A-F   G-O   P-Z

A

Acupressure: An ancient Chinese system of healing based on apply finger pressure and massage to meridians (energy points) which releases muscle tension related ailments.

Acupressure facial: Finger massage to acupressure points in the facial area, to obtain deep relaxation and prevent stress wrinkles.

Acupuncture: An ancient Chinese system of healing based on inserting small needles into meridians (energy points) throughout the body to dissolve obstructions in the flow of energy and to correct organ imbalances... Using needles, low voltage electric current or pinpoint massage, acupuncture is an effective and pain-free means of achieving wellness.

Aerobics: Exercise performed to music which stimulates the aerobic capacity of the heart and lungs.

Aikido: A Japanese martial art.

Alexander technique: A posture, movement, and massage system designed to improve the way we sit, stand, and move in our daily routine, in order to relieve and prevent pain and stress.

Aloe vera: Also known as aloe pryi, also known as aloe barbadensis. This plant is colloquially called the first-aid plant. There are numerous species, in excess of 300, of the aloe plant and it is commonly indigenous to South Africa. The cream inside the plant contains a significant percentage of water, aloins, sterols, albumin, and other essential oils. It has been used medicinally for thousands of years, and is referred to in the Bible. There is no scientific evidence to date that aloe vera has any benefits in cosmetics according to recent information put forth by the American Medical Association, yet it is commonly prescribed for the treatment of burns.

Algotherapy: The use of seaweed in facials, body wraps, and baths for detoxification and rejuvenation... Drawing on the natural benefits of seaweed and seawater, algotherapy is a form of thalassotherapy that infuses the body with nutrient-rich elements... See also Thalassotherapy

Alpha hydroxy acids: Alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs, are commonly found in different concentrations in many products. The most commonly used alpha hydroxy acids are glycolic, lactic, malic, citric and tartaric acids. These mild acids serve to remove the outer layer of dull skin and leave skin with a rejuvenated appearance.

Amino acids: These are the body’s protein building blocks. There are 22 amino acids, 8 of which cannot be made by the body but need to be replaced in one’s diet. These are known as the essential amino acids because of their necessity in maintaining life. A 9th amino acid, histidine, is known to be required only in children. They are commonly used as emollients and moisturizers in many skin products, and are thought to help the basic products penetrate the skin.

Arnica: This herb is found typically in the Northern Hemisphere. It can be applied externally to help treat bruising, particularly in the postoperative period. Taken orally, preoperatively it can help reduce bruising in patients having surgery. It is also known as wolf’s bane.

Aqua (water) aerobics: Aerobic exercise performed in a swimming pool where the water provides support and added resistance. Reduced impact to the body makes this a particularly advantageous form of exercise for the overweight, elderly, post-medical trauma, or pregnant exerciser.

Aromatherapy: The practice of stimulating the senses through fragrance by using natural botanical essential oils from plants, leaves, bark, roots, seeds, resins and flowers. Aromatherapy refreshes and relaxes the skin while soothing the mind by helping to induce a sense of well-being and. Each individual essence is used to produce a specific beneficial effect... Through body wraps, massages and other methods, the oils allow the power of smell to effortlessly revitalise. (See Essential Oils, below, for more information).

Ayurvedic treatment and massage: This ancient Indian "Science of Life" states that the skin is the mirror to inner health and the body manifests everything that happens inside. Ayurveda utilizes the curative properties of plants, herbs and essential oils to improve the skin's health and relieve the stress, tension and emotion of daily life. Massage techniques include:

• Abhyanga - individually prepared herbal-oil massage that deeply penetrates the skin, relaxes the mind-body, breaks up impurities and stimulate both arterial and lymphatic circulation. Enhances the ability for nutrients to reach starved cells and for the removal of stagnant waste. Heightens awareness that will direct the internal healing system of the body.
  
  
• Vishesh - deep muscular massage that breaks up adhesions and improves circulation deep within the muscles.
  
  
• Pizichili - a continuous steam of warm herbalised oil soothingly poured over the body by two Ayurvedic therapists as they massage the body in unison. Deep tissue cleansing. Heightened state of awareness.
  
  
• Udvartina - deeply penetrating herbal paste lymphatic massage. Exfoliating treatment conditions the skin while pressing stagnant lymphatic toxins out of the body.
  
  
• Shiro-Ahhyanga-Nasya - luxurious combination of a deep head, neck and shoulder massage, a facial lymphatic massage, followed by deep inhalation of therapeutic aromatic steam and a nasal and sinus nasya with herbalised nose drops. Balances most head, neck and respiratory disorders.
  
  
• Pinda Swedna - deep cleansing treatment where rice boiled in milk and herbs are massaged deeply into the tissues and joints. Relaxing, rejuvenating, and detoxing.

B

Bach Cures: Healing with floral essences and oils.

Balneotherapy: Inspired by the ancient practice of "taking to the waters," balneotherapy is a soothing and natural way to use water to improve circulation, strengthen the immune system, and reduce pain and stress.

Beeswax: This is taken from virgin bees and is used as an emulsifier. It is nearly water insoluble. It is used in many cosmetics as well as baby creams, cold creams, and many types of makeup. It can cause contact dermatitis but is usually considered quite safe.

Bindi: Chosen for its integration of herbal treatment, light massage and exfoliation, Bindi shows how the art of bodywork can both relax tired muscles and leave one's skin refreshed and glowing.

Bioenergetics: Energy exchange between the giver and receiver of massage.

Bio-Lifting: A non-surgical facial lifting treatment performed with galvanic stimulation.

Body composition analysis: Method of measuring the percentages of body fat, lean muscle mass and water, done with skin-fold calipers, a bio-impedance mechanism or a hydrostatic tank.

Body polish: A gentle buffing or massaging of the skin with botanical or marine extracts or salt for exfoliation and smoothness. Similar to a salt glow.

Body sculpting: The application of suctions cups to the body, creating a vacuum which stimulates the arterial, venous and lymphatic systems, which in turn drive blood circulation toward congested tissues to eliminate fat toxicity. Reduces the appearance of orange-peel skin and irregularities of cellulite, and aids in a smooth, supple look.

Body wrap: A process in which strips of cloth or plastic are soaked in a healing recipe of herbs and other natural compounds, then are wrapped around the body.

Botox injection: Available at reputable medi-spas, Botox relaxes muscles to soften wrinkles on the forehead, eye area and neck. The treatment lasts approximately 3-4 months.

Brush & tone: Dry-brushing exfoliating of skin to remove its dead layers and impurities and stimulate circulation.

C

Cathiodermie: The use of low-voltage electric stimulation to revitalize and oxygenate the skin, and improve circulation.

Cayce-reilly massage: This massage is intensively therapeutic, manipulates tissues and joints, and uses moist heated castor oil and glycothymaline packs.

Chemical peel: This facial treatment temporarily counteracts limited sun damage and helps diminish or even-out scars.

Chi Kung / Chi Kong / Qigong: A Chinese energy exercise where breathing and body movement recharge energy.

Circuit training: Exercise using weight-resistance equipment in an aerobic manner.

Clay mask: A clay mask is a deep cleansing treatment for the pores. It is usually a mixture of different kinds of clays mixed with a creamy base. Clay masks are helpful at keeping the skin clear, and clogged pores cleaned out. It helps lift off debris and impurities on the skin due to the clay’s strong drawing ability.

Clay masks should not be used for more than 30 minutes, as it tends to dry out which makes it extremely difficult for a clay mask to be removed. These are very effective for people who have normal to oily skin and who have clogged pores.

Club spa: A facility whose primary purpose is fitness and which offers a variety of professionally administered spa services on a day-use basis.

Cocoa butter: Also known as Theobroma oil. This serves to lubricate and soften the skin. It comes from the seeds of the cocoa plant and is used in many products. It can cause an allergic skin reaction.

Collagen injection: A proven method involving a fine needle injection of freeze-dried collagen beneath the skin. It is used to plump the skin and fill in the fine lines acquired by stress, sunbathing, or the environment. Collagen is a purified protein and smoothes away even the most stubborn lines... The treatment lasts approximately 5-6 months.

Colon therapy: A high colonic enema that cleanses using water. Benefits include detoxification, cleansing of the blood, and the stimulation of internal organs.

Colonic: Irrigation of the colon with water, sometimes enriched with herbs and other elements for the purpose of cleansing trapped debris, which is believed to recycle toxins back into the system.

Colour therapy: Colour therapy uses coloured rooms, light bulbs and other methods to impart mental and spiritual balance. Therapists can provide recommendations for incorporating certain colours into one's home, wardrobe and other places to promote health and healing.

Compression wrap: A localized treatment for cellulite and fatty deposits on arms, legs and buttocks.

Contouring: Deep toning of muscles using calisthenics.

Craniosacral therapy: A gentle hands-on method involving subtle pressure and light massage between the skull and base of the spine to evaluate and enhance the function of the Craniosacral system. (the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord)

Cruise ship spa: A spa aboard a cruise ship providing professionally administered spa services, fitness and wellness components and spa cuisine menu choices (definition by International Spa Association).

Crystal healing: Healing by using energy believed to be generated by quartz and other crystals and minerals.

Cure: A course of treatment. Also known as kur.

Cybex: Patented exercise equipment used for isokinetic strength training.

D

Dancercise: Modified modern dance steps and movements to provide an aerobic work out.

Day spa: Services will vary by provider, however, Day spas typically provide beauty, health, and therapeutic treatments which can be started and completed in a single session, either by the hour, or by the day. Overnight accommodations are not usually available. See Resort spas and Destination spas.

Dead sea mud treatment: The application of mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea to detoxify the skin and the body and to relieve rheumatic and arthritic pain.

Deep muscle massage / Pfrimmer deep muscle therapy: This type of massage eliminates knots, locked up areas, and emotional blocks in the body due to prolonged stress. It includes various leverage techniques and kneading for a very firm massage.

Deep tissue massage: Frees congestion of the muscle attachments. Deep work brings about realignment of postural distortions and restores proper range of motion. Liberation of emotional tensions may also result. Muscle function and awareness are balanced, and elasticity is revived.

Dermabrasion: Dermabrasion is not a new technique -- it has long been used to treat scars from acne or trauma as well as fine wrinkling. Its use for treatment of fine wrinkling has been supplanted by most of the lasers and topical chemical agents. However, it still is an effective treatment for scars, since it rounds out depressed or elevated scars.

Dermabrasion has similar effects in increasing collagen and elastin as the carbon dioxide laser, erbium laser and chemical peels. The risks of dermabrasion can be depigmentation, infection, scarring and persistent redness.

Destination spa: A spa whose sole purpose is to provide guests with lifestyle improvement and health enhancement through professionally administered spa services, physical fitness, educational programming, and on-site accommodations. Healthy spa cuisine is served exclusively. See also Day spas and Resort spas.

Dry brush: A natural bristle brush removes dead skin and stimulates circulation to enhance the skin's tone and appearance.

Duo/Synchronised massage: A soothing and indulgent massage treatment performed by two therapists simultaneously.

Dulse scrub: Exfoliating body treatment, which utilizes dulse seaweed powder, which has been rehydrated with either water or an essential oil. This treatment removes impurities and dead skin cells and re-mineralizes the skin.

E

Ear Candling: A natural remedy for those suffering from wax build-up, swimmer's ear, itching ears, and allergies. Hollow tapers made of beeswax coated muslin are placed gently into the opening of the ear, while you are laying prone on your side. Your attendant monitors the slow burning of the "candle" while the gentle, slow, warm smoke trickles from the inside of the hollow candle into the ear candle, loosening and comforting the ear, while at the same time creating a mild vacuum to draw out moisture, excess wax, and in some cases, pus from an infection.

Although ear candling is not recommended for advanced cases of ear infection, in many cases, a session of ear candles will draw out enough of the moisture and "funky stuff" created by chronic swimmer's ear to help speed healing and "pop the pressure" of plugged ears. A deeply relaxing experience, many clients fall asleep. Ear candling promotes the process of cleaning and healing, and offers a natural alternative to chemical solutions or those who have an intolerance to antibiotics.

Effleurage: Massage technique involving quick, long strokes at the beginning and end of a treatment.

Emu oil: The emu is a very large bird which cannot fly. The cosmetic properties of emu oil were initially studied in Australia at the University of Sydney... The oil has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties which penetrate the skin. It allegedly has very good moisturizing properties which are better than mineral oil and have a lower incidence of pore clogging.

Entomologies: This is a relatively new method which is purported to help reduce the appearance of cellulite in specific problem areas. It was developed in Europe and became popular in the United States over the last several years... This is thought to work by helping to break up pockets of fat underneath the subcutaneous area. A hand held device picks the skin up between two rollers, and drops it back against the skin. This is non-invasive, and relatively painless. The benefits of Endermologie are still undetermined.

Equilibropathy: A method of balancing the body which can be used to therapeutically treat ailments from asthma, migraines, sore muscles, sinus congestion, vertigo, stiff joints including gout, arthritis & rheumatism, lowered immunity and many more common conditions and is particularly useful in the prevention of all types of illnesses.

Ergometer: Exercise machine designed for muscular contraction.

Essential oils: Natural substances extracted from grasses, flowers, herbs, shrubs, trees, resins and spices, usually through a process called steam distillation. Oils can soothe, relax, rejuvenate, heal, energize or relieve pain, thereby affecting the body's physical, psychological and emotional levels. Essential Oils used in this manner is traditionally called aromatherapy. For a complete list of essential oils and their properties, click here.

Esalen massage: A long, gentle and stroking style of massage.

European facial: A skin care treatment which includes deep cleansing, steam, exfoliation and professional massage of the face, shoulders and chest area which nourishes and refines the skin. This is followed by a special facial masque that hydrates the skin.

Exfoliating facial treatment: Peels away dry skin cells and removes deeply-trapped secretions that impede oxygenation. Marine sediments, mineral salts, and lipoamino acids can be used to stimulate circulation and add moisture.

Exfoliation: Peels away dry skin cells and removes deeply-trapped secretions that impede oxygenation.... the dead skin cells are sloughed off by a dry brush, loofah scrub or salt, clay, sugar or grape seed rub, the underlying layer reveals a fresher, more radiant complexion.

Extractions: The manual cleaning of sebum, debris, and dead cells from the pores.

Eyebrow threading: A thin cotton thread easily and quickly removes unwanted hair from the root; in many cases, hair grows back finer and more gradually.

F

Facial: A complete regimen to treat the skin on the face and neck, from massaging, cleansing and toning to steam application, exfoliation and moisturising.

Fango body treatment: Thermal fango (fango means mud in Italian) from Italy is applied to the entire body to gently cleanse, release toxins, remineralize, nourish, and soothe the skin. Also used to relieve muscular and arthritic pain.

Fascian injection: This filler helps smooth deep wrinkles around the mouth. The treatment lasts approximately 3-5 months.

Feldenkrais: A method to reprogram the nervous system through movement augmented by physical pressure and manipulation.

Flotation: Float in tanks filled with sterile salt water regulated so that its temperature is precisely the same as your body temperature for a sense of buoyancy and weightlessness. You float in complete sensory isolation so that no nerve impulses move from the skin to the brain for a unique feeling of relaxation. Can be used in complete silence, music or guided imagery.

Free radicals: These are molecules which are formed from various pollutants, smoke, and sun exposure. They are unfortunately unavoidable in day-to-day life. Free radical molecules can cause significant damage to the skin. Antioxidants serve to diminish the effects of free radicals. Common antioxidants are Vitamin C, E, superoxide dismutase, and certain forms of Vitamin A. Antioxidants can be taken in orally with any form of fruit or vegetable, as well as in oral dietary supplements, and can be applied directly to your skin. Many antioxidant vitamins are a very important part of many skin care regimens

Fruit acid wash: A mildly acidic peeling application to the skin, which both lowers the pH of the skin's surface so that the substance which keratinized cells is loosened, and, permits dead cell layers to slough off more easily. The result is smoothing, refining, with smaller pores.