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09 September 2008

Spa History - A Little Spa History

No one know exactly where the word spa comes from, but there are two main theories. One is that spa is an acronym for the Latin phrase, "salus per aquae," or "health through water."

Others believe the origin of the word "spa" comes from the Belgian town of Spa, known since Roman times for its baths. They speculate that the town was so prominent that the very word spa became synonymous in the English language with a place to be restored and pampered.

Modern spas have their roots in ancient towns famed for the healing powers of their mineral waters and hot springs. Travelers would come to "take the waters" and restore their health.

The practice of bathing in hot springs and mineral waters dates at least to the Babylonians and Greeks, and knowing people, probably much sooner!

In the 19th century, Europe's great spas were destinations for the wealthy, who went there to "take the waters." Water treatments are still considered the heart of the spa experience in Europe. Today massages and facials are by far the most popular spa treatments in America.

Ashtanga yoga: Ashtanga yoga is a vigorous, fast-paced yoga that helps to build flexibility, strength, concentration, and stamina. When doing Ashtanga yoga, a person moves quickly through a set of predetermined poses while remaining focused on deep breathing.

Power yoga: Similar to Ashtanga yoga, this is also a very active form of yoga that improves flexibility and stamina by completing poses. This type of yoga is popular in the United States.

Bikram yoga: Bikram yoga is also known as "Hot Yoga." It is practiced in rooms that may be heated to more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius).

Gentle yoga: Gentle yoga focuses on slow stretches, flexibility, and deep breathing.

Kundalini yoga: Kundalini yoga uses poses, deep breathing and other breathing techniques, chanting, and meditation.

Iyengar yoga: This type of yoga focuses on precise poses. and participants use benches, ropes, mats, blocks, and chairs

Massage has been around for thousands of years. The word “massage” comes from the Greek root “masso" -- to touch. Today it is the most popular spa treatment.

A destination spa is a place whose sole purpose is to help individuals develop a healthy lifestyle through:

healthy spa cuisine that emphasizes whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and nutritional education

a full program of fitness and stress reduction classes

therapeutic spa treatments including massage

educational lectures that teach you how to bring your healthy habits back home

Destination spas usually require that you stay at least two or three nights to get the full benefit. Some require a longer stay. Prices at destination spas usually include all meals, classes and some spa treatments.