A health spa is an establishment that specializes in treatments designed to pamper and de-stress the mind, body and spirit. According to the International Spa Association, spas are devoted to "enhancing overall well-being through a variety of professional services." A variety of spas provide a mix-and-match of services, from physical fitness classes to yoga to specialized skin treatments to stress management.
History
According to Spa Finder, the word "spa" is derived from the Latin "spagere," meaning to pour out. The practice of bathing in social groups in warm or cold water considered to have healing powers was common among many ancient cultures, including the Mesopotamians, Egyptians, Japanese, Greeks and Romans. Many, like the Romans, included a series of steps, such as a physical workout in a gymnasium followed by warm baths, massages, skin treatments, cold baths and relaxation.
Types
The International Spa Association lists several main types of health spas consumers have to choose from. The most popular include day spas, medical spas, club spas, destination spas and resort or hotel spas. Day spas provide massages, facials and other services for those interested in treatments that last from 1 hour to 1 full day, while medical, club, destination and resort spas tend to feature stays of at least several days. Medical spas are run under the supervision of physicians and focuses on physical and aesthetic therapy. Club spas are designed for those interested in fitness, and resort spas offer services for those staying at a hotel or resort for a period of time. Destination spas generally feature 7 day programs that attempt to transform the participant's view on wellness, nutrition and physical well-being.
Choosing a Spa
There are four steps to choosing a spa suited to your needs and budget. First, determine what you would like to gain, accomplish or experience through your spa experience, such as weight loss, a spiritual journey or skin toning. Figuring out what you want to come away from the spa with will help narrow down available options. Second, identify specific services that would help you accomplish that goal. Next, decide what type of setting you are most comfortable with receiving spa services in---alone, with a group, particular environments---then determine how much you can afford to spend on your spa getaway.
Benefits
According to wellness expert Susan Biali, visiting a health spa can yield a number of benefits, including a sharp decrease in stress hormones, a decrease in chronic pain caused by conditions such as migraines and muscle strain and a decrease in feelings of depression. Spa visits are also thought to stimulate immune system functions, preventing infections and illness and to reduce the severity of premenstrual syndrome symptoms.
Warning
Individuals with high blood pressure should be aware that hot saunas and steam rooms can make blood pressure rise dangerously high. Be certain that the spa of your choice is clean and reputable since manicure and pedicure treatments carry the risk of fungal or bacterial infection and potentially harmful levels of microbes can flourish in the warm, wet atmosphere of most spas.
