggest stressors in your life and work towards managing them so that they are no longer as big of an issue. This may require the help of a professional to look at your habits from an objective perspective and offer some suggestions on easing your stress. For some, this means meditating or practicing yoga. For others, taking up a hobby like fishing or joining a book club can help separate them from stressful situations.

Replacing Lost Hormones: As men and women get older, they lose some hormones associated with their younger, more energetic former selves. For men, this is a loss in the levels of testosterone, and for women, it is the loss of estrogen. Unfortunately, your body will never naturally resume creating these hormones and levels will continue to decrease over time.  However, many advances have been made in replacing lost hormones in both genders safely and effectively.

Getting Results: Taking the time to realize that you should be your first concern can bring major changes to your life. Not only are you actively managing how you age, but you will see an increase in your self-esteem and confidence as well because you know that you are doing your best to look your best. With lower levels of stress, you can also focus on more enjoyable aspects of your life. Soon eating right and exercising will not seem like chores but part of your daily routine.

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.

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When it comes to spa-inspired bathroom upgrades, the possibilities are truly endless.

In today’s high pressure, high strung world, spa treatments are an effective means of alleviating stress. Many Americans – women in particular – spend hundreds of dollars a year on spa treatments. Instead of giving all of that hard-earned money to your local spa, why not invest those dollars in your home by turning one of your bathrooms into your own private spa?

While certain elements of a home spa atmosphere can put the quite the dent in your budget, plenty of low-cost methods can give your bathroom that same calming vibe. When it comes to building a mini spa, candles are a great start because they look and smell great. Place some on your countertops and use them to surround your tub. For maximum relaxation, add a dimmer to your light switch, turn the lights down low, and light some candles while you soak your troubles away.

Music is another key component in creating that spa-like atmosphere. Simply set up a portable player in the bathroom corner and allow the music to serve as the backdrop for your temporary escape. Get your hands on some nature tracks or new age music to emulate the sounds of a real spa.

To complete the bathroom’s transformation, consider painting the walls. Soothing pastel colors like lavender or mint green can really change the mood of a bathroom, and a matching shower curtain will tie the look together.

A nice, long dip in the tub can do wonders for the body and soul. Unfortunately, many people are forced to snap back into reality as soon as they emerge from the water. To extend the spa-like experience, have an oversized, fluffy robe on hand to wear after a lengthy soak. A soft floor mat is also essential in maintaining that spa feel. For maximum indulgence, add a heated towel bar and let the warmth of your towel ease you back into the world outside the bathroom.

If the expense of new bathroom countertops is out of your price range, then consider upgrading to nicer faucets instead. An elegant-looking faucet can serve as your spa bathroom’s delicate finishing touch. You can also replace standard bathroom accessories, such as towel hooks and toilet tissue holders, with nicer counterparts to complete the upgraded look.

If you’ve got some money to invest, then there are plenty of ways to upgrade your bathroom into your own private paradise. You can replace your old bathtub with a spacious soaking tub for maximum comfort and stress-relief. Some bathtubs come equipped with massaging jets that work well enough to save you a trip to the local masseuse. Add some bath salts and perfectly-heated water, and you’ll have the makings for a complete relaxation session.

High-end flooring is another luxurious bathroom upgrade that you can make. Marble flooring can be quite appealing to the eye, but beware: It gets awfully slippery when wet. Heated stone flooring is a terrific option because it looks great and generates radiant heat so that every step you take feels warm and wonderful. (Note that flooring is a more expensive upgrade, especially since it usually requires the help of an outside contractor.)  For a more moderately-priced investment, consider adding granite or stone countertops to make the bathroom look fancier. You’ll still need a contractor, but as long as you have a standard-sized vanity, the cost of materials shouldn’t break the bank.

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The fees charges by retirement planning lawyers can vary wildly, which is why it is important to ask upfront about the costs.

Planning for retirement is complicated no matter your age, tax bracket, or expertise on the matter. One way to ease the stress of planning, however, is by hiring a qualified retirement planning lawyer.

Not only can retirement planning attorneys help their clients map out a financial future, but they can also work to protect a client’s families from hardship as well. That’s because retirement planning lawyers can be involved as much—or as little—as a client wishes in the financial planning process, every step of the way. From selecting the best retirement investing plans at work, to setting up wills and trusts to protect loved ones down the road. Attorneys who specialize in retirement planning have the expertise and knowledge to know which benefits packages work best for which types of clients and can also serve as advisors to clients seeking to re-negotiate the retirement benefits packages they currently have. In fact, qualified attorneys can—and should—be involved in all fiduciary decisions for any clients who may not be especially knowledgeable in the area of estate planning.

How an Attorney Can Help

Attorneys who specialize in retirement planning can help their clients in a myriad of ways, starting with working to ensure that their clients have selected the retirement benefits package at work that will help secure their financial future.

When delving deeper into a client’s plan for retirement, attorneys will typically check to ensure that all assets are properly titled with the correct beneficiaries and are in compliance with business and property laws. This is done to ensure that if an emergency did happen, a client’s family and beneficiaries would be taken care of and all legal documents regarding assets would hold up in court.

In addition, depending on the age of the client, a retirement planning lawyer can help structure college savings plans, life insurance policies, and any other future estate issues that may come into effect down the road. For clients who have already taken it upon themselves to handle these issues on their own, a qualified attorney can look over the work they have already done to help a client avoid any expensive mistakes.

How to Find an Attorney

It may be easy to find an attorney willing to handle estate and retirement planning issues using the phone book or online, but that doesn’t mean that is how most people should go about the process. For the best chances of finding a qualified, trustworthy planning attorney, clients are encouraged to ask friends, family members, and business associates for recommendations or referrals. If that does not work, another option is to ask a trusted financial advisor, accountant, or other attorneys if they know anyone who could be of service. Finding a lawyer through word of mouth is nearly always preferable to finding one through other means, since it ensures that the attorney has worked well for other clients in the past.

What Questions to Ask

Upon meeting a retirement attorney for the first time, it is perfectly acceptable to ask a series of questions about his or her experience and services. Although each person will have his own set of questions and concerns, a few common issues to be discussed include how long the attorney has been specializing in the field of retirement planning, whether he or she has experience drafting living trusts and wills, and how fees are determined.

Once a client has finished asking an attorney about himself or herself, it is best to take some time to decide whether the attorney is the right person for the job. Because retirement planning is such as personal and sensitive topic, the right attorney for the job will be someone who the client feels comfortable speaking openly with, and someone who also seems competent in the field.

How Much It Will Cost

The fees charges by retirement planning lawyers can vary wildly, which is why it is important to ask up front about the costs. Most legitimate attorneys do not charge any fee for a consultation, and any attorney that does should have a reasonable explanation as to why that is the case.

For the majority of attorneys specializing in retirement planning, a flat fee may be their primary means of charging. Others, meanwhile, may prefer to bill by the hour. Both means of billing are standard in the industry. Clients should be sure they understand how they will be billed prior to signing any contracts for service, since attorneys fees can add up quickly.

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A casino limo is a fantastic alternative to driving your own vehicle or taking a taxi cab.

Renting a limousine for an upcoming event may be the best way to keep everyone safe and eliminate the stress of transportation concerns. If you are headed to a casino, a limo can provide convenient transportation without the worry of waiting for a cab or designating a sober driver.

What Is It?

A casino limo rental can pick you and your party up at the airport and deliver you to your hotel and casino. It will give you the feeling of being a VIP and a high roller but at a reasonable cost. At the airport, the chauffeur will greet you with a sign embellished with your name. Some drivers are multilingual so there is no need for concern if English is not your first language. The limos can be used for a variety of purposes including bachelor and bachelorette parties, romantic evenings, a night on the town, or an engagement party. Many  limo companies partner with casinos to offer guests elaborate packages that include transportation, accommodations, and various complementary services.

Limos are typically available for rental for a certain number of hours or in conjunction with a package deal. For instance, a night on the town with a casino limo may include dinner, admission to a club, casino cash, and five hours of limousine service. When planning a casino limo experience, consider how many people will be participating, the number of hours the limo will be needed, and the distance you will be traveling. Be sure to provide these details to the limo rental company so they can provide the best service possible for your event.

Who Needs It?

Those planning special events will benefit most from casino limo experience. If you and your party want to focus on having a good time at the casino and not worrying about transportation, limo rental is a great option. If you are planning to travel between several casinos, which is often the case in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, cab fare can be expensive. Renting a limo can provide you with luxury travel accommodations for a similar price. If you are traveling to a casino in another area that stands alone, a limo can be a great option to transport you from your hotel or home to the casino. Limo service provides casinogoers with a safe option if they want to relax, have fun, and enjoy alcoholic beverages during their event.

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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.

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Going through a divorce is a struggle for anyone, but hiring the right attorney—and being confident that he or she is working to get you the best settlement possible—can alleviate much of the stress of the difficult situation.

If you’re contemplating divorce, there’s a good chance you’ve already got enough going on in life without adding the stress of finding and hiring a divorce attorney into the mix.

While there isn’t much a person can do to the avoid the trouble of searching for a divorce lawyer once a relationship split is imminent, there are a handful of ways to make the entire process less complicated and arduous.

Be Sure the Split Is Imminent

Couples don’t need to start searching for divorce lawyers every time they have a minor argument, which is why anyone contemplating doing so should be sure that they are truly ready for divorce before hiring a qualified divorce attorney.

Not only is seeking and consulting with divorce attorneys a waste of time if the separation a couple is going through is not permanent, but it can be a costly exercise too, since divorce attorneys don’t come cheap. In the New York area, for example, attorneys have been known to ask for a $10,500 to $20,000 retainer up front in divorce cases, much of which will be lost should the client decide to back out of the case.

In an effort to waste as little time and money as possible, anyone considering divorce should be sure of their decision before consulting with any attorneys on the matter.

Ask For Recommendations

The best way to find a qualified lawyer is by asking family members or trusted friends for a referral. Due to the sensitive and private nature of divorce cases, however, many people don’t feel as comfortable asking a family member for a recommendation when the case involves divorce as they may feel asking for a recommendation for a case involving real estate or living trusts.

In these instances, clients may feel more at ease asking a more objective—but skill knowledgeable—party who is separated from the situation, such as an accountant and financial advisor. Another option is to call a nearby bar association and ask for the names of licensed attorneys practicing nearby who specialize in divorce.

Consider Costs

Just because an A-list lawyer is willing to take your case doesn’t mean you will necessarily be able to afford his fees.

The amount of money that different attorneys charge to handle divorce cases can vary greatly, even within the same geographical area. Although some lawyers may be willing to charge clients on an hourly basis (usually $100 to $500 per hour) others expect to be paid a $15,o00—or higher—retainer prior to agreeing to take on a case.

How much a client can afford is usually one of the biggest determining factors when it comes to hiring a divorce attorney, which is why you should be up front when inquiring about costs and fees prior to booking a consultation appointment.

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Migraine symptoms can include pain in one or both hemispheres of the brain, nausea and sensitivity to bright light or noises. Signs of an oncoming migraine can include a sweet tooth, thirst, irritability or tiredness.

More than just passing headaches, migraines are chronic nuisance to 10% of the American population, or 30 million people. It can cause severe and relentless pain, and “there’s no cure,” according to the Mayo Clinic.

But now, in a turn of events that has migraine sufferers hopeful for a cure, a study conducted by Dr. Bahman Guyuron, chairman of the Department of Plastic Surgery at University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland, reveals that plastic surgery may be the answer.

“We’ve shown that surgical treatment of migraine headaches is safe, effective, and that this reasonably short operation can have a colossal impact on the patients’ quality of life,” says Dr. Guyuron.

Doctors have already believed for a while that Botox can offer temporary relief from migraines by paralyzing the muscles around the facial nerves. Then Dr. Guyuron happened upon his discovery when he noticed that some of his patients who had forehead lifts reported experiencing relief from migraines.

This led the doctor to conduct a double blind collaborative study with two neurosurgeons to determine if forehead lifts can indeed cure migraines. Since migraines can affect people in different parts of their heads, the doctors first identified the source of the migraines by injecting the patients with Botox, and those that experienced migraine relief were chosen to participate in the study. In the end, 76 patients were chosen, of which 49 were randomly selected to receive the real surgery and 26 for the sham surgery (where did the last patient go??)

The results were “fascinating and promising” according to Dr. Richard Lipton of the Montefiore Headache Center in New York, with 28 patients from the first group, or a little over half, reporting that their migraines were completely gone a year after the study, with only 1 patient in the latter group reporting the complete elimination of migraines. However, some doctors expressed skepticism of just how promising this study is, pointing out that while the sham surgery patients reported a low rate of complete relief, many of them (57%) reported significant improvement in migraine symptoms.

Here are some methods people have used to attain temporary relief from migraines:

1. Neurofeedback. Also called biofeedback, it is a game-like therapy that provides the user with feedback on his or her brain’s activity in realtime. In studies, 85 to 90 percent of migraine sufferers who underwent neurofeedback therapy reported migraine relief.
2. Stress reduction techniques. These can range from taking a vacation to meditating, and experts recommend employing these methods and avoiding stressful situations to lessen the risk of getting a migraine.
3. Don’t oversleep. The Mayo Clinic recommends shooting for 6-8 hours a night.

No matter the outcome… seeking a cure for this most devastating everyday disease should be a priority for medical professionals and a source of hope for those affected. Keep up the good work.

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Qi Gong is a series of breathing, relaxation and concentration exercises designed to bring the body’s energy, or qi, in harmony with itself, and restore balance. To an outsider, it’s a bit like yoga, Tai Chi and TM (transcendental meditation) rolled into one, and its basic philosophy is to teach people to harness and make best use of their qi, keeping it flowing freely throughout the body.

Proponents of Qi Gong say that anyone can benefit from it and improve their health, regardless of their background or expertise in the area.

“When this qi or energy stagnates or becomes out of balance we become sick. When it is in balance and flows freely we live healthy and happy lives,” Rich Marantz, founder of the Vermont-based Green Mountain Tai Chi, said in recent interview. “This can be illustrated with water. If you are walking through the woods and see a stagnant pond of water and a stream of quick flowing water, which would you drink from?”

Origins and Applications of Qi Gong

Researchers have supposedly traced Qi Gong back at least 5,000 years, although most followers say it goes back about 2,500. Although nobody knows exactly how it all began, supposedly it goes back to Shamanist practices in Chinese culture, and then evolved incorporating both Buddhist and Taoist applications used to treat and prevent illness and for use in the martial arts.

Qi Gong is normally practiced in health clubs and fitness centers in the US, where adherents think about their breathing, concentration and focus points as they carry out a series of slow, careful and controlled movements. They focus a lot on the flow of the qi throughout their bodies, and in some cases they concentrate on specific areas that need healing.

Around the world there are currently thousands of forms of Qi Gong which are in practice, with each school having its own distinct style. Saying that, it has four major areas of concentration, or application, including:

• Healing. Basically, this relates to stress. Proponents of Chinese medicine believe that keeping our stress levels down is instrumental on controlling certain medical and other conditions, such as high blood pressure, insomnia and anxiety. Qi Gong is believed to help relieve that by boosting the immune system in the body and helping the body to heal itself.
• External Healing. A bit like the above, but with other complementary therapies often added, such as osteopathy and acupuncture. The idea is that followers of Qi Gong can tap into the energy that is abundant in nature and funnel it through their bodies, thus letting helping properties wash over them, and in effect cleanse them. However, the healing is a bit like Reiki – it is performed away from the body and is not a hands-on technique, leaving it open to skepticism.
• Sports. Fairly obvious as it involves using the techniques developed and perfected through practicing Qi Gong in other areas of sport. Martial arts in general can help improve stamina, coordination, balance, flexibility etc – this can all be applied to different sports from golf to tennis to ping pong.
• Spiritual. Using ideas in Qi Gong which have evolved through the practice of Taoism and Buddhism, spiritual Qi Gong puts us in harmony with nature and also helps us become more calm, less stressed and more self-aware. It is thought to not only help people get in touch with a divine presence but can also help them get in touch with themselves.

Please be aware that Qi Gong is also applied to other areas as well, such as art and business. It is especially useful, at least in theory, for what is known as “hurry sickness” – as followers believe that it can help turn back the clock on heart disease associated with this, as well as aging in general.

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The actual procedure is relatively quick, generally falling somewhere between 20 and 40 minutes.

What is it?

Lumenis Active FX is a cutting edge procedure known as fractional laser treatment.  Don’t let the name fool you (assuming there is an equal amount of reluctance to the word “fractions” as there is “laser”), fractional laser treatment is doing wonders to damaged skin.  The term “fractional laser treatment” refers to the fact that the laser only treats a small fraction of the skin’s surface, ideally allowing for a much faster healing process.  Active FX treatment is done using a fractional C02 laser and can be successfully administered in one sitting.  Basically, a high energy beam of laser light is used to smooth out lines, wrinkles, and scars on the face, as well as remove brown spots or other discolorations.  In addition, Active FX tightens skin and helps to stimulate the formation of collagen over time.

The actual procedure is relatively quick, generally falling somewhere between 20 and 40 minutes.  About 30 minutes before the procedure, a topical anesthetic cream will most likely be applied to your face so as to minimize any discomfort.  The entire procedure is supposed to be relatively painless, the biggest setback being that after the procedure, your treated skin will probably feel sunburned.

Who needs it?

If you’re constantly spouting, “time is money, people!” then you probably don’t have that many friends because that’s an annoying thing to say.  However, if you live a fast-paced life then Active FX is ideal for you, as the procedure is done in one treatment and the downtime is minimal, at best.  So if you have to constantly be in the office, fear not, as Active FX can and will accommodate you.  You can continue to stress out about work, while looking ten years younger!

Otherwise, Active FX is a long-lasting treatment for those with dyschromia, fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity.  Besides that, it can also correct acne scarring.

Benefits

Besides the obvious benefit of reducing wrinkles and fine lines, Active FX can produce immediate results in the area of skin tightening. By the end of the week, dramatic improvements in skin tone and texture should be visible, giving you that healthy youthful skin you’ve been dreaming of.  An added benefit is that the procedure stimulates new collagen formation, which ultimately leads to continued inner-tightening, meaning that the full results of Active FX may come to fruition three to five months after you’ve had the procedure.

The effects are also considerably long-lasting, in some cases persisting for years if proper sun protection is being practiced (warning: this may mean limiting the amount of times you go to see Jimmy Buffet in concert over the summer).  All in all, not too shabby for a procedure that takes less than an hour to perform.

Risks

While Active FX is low-risk, there are things that should be clarified for patients considering going under the laser.  The Active FX people, whoever they may be, like to push the idea that there is virtually no down time attributed to the procedure.  This is not completely true, as your face will be red and swollen for a majority of the next day.  Within the week you’ll start to peel and may have to return to the physician’s office for them to completely plane (i.e. razor) off the remnants of scale-like skin.  It sounds more disgusting than it actually is.  But still, if you have to give a eulogy anytime soon, hold off on your Active FX treatment until after the funeral.

The bottom line

Active FX is widely regarded as one of the best procedures available for rejuvenating skin and eliminating wrinkles.  So Grandma, rejoice in the wonders of Active FX and marvel at the amount of times people confuse you for Haley Joel Osment.

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

If you are considering Active FX, check out the following links to find specialists in your area:

Atlanta Dermatologists | Boston Dermatologists | Charlotte Dermatologists | Chicago Dermatologists | Dallas Dermatologists | Los Angeles Dermatologists | Miami Dermatologists | Minneapolis Dermatologists | New York Dermatologists | Philadelphia Dermatologists | Phoenix Dermatologists | San Francisco Dermatologists | Seattle Dermatologists | Washington, DC Dermatologists | See More Cities

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Remember to look into your spa to find out what packages they offer and the varying treatments.

Think I’m glorifying a day at the spa? You haven’t tried it yet, have you? Even if you’re not going to the spa for a complete sense of renewal, you will at least have the options of so many different benefits, from younger looking skin to fresh manicures and pedicures. Many people don’t realize just how much spas offer these days. While some pamper junkies may just go for it all, not every treatment may be up your alley, and if you’re on a budget, you’ll want to pick and choose what sounds the most amazing to you personally. A massage isn’t for everyone, nor is a facial. But the same people who shy away from that full body massage might realize they can never again live without the facial. You never know what your spa personality is until you try! But the surprisingly long list of spa treatments can be overwhelming. How do you know what to choose? How do you know what will be just perfect for you, what will relax you and get the best results, and what will be the best use of your money? Research, research, research people. It sounds boring but it’s worth it. If you just take the time to read some of the different treatments online ahead of time, then you’ll walk into your spa just as calm as one should be at a spa – that’s the whole point, right? You’ll know exactly what you want, and chances are, you’ll be happy with it. And, there’s no chance you’ll get talked into spending your money on some treatment you don’t want. So, what are some treatment options you’ll be able to enjoy?

Massages

There was a time when a massage was a massage, and the biggest difference in type came down to what type of lotion or oil was used. But now there are tons of different massages to choose from, and they range from therapeutic and healing to just plain relaxing.

• A Swedish massage is the basic massage, just good old fashioned relaxation and some working out of that muscle tension.
• A deep tissue massage is a more intense Swedish massage. This is good for you if you’re experiencing muscle pain or tension, because this massage really works on those knots and problem areas. If you don’t have any real problem areas, though, the massage itself might be a little uncomfortable, with all the pressure used.
• A sports massage is more commonly performed by a physical therapist or massage therapist, since it’s meant to target chronic pain or problem areas – appropriately named, it’s ideal for the kind of pain and stress put on the muscles by athletics. It uses techniques like trigger point therapy to relieve that tension and pain. Unless you’re an athlete or have severe pain, this probably isn’t for you.
• A hot stone massage is a somewhat newer and very popular massage option. It consists, go figure, of massaging with hot, smooth stones. The masseuse will then leave stones in places like the length of your spine and the palms of your hands, to get energy flowing. The stones actually feel like smooth lotion being massaged on.
• Reflexology focuses on the feet primarily, but also can involve the hands and ears, because these are believed to be centers of “reflex,” that when massaged can generate a healthy energy flow. This is the way to go if you need an amazing foot massage, especially if your job requires you to be on your feet all day.
• Thai massage is a newer massage making its way to more and more spas. It actually incorporates yoga into the massage, with the therapist actually moving you into yoga positions in a calm, easy, relaxing way. This is a great massage for a yoga lover or a more active person.

Facials

• A basic facial involves a cleansing of the skin, a steam, and then a massage. It’s simple and relaxing, and it’s the least expensive option – however it’s not an effective option for any skin problems like acne.
• A special facial is like a basic facial for more sensitive skin, and is also great for dry skin, since it involves the application of hypoallergenic creams for moisturizing.
• Acne facials pack results with relaxation, by applying enzyme exfoliation and warm vapor mist, performing pore extractions, electric disencrustation, and finishes – before the massage – with a calming mask.
• A collagen facial prevents dark circles and wrinkles by adding a self healing mineral mask over a freeze-dry collagen sheet to the basic facial, and then applying certain nutrients to the skin to ensure the absorption of the collagen.
• The bio-lift facial adds a bio-mask of nutrients to the facial, to tighten skin and leave it younger looking and freshened.
• The alpha hydroxy facial uses these acids from fruit and flowers for their amazing anti-aging results. These acids are applied in the form of creams to take years and sun damage away from the skin.
• Aromatherapy facials might be the most relaxing of all, since it utilizes the well known de-stressing effects of calming aromas – here applied in a nutrient-laden mask. This is a really great option for both skin rejuvenation and vegging out.

Salon Services

A spa also offers what you can get at your hair salon or nail salon – but better. Take a normal manicure or pedicure that leaves your nails looking great, and now add soothing, calming elements, plus treatments that totally rejuvenate your hands and feet. You can get a manicure and/or pedicure with paraffin wrap, a hot wax-like substance that hardens around the hands or feet and makes skin so smooth and soft. You can get deep exfoliation to get rid of all dead skin, you can get a treatment with deep conditioning soft cream, and you can even get a mani or pedi with aromatherapy.

As long as you’re there, you might as well take the opportunity to get your hair cut, colored, and/or blown out. They’ll do a mean scalp massage when they wash your hair. Plan ahead and go to the spa at a time you need your hair done, too, since a lot of spas offer package deals when you take them up on a few services at once. Massage plus mani/pedi plus blow out, anyone?

Finally, don’t forget the more technical treatments you can get that are more routine than relaxing. Different spas offer cosmetic work like Botox, teeth whitening, laser hair removal, and chemical peels, to name a few. If you go for a medical spa, you will find a pool of options for the most effective treatments possible.

Remember to look into your spa to find out what packages they offer and the varying treatments. A lot of spas also do corrective treatments like hair removal, and they also do special events and deals for wedding parties, moms-to-be, teens, and more. Again, with a little research, you can find a spa with everything you want and need for prices within your range.

If you are considering medical spas, check out the following links to find specialists in your area:

Atlanta Medical Spas | Boston Medical Spas | Charlotte Medical Spas | Chicago Medical Spas | Dallas Medical Spas | Los Angeles Medical Spas | Miami Medical Spas | Minneapolis Medical Spas | New York Medical Spas | Philadelphia Medical Spas | Phoenix Medical Spas | San Francisco Medical Spas | Seattle Medical Spas | Washington, DC Medical Spas | See More Cities

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