Spa Bodywork

You might use a variety of local hydrotherapy applications for condition management or injury treatments. Ice massage, mustard plasters, castor oil packs, and paraffin dips are popular. Ice Massage Ice massage is massage provided with ice. A paper cup is filled with water and frozen. The edges of the cup are then peeled away while […]

Pack is a general term for any local hydrotherapy treatment (hot, warm, cool, or cold) that uses a gel pack, hydrocollator pack, fomentation pack (moist heat), or commercially made chemical pack. Some packs are electric, some are heated in the microwave, some are chilled in a freezer, and some require specialized equipment. Probably the most

Different reflexive and physiological effects depend on the temperature of the water applied to the body. Table 6–1 provides an overview of common water temperatures used in hydrotherapy, whereas Table 6–2 summarizes the effects of hot and cold temperatures. Hot, cold, neutral, and contrasting temperatures are used in hydrotherapy applications. Table 6-1 Degrees of Hot and

Essential oils enter the body by absorption through the skin, inhalation, and ingestion. They are eliminated through the kidneys, through perspiration, and through exhalation. Absorption Through the Skin Compounds in essential oils that are absorbed through the skin enter the capillary network of the bloodstream. Although many aromatherapists take skin absorption for granted, the research

When therapeutic-grade essential oils are used at low concentration (1% to 3% or 6 to18 drops to every fluid ounce of carrier) and applied externally, negative reactions are minimal. It is important for a therapist to understand the potential undesirable effects that may occur if the oils are used inappropriately or without understanding. It should

In a therapeutic setting, good smells can be used together with massage, hydrotherapy soaks, meditation, hypnotherapy, or any other treatments to promote relaxation. This is important because stress is at the core of many modern diseases, and studies suggest that by simply decreasing stress, health and immunity can be improved. Smells can evoke intense emotional

Each essential oil has a set of potential therapeutic properties based on its chemical composition (Fig. 7–7). Sometimes, the properties of the individual compounds present may seem to oppose each other. This is the case with lavender, which contains esters (generally sedative), and alcohols (generally stimulating). In fact, this check and balance system of chemicals

In a spa setting, therapists often approach blending by asking questions such as, “What smells good?” “What combination of aromas will delight and inspire my clients?” or “Can I create an aroma that will affirm and encourage the spirit or cause deep restful relaxation?” Each blending situation is different, and therapists must constantly evolve their

Essential Oil Concentrations The term concentration refers to the amount of essential oil in the final volume of massage oil or carrier product.  Concentrations of between 1% and 4% are standard in the field of aromatherapy and are low enough to insure safety and minimize negative reactions. Concentrations of above 4% are used in acute