Spa Treatments: What's So Great About Body Scrubs?

"Receive a salt glow treatment and start looking and feeling great today," declares the advertisement. "Enjoy silky soft skin from our body scrub," states another. So what is special about these spa treatments? Depending upon what you are trying to achieve - everything.

What is a Body Scrub?
A body scrub entails using a granular substance mixed with a specific liquid with essential oils which will cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate by removing dead skin cells and moisturizing the skin. The primary base of the body scrub is usually Dead Sea salt, Epson salt, sugar, or baking soda generally mixed with massage oil, essential oils, honey, milk or milk-like product. Some spas or massage therapists will call their version of a body scrub a "salt glow" since the primary base of the scrub is a type of granular salt or combination of salts.

This scrub is then used on the body to improve circulation, stimulate the metabolic system, increases the body's ability to carry waste products for elimination, and assist with skin care issues. It also gives the skin a very healthy, vibrant look and a silky softness that is divine!

Preparing for the Scrub
The same medical precautions for massage are applied to a body scrub as it will have a similar affect to the body. It is highly recommended that if you have high blood pressure, that you not receive a scrub that has salt in the product as it could raise your blood pressure, or if you are a diabetic, a honey and sugar scrub since it could raise your blood sugar.

Scrubbing product variations could be made so that you will still be able to experience a body scrub. If you are in doubt about the body scrub product used, ask the massage therapist or spa coordinator regarding their particular body scrub and if it will be accommodating for you.

In preparing for your treatment, you will not want to shave any areas, such as your legs, on the day of your treatment. Otherwise, you may experience a stinging sensation to these areas when the product is applied.

Getting Scrubbed
In general terms, a basic body scrub can either be done in a wet room where the table used is designed to get wet or in a dry room where you generally get your massage. The type of equipment will depend upon the spa or massage therapist.

You will need to completely undress for a body scrub. However, your personal dignity will be protected by either disposable undergarments or the therapist will use towels or sheet placement to cover the areas not worked. You may be lying either on a sheet, towel, or a thin piece of plastic.

After the scrub, the therapist will either gently remove the remaining, unabsorbed scrub from the areas treated or direct you to a shower where you will be able to rinse off. You will not want to actually shower with soap since it will remove the oil residue from the scrub and ruin the treatment. Then you will return to the treatment room that has been prepared by the therapist to begin the portion of the treatment designed to moisturize your skin with a cream.

Enjoying your Scrub
You will notice after your receive your body scrub the difference in your skin. To preserve the 'glow' for awhile, you will need to refrain from activities that affect your skin such as go swimming at the beach directly after the treatment since the sand and sunlight will change your skin's exfoliation and hydration and effects.

Also check with the massage therapist or spa coordinator concerning the after affects (if any) of the essential oils used in the body scrubs; such as restricting your sun exposure after your treatment to reduce light sensitivity and/or sunburn.

There are literally hundreds of body scrub products that are used by spas and massage therapists providing body scrubs treatments. Experiment, if you will, by receiving a body scrub at different establishments and then decide on your favorite.

If you have never received a body scrub before, I hope that you try it. It is an experience in pampering that is hard to duplicate, especially if you follow your body scrub with a therapeutic massage. Enjoy!

How To Buy A Hot Tub/Home Spa

When you first decide to buy a hot tub, you will be faced with a dizzying array of features, specifications, designs and accessories. It can be quite daunting to research all of these possibilities and determine the best configuration for your needs. The internet is a great tool for finding literally thousands of sources of information, but it can also add to the confusion by making it hard to know which sites offer objective insights and which sites are thinly masked sales pitches for a particular manufacturer.

Start With the Basics

The first step is in understanding the many different names you will read when looking for information about how to buy a hot tub. Here are some commonly used terms:

• Home spa – generally made with an acrylic shell; surrounding cabinet may be made of wood or synthetic materials; can be used to describe an above ground, in-ground, indoor or outdoor spa.

• Hot tub – name originally given to the earliest spas that were typically round, made of wood, and located outdoors; now is commonly used interchangeably with the phrase ‘home spa’.

• Portable hot tub/portable home spa – name for any hot tub/home spa that is pre-assembled and sits above ground; actual size and features of a portable hot tub vary widely, from small tubs that weigh only a few hundred pounds and are quick to set up to large tubs that weigh several thousand pounds and require specific installation methods and electrical wiring.

• Jacuzzi® hot tub – Brand name Jacuzzi® is a well-known manufacturer of home spa systems; jacuzzi is often used as a generic reference to any home spa or hot tub

Think About Your Needs

As you do more research into spas and hot tubs, you will find there are many sizes and features available. Here is just a partial list of common offerings:

• Four to six person, six to eight person, eight to ten person sizes
• Lounge, bench and therapy seats
• Power, circulation, foot or therapy jets
• Adjustable jets
• Electronic or pneumatic controls
• Water purification systems
• Single or dual filtration systems
• Ozonator systems
• Automatic spa covers
• Fountains
• CD/stereo systems

As you can see, there are many options for configuring a home spa. Remember, though, that the best hot tubs do not necessarily have the most or the fanciest features. What is most important is that you select a spa that has the features best suited to your own needs and preferences.

Think About Costs

Cost is an important consideration when you decide to buy a hot tub. The initial investment can range from $3,000 up to $20,000, depending on the size, construction, and features of the spa you select. Just as important, though are the ongoing costs of operating a home spa.

Initial Cost

• Understructure construction – size of interior wood frame materials (2x4, 1x2, 2x3, etc.), pressure treated base
• Insulation – basic single layer polyurethane, low-density packaging foam, multi-layered high density foam
• Cabinetry – natural wood, synthetic wood, metal, removable walls, access panels
• Shell construction – quality and thickness of fiberglass, quality and reliability of the manufacturing process
• Number/type of jets – standard numbers of jets, customizable number of jets
• Hot tub heater – wattage, power used, speed of water heating
• Controls – electronic, single or dual, pneumatic, remote control
• Number/type of pumps – single, dual, or triple pumps
• Electrical requirements – 110v or 220v
• Surface/pad requirements – dirt, gravel, concrete
• Accessories and extra features – fountains, water features, CD/stereo, lights
• Hot tub covers – standard, custom, high-density, with or without automatic lifter
• Delivery and/or installation costs – shipping from distant supplier, delivery by local pool or spa supplier, labor to place spa in desired location, initial spa set up

Ongoing Costs of Operating a Hot Tub:

• Chemicals – what chemicals are recommended, where can they be purchased, how much do they cost, what quantity is likely to be needed
• Filters – capacity, recommended length of time between changes, price and availability of replacements
• Electricity – cost per kwh from your utility, features and insulation to conserve power and preserve heat
• Water – cost per gallon each time spa is filled, pH of water to determine quantity/type of chemicals needed
• Repairs – local repair technicians, accessibility to pumps and motors, warranty length and coverage
• Upkeep and maintenance of cabinets and shell – cleaning, staining, preservation

In general, it is better to put your money into some of the ‘hidden’ features that will make your home spa last longer and cost less to operate. This includes things like effective insulation, quality heaters and pumps, good water filtration systems, and the like.

Think About Maintenance

Another important consideration when buying a hot tub or home spa is the maintenance that will be required. This includes not only any repairs that may be needed over time, but ongoing upkeep and maintenance to keep your tub clean and pleasant to use.

Here are some areas to consider:

• Water maintenance – is the chemical and filtration system robust enough to keep the water clean for the level of usage you anticipate? This will have a big impact on both regular water sanitation activities and the frequency of full water changes. Ideally, your spa should require minimal daily attention and a minimal number of time-consuming full water changes.

• Cabinet maintenance – if the cabinet is made of wood and the tub is located outdoors, plan to re-stain the wood at least once per year. If the cabinet is made of synthetic materials then periodic spraying with a hose and/or wiping off dirt is usually sufficient.

• Repairs – pumps wear out, heaters stop heating, and other mechanical problems inevitably come up. Read and understand the manufacturer’s warranty before you buy, looking for key points like coverage of parts, labor and other materials. Also, look for hidden fees and other costs you may incur if, for example, a repair technician has to travel from out of town to get to your location or if the local supplier does not keep a specific part in stock. Some warranties even specify that certain types of warranty repairs must be done at the spa factory, requiring you to pay for shipping to and from the factory.

Summary

Buying a hot tub is an investment that should not be taken lightly. Take the time to research and gather information, and check out several different spa manufacturers. Careful shopping and selection of a home spa pays off in the end, though, as you end up with a home spa that can give you years of enjoyment.

Rekindle The Romance With A Spa Getaway

With Valentine's Day around the corner, many couples' minds turn towards the 3Rs - Rest, Relaxation, and Romance. Nothing says romantic like a spa getaway. There's no destination quite like a spa where you can enjoy pampering, privacy, and rejuvenation. Reconnect at one of these fabulous properties:

New York City spells and romance and the Spa at The Mandarin Oriental delivers couples into a soothing world. Entering the lobby of the hotel, couples are dazzled by the glass Dale Chihuly sculpture which dominates the space. Located on the 35th floor of the Time Warner Center, couples are welcomed to the Asian-inspired spa with a pair of slippers. From there, separate male and female Heat Experience" rooms offer relaxation in the large stone Jacuzzis with a rain forest shower to cool off in. Spring for the couples suite and pamper your loved one with a fireplace, great city views, and a Chinese bed for relaxing after your sumptuous treatments.

At the southern tip of Mexico's Baja Peninsula, the One&Only Spa Palmilla in Los Cabos offers a serene sanctuary, which has drawn celebrities like John Travolta who held his 50th birthday bash here. Made up of six buildings and 13 spa villas, the spa resort is the ultimate in privacy and intimacy. Villas feature outdoor gardens/fountains and air-conditioned massage pavilions. For the ultimate pampering, reserve a deluxe One&Only sensory float bed for treatments and wraps. Hot- and cold-water pools, an outdoor Yoga Garden, and sauna and steam room are also included. Treatments at One&Only begin with a floral foot wash and end with a tea ceremony that includes fresh fruit.

Designed to accentuate the Low Country style, The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton, South Carolina, features room but comfy cottage rooms with fireplaces and porches, as well as views of the water. The spa, designed as an antebellum mansion, is graced with verandahs in each treatment room and some outdoor baths. Set beside serene waterways flowing through gardens and moss-laden oak trees, the spa helps couples achieve a peaceful state of mind, body and heart. The Lover's Jubilee package is performed in a private room for two and features a lover's bath with champagne and chocolate on the veranda. A head-to-toe massage sends couples to new levels of relaxation.

Quaint thatched-roof huts make up the spa village at Mauna Lani Spa at Mana Lani Resort in Big Island, Hawaii. Here, couples experience soothing mineral essential lava-themed treatments featuring sun-warmed outdoor Lava Sauna and an unparalleled aquatic lava watsu pool treatment. Couples may also indulge in a massage under a thatched-roof hut, as well as outdoor showers, surrounded by lush tropical landscaping.

One of Arizona's most famous and intimate spas, the Royal Palms Resort & Spa in Phoenix embraces couples inside its winding paths, accentuated by a grove of orange trees and Mexican-style fountains. The Spanish Colonial-style resort was originally a 1929 mansion built as the winter home of a New York City financier in love with Spain. Spa Terrace Rooms offer canopied day beds that conceal a table so couples can receive treatments in their room. A deep soaking tub and steam shower await guests in the bathroom, while in the bedrooms, couples cozy up by the fireplace, or take in views of Camelback Mountain from the terrace. In addition to in-room treatments, the intimate eight-room Alvadora Spa is nothing but romantic. In the Aqua Dolce, the signature wet room suite, side-by-side Vichy Showers provide the inspiration for their Aqua Dolce Rituals.

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa in Little Torch Key, Florida, the resort offers only 28 private bungalows that look out to the sea. At the Spa Terre, couples take advantage of the specialized Indonesian treatments. The healing properties of flowers and spices are used liberally to enhance spa treatments such as the Javanese Royal Treatment, inspired from the palaces of Java. A Balinese massage is followed by an herbal exfoliation, cool yogurt splash and a fragrant shower. To complete the experience, guests sink into a traditional Japanese soaking tub prepared with rose petals and infused with fragrances.

Spa Like A Celebrity: The Best L.A. Day Spas

While you may never cruise down Sunset Boulevard, convertible top down and a small purse dog at your side, or shop the exclusive shops along Rodeo Drive, maybe you can spa like a celebrity. In Tinsel Town where the median age is 23 and there are more plastic surgeons than you can shake a stick at, looking beautiful and being pampered is a serious business. Check out these top L.A. day spas:

The "Pink Lady," or the Beverly Hills Hotel, is a Hollywood icon. Imagine pampering yourself like a star from yesteryear. The luxurious spa is favored by the older Beverly Hills crowd, and treatments include a 60-minute Swedish massage for $145 or really indulge with their "After Shopping Paradise," a 70-minute reflexology treatment for tired feet and a spectacular pedicure for $180.

If life (or vacation) in the fast lane feels stale, put the producer on hold and go ClubMud at the Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa in Corona. Their mud treatments of red clay are beneficial for absorbing impurities, tightening and revitalizing skin. After covering themselves with mud, guests relax in the sun or the special drying chamber, followed by a cleansing shower. Then guests can head to The Grotto for an intense body moisturizing treatment. A day-long getaway may also include a massage Under the Oaks or a dip in the mineral essential baths that made Glen Ivy famous.

For Yugoslavian-born skin expert Olga Lorencin and renowned restaurateur Christine Splichal, a French native, the concept and creation of Kinara, a skin care clinic, day spa, cafe and boutique, came naturally. The two have set new standards for the ideal spa experience. Kinara, meaning "on the edge," opened its doors 2002 in West Hollywood to rave reviews. Here exotic woods mix with warm earth tones. The spa offers a variety of facials, a milk bath, and body scrubs using Hawaiian brown sugar. A 50-minute Swedish massage runs $120.

For a little duo time, consider La Petite Retreat Day Spa, one of few spas in L.A. that offers facials and massage as same-room couple's treatments. Located on Larchmont Boulevard in West Los Angeles near Hollywood's Paramount Studios, La Petite Retreat is 2,000-square-feet of paradise. Their 60-minute Jade Stone Couples Massage is $150 each.

Celebrity skin care specialist Ole Henriksen, whose client list includes Charlize Theron and Renee Zellweger, is famous for his elaborate facials and body treatments. Located on West Sunset Boulevard, Ole's nature-based products are used in conjunction with state-of-the-art equipment. If you can't afford the more expensive treatments, a one-hour Swedish massage runs only $90.

Henriksen's treatments can also be enjoyed at the One Spa at Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, a 7,000-square-foot spa right on the beach. Their signature treatments include the Beach Buff, a Swedish massage and scrub and buff with a sea mineral body scrub. The treatment concludes with a Tropical Train Rince, living the skin smooth and silky.

Although it features some beachfront real estate, the Spa at La Meirgot at the La Merigot Beach Hotel also features relatively affordable spa treatments. Aromatherapy essences greet guests as they enter the doors of this lovely spa where both the hour-long Aromatherapy Massage and Classic European Facial run $105.

For the ultimate experience in luxury, call ahead to make your reservation at the Four Seasons Hotel, Los Angeles at Beverly Hills Spa to ensure your treatment at one of the most elegant spas in L.A. Created exclusively for Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles, the Cleopatra milk and honey treatment cocoons guests in a milk and honey wrap that leaves the skin feeling, well, like baby skin. Their 60-minute California cabana massage is performed in a private poolside cabana for $165. The classic Swedish massage is offered for 60 minutes at $155.

Spa Vacations: Important Things You Need To Do Before You Go

The popularity of spa vacations has grown over the years amongst upper and middle class Americans. More and more men and women are learning the wonderful health benefits of taking such vacations. You might be wondering what benefits?

Why Spa treatments are such a stress reliever.

Imagine shaking that cranky feeling and actually rejuvenating yourself with a relaxing time out from work or from the family. Not only that but this relax time will revitalize your energy level. Spending too much time working can definitely impact your health and deplete your energy and spirit. And that goes for your active family life as well.

That is why it is best to take a spa vacations to boost your life batteries to full. However you will need to plan and make preparations before your departure. The spirit behind this short article will help to prepare your vacation.

What to bring on your spa vacation

Create a shopping list of things to bring on your spa vacation. You might think that you'll be able to get your items there at the resort shops and you certainly can.... but for double the price. So be sure to double check your list and buy your items before leaving on vacation.

Be sure to bring the bare necessities as you'll want to travel light. That is why it is important to plan, oh did I mention that?

Remember, certain items like dental floss, sanitary pads and other personal necessities will be double the price, not only that, they might not have your favorite brand. If you need to buy some things at the resort or spa shop just be sure they are specialized items that can only be purchased there.

What NOT to bring on your spa vacation

Listen, you are about to go on a relaxing vacation...so there is only one rule and that is to leave work at work. Stuff like laptop computers and cell phones are work things, this is part of rule number one. Of course the cell should be used in case of family emergencies otherwise don't use it. Any calls or emails can be taken care of when you get back to work. Have your assistant take care of those matters, that's why you have an assistant, right?

Remember the goal here is that you are going on vacation to relax and get rejuvenated. You are legitimately taking time to get away from the rat race leaving your boss and clients behind while you enjoy your vacation. You've spent too much of your valuable time taking care of those people, you need just enough time to get recharged so let them wait...you deserve this!

This is your vacation and it's going to be not just any vacation but a healthy energizing spa vacation. Bring that great book that you've been wanting to read or bring your favorite camera to do some relaxing photography that you've been yearning to do...it's your time; time to relax and enjoy the wonderful benefits of your spa vacations.

Fertility And Wellness Meet At The Spa

When it comes to starting a family, many couples discover it isn't always as easy as they might have imagined. A poor diet, health issues, and even stress can greatly decrease a couple's ability to conceive. In response, a growing trend in spa programs is beginning to include treatments and diet regimes designed to increase fertility and provide couples with a romantic and relaxing environment to get away from it all.

For instance, The Raj Ayurvedic Spa in Iowa draws on knowledge from Maharishi Ayurveda, the world's oldest and most complete system of natural health care which has been used for prevention and healing for more than 5,000 years. Root causes for infertility may include an accumulation of toxins, poor nutrition, stress, or a disruption of natural biological rhythms. Within the tranquil environment of one of America's top health spas, couples receive guidance and are provided one-on-one consultation. By determining the casual imbalances at the basis of disorder in the patients, an Ayurveda Health Consultant can address the fundamental source of ill health in each individual. The goal of the Ayurveda method is to give a boost to the body's natural healing abilities and help restore fertility. Patients also receive the benefit of prevention and well being.

According to Travel + Leisure, the Tides Riviera Maya is "a sexy, eco-conscious hideaway in the jungle," which makes it an ideal destination for couples seeking to boost their fertility. Located on the white sands of the Rivera Maya in Playa del Carmen, the Tides features its Ritual de Fertilidad treatment where an ancient fertility ritual stimulates the senses through a full-body massage performed with seeds, which are meant to symbolize fertility in the Mayan culture. Performed in The Tides Maya House of Fertility treatment room, the treatment is accompanied by the sounds of drums and Mayan music, a ritual verse reading, and a special ritual Maya beverage. Couples may also indulge in the Asparalove, a special massage for couples. The integral relaxation treatment is administered to the face and body using aromatic marine plant extracts bursting with mineral essentials, which enhance mood and the senses.

A luxurious retreat that taps into the natural, healing powers of water, Caesars Palace's new Qua Baths and Spa is accentuated by the Signature Roman Ritulas. The Roman Baths consist of three distinct pools where guests to mingle as they unwind and relax. In addition, the Roman Rituals include a Laconium Room (ultra-heated room) and an Arctic Ice Room with snow falling from above. Here, couples may also indulge in the spa's Luncaception treatment which is a special fertility-heightening experience. Relaxing side by side in a private spa suite, couples are treated to freshly prepared teas and carefully selected essential oils during their massage which melt away everyday stress and unlock nature's reproductive potential. This particular treatment is available only during specific lunar phases. The spa also offers additional romantic massage treatments for couples that melt away stress and provide time to re-focus.

The Caribbean hideaway of Rosewood Little Dix Bay is nestled on the untamed island of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. It is an island of rolling hills, beautiful isolated beaches and spectacular geological formations surrounded by astonishing clear waters of the historic Sir Francis Drake Channel.

This spa hideaway features luxurious private facilities with spectacular views of shimmering waters. Guest rooms are decorated with a warm, personal mood and a stylish blend of island charm. Here, couples indulge in Fertility Reflexology and Fertility Yoga at the Spa at Little Dix Bay. Both treatments can aide couples who may be experiencing anxiety or stress in their ability to conceive. Fertility yoga teaches couples poses designed for relaxation, peace of mind, and a healthy reconnection with their bodies.

Couples are also beginning to seek out fertility-oriented acupuncture treatments as a natural alternative to the health effects of taking fertility hormones. Individualized treatment plans may use both herbal medicine and acupuncture in the treatment of infertility. Acupuncture has shown to be a proven method in enhancing circulation, while herbs are natural energetic substances that can gently correct deficiencies and clear obstructions.

As couples explore the benefits of spa treatments in their quest to start a family, the spa/baby connection is also growing as more couples embark on spa vacations as a way to recharge and self-indulge prior to the birth of a child. This new trend has also inspired the new buzzword, "babymoon." According to Frommer's, the babymoon gives expectant parents the opportunity to celebrate the impending big day, while giving the chance to enjoy some quiet solitude before life changes forever. Getaways most often include a prenatal massage and other spa services to pamper the expectant couple.

Enjoy The Luxury Of A Home Spa

Spas are indoor tubs that are filled with heated water. People will use these tubs for a number of reasons, and they are often prized for their therapeutic value. These tubs are excellent for those who want to relax, and by being located inside of the home, the owner doesn't have to go outside to use them. The thing which makes these tubs different from traditional hot tubs is that they are located inside the home rather than outside. Using an outdoor hot tub presents a number of disadvantages. First, the use of the tub may be limited to certain weather conditions. For example, most people wouldn't use an outside tub when it is raining, snowing, or during any type of bad weather.

The indoor tub has the advantage, because it can be used during anytime of the year, so long as the water is heated. Another thing that separates these indoor tubs from their outside counterparts is the way in which they are designed. More often than not, the indoor tub will be designed with plastic, and they will come in one piece, rather than parts. In order for the water to become hot, the tub must have some type of heating source. In traditional cases, this heating source would either be gas or electric. Heaters with wood fires would also be used to heat the tub.

Due to the rising cost of energy, many tub owners have opted for energy sources that are more affordable. Some tubs use solar energy as a method of heating the water. When you purchase your indoor tub, there are a number of things you will want to keep in mind. First, the tub must be regularly sanitized. As you use the tub, organisms and bacteria could be present in the water. It should also be noted that the indoor tub is not the same as a bathtub. The bathtub is used purely for cleaning ones body, while the indoor tub is used more for relaxation and entertainment purposes.

The exterior portion of the indoor tub is called the spa shell. The surface and interior area will be connected together when the tub is actually being constructed. The surface of the tub is the place where you will see the color, the look, and how the tub feels when you get in. This part of the tub must be designed in a manner which protects it against breaking down when exposed to the sun, or to the chemicals that will be used to clean it. If you purchase a high quality tub, the surface will often be made of materials that will make them resistant to stains, bacteria, and even sunlight.

An indoor tub can be designed in two ways, and this is the rotational molding method and the vacuum forming method. With the rotational method, polyethylene powder will be put on a mold of aluminum, and this mold will be heated and spun around within an oven to allow the plastic to take the same shape as the mold. With the vacuum forming method, a sheet will be put over a mold, and it will be heated with a heater overhead. A vacuum will also be pulled on top of the mold.

Spa Covers For Custom Spas

Every week I get a call from someone wanting to know if we can build a custom spa cover. The answer is yes with a qualification. Not every spa can be covered. Before you let work begin on that custom spa idea you should consider how you plan to cover it. After the spa is built it will often be too late.

Spa manufacturers are building all sorts of shapes and sizes these days that can be purchased and delivered to your home and covered easily. But for high end custom built spas, that often cost six figures it is not so easy. Unfortunately far to often it is after the spa is complete and the owner gets their first heating bill that they think about a cover.

These spas are often featured in spa magazines and truly look amazing. Who would not want one? They look like theme park attractions you can own. They often feature natural looking rock walls and water falls, spill ways and infinite edges so that while you sit on the spa you can see the landscape beyond. All very impressive and expensive. Unfortunately heating and keeping debris out of such a work of art can also be an expensive proposition.

If you ask the designer of one of these spas how they intended it to be covered when the spa was not in use, the answer is they do not want it covered. That may not seem so bad if the spa is in southern California or some tropical island. However even these places need to keep rain water and blowing debris out of the spa. In snow country it becomes even more important to cover the spa when not in use.

If you are considering having one of these spas built, make sure the designer is including a cover into the process and that it does offer insulation. Just having a safety cover anchored over the spa is not going to keep heat in or debris out. To insulate the water when the spa has different heights around the edge such as a spillway, the spa cover should actually rest on the water. By coming in contact with the water the insulating cover will cut down evaporation and chemical consumption too.

In order for the cover to be easy to attach and remove you also need to consider access around the spa. If you have one side of the spa hanging off in space it may be attractive but fastening any cover on that side would be precarious without some consideration of how to safely maneuver around outside of it.

Likewise a spa buried in a rock wall. If a wall of any kind rises up vertically, although beautiful will always be problematic for fastening and keeping stuff out of the spa. Planning on a cover before built is the only way I know of to deal well with this.

There are solutions available to cover almost any spa if the cover is built into the initial design. It will most likely be a costly spa cover and pricey to replace however not as expensive as leaving the spa uncovered. The reason for the cost is that each time it is built is basically a one off production. This is why most concept cars go straight to a museum. If anything breaks on it there are no replacements sitting on a shelf somewhere.

How To Choose The Right Spa Or Hot Tub

Now you have made up your mind to get a wonderfull relaxing spa or hot tub, what to do next? You have read up on its benefits and what it can do for you and other members of your family. Once you have decided to join the exclusive spa and hot tubbers club, you will have to select the one most suited to your needs. How do you decide on a spa or hot tub for your home? What are the aspects to weigh up when purchasing one?

Hot tubs and friends

It can be a pretty daunting task to choose one from such a wide range of choices and the other reasons that need to be weighed when picking the one most suited to you.One of the more important components you might need to consider when thinking about buying a hot tub or a spa is what you will be using it for. Sure, it is for relaxation and stress relief, but is it purely for that or is there another reason why you are purchasing one? These hot tubs are often seen as a great way to build friendships and relationships since the relaxing atmosphere that it generates helps people let their guard down thereby enabling people to get to know each other better because they are more comfortable and relaxed. It is a good idea to think about this aspect as your circle of friends will grow once it is known you have a hot tub or spa.

Other considerations

Ok, you have opted to go ahead and buy your spa or hot tub, now you need to chose the location carefully. This can be decided upon based on the grounds you have for purchasing one. If it is for personal use, you can have it installed inside your bathroom or outside your own personal living quarters on a personal patio or area that you can use for your alone time. You can also use this kind of a setup for those times when you want to use the spa or hot tub with someone special. If you are, however, planning on having a spa or hot tub for recreational use that may include friends and family, it would then be advisable for you to have it installed outdoors, like in your backyard or on the back porch of your home. This consideration for the location of your spa or hot tub will also generate the question of the tub's size and seating capacity. For the more recreational friends and family tub choice, you may opt to choose the bigger tubs that can seat at least four people comfortably in its depths. If it is meant for personal comfort and relaxation, you are then better off with one with two seats for your bathroom or personal area. There are also single seat spas and hot tubs you can find on the market, however, these kinds of tube leaves very little room for other uses you might need.

Money matters

After all these considerations, the next most important selection obstacle is the price. While this may be a little less of a concern for people who have a surplus amount of money, there are people who do have tight budgets when it comes to this expense. Finding the right kind of tub for your exact purpose and your budget can be one of the most taxing parts of the selection process yet this is where you can further narrow the list down. Doing a little comparison shopping among the tub manufacturers that have the kind of hot tub or spa you want can help you further narrow down your options to the few that you will eventually consider buying. After you have narrowed down the options, you can then call these manufacturers and ask them about installation. Is it free, are there additional charges, how soon can you have it installed and when can you expect to be able to use it once its installed?

These are just some of the questions you will need to ask to finally determine which spa or hot tub will have the honor of giving you that relaxing an

Spa At Home Tips For Moms

Busy moms need time to relax, too. If you are a working mom or a stay-at-home mom with too much to do, take some time for yourself. Schedule an at-home spa day where you can be alone and relax.

The first thing is to set aside time to pamper your body and your mind. Once a month is a healthy way to rejuvenate and get away from the daily grind of life. This time can be the same day every month or schedule it when you need it most.

Give your spouse plenty of advance warning. Let him know that he will have the kids for the duration of the day—out of the house. You can plan with him what activities to do to keep the kids occupied.

Before spa day arrives, gather all of the items that are needed to make this day special for you. If you choose soothing music as the backdrop for your day, have a CD player and all of your favorite music at the ready. If you plan a pedicure or manicure, assemble the foot spa, necessary salts and creams, and nail polish.

When the day arrives, awake when you feel refreshed. Tell your spouse and the kids not to wake you when they leave. When you finally awake, taking a long shower or a soothing bath will bring you back to life.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast that you don’t have to cook. Keep it light with a bowl of cereal and fruit or yogurt with granola on top. Read the morning paper or begin the day with your favorite devotional book. To further awaken the senses and the body, try a brief twenty minute yoga routine.

What’s next? Start with the feet. Let them soak in a warm foot spa bath. A pumice stone will smooth rough heels and remove dead skin. Peppermint foot cream keeps feet tingling. Finish with a fresh coat of nail polish.

The hands need pampering as well. Soak nails in a soapy solution to clean the cuticles and nail beds. Massage your entire hand in the solution. When dry, clip any hang nails and push back cuticles with an orange stick. Use a moisturizing hand cream to soften cuticles.

While you are applying your favorite nail polish, watch a movie.

Enjoy a cooking free lunch and a walk to get some fresh air. Feeling a bit tired? Finish the day with a nap before the husband and the kids return.

The day will seem much too short, but you will feel better. You have received a day of spa treatment for a fraction of the cost at the spa.

Weight Loss Spa Secrets

Once upon a time when a star would put on a few too many pounds for the camera to see them in the same light, they would be whisked away to an exclusive spa resort that would cost a fortune but also do the trick of getting them back in shape and looking like a million bucks once again.

Now it’s not just the Hollywood elite that get to go to these special weight loss havens. In recent years, the affordability of weight loss spas has become more within the reaches of the general public. Now many people can also attend sessions at these fabulous resort destinations such as Hawaii and Baja, and partake in healthy foods and activities, and stress-lowering events.

If you were to decide to take part in one of these spa experiences you would likely arrive to be greeted by a weight loss personal coach. The two of you would spend time together sorting out just what you want to get out of your visit and what your immediate and overall weight loss goals may be. Once that has been decided on, you will create an exercise and food program specifically geared towards your needs. Instead of feeling like you are forced to stuff down diet foods, mealtimes will be a much more glamorous, yet healthy, event, often created by very talented resort chefs.

Some spas have the added services of a registered dietician who will sit down with you before you leave to make sure you know how to continue on your healthy track when you’re back in your normal day-to-day world. This will include menu planning, meal advice, and exercise and supplement schedules.

If nothing else you will likely be able to learn some cooking techniques from the chefs at the spa. You will be amazed at how tasty the food is when they are not using a number of fattening things to give it that taste. Instead they will use a wide variety of spices and flavorful low-fat or fat-free ingredients so you can have the entire flavor, without the calories.

If you are wondering what is on the menu at a weight loss spa, you can expect to spot a lot of high fiber foods. There is a simple reason, these are foods that you can eat more of and yet take in fewer calories. They are called complex carbohydrates. The benefits of this type of carbohydrates is that they are very filling, and are a wonderful tool that will help your body get extra calories out of your system. In addition, complex carbohydrates contribute to regular bowel movements.

Among the food offerings will be a number of colorful fruits and vegetables. But they may look a bit different than you are used to seeing them. Instead of salads being covered with globs of creamy high-fat and high-calorie dressings, you will find them with healthy dressings made from items such as garlic and lemon. Other differences will be seeing bowls of bean dips such as hummus served with whole grain crackers instead of typical cheese dips and white crackers.

Even if you can’t afford to put all that money out to go to a weight loss spa, you can use the same low-calorie and low-fat ingredients in your home meals to get the same weight loss effects.

Hot Tubs And Spa Benefits

There are a number of benefits to owning a spa or a hot tub. Not only do you have the convenience of a relaxing and enjoyable spa at home, you will gain social, health and sometimes even financial benefits from owning a spa or a hot tub.

One of the most obvious benefits of owning a spa or a hot tub is the improvement to your quality of life. Modern life is becoming increasingly stressful and a hot tub can provide the necessary relaxation to calm you down after a stressful day at work. It is a great place for the family to connect, too. Instead of the often normal disconnection that occurs in many modern families as different members watch different television sets, surf the net, play video games or do whatever else they want to do on their own, a spa can encourage family members to connect with one another as they relax in the warm water.

Spas also offer significant health benefits to users. Not only are hot tubs and spas relaxing, they can improve sleep and alleviate insomnia, relieve headaches and release endorphins that help to alleviate stress, improve blood circulation and loosen muscles, assist in the repair of damaged skin and muscles by increasing blood flow to the injury, improve arthritis and lower blood pressure and blood sugar thus assisting in the control of diabetes.

With portable spas, there are additional benefits such as tax deductions for the purchase if it has been recommended by a doctor to improve your health or alleviate symptoms. Some insurance companies will also provide a refund or partial refund for the purchase if it is to aid in the healing of a work related injury. However, the most significant long term benefit of a portable spa is that it can be moved from place to place and if you have to relocate you do not lose the investment or your use of your hot tub or spa.

Hot tubs and spas can also provide an easy way for people to get together and socialize if they are large enough. There are as many benefits of owning your own hot tub or spa as there are types of people to enjoy them. You will probably experience your own unique benefits of owning and enjoying a spa or hot tub. However, there can be no doubt that you will, definitely, enjoy it!

Does A Tapered Spa Cover Work Better?

Most spa dealers offer a cover with a taper. They promote this type of cover as though the ability to shed rain and moisture will keep it from getting saturated.

If this worked would there ever be another heavy spa cover? True, it does help the spa cover shed rain. True, rain running off the spa is a good thing. Unfortunately this does not have anything to do with why a cover gets heavy.

Here is a simple test you can do yourself to test what I just said. Go and purchase a new spa cover with as big a taper as you can find. Bring it home but before you put it on your spa weigh it. A hanging weight will probably be most accurate and simple to read. Record the weight and date it. Put the new cover on your spa only to be positively sure that no rain or outside moisture gets into your new hot tub cover, put a tarp over the whole spa, cover and all.

Weigh the cover once a week and record it with the date. When the cover begins to get heavy you will know how long it took and that it was not due to outside moisture. If you are keeping all the rain water totally away from the spa, why is it getting heavy?

The fact is outside moisture is Never what causes the foam in a spa cover to get heavy. Foam covers get heavy because they are in use over steam from your spa water. Here is a way you can prove this to yourself. Purchase two new spa covers. Weigh them both and record and date it. Put one cover on your spa and use it as normal. Store the other one in you garage or some other place out of the moisture. If you weigh them each every week, before long you will find the one in use on the spa will begin to get heavy. The one in storage in a dry place will not get heavy.

Now we come to the reason why. What gets into the foam is the steam from underneath the spa cover. The steam particles are much smaller than water molecules like rain. Steam can get through the smallest hole. Since there is no lack of steam above spa water, it will always eventually work its way into the spaces in the foam. So in fact, the only way to avoid having any rigid foam spa cover saturate is to never put it on your spa or never put water in your spa.

So what is so bad about a spa cover getting heavy? Aside from making the spa cover more difficult to use, is saturation bad? The insulation in a foam cover comes from the air in the foam. If those air spaces are filled with water then that insulation value is gone. Worse yet, when the weather gets cold the moisture in that foam freezes. This is what fools a lot of people in to thinking that their foam cover is doing a great job of insulating. When snow falls on a frozen block of ice, it sits there and piles up.

Meanwhile the spa is working harder to keep the water warm. As steam hits the bottom of the frozen foam, it cools and condenses, falling back into the spa. Snow will sit just fine on a frozen lake but that does not mean that the ice is insulating anything.

So what is the solution? Well, you could buy two or three hot tub covers and rotate them as you notice them getting heavy. Always have one or two drying out in your garage. Once the saturated spa cover is off the spa, it will begin to dry out. You can rotate it back on to the hot tub when the next one gets heavy. Since all vinyl is rated by hours outdoors, you will still need to be buying new covers to replace the ones that fall apart.

The other choice would be to find a spa cover that does not use foam. If you shop online there are alternative spa covers that your local spa dealer does not have to offer.

What Is A Portable Spa Hot Tub?

A portable spa is a spa that is, quite frankly, portable. A portable spa or hot tub can be moved to different locations if needed. They tend to be very affordable, yet attractive, alternatives to fixed spas. In fact, they can provide all the benefits of a spa or hot tub without high costs.

Many portable hot tubs are inflatable and do not have a hard shell. This makes them easier to move around. The most convenient of these are self-inflatable and can be up within minutes ready for you to use. Many of these portable spas also offer the streaming jets of water which are usually easy to get operational. Many of these portable units also have heating, so your soaking experience and streaming water jets will provide a relaxing massage with many health benefits.

Other popular portable spas include wooden hot tubs or portable fiberglass models which can be moved around as needed. They are far less expensive than the installed models and when you move house can be taken with you. However, caution must be taken with portable spas in moving them around because they are not as sturdy as the installed models and can easily be damaged.

Installation of built-in hot tubs is generally very expensive, so portable hot tubs offer a great saving in this one area alone. If you lack space, they can also be taken down and packed away until they are wanted again.

There are a range of models of portable spas on the market, so you definitely have choice. Take the time to consider the benefits of different products and look for reviews online. Portable spas and hot tubs often offer the very same features as built in spas for a fraction of the cost. For this reason alone, if you are considering buying a spa, a portable spa can offer you all the benefits of a traditional spa with the significant additional benefits of cost savings and portability.

What To Look For In A Hot Tub Spa Cover

There are a number of different types of spa or hot tub covers on the market and within each of these types a variety of styles, patterns and features are additionally available. It would be easy to become confused by the choice available to you, however a spa cover should be chosen based on the type and size of your spa or hot tub, your environment and of course, your budget.

A cover is not really an optional accessory if you want to protect children or animals from falling in as well as the spa itself from debris or even damage. Probably the most important consideration with a spa cover is that it needs to fit snuggly and be sturdy enough to take the weight of a person that might fall on it.

To protect the spa water and shell from the elements there are some added considerations. Standard spa covers are the least expensive covers on the market and will provide adequate protection in mild weather and for indoor or semi indoor use. However, standard spa covers are likely to prove ineffective in storms or other weather extremes. If your spa is likely to experience some harsh weather conditions, you need to look for a very strong durable cover. If you are likely to experience power outages, you can purchase a cover which operates on solar power to keep the spa warm even when the heater isn’t working.

If your spa is outdoors and likely to be affected by snowfall, an aluminum cover would probably be the strongest and safest option. Aluminum covers are sturdy and designed to last. They are difficult to damage and can withstand a heavy snowfall or other heavy weights. This makes them ideal if you have children or large pets likely to jump or fall onto a surface such as a spa cover.

Insulating spa covers can save energy by helping to maintain water temperature at all times. These covers tend to be expensive, but they are also good value and can pay for themselves within a year.

If you have children or animals, or neighbors who have them, you should avoid a tonneau cover which simply stretches over your spa like a tarp and is attached to the sides. This form of cover simply protects the spa from debris. It is not safe when weight is put on it.

You will have a range of decorative choices no matter which style of spa cover you decide upon. So, choose the type of cover that will serve your needs, make sure you get the right size for your spa so it fits snuggly, and lastly look for colors and a style that you enjoy. If you take these steps, you will choose wisely and be able to truly enjoy your spa or hot tub.

Taveuni Island Resort & Spa

Consistently voted one of the top Fijian Resorts, Taveuni Island Resort & Spa is a small exclusive luxury resort which offer's the Ultimate Tropical Island Experience.
It has been described as the most beautiful small resort in the world

'Set amongst ten acres of lush gardens are twelve elegant luxury bures of unsurpassed style and comfort. Romantic and private they boast panoramic views over the beach, ocean and surrounding islands.'
This is the description of the Taveuni Island Resort & Spa that made me want to find out if it was all that it seemed.

In fact I didn’t realise that the bures [cottages] are not on the beach, but perched on a cliff top above the beach, so there is a walk involved here.

Accessing the hotel is not difficult, there are several flights a day from Fiji’s international airport at Nadi, the flight time being about 90 minutes. Be aware there are quite strict weight baggage limitations.

The staff meet you at the airport on Taveuni and it only takes about two minutes to get to the resort.

Accommodation is important to all of us on our vacation, and the bures at the Taveuni Island Resort & Spa are exceptional. All are decorated with cool tiles, native floral arrangements, and water colours. There are king size beds with beautiful linens, either fans or air conditioning. Add to this private romantic courtyard showers, and views to die for.

As you would expect from a top class resort Taveuni has a mini bar, coffee and tea making facilities, bathrobes and hairdryers, but it is the little extras like fresh daily cookies that set it apart.

The view from the cliff top pool is another major plus, and in fact the lack of children is a joy, compared to other resorts I have visited.

Dining is another high spot, and the dining area is situated on ‘The Deck’. You can expect dishes from Fiji, India, and everything grown locally is organic. If you stay in one of the villas, you have your own chef and staff!! Meal times in common with other Fijian resorts are quite rigid.

The Taveuni Island Resort & Spa is a definite honeymoon destination, near the top of the list

How To Make Your Home As Relaxing As A Spa

When it comes to home spa design, some key factors are elements that soothe the senses: lighting, scent and sound. By making a few little adjustments in your home, you can render it just as relaxing--if not more so--than a professional spa!

* Lighting

The first trick in home spa design is subdued lighting. Too often, our homes are outfitted with bright, harsh overhead lighting. This is especially true of overhead fluorescent light fixtures; their lighting is glaring, unnatural and downright unflattering. Some people are even highly sensitive to fluorescent lighting; it causes them stress or upset. Try to completely avoid overhead fluorescent lighting except in garages or other utility areas.

You can install dimmer switches on certain ceiling-mounted light fixtures throughout your home. This is particularly helpful above the dining room table, as you have mood lighting at your fingertips. You can also use floor lamps or table lamps instead of overhead lighting; the fixed orb of light that they emit creates a cozy space. In the bathroom, avoid strips of movie-star dressing room bulbs above mirrors. The bright overhead lighting is great if you need to cake on a pound of makeup before going onstage, but that’s about it! Use low-watt bulbs if you have such fixtures. Better yet, install low-light fixtures beside the mirror at face level. They’ll make you look 10 years younger!

For all light fixtures and lamps, choose lower watt bulbs, especially in relaxation areas. Dim lighting throughout your home reduces overstimulation and calms the mood.

* Scent

Home spa design isn’t about stuffing as many synthetically scented candles into your home as possible! Avoid synthetically scented candles, potpourri and incense, as they can irritate nasal passages. Besides, you’re bound to eventually have guests who are “scentsitive.” Opt instead for all-natural scents.

Lavendar is a very soothing and calming essential oil. You can purchase it at your local health food store. You can buy an essential oil diffuser ring that fits atop a lamp light bulb. Simply pour some oil into the ring, and set it atop the light bulb before you turn on the lamp. You can also simply dab a little oil on your fingertip and smudge it onto the light bulb before turning on the lamp.

* Sound

Ever notice how there’s no TV blaring in the background at spas?

The same should hold true with your home spa design. The average American household has the tube turned on a whopping eight hours a day, which is not conducive to relaxation. Limit the time that the television is on; if no one is actively watching it, turn it off. When it is on, limit the volume. Set sound limits for all members of your household, especially children: using an appropriate indoor voice volume, and not blaring loud music or video games.

You can also purchase an inexpensive indoor fountain. The human body is 70 percent water, and the sound of trickling water is naturally soothing to us.

And of course, gentle instrumental music is more soothing than heavy metal or raging operas. You can even enjoy CD’s of nature sounds, such as birds or the ocean.

Lastly, the most relaxing sound in your home spa design is no sound at all! As they say, “silence is golden!”

By implementing these simple sense-oriented details into your home spa design, you will always be just as relaxed as if you visited a spa. After all, your home is the ultimate refuge!

massage therapy & day spa

massage therapy & day spa

A lot of massage therapists are unaware of their clients' value, which is something you do need to be aware of. It is vital to know their massage value in order to maximize the effectiveness of your treatments and get the most from what you do and how you operate your massage business. Many massage therapists believe all their clients are equally valuable and are grateful for any business they receive. You need to think in a different way, in order to maximize your business and know which clients are more "valuable" than others.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you have clients who show up late or cancel their appointments at the last minute?
• Do you have clients who never refer others?
• Do you have clients who never tip you?
• Do you have clients who only use your services when you offer a special discount?

If you have clients such as the above, it is essential to know that they might be taking away value from your business, rather than adding to it. If I were to suggest that you might not want this type of client on your books you might think, "Of course I do – a client is a client!" But this is not always the case. You need to look at the bigger picture. Just because you trim down your client base, this doesn't mean you're shooting yourself in the foot. If someone takes away from your business rather than adding to it, this is bad for business. Someone not showing up or only using you when you have a special offer on isn't a valued customer. They are a drain on what you are offering and if they don’t use their booked slot, you could have a valued customer in their place, who will show up, will pay and will probably tip and rebook.

Knowing the value of your clients will help you identify clients who truly appreciate your work and the service you offer. If you have clients who do any of the above negative things, it negatively impacts your business, taking up your energy which you could be spending on more appreciative customers.

If you are aware of the massage value of your clients, this will help you with your marketing tactics. Let's say one of your customers doesn’t show up for their massage because they were stuck in traffic. Do you charge that person for the treatment or not? If you have a client database, you might find out that the client in question visits you 10 times a year (almost always on time), has been using your services for 3 years, has a 60 minute massage each time and usually gives you a $10 tip. You can work out that this client represents someone who spends $2400 in their time as your client. Knowing this, you might let them off payment for the one missed session, in the knowledge they will continue to be a regular client who uses your services. The person will also feel bad about letting you down and delighted that they don’t have to pay for their missed session. This is an example good customer relations. Your valued client will also value you and your services more.

Now, the question is this: would you make the same exception for a client who comes in twice a year for a 30 minute massage, never tips and usually arrives late? Are you going to let a client like this disrupt your schedule and your business? Is this person still a "valued client"? Or would their slot be better filled with someone like the client in the first example?

Knowing the true massage value of your clients will help you to boost your business and attract valuable clients.

massage professionals and day spa

massage professionals and day spa

Massage therapy is a quickly growing industry, and it seems that everyone is signing up for massage school and buying their own massage therapy tables. They find the increasing popularity of the field as a reason to enter it. Returning patients and referrals comprise the bread and butter of a therapist's business, and as a therapist, having the right massage table can make the difference between whether or not patients will return or refer their friends and family. This will determine if the therapist's practice will succeed or fail.

There are many reasons people seek out massage therapy. Some needs relief from sore muscles, and others have tension in their body they want to have released. All patients turn to a massage therapist for relief and comfort. Patient comfort and relief are the primary goals for any massage session, no matter how long. This is why the massage therapy table should be designed for optimal patient accommodation. Most forms of massage on a table will last between thirty minutes to two hours. Patients will likely complain if during that time, they feel that they have to keep moving to find a soothing position. Patient movement of this sort will not help the therapist, either. A sudden patient jerk or movement could lead to pain or injury.

To keep patients happy and returning, they should have a well-padded massage table on which to lie during their session. The padding should be firm enough to support the patient while providing a comfortable cushion. Many patients remove their clothes and are covered with simply a drape during table massage therapy sessions. With bare skin touching the table, the chances of transference of germs from one client to another is increased. This is why it is vital that the top of the table should be easy to clean and disinfect between patients.

The patient will need to be able to breathe during the session, but this can be difficult if he is lying on his stomach. An open face pad or pillow in the shape of a horseshoe at the top of the massage therapy table will allow the patient to have his head supported, let him breathe easily, and maintain his neck posture while he is lying on his stomach. This head cushion also needs to be easy to clean and disinfect as the patient will have his face in it for the duration of the session.

In selecting your message therapy table it is also note worthy to consider the physical dimensions of your prospective clients/ patients. This coupled with a comfortable range of your own reach and your massage style will enable you to make a better decision when it comes to selecting massage therapy tables. A message table which is too narrow, may prove to be uncomfortable for some of the large patients. On the other hand, a massage therapy table which is too wide may force the masseuse to physically overextend her/himself during the session.

In addition to a comfortable massage table, it is also important to create a relaxing atmosphere for the client/patient. A combination of soothing music, subtle and pleasant air freshener in conjunction with dimmed lights will make it a satisfying experience for your client. This in turn, will ensure repeat sessions and more referrals. Happy massaging!