Destination Spa Vacations

Massage: More than fluff & buff

Are you stressed out? Sore from overdoing physical activity? Tired of nagging sciatica or low back pain? Can't shake that exhausted feeling? Consider a massage. Once regarded as merely a guilty pleasure, massage therapy today is gaining recognition among mainstream healthcare experts and institutions, such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), as a practice for preventing and treating a wide range of health issues. For example, massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat post-surgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process. People are increasingly turning to massage therapy for a variety of health-related purposes, including to relieve pain, rehabilitate sports injuries, reduce stress, increase relaxation, address anxiety and depression, and aid general wellness.

Although scientific research on massage therapy is still somewhat limited, there is mounting evidence that massage benefits some patients, including:

• Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain.
• Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.
• Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.
• High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones.
• Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping.
• Preterm infants have improved weight gain.

In a recent article published by The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), a division of the NIH, researchers report the general conclusion that massage therapy is effective. The studies included in the analysis suggest that a single session of massage therapy can reduce "state anxiety" (a reaction to a particular situation), blood pressure, and heart rate, and multiple sessions can reduce "trait anxiety" (general anxiety-proneness), depression, and pain.

Additional studies suggest that massage may benefit certain conditions, for example:

(1) A 2008 review of 13 clinical trials found evidence that massage can be useful for chronic low-back pain. In addition, clinical practice guidelines issued in 2007 by the American Pain Society and the American College of Physicians recommend that physicians consider using massage when patients with chronic low-back pain do not respond to conventional treatment.

(2) A multi-site study of more than 300 hospice patients with advanced cancer concluded that massage can help to relieve pain and improve mood for these patients.

(3) A study of 64 patients with chronic neck pain found that therapeutic massage was more beneficial than a self-care book, in terms of improving function and relieving symptoms.

Regardless of the adjectives we assign to massage (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic), or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.

Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into decreased anxiety, enhanced sleep quality, greater energy, improved concentration, increased circulation, and reduced fatigue.

Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.

There are numerous theories about how massage therapy may affect the body. For example, the "gate control theory" suggests that massage may provide stimulation that helps to block pain signals sent to the brain. Other examples include theories suggesting that massage might stimulate the release of certain "feel-good" chemicals in the body, such as serotonin or endorphins, or cause beneficial mechanical changes in the body.

The NCCAM is sponsoring additional studies to answer questions like how and why massage therapy works, and identify the purposes for which massage may be most helpful. Current studies are exploring the effects of massage on everything from pain, anxiety, and depression, to fatigue in cancer patients, and weight gain and immune system function in preterm infants.

In the meantime, they report that massage therapy appears to have few serious risks if it is used appropriately and provided by a trained massage professional. They suggest consumers tell their health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices they use to give them a full picture of anything they do to manage their health, as this will help ensure coordinated and safe care, especially if you have a bleeding disorder, low blood platelet counts, or are taking blood-thinning medications. Massage should not be done in any area of the body with blood clots, fractures, open or healing wounds, skin infections, or weakened bones (such as from osteoporosis or cancer), or where there has been a recent surgery. And although massage therapy appears to be generally safe for cancer patients, they should consult their oncologist before having a massage that involves deep or intense pressure. Any direct pressure over a tumor usually is discouraged. Cancer patients should discuss any concerns about massage therapy with their oncologist. Lastly, pregnant women should consult their health care provider before using massage therapy.

Finally, If You Are Thinking About Using Massage Therapy:

• Do not use massage therapy to replace your regular medical care or as a reason to postpone seeing a health care provider about a medical problem.
• If you have a medical condition and are unsure whether massage therapy would be appropriate for you, discuss your concerns with your health care provider. Your health care provider may also be able to help you select a massage therapist. You might also look for published research articles on massage therapy for your condition.
• Before deciding to begin massage therapy, ask about the therapist's training, experience, and credentials. Also ask about the number of treatments that might be needed, the cost, and insurance coverage.
• If a massage therapist suggests using other complementary and alternative practices (for example, herbs or other supplements, or a special diet), discuss it first with your regular health care provider.

All spas offer massage. You will find everything from a basic Swedish massage to a Ashiatsu (deep barefoot massage) on the menus. If you haven't had a massage before, I highly recommend starting with a classic Swedish massage. If massage is not new to you, check out the wide variety of massages to choose from at Destination Spas.

• Birdwing Spa - Holistic, Rosemary Head Massage
• Cal-a-Vie Health Spa - BodyCoffee Therapeutic Massage
• Canyon Ranch - Ashiatsu (deep barefoot) massage
• Coastal Trek - Swedish massage
• Copperhood Spa - Couples massage
• Deerfield Spa - Nuat Thai massage
• Echo Valley Ranch - "Luk Pra Kob" Thai massage
• Fitness Ridge - Lomi Lomi (traditional Hawaiian) massage
• Golden Door- Island Paradise Seashell massage
• Green Mountain at Fox Run - Deep Tissue massage
• The Hills Health Ranch - Dry Brush massage
• The Heartland Spa - Soleful relaxation massage (massage for the feet)
• The Kerr House - Hot Stone massage
• Lake Austin Spa Resort - Calming Cupping massage
• Mountain Trek - Lymphatic Drainage massage
• New Life Hiking Spa - Thai Yoga massage
• The Oaks at Ojai - Watsu massage
• Rancho La Puerta - Energy Balance massage
• Red Mountain Spa - Desert Rain massage
• Regency Spa - Myofascial Release massage
• Spa Eastman - Neo-reichian massage
• Tennessee Fitness Spa - Sports massage

Article written by Joann Wolff, Director at Deerfield Spa and Michelle Kleist, Executive Director of Destination Spa Group

 

Ensuring a Great Massage Experience

As customers we purchase services regularly.  We pay for someone to change our oil, fix our hair and clean our teeth.  There are, however, not many service providers who ask us to undress, lay prone on a table and then proceed to touch our body.  Due to the nature of massage, it is no wonder the experience can sometimes go awry.  This is why there are professional boundaries important to maintain by both the therapist and the client.

Having regular massage has both physical and emotional benefits.  It’s an opportunity for the nervous system to relax and renew; a state often not reachable in any other way.  To maximize the benefits of massage sessions there are two avenues that help ensure a great experience. 

1.      Clear Communication

“Get naked, get under the sheet…. I’ll be back in a minute”, she said as she walked out of the room.  Having been getting massage for years, she probably assumed professional communication was not as important.  For me it wasn’t as important, but imagine if I had been receiving massage for the first time and I wasn’t comfortable undressing.  Clear communication is the responsibility of the practitioner and the receiver.  The therapist should spend time inquiring about visit expectations, health issues, modesty concerns and overall process.  It is the responsibility of the client to communicate what they are expecting and when things are not meeting their expectations.  It can be difficult to speak out when needs are not being met, but to ensure satisfaction it is important to voice questions and concerns.  Good therapists will appreciate the guidance and attempt to meet your needs.  

2.      Tolerance levels are subjective

Here in the states we tend to have the philosophy of “no pain, no gain.”  For massage, this is not always applicable.  There are many elements of the massage experience that have the potential to cause discomfort beyond a therapeutic level.  Two of which are temperature and pressure. On average, about half of massage recipients have faced a physically uncomfortable situation.  Your therapist should clarify your expectations, check in about comfort and honor appropriate requests.  When you find yourself unable to relax due to painful pressure ask the therapist to lighten up.  If you are getting uncomfortable due to heat elements, such as packs or stones, ask for a change.   Never work with a practitioner whose philosophy is “I know what you need and I’m going to give it to you.”  You know your body best, honor its message and speak out.

When communication and treatment methods have been established there is opportunity to create a therapeutic bubble; a space allowing healing, trust and well being to flourish.  Massage therapy is too important to long term health.  Establishing clear communication early on builds your confidence in the treatment so you can reap the benefits for years to come.  All of our Destination Spas offer massage therapy.  Visit www.destinationspavacations.com for more information and massage options, or simply click each spa's link on the right column of the blog.

Contributed by Debra Koerner

It is Pedicure Season

Summer has arrived and the season for pedicures and sandals is in full swing. Feet and toes everywhere are rejoicing!

Unfortunately, pedicures do have a dark side. Although not all pedicures will result in an ingrown toenail or infection, it is a growing problem.

There are observations that you can make when entering a salon / spa to help determine pedicure safety, but it is also important to ask the person that does your pedicure some questions. If you are not comfortable with either, you might consider another facility.

Consumer Checklist

1. The pedicure area, pedicure thrones (whirlpool), and salon / spa clean?

2. The nail technicians/pedicurist license is displayed?

3. The pedicurist part of an organization such as the International Pedicure Association.

4. Your feet are examined and health questions are asked before the pedicure.

5. Instruments look clean and are disinfected properly.

6. Items that can not be disinfected are disposed of after the pedicure.

7. Proper tools are used.

8. Manicurist/pedicurists wash their hands with soap and water before touching a clients hands/feet. It is also recommended that a pedicurist use gloves.

9. Salon/spa has adequate ventilation.

10. A laundered towel or new disposable towel is used on each client.

This information is given for the consumer as a public interest by:

International Pedicure Association

www.pedicureassociation.org

Do-it-yourself foot care

Sole-pampering regimen recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association:

Step one: Use warm water to fill a bucket large enough for both of your feet to soak. Find a comfortable chair where you can relax and place the bucket in front of the chair.

Step two: Remove nail polish with a non-acetone polish remover.

Step three: Stimulate foot circulation and warm your feet by propping one foot at a time on your lap, then grasp the foot and begin slowly moving your thumbs from the top of your toes to the bottom of your heel and back.

Step four: Use a nail clipper to cut toenails straight across. Then use an emery board to smooth the nail edges by filing in one direction without drastically rounding the edges of the nail.

Step five: Soak feet in the warm water for at least five minutes. Raise feet out of the bucket and dip either a foot file or a pumice stone into the water. Next, use the file or pumice stone to gently smooth the skin around the heel and the balls and sides of your feet.

Make your feet beautiful with a relaxing and healthful pedicure today!

Massage Relieves Pain After Surgery

The evidence is mounting - massage therapy is a good thing! Chances are that if you are reading this blog, I don't need to tell you about the feel good benefits of massage. But you may be surpised to learn that there are some medical benefits. On Monday, U.S. researchers claimed that massage can ease pain after surgery and may complement the use of drugs for patients.

In a study of 605 men 64 years and older who had major surgery, all participants received comparable dosages of pain-relieving drugs and 200 received a nightly 20-minute back massages for four days. On a scale of 1 to 10, those who received massages reported their pain diminished one level faster than those who did not.

The effectiveness of massage in reducing both the intensity and unpleasantness of pain suggests that it may act through more than one mechanism," Allison Mitchinson of the Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System in Michigan wrote in the Archives of Surgery. "Massage may ameliorate suffering by helping to relieve the anxiety that so effectively synergizes with pain to create distress." Massage can dilate blood vessels, raise skin temperature and relax the mind and body. It can also reduce lactic acid levels in aching muscles, stimulate healing of connective tissues and increase lymphatic and blood circulation. Massage may also create mood-boosting endorphins that offer a competing sensation, or may even block pain, the study said.

So can we all expect massage therapy after our next surgery? Realtiy check - nurses in modern-day hospitals rarely have time to give massages as they did for the study. However, with more healthcare organizations seeking to enhance revenues, attract new customers and appeal to the health-conscious movement, the hospital/spa concept has gained momentum. While painfully slow, it does appear that we are moving towards a wellness-based (versus sickness) health care system. Until then, be sure to schedule regular massages and inlcude a Destination Spa vacation each year.

Source: Reuters, December 17, 2007

$50 Spa Treatments during Spa Week

Everyone from the spa newbie to the spa aficianados needs to check this out. It is time to get out and try some spa services at reasonable prices thanks to SpaWeek. Next week (September 17-23) is the kick-off for SpaWeek 2007 on the West Coast while the East Coast must patiently wait until October 15-21st. During the week, participating spas will be offering $50 treatments that are normally $75-$250.

Yes, you are seeing this correct. In an effort to offer spa treatments to the masses, SpaWeek has organized over 400 spas to offer discounted treatments for this very special week. A list of the participating spas and the treatments they offer is posted on www.spaweek.org. After registering, you can research your options. Here is a sample of some of the treatments I found intriguing. If only there were more Central US locations...

• 50 Min Age Defense Facial Treatment
• 45 Min Detoxifying Pomegranate Body Treatment
• 55 Min Ocean View Egyptian Foot Awakening With Exfoliating Foot Scrub & Reflexology Massage

Once you see a treatment you want, call the spa directly to make your reservation. Call ASAP for the best selection and be sure to let them know that you are coming for SpaWeek. The spa will ask for your credit card number to secure the reservation. Present or not, you will be charged, so clear your schedule and arrive with enough time to relax beforehand and make the most of it. When it comes time to tip, do so on the full value of the service, not the discounted $50 SpaWeek rate.

If you yearn for more after you've indulged in SpaWeek, a spa vacation may be in order. If you want to relax and enjoy some spa services a Resort Spa may be right for you. If you want a full immersion spa experience, check out a Destination Spa. You will enjoy a full range of activities, healthy spa cuisine, a vast array of customized spa treatments, discovery classes and time for some R&R.