Spa Glossary

"Abhyanga"

Definition:

A soothing synchronized massage performed by two therapists pouring large amounts of warm herbalized oil in waves up and down the body. It is an Ayurvedic treatment that is designed to help detoxify the body and restore its balance.

Common Misspellings:

abhanga, abyhanga

"Ayurveda"

Definition:

A 5,000-year-old Eastern Indian medicinal philosophy that literally translates as "science of life" from the ancient Sanskrit words "ayur" (life) and "veda" (knowledge or science.) In Ayurveda, health is a state of balance between body, mind and consciousness. Ayurvedic doctors diagnose illnesses and imbalances through darsana (observing the way a person moves, walks and behaves); sparsana (touching) and prasna, (asking questions). The goal is detoxification and restoration of one's overall balance. Treatment includes a prescribed diet, yoga, meditation, and massage to prepare the body for elimination of waste, called agni. Ayurveda is recognized by the World Health Organization as an effective health science.

Also Known As:

Ayurvedic medicine

"Laconium"

Definition:

A laconium is a dry heat treatment room or sauna which lets the body heat up slowly and gently. The room is cooler than a traditional Finnish sauna -- 140ºF versus 175ºF -- and provides a more relaxing, less intense experience.
The laconium is also low humidity, 15-20%, which makes it feel cooler than a steam room set at the same temperature. The purpose of the laconium is to purify and detoxify the body by stimulating circulation.

The laconium is often a luxurious tiled room with heated ceramic couches for relaxing. It usually incorporates light, sound and aroma to stimulate the five senses.

To use the laconium, relax on the couches for 15 - 20 minutes. As the body heats, it will perspire. The laconium is usually equipped with a hose so you can rinse with cool water to refresh and stimulate circulation.

Afterwards, shower with tepid or cool water and rest for 20 minutes before returning to the laconium or going on to another heat experience. Drink several glasses of water.

Contraindications for using a laconium include skin disease, cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems, pregnancy, high or low blood pressure, fever and epilepsy.

Also Known As:

thermarium laconium

"Laser Treatments"

Definition:

Lasers are medical devices used to treat a variety of conditions, including unwanted hair, uneven pigmentation, and broken capillaries. The word laser is an acronym for "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation." Lasers use a direct beam of radiation that penetrates the deeper level of the skin, called the dermis, and creates a reaction.

"Microdermabrasion"

Definition:

Microdermabrasion is a mechanical form of exfoliation that uses a powerful vacuum to spray microcrystals of aluminum dioxide across the skin's surface. This procedure removes the outermost layer of skin cells (part of the stratum corneum) and stimulates cell growth in the underlying dermis.
Microdermabrasion helps give a smoother, fresher appearance to the skin. It is also used to diminish the appearance of sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, and coarse-textured skin.

Also Known As:
microderm