When your body and mind need a "time out," spa retreats offer a sense of renewal through mood-elevating treatments that promote health. Spa goers can try a hot stone massage, Tahitian body wrap or facial, and experience a boost to their personal health and beauty.
Types
There are two main types of health spas, one geared toward relaxation, aesthetics and well-being, and the other type adding medical aesthetics procedures to the mix. Traditional health spas offer hydrotherapy and personal care services by the day or week, performed by massage therapists and skin care professionals. These include day spas that send you home afterward and spa retreats, where you can linger in a guest residence. Medical spas offer facial, dental and body care treatments performed by health care professionals.
Features
Popular treatments at health and beauty spas include full-body massage, facials, manicures and pedicures, whirlpool soaks and body wraps. Spa medical services that claim to alter your appearance for the better include microdermabrasion, chemical peels, Botox injections, laser treatments and teeth whitening. All of these pampering or beautifying treatments are delivered in environments that promote physical and mental health, and even luxury. Good for you beverages, aromatherapy and mood music, as well as the demeanor of the staff, set the tone for a rejuvenating experience.
Benefits
Facials and full-body massage offer skin care, muscle stimulation and health and beauty benefits. Experts at the Mayo Clinic note that massage researchers count pain relief, lower anxiety levels and immune system support as proven effects. They also note that facilitated personal care services improve mental well-being through the power of touch.
Function
You'll find men and women of all ages at health spas. Day facilities may have several personal care stations, where attendants expect a tip after each service. Medical spas schedule you for specific skin, teeth or hair services in a comfortable, non-clinical environment. Licensed medical professionals are on site. Spa retreats may be part of larger resorts or dedicated to health and beauty only. The latter include "Condé Nast Traveler" award winners Cal-a-Vie Health Spa in California and Canyon Ranch Lenox in Massachusetts. Guests visit these spa destinations to enjoy healthy cuisine and expert personal care. Gratuities may be included in the cost of a resort stay.
Considerations
Day spas and medical spas offer convenience close to home. Their package deals make good gifts and, in the case of medical spas, motivation to pursue a series of aesthetics treatments, such as teeth whitening or facial enhancements. Spa retreats around the world provide vacation getaways that promise to put you back in touch with your body, mind and spirit.
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