Spa Treatment
Introduction
Throughout the history, people have been interested in the medicinal value of water. The medical world has viewed water with different opinions, from very enthusiastic to extremely critical, and from beneficial to harmful. As early as 500 BC, the Greeks are reported to indulge in a variety of social baths. The Romans were also keen in the medicinal value of the water and spas were a major place for relaxation social interaction in ancient Rome. The history of the Spa industry is colorful and the interest in water has fluctuated from century to century and from nation to nation. Today, spa therapy is receiving renewed attention from medical specialties and health tourists, and having a revival. The modern spa has hit mainstream and gaining global renown. Different types of spas are emerging to meet the demands and wants of the ever-changing market. Modern spas are not only seen as a place where one can experience the medical benefits. Modern spas have become a great place for people to make lifestyle changes. They are also excellent places for education, and at times, places of instant change. The medical field and the spa field are becoming intertwined. Consumers want the expertise of the medical community but they love the spa environment. The spa industry has made a huge impact on different industries such as the tourism, hospitality and the medical field.
History and Development
The term Spa is believed to be derived from the name of a Belgian town – Spa. In the 14th century, a curative, thermal spring was discovered in Spa. Spa is also believed to be derived from the Latin word “spagere” which means to scatter, sprinkle, and moisten) or it may be an acronym of the Latin phrase “sanitas per aquas” which means health through water.
Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire
In classical times, taking the waters used to be a popular treatment for a wide range of diseases. The Greeks loved to bathe in fresh water from natural resources. Initially, bathing was confined to the more wealthy people in private baths, but public baths were soon opened. Spas were considered sacred and were dedicated to some deities. Initially bathing only served cleansing and hygienic purposes but soon it became popular for its health benefits and its ability to cure some diseases. Hippocrates proposed the hypothesis that the cause of all diseases lay in an imbalance of bodily fluids. He advised that in order to regain the balance, a change in habits and environment is needed. This included bathing, perspiration, walking, and massages. Because of the Greeks’ influence, the Romans also built thermal baths located at mineral and thermal springs. Spas served as recreation centers for soldiers. In contrast with the Greeks, who took the waters after intensive physical exercises, the Romans considered the baths more important than gymnastics alone. The Roman baths served as a center for relaxation, socializing, cleansing and a place where one can find medical treatment. The Roman Spa treatment can come as application of water to afflicted parts of the body, immersion of the whole body in the water, and drinking excessive quantities of water. There were three type of baths that developed in ancient Rome, home baths (balnea), private baths (balnea private), and public baths (balnea publica) that were run by state. Thermae was developed along with the introduction of the aqueducts. Thermaes are large impressive edifices that can hold thousands of people. Baths were truly a place of social interaction. Many Romans built baths in newly conquered lands all over Europe. Throughout the years, the roman bathing gradually changed towards a place for relaxation and pleasure, rather than for medical treatment, although this was still provided. The Romans preferred to use the baths and very hot waters for renewing their appetites and thirst, and the baths became, rather, centers for various sexual practices. The Roman baths became a place for sexual pleasures and deterioration of morals became evident.
Dark and Middle Ages
Bathing culture became disreputable during the collapse of the Roman Empire and as a result, bathing became prohibited. The rise of Christianity added to the decay of the bathing culture. Faith in cure through worship and praying was regarded as more important than a medicinal bath. Baths were redeveloped as churches although some aristocrats who were not affected of the Church’s decrees continued to enjoy baths.
Renaissance
In the 16th century, baths were considered a source of contagious diseases such as syphilis, plague, and leprosy. It also became a dangerous meeting place for political and religious dissidents. Baths became expensive and majority of people who have been impoverished by wars cannot afford it anymore. But affluent people continue to visit the baths, although they preferred to go to baths from natural sources with warm, mineral water instead of the public baths. The new bathing culture that had developed in Italy gradually spread over other parts of Europe. There were two types of spa that developed during this period. Once was hot springs that are for drinking and bathing and the other was cold springs which were for drinking cures only. Medical Doctors created spas not as a center for leisure but as centers for treatment. Much attention was paid to purging, drinking cures, eating well balanced diets and bathing.
19th and 20th Centuries
Interest in the bathing grew around 1800. Mineral water was examined and tested to unlock the secrets of its curative values. Doctors believed that nature has a cure for every disease and the key lies in the analysis of the water’s components. Individual treatments were prescribed, based on the composition and temperature of the water. Also, combinations of treatments were developed consisting of hot and cold baths, herbal baths, mud packs, active physical exercises, massages, and diets. The development of guesthouses and hotels that use mineral waters became a major change in Europe and North America. Spa resorts became not only a place for the elite society to meet but also a place where one can find people from different walks of life. Spas became creativity centers for painters, writers and composers. In the past decades, a big shift in the use of mineral water for treating diseases have taken place in continental Europe. The medical benefits of bathing were acknowledged by medical professionals that caused the flourish of spas in Europe. Bathing was normally combined with different treatments such as physical exercises, hydrotherapy, and mud packs.
Development of Modern Spas
The United States became one of the centers of spa innovation in the world beginning 1850s. Several famous people visited spas like New York’s Saratoga Springs. In 1910, Elizabeth Arden introduced the first day spa – Red Door Salon in Manhattan. The day spa offered manicures, facials and the signature “Arden Wax”. Another innovation was introduced by Deborah Szekeley when she opened the first destination spa in Baja, California in 1958. She also pioneered the first Golden spa in California, which offered individualized weight loss and fitness programs and aerobics. In 1974, the first fitness spa also opened in California. Medical spas were introduced by innovative US doctors in 1997. They combined Western and holistic medicine in a luxurious, spa-inspired environment alongside spa services.
Alongside with these developments and innovation, the spa which was originally available for rich women seeking to lose weight became a relevance in the society that is increasingly focusing on prevention, healthy lifestyles, fitness, spirituality and relaxation. The spa is now a place for diverse people with different lifestyle pursuits. Spas have become a place where one can engage in medical and spiritual programs. Modern spas also have facilities for outdoor adventures and exotic travel. Spas have gone global, located virtually at every world region. The spa aesthetic has also influenced everything from fashion and cosmetics, to architecture, home décor, and cuisine.
Medical Benefits of Spa Treatment
Thermal bath spas, like the ones located in the English city of Bath, are famous for curing different illnesses. Bath was famous for curing paralysis, even in those patients who were regarded as incurable. The treatment consisted of bathing, drinking cures, diet, and purges. Patients who are sick with paralysis and already been treated elsewhere but still could not find cure go to Bath. Many of these patients were cured after staying in Bath for months. In the past decade several randomized controlled trials have studied the effects of spa therapy in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Patients were randomly allocated to receive spa therapy. Overall, the results showed positive effects lasting for three to nine months.
Hydrotherapy is effective in helping people with soft tissue injuries, arthritis and other joint related illnesses. Many people enjoy the medical benefits of hydro massage on sore muscles, stiff joints and circulation. Hydro exercise has been found by medical experts as a way to enhance mood and it can improve self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. Hot water can also help in reducing pain by stimulating the body to release endorphins. The massage action of spa’s warm bubbles further helps to relax tense muscles by relieving pressure in surrounding nerve groups. Spa treatments can also aid in weight loss and alleviating stress. Relaxing and soaking in warm water is also beneficial for people with sleep problems.
Popular Spa Services and Treatments
1. Therapeutic Massage
Therapeutic massage involves the manipulation of the muscles of the body. Massage has a calming effect on the nervous system and aids in promoting relaxation and well-being. It can also reduce tension and anxiety. Massage can also improve blood circulation. Massage can prevent muscle cramps and spasms.
2. Facial
Another popular spa treatment is the facial. Facial includes analysis of the skin, deep cleansing, massage, toning, and moisturizing.
3. Body Treatments
Body treatments are facials for the whole body. One of the popular body treatments is body scrub, an exfoliating treatment that rubs off dead skin cells. Body scrubs are often combined with a detoxifying or hydrating body wrap.
4. Reflexology
Reflexology is treatment that targets the feet. The theory behind reflexology is that there are reflex points in the feet, hands and ears that relate to specific organs and glands in the body. Reflexology has a relaxing effect that can be felt all over one’s body.
5. Body Wrap
Body wrap originally targeted weight loss by wrapping the body tightly with bandages or plastic wrap. Today body wraps are usually treatments that uses a body mask commonly made of algae, seaweed, mud, clay, lotion or cream. Body wraps aid in detoxification and helps in eliminating toxins from the body through metabolic stimulation. Some body wraps can also aid in hydrating the skin and making the skin smooth and soft.
6. Thai Massage
Most spas offer Thai massage. Thai massage is one of the newest and hottest massages today. It was developed by Buddhist monks in Thailand as a healing technique. Thai massage targets the energy line of the body to increase flexibility, alleviate the tension of the muscles and joints and aids in balancing the energy systems of the body through passive stretching and gentle pressure.
7. Hot Stone Massage
Smooth and heated stones are used in this kind of massage. The stones that are being use are mostly basalt. Basalt is a volcanic rock that is black in color and has the ability to absorb and retain heat. This massage is deeply soothing and relaxing. It aims to release tight muscles using heat.
8. Spa Manicure and Pedicure
Spa manicure and pedicure includes an aromatic salt rub, or hydrating mask or paraffin dip that can make it last longer and feel more luxurious.
Types of Spa
1. Resort and Hotel Spas
Resort and hotel spa offers a wide selection of different recreational activities and facilities that includes full-service spa. Included activities are golf, tennis, horseback riding, skiing, and different water sports. Resort and hotel spas also offer dining options for the customers. The spa treatment often compliments the stay of the guests in the resort or hotel.
2. Destination Spas
All guests can participate in the full-immersion spa experience that a destination spa provides. Customers experience personalized spa experience that includes fitness programs, body treatments, spa cuisine and wide array of therapeutic spa treatments. Destination spas provide spa style treatments with accommodation or spas within accommodation environments.
3. Connoisseur Spas
Connoisseur Spas often cater to affluent markets. They offer extraordinary ambiance, luxurious accommodations, top of the line equipments and exceptional spa services. Connoisseur spas also offer outstanding cuisines.
4. Casino Spas
Casino spas offer different gaming facilities alongside with relaxing spa treatments. Vacationers need not live the premises if they choose to participate in a game of chance. This type of spa caters to vacationers who seek excitement and spa luxury at the same time.
5. Day Spas
Day spas offer simple and flexible ways of incorporating spa experience into your busy daily life. Day spas offer customers with the best breaks from their daily routine that often includes massages that soothes both the body and mind, beautifying facials and body wraps that seek to rejuvenate the body. Day spas provide professionally administered spa services that are offered to clients on a daily basis with appropriate day spa facilities.
6. Cosmetic Medical Spas
Cosmetic medical spas are often supervised by a licensed healthcare professional. Cosmetic medical spas integrate both the atmosphere of clinical-grade aesthetic enhancement and spa treatment concepts. Cosmetic Medical Spas offer cosmetic medical procedures, beauty and spa therapies.
7. Wellness Medical Spas
Wellness and preventive care are some of the major offerings of this spa type. Wellness medical spas often combine western medical concepts and complementary philosophies.
8. Dental Spas
Dental spas offer a spa luxury by incorporating spa elements into the dental practice. A dental spa integrates dental therapy with spa services.
9. Mobile Spas
Mobile spas offer services such as facials, massages, manicures and pedicures at the customer’s home or office.
10. Natural Bathing Spas
Natural bathing spas operate within a retreat location, offering extensive use of communal bathing in naturally occurring waters or mud pools with a full range of Spa services may or may not provide on site guest accommodation.
A. Mineral Spring Spa B. Hot Spring Spa
C. Natural Mud Spa D. Sea Water Spa
11. Salon Spas
Salon Spas are beauty therapy and/or hair businesses with minimal water facilities and minimal guest amenities, which offer body therapy treatments. This type of spa aspires to provide high spa level of service and present a spa style holistic approach.
12. Spa Retreat
Spa retreat is an accommodation-based facility, offering spa and body treatments, with some water based therapy. It also offers spa cuisine or healthy food option.
13. Health Spa
Health spas operate within a retreat location, offering a full range of spa services and wellness programs that address the client’s health and lifestyle needs, providing on site guest accommodation.
Spa Equipments
1. Vicky shower – an important equipment fro a spa that is used for washing clay wraps, salts scrubs away quickly while giving the client with soothing hydro massage.
2. Wet table – a self-draining table that makes wet body treatments more easy to perform.
3. Massage chair – a massage chair that has an adjustable face cradle and chest support are being used to provide better access to the thoracic and scapular regions. Massage chairs must be versatile and at the same time comfortable.
4. Lomi Lomi tables – combination of features from other tables make lomi lomi table makes it suitable for different kinds of treatments and therapies. It has different features that will truly increase client comfort.
5. Rainbar Vicky shower – suspended from the ceiling with a flexible hose connection that allows the versatility of wet table being placed in any part of the room.
6. Lagoon wet table – makes wet body treatments like mud masks and salt scrubs easy to perform. The large draining hole that is located at the foot of the table makes drainage easier and keeps water and other materials away from the client’s head.
7. Scotch hose – a jet hose that projects water. This equipment is used to speed up the metabolism of the client by direct contact of hot and cold pressurized water to the points of pressure of the client.
8. Hydrotherapy tub – used to relieve tension in muscles and joints by providing underwater body massage. A hydrotherapy tub combines water with air jets.
9. Hot towel cabinet – used to hold towels at around 160 degrees. Commonly used for hygienic purposes.
10. Swiss shower – has a number of showerheads that are adjustable for the direction of water flow and pressure of the water.
Spa Facilities
1. Sauna
2. Steam Room
3. Spa Pool
4. Hot Tub
5. Plunge Pool
6. Relaxation Room / Lounge
7. Spa Restaurant
8. Atrium Pool
9. Physical Fitness Center
Spa Etiquette
1. Advance booking is important because some resort and hotel spas often fill up fast.
2. Be sure to inform the therapist or booking agent if you have any type of medical condition because some treatments may not be advisable for you.
3. On the day of the treatment, avoid exposure to the sun and don’t take any alcoholic beverages.
4. Don’t bring your valuable and jewelry with you to the spa. To avoid all worries and stress leave them in the hotel or resort’s safe.
5. Always try to arrive early so you can enjoy an unhurried transition into the spa. After the treatment, it is customary to vacate the room within five to ten minutes. You can spend your relaxation time ate the spa’s waiting or relaxation room.
6. On the day of the treatment, try not to take any food an hour before your schedule. Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages. Drink plenty of water.
7. Don’t smoke inside the spa premises.
8. Be sure to communicate your preferences to the therapist or personnel. Feel free to make inquiries and ask explanations about the treatment’s aspects that you do not understand.
Communication and Contraindications
1. Exfoliation
The spa therapist must explain the various methods of exfoliation to the customer. The therapist must explain the method of application for various methods of exfoliation at the point in the treatment plan in which they should be used. The therapist must also explain the contraindications of exfoliation.
Total Contraindications
1. Any form of infection, disease or fewer
2. Under the influence of recreational drugs or alcohol
3. Diarrhea and vomiting
4. With medical, GP or specialist permission in circumstances – where written permission cannot be obtained, clients must indemnify their condition in writing prior to treatment.
Pregnancy; Cardio vascular conditions; Hemophilia; Any condition already being treated by a GP or another complementary practitioner; Arthritis; Nervous or Psychotic conditions; Osteoporosis; Epilepsy; Recent operations; Diabetes; etc.
2. Steam and Sauna
The spa therapist must be able to explain the therapeutic effects of steam and therapeutic effects of steam and sauna treatments and must be able to explain the differences between wet and dry heat. The therapist must also explain the safety procedures required for each treatment. The therapist must explain the contraindications to Steam and Sauna.
Total Contraindications
1. Any form of infection, disease or fewer
2. Under the influence of recreational drugs or alcohol
3. Diarrhea and vomiting
4. With medical, GP or specialist permission – in circumstances where written medical permission cannot be obtained clients must indemnify their condition in writing prior treatment.
Pregnancy; Cardiovascular conditions; Hemophilia; Any condition already being treated by a GP or another complementary practitioner; medical edema; Any dysfunctions of the nervous system; Bells Palsy; Inflamed Nerve; Cancer; Postural deformities; Kidney infections; etc.
3. Body Masks/Wraps
The therapist must explain and ensure appropriate client care at all times. It is the therapist’s responsibility to explain and select a suitable mask for the area to be treated. The therapist must be able to explain the ingredients and their function in accordance with the manufacture’s details, The masks or wraps must be appropriately applied and demonstrate thorough removal after treatment time has elapsed. The therapist must update the client’s records accordingly. The Clients must also understand the contraindications to wraps and masks.
Total Contraindications
1. Any form of infection, disease or fewer
2. Under the influence of recreational drugs or alcohol
3. Diarrhea and vomiting
4. With medical, GP or specialist permission – in circumstances where written medical permission cannot be obtained clients must indemnify their condition in writing prior treatment.
Pregnancy; Cardio vascular conditions; Hemophilia; Any condition already being treated by a GP or another complementary practitioner; Arthritis; Nervous or Psychotic conditions; Osteoporosis; Epilepsy; Recent operations; Diabetes; etc.
4. Sea Water and Seaweed Treatments
The therapist must explain the different types of seaweed and their uses. The therapist must be able to explain effectively the benefits of seaweed treatments. The therapist must be able to explain the application of seaweed treatments and give background information about the history of seaweed treatments.
Total Contraindications
1. Any form of infection, disease or fewer
2. Under the influence of recreational drugs or alcohol
3. Diarrhea and vomiting
4. With medical, GP or specialist permission in circumstances – where written permission cannot be obtained, clients must indemnify their condition in writing prior to treatment.
Pregnancy; Cardio vascular conditions; Hemophilia; Any condition already being treated by a GP or another complementary practitioner; Arthritis; Nervous or Psychotic conditions; Osteoporosis; Epilepsy; Recent operations; Diabetes; etc.
5. Water Treatments
The therapist must explain the various ways in which water is treated to maintain hygiene. The therapist must explain how the treatment of the water may affect the hydrotherapy treatment. The changes that will occur to the body once it is immersed in water must be thoroughly explained.
6. Hydrotherapy
The benefits of hydrotherapy must be thoroughly explained to the customer. The therapist must explain the procedure for each treatment and all the safe precautions that must be taken. The therapist must be able to explain the contraindications to hydrotherapy treatment.
Total Contraindications
1. Any form of infection, disease or fewer
2. Under the influence of recreational drugs or alcohol
3. Diarrhea and vomiting
4. With medical, GP or specialist permission in circumstances – where written permission cannot be obtained, clients must indemnify their condition in writing prior to treatment.
Pregnancy; Cardio vascular conditions; Hemophilia; Any condition already being treated by a GP or another complementary practitioner; Arthritis; Nervous or Psychotic conditions; Osteoporosis; Epilepsy; Recent operations; Diabetes; etc.
Spa Health, Safety and Hygiene Maintenance
Steam and Sauna
1. Ensure the cabinets are wiped out with sterilizing solution after every treatment
2. Ensure the benches are covered with clean paper towels for each client
3. Ensure the clients showers before entering the cabinet and that swimwear or similar is worn
4. Ensure that the treatment is explained to the client before commencement
5. Ensure the correct temperature is adhered to
6. Check temperature gauge
7. Ensure the client stays in the sauna/steam room for maximum of ten minutes
8. After ten minutes they should take warm shower or plunge in a warm pool
9. Ensure the clients drink plenty of water
10. Ensure that the client rests in the rest area and allows the body temperature to return to normal before leaving the spa
Body Masks/Wraps
1. Check consultation and contraindications
2. Explain the treatment to the client
3. Use appropriate protective sheets for the couch and floor area
4. Help the client onto the couch protecting the client’s modesty at all times
5. Apply the mask/wrap in accordance with manufacturer’s instruction
6. Wrap the client in sheets/blankets/thermal blanket, whichever is most appropriate to the treatment
7. Remove the mask/wrap at the end of the treatment
Hydrotherapy
1. Ensure safety handles are available to ensure clients do not slip
2. Check the temperature gauge
3. Never leave the client unattended
4. Ensure a panic button is available
5. When using the hydrotherapy bath, ensure that half the water is drained before the client attempts to get out
6. Ensure clients shower then relax until the body temperature returns to normal before dressing
7. Ensure the water is at the right temperature for the treatment
8. Ensure the water has been treated appropriately
9. Ensure the entire spa are complies with health safety and hygiene regulations
Marketing and Promotion
One of the most powerful promotional and marketing tools today is the internet. Distance promotion can be effective in attracting the spa’s clients. The spa can also use leaflets that can be distributed to different Tourist Information Centers. The spa must be located strategically to the place where the target market can easily access the spa. Effective branding is also helpful in attracting the target market. Attractive signage must be installed. Due to the importance of the internet as a marketing and advertising tool, a website must be created be become more competitive and visible. Promotional marketing through e-mail can be useful for the business. For the clients that reside near or around the premises, mail advertising may be effective.
Conclusion
Recent innovations and developments of the spa industry have change the way people see spas. Different treatments and various facilities and equipments have been introduced to offer better service to the growing spa market. Different spa types target different customers. The spa industry now caters to different people from all walks of life with diverse interests. Today’s spa is no longer for the affluent. It has gone mainstream, and the varieties of treatments are increasing. Modern spas are places of renewal for body, mind and spirit. Modern spa targets not only the physical wellness of customers but also consider the mental, emotional and spiritual dynamics. Spas have become a place for healing and rejuvenation. Spas can be found virtually everywhere. There is a flavor for every taste. People are looking for ways to counter the stresses and pressures of everyday life. With less time available for rest and regeneration, people are looking for places where they can relax, unwind and gain relief from overindulgence and overwork. Modern spas aim to treat the mind, body and soul of each client by offering them different treatments. The treatments that modern spas offer range from wet treatments such as hydrotherapy, to dry treatments like massage and body wraps, to wellness therapies and beauty treatments. Modern spas still bring renewal and well-being, as well as allowing the clients to relax, reflect, revitalize, and rejoice.
Pictures: Types of Spa
Resort/Hotel Spa
Destination Spa
Health Spa
Hot spring Spa
Casino Spa
Day Spa
Connoisseur Spa
Mobile Spa
Dental Spa
Spa Equipments
Wet Table
Vicky Shower
Massage Chair
Lomi Lomi Tables
Lagoon Wet Tables
Rainbar Vicky Shower
Scotch Hose
Hydrotherapy Tub
Hot Towel Cabinet
Spa Treatments
Therapeutic Massage
Facial
Body Treatments
Reflexology
Body Wrap
Thai Massage
Hot stone Massage
Spa Facilities
Sauna
Steam Room
Spa Pool
Hot Tub
Relaxation Room / Lounge
Spa Restaurant
Spa Treatment
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page Number
Introduction 1
History and Development 2
Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire 2
Dark and the Middle Ages 3
Renaissance 4
19th and 20th Centuries 4
Development of Modern Spas 5
Medical Benefits of Spa Treatment 6
Popular Spa Services and Treatments 7
Types of Spa 9
Spa Equipments 11
Spa Facilities 13
Spa Etiquette 13
Communication and Contraindication 14
Spa Health, Safety and Hygiene Maintenance 18
Marketing and Promotion 20
Conclusion 20
Pictures:
Types of Spa 21
Spa Equipments 27
Spa Treatments 32
Spa Facilities 36
Bibliography 39
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