Spa Glossary
A SHORT GLOSSARY OF SPA TERMS
AROMATHERAPY is the use of essential oils for psychological, emotional and physical well being. Smell is the most enduring of our senses and has the ability to transform our emotions and heal our bodies. The vast healing powers of aromatherapy can be increased when combined with massage.
DEEP TISSUE/CONNECTIVE TISSUE MASSAGE focuses on lengthening, spreading and differentiating the fascia of the body. Many receivers of this work describe it as a more intense session bringing about heightened awareness, increased flexibility, increased range of motion, & relief from chronic postural habits. This work is slow and deep in nature and requires the practitioner to listen closely to the client's body.
ENERGY WORK encompasses a wide range of modalities focusing on balancing and working with areas of congested energy that may arise from a variety of sources including muscle tension and emotional stress. Contact is made both lightly and deeply with the intention of drawing the client's attention to patterns that may arise in the mind and body.
HOT STONE MASSAGE involves the application of water heated basalt stones of varying sizes to key points on the body, giving a deep massage and creating sensations of comfort and warmth. The direct heat relaxes muscles, allowing manipulation of a greater intensity It's a perfect treatment to feel grounded and connected to the earth.
KINESTHETIC AWARENESS THROUGH MOVEMENT involves playing with the motions of the body through gentle rocking and the creating of waves. This work is deeply relaxing and helps to reeducate the nervous system on a profound level.
NEUROMUSCULAR/TRIGGER POINT THERAPY (NMT) is a technique primarily designed to address myofascial pain and dysfunction. This work focuses on releasing the "knots" located within muscles and works to interrupt pain cycles.
PARAFFIN provides optimal benefits for clients suffering from joint pain and stiffness. Warm paraffin treatments can rejuvenate, hydrate and nourish the skin by increasing the blood supply to the area being treated.
REFLEXOLOGY is based on the belief that congestion or tension in any part of the foot or hand mirrors congestion or tension in a corresponding part of the body. Treat yourself to a foot and/or hand reflexology session and leave feeling as if you've had a full body massage.
SHIATSU MASSAGE literally means 'finger pressure'. Natural body weight is used when pressure is applied on special points in the energetic pathways called meridians. By working the meridians, chi, or energy is moved. Wonderful stretches are included in this work, which is primarily done on a mat on the floor.
SPORTS MASSAGE blends techniques from many modalities to work with a particular athlete or anyone with repetitive stress issues or injuries. In working with athletes the goal is to increase their performance while preventing injuries. One form of sports massage is a short session before and after an event to help prepare the body for the race, ride, or game.
SWEDISH MASSAGE is often recognized by its dance-like, flowing style. The intention of Swedish is to increase circulation by moving blood and lymph. It uses a soothing manipulation of the muscles and other soft tissues to relieve tension and encourage relaxation.
