Glossary of Spa Terms

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A

Acupressure An ancient Chinese technique based on the theory that there are meridians (pressure points) on the body that correspond to different organs in the body. When pressure is exerted on a particular meridian, energy pathways are stimulated for those particular organs to which the meridian corresponds and contracted muscles are encouraged to relax. A finger massage designed to release muscle tension and promote healing by applying pressure to "energy points" or "meridians" in the body. The pressure applied to these vital points (the same points used in acupuncture) was identified by medical practitioners in China centuries ago and is believed to improve the flow of energy (chi) throughout the body. Similar in many ways to Shiatsu.

Acupuncture An ancient oriental healing technique discovered and developed more than three thousand years ago, acupuncture is based on Taoist philosophy. The aim is to balance the energy meridians to permit the body to "heal itself. A relatively painless technique, it is administered by inserting fine needles at key points of the body that relate to different organs in order to relieve muscular, neurological and arthritic problems, cure disease and relieve pain (as in surgery). Alternative related techniques include the use of low voltage electric current (electro acupuncture), or pinpoint massage (acupressure) to those key body points. Its purpose is to relieve arthritic, neurological and muscular tensions or to balance the body’s energy meridians; the channels in the body through which Qi, or life energy, flows to allow the body to heal itself. Relatively painless, acupuncture can be administered using needles and through low-voltage electric current.

Algotherapy - A form of thalassotherapy where thin layers of heated seaweed are applied to the skin; infra-red lamps may also be used in the treatment to maintain the heat of the prepared seaweed. Reduces pain and acts as an anti-inflammatory treatment.
Aromatherapy The word 'aromatherapy' was first coined by the French in the 1930s. It is an ancient healing art dating back to 4500 B. C., Aromatherapy usually refers to treatments such as massage, facials, body wraps or hydro baths with the application of essential oils from plants, leaves, bark, roots, seeds, resins and flowers. These oils are used to treat emotional disorders, organ dysfunction, and skin problems through a variety of internal and external application techniques.
Ayurveda An ancient Indian system of traditional folk medicine that incorporates nutrition, essential oils, massage and meditation to restore the body to its perfect balance.

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B

Balneotherapy A generic term for mineral water treatments, balneotherapy is the traditional practice of treatments by waters, using hot springs, mineral, or sea waters to restore and revitalize the body. Since antiquity, balneotherapy has been used to improve circulation, fortify the immune system, as an analgesic (pain reliever) and as an anti-stress treatment.

Brush & Tone Dry brushing of the skin, intended to remove dead layers and impurities while stimulating circulation. This is one of many exfoliation techniques used as a pre-treatment for mud and seaweed body masks or fango / parafango. The body is brushed in invigorating, circular motions to remove dead skin, followed by the application of moisturising lotion that leaves the skin silky smooth, alive, and glowing.

C

Colour Therapy massage A colour-enhancing full body massage using the seven spectral colour lights, which represent the various parts of the body. (This happens when the energy of colour enters our bodies, stimulating the pituitary and pineal glands, in turn affecting the production of certain hormones that influence a variety of physiological processes.) This therapy is sometimes used in combination with hydrotherapy and is mentally stimulating.

Crystal Bath A unique bath in a state-of-the-art crystal bath, to give the entire body and instant, revitalising lift

Colonic irrigation A water enema that cleanses high into the colon.

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D

Dead Sea mud treatment A mineral-rich mud imported from the Dead Sea applied to the body to cleanse pores and relax muscles. The mud, especially high in magnesium chloride, potassium chloride and calcium, will ease arthritic pain and rheumatic pain. This type of fango is nutrient and mineral rich and known for its detoxification and exfoliation properties.

E

Eastern herbal balancing massage A fusion of acupressure and reiki as well as reflexology to balance both mind and body. A range of pre-mixed herbs are heated and applied to the body working on the energy points.

Exfoliation Skin treatment where the upper layer of dead skin cells is sloughed off. A variety of techniques can be used and the treatment is called accordingly: loofah rub, salt scrub, body glow, brush and tone, etc.

Endermologie - Developed in France, this massage therapy significantly reduces the appearance of cellulite, while defining the figure; performed by an aesthetician specifically trained in this therapy.

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F

Fango therapy The Italian word for mud. Used in treatments, a highly mineralised mud may be mixed with oil or water and applied over the body as a heat pack to detoxify, stimulate the circulation and relieve muscular and arthritic pain.

Flotation tank A little larger than a twin-size bed, filled with 10 to 12 inches of water, this enclosed tank, containing warm water and Epsom salts, allows you to float comfortably in a totally dark, silent environment. This can be a serene, deeply relaxing experience for some, but claustrophobic for others. It creates a sensation that has been likened to returning to the womb. Music and light therapies are often combined with this treatment.

Floating Ocean Treasures An invigorating body scrub using specially selected salts, herbs and Pinotage body oil; followed by an algae serum bath and clay or gel body wrap.

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H

Hot Stone Therapy Smooth heated stones are used to massage the body to increase circulation and ease muscular tension. A wonderfully relaxing treatment dating back to 2000BC.

Hydrotherapy Water treatments (underwater massages, hot and cold showers, mineral baths and jet sprays, for example) which assist in the healing process of almost any ailment. This therapy, which is one of the oldest methods known to man, provides both stimulation and relaxation at the same time.

Herbal Wrap (hot and cold) The body is wrapped in warm linen or cotton sheets which have been steeped like tea bags in a variety of aromatic herbs, then covered with blankets or towels, preventing the moist heat from escaping. Additionally, a cool compress is applied to the forehead. Herbal wraps help relax the muscles, soothe soreness and soften skin. However, some people find the heat oppressive and the cocoon effect of the wet sheets and blankets smothering. To avoid feeling claustrophobic, the arms may remain outside of the wrap. See also aroma bath and herbal bath. Herb soaked linen sheets are wrapped tightly around the body. The person is then covered with a blanket and has a cold compress applied to forehead. Treatment lasts between twenty and thirty minutes. Stimulates circulation, detoxification and relaxation. The treatment process elevates body temperatures and heart rates. Not recommended for those with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or when pregnant.

I

Ionithermie A method of combining plant and mineral preparation with a gentle electric current. Good for tone and texture.

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K

Kahuna A unique massage technique based on Hawaiian healing arts, uses firm but rhythmic and flowing movements to increase circulation. An invigorating and energising treatment

L

Lomi-Lomi A healing massage derived from the ancient Polynesians and more specifically the master healers of Hawaii. The massage is given in fluid, rocking motion using the forearms as well as the hands. Some people have described this as feeling like gentle waves moving over the body. Hawaiian healing body treatment incorporating long and broad massage strokes, as well as a rocking motion; the therapist may occasionally walk on the recipient’s back to enhance the affects of massage.

Loofah scrub A full body scrub with a loofah sponge and sea salt usually mixed with a warm oil (avocado or almond). Its purpose is to exfoliate the skin and to stimulate circulation.

Lymph drainage A therapeutic massage using a gentle pumping technique to drain away pockets of water retention and trapped toxins. Considered by many European cure doctors as a premier anti-aging treatment. Lymph drainage can be achieved through manual massage, hydro massage, or with aromatherapy massage.

Sometimes called lymphatic drainage massage, it requires serious knowledge of the location of the lymph nodes. Be sure the masseuse or masseur knows what she/he is doing. Sometimes done on the face and neck, other times the entire body, lymph massage helps stimulate lymphatic circulation, which boosts the body's ability to eliminate wastes and absorb nutrients. It can also reduce swollen or puffy tissue and tone underlying tissue.

Normally, lymph is drained by changes in the body's position and by the pumping action of nearby muscles. In otherwise healthy people who are physically very inactive and whose muscle tone is greatly diminished, excess fluid may accumulate in the lowest parts of the body such as the feet, ankles, or the small of the back. Large accumulations of fat under the skin can also cause mechanical interference with lymphatic drainage, resulting in oedema. Increasing physical activity, muscle strengthening exercises, and when appropriate, calorie restriction to reduce the size of the fat deposit, best treat impaired lymphatic drainage in sedentary but otherwise healthy persons. Massage of the involved areas may provide temporary relief.

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M

Meditation A state of focused attention through which one emerges into an ever-increasing clear awareness of reality. Many forms of meditation are practiced. The deep relaxation of meditation heals the body, quiets the mind, and stimulates creativity and efficiency, thereby providing a sense of inner balance and peace.

Often used as part of a stress reduction program, meditation is usually done in a peaceful setting outdoors or in a quiet room, away from distracting sounds and sights. As mediators assume a comfortable sitting position, an instructor tells them to concentrate on breathing in a slow, rhythmic motion, imaging the release of tension as they exhale. Often a simple word (or mantra) is repeated with each breath. The general purpose is to relax the body and quiet the ongoing chatter of the conscious mind. Practice is required to meditate effectively, but the physical benefits are well worth it. Meditation decreases the heart rate, oxygen consumption, blood pressure, blood lactate levels, muscle tension and metabolic rate. It increases alpha brain waves, alertness, awareness, creativity and psychological well-being.

O

Oxygen Facial Oxygen is steamed directly onto the skin as part of a facial treatment that helps to hydrate tired skin.

P

Pilates Method A body conditioning system, which focuses on improving flexibility and overall body strength without building bulk. Developed in Germany by Dr.Joseph Pilates during the 1920s.
Plunge Pools Also known as Roman Baths, they are deep pools, one filled with hot and one with cold water. Alternating ‘plunging’ into each will improve and revitalise circulation.

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R

Reiki This is an energetic approach to the body, where the therapist places his or her hands on, or just above, 12 prescribed areas of the body. In each position the hands are rested gently on the body and remain still for 3 to 5 minutes without manipulation of any sort. The purpose of this therapy is to promote deep relaxation by creating a calming and nurturing effect.

Reflexology Ancient Chinese technique using pressure point massage (usually on the feet, but also hands and ears) to restore the flow of energy throughout the body.

Also known as zone therapy, a turn-of-the-century practice fostered by three American physicians (Bowers, White and Fitzgerald). In their view, energy travels from critical zones of the body and ends its journey in the feet. Charts are available showing, which zones correspond to which internal organs. The theory is that when excessive granular texture is felt in the feet as pressure is applied, it indicates the presence of uric acid crystallization. By rubbing the crystals on the nerve endings in the soles, a reflex reaction is supposedly set up between the zone and its associated body part. Reflexology is one of the massage techniques a person can learn to self-administer.

Reflexology is recommended for chronic conditions such as asthma, headaches and migraines. Applied as hand, foot or ear massage using pressure points similar to acupressure.
Roman (Pool) Bath The Romans cherished bathing above all other luxuries. Roman baths consisted of hot, warm and cold pools. Today the term usually refers to a hot whirlpool/Jacuzzi, with benches to sit on for one or more persons.

Rasul In a specially constructed chamber with a steam oven, four different types of mud are applied to the face, chest, back and thighs. Steam blows through dried herbs and, as humidity increases, the body perspires and mud can easily be massaged into the skin, exfoliating as well as boosting circulation. Overhead sprinklers then wash off the mud.

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S

Stone Therapy facial Smooth warmed stones are used for cleansing , mask application, extractions and moisturising to increase circulation , with a rhythmic massage.

Shiatsu (Massage) Means "finger" (shi) "pressure" (atsu), a cross between acupuncture and massage developed in Japan by Tokujiro Namikoshi in the 1940s. Like accupressure, Shiatsu works with vital points and energy meridians and uses finger-thumb-palm pressure. Unlike accupressure, Shiatsu also manipulates other parts of the body in the course of treatment. Intended to stimulate the body's inner powers of balance and healing.

Swedish Massage The most commonly offered and best known type of massage. Devised at the University of Stockholm in 1812 by Henri Peter Ling, this technique employs five different movements (long strokes; kneading of individual muscles; percussive, tapping movement; rolling of the fingers; and vibration) and oils beneficial to the skin. Used to improve the circulation, ease muscle aches and tension, improve flexibility and create relaxation.

Swedish massage is done with the person covered by a sheet, where each part of the body to be worked on is exposed in turn and then re-covered. The massage practitioners use kneading, stroking, friction, tapping and even shaking motions. Oil is used to reduce or eliminate friction and to facilitate making long, smooth, kneading stokes over the tissue and muscles of the body.

Salt Glow Small amounts of oil and coarse salt are applied to dampened skin in circular or elongated strokes to create a hydrating and exfoliating treatment. Aids in circulation.

Shiro Dhara Ayurvedic treatment of warmed oil slowly pouring over the middle of one’s forehead, where the ‘third eye’ resides. Induces total relaxation.

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T

Thalassotherapy An ancient Greek therapy (thalasso is Greek for sea) these treatments use the therapeutic benefits of the sea, and seawater products for their vitamins, minerals and trace elements, which can heal and reinvigorate skin and hair.

Various treatments include: Individual baths of fresh seawater equipped with powerful underwater jets for deep massage; or a therapist applies manual massage to body with hoses.

Body wrap, similar to herbal wrap, but using seaweed or sea algae paste, to eliminate toxins, restore minerals and skin elasticity. As with most wraps, it usually involves seaweed paste rubbed on the body, which is then covered with sheets and sometimes blankets for 10 to 20 minutes.

Use of sea water and sea air to treat a disease; living near the sea, bathing in the water and breathing sea air.

Twin Massage A heavenly massage carried out by two consultants massaging simultaneously; whilst one masseur works on the left hand side, the other performs synchronised massage on the right.

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V

Vichy Shower (Therapy) Invigorating shower treatment from several water jets of varying temperatures and pressures applied while lying on a waterproof cushioned mat. Exfoliating treatments such as Dulse scrub, loofah or salt-glow often follows this treatment.

Vine Therapy A full body oxygenating exfoliation utilising crushed grape seeds and pinotage oil, followed by a rejuvenating crystal bath and body wrap to improve circulation.

Y

Yoga An ancient Hindu system of stretching and toning the body through movements or postures (asanas), composed of deep breathing, relaxation methods, and diet. Yoga is frequently part of stress-reduction programs. It helps improve muscle tone, flexibility and mobility; reduces stress and anxiety; and induces a sense of well-being. The word "yoga" denotes a concept of discipline leading to union. The body and the mind form a continuum of consciousness and life that, when achieving a state of focus and clarity, may unite with Universal Spirit.

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