Spas and salons offer a variety of services to not only enhance beauty, but to improve health and well being. Many therapies and services promote relaxation and incorporate a variety of techniques. These therapies, combined with aromatherapy and a calming atmosphere, can allow a person to regain focus and become rejuvenated.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is the manipulation of the muscles and soft tissues of the body. Swedish massage and deep tissue massage are two of the main forms of massage used in spas and salons. Different strokes and degrees of pressure will determine the form of massage used along with the individual's preferences and needs.
Trigger point and sports massage are also used, but these forms of massage are normally used on specific areas of the body that have been injured or overworked.
Hot Stone Therapy
Hot stone therapy is a form of massage where the practitioner uses heated stones instead of the hands. It involves lighter pressure and more fluid strokes. The stones are heated to approximately 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Stones come in various shapes, sizes and weights and can be placed on the body over the chakra points or other areas.
Reflexology
Many spas include reflexology as a therapeutic service. Reflexology is a therapy based on the belief that there are pressure points on the hands and feet that correspond to various areas of the body. This concept has existed for several centuries and is thought to have been practiced in Egypt around 2300B.C., according to the International Institute of Reflexology.
Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure to areas of the feet and hands that represent problems areas in the body. Pressure can be mild to moderate and is usually applied with the fingers. It is believed that applying pressure to an area will help to bring the corresponding part of the body back into balance.
Manicure/Pedicure
In addition to cutting and styling hair, many salons and spas offer manicure and pedicure services. Manicures and pedicures are cosmetic procedures performed on the hands and feet. Nails are trimmed and filed. Nail polish may be applied, but is not required. The hands and feet are allowed to soak in warm water to soften the skin and relax the muscles. Lotion is applied and massaged into the skin.
Callouses and dead skin are removed from the feet. Lotion is applied to the feet to prevent dryness and cracking of the skin.
Body Wrap
Spas may offer body wraps as a weight loss aid or as a detoxification tool. During a body wrap, the person is wrapped from the shoulders down in a bandages that have been soaked in a solution that contains oils and minerals. When the wrapping process is complete, the person is situated on a recliner or lounge and covered with a thermal blanket. The bandages are removed after a designated amount of time.
Body wraps are thought to have slimming qualities, as well as the ability to reduce cellulite. Some body wraps are considered to have detoxifying properties. As they pull toxins from the body, the wraps may also rid the body of excess water that may be retained due to stress or illness.
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