A spa visit is an excellent way to pamper yourself. It’s an opportunity to unplug from your daily responsibilities and enjoy relaxing for a while. A visit to the spa, however, can do more than relax you. It can also help you restore your energy. Here are six spa treatments to boost your vitality.
1. Massage
For thousands of years, people have enjoyed the benefits of massage therapy. Different types of massages give you various benefits. Depending on your choice, you can receive relaxation, pain relief, tissue healing and other benefits.
Massage can also energize you. Swedish massage uses techniques such as deep, circular movements, tapping, vibration and long strokes that invigorate and relax you at the same time. Any massage method that helps relieve pain or stress while increasing blood flow and flexibility can give you more energy.
2. Saunas
Saunas expose you to dry heat which causes your blood vessels to dilate. Your circulation increases, creating a state of relaxation. The sympathetic nervous system and endocrine glands get to work, creating alertness and a dulled perception of pain. A traditional or infrared sauna can also relieve muscle pain and joint stiffness. Saunas that use infrared technology can help heal wounds, reduce inflammation and relieve chronic pain. When your body is relaxed and released from discomfort, you can feel invigorated.
3. Paraffin Wax
Manicure salons and spas use paraffin wax treatments to soften the skin. It opens pores and increases circulation, making the skin receptive to moisture. Paraffin wax treatments can also be used to lessen pain. When a technician applies warm wax to sore limbs, the recipient may find relief from chronic conditions such as:
- Fibromyalgia
- Arthritis
- Tendonitis
- Bursitis
3. Aromatherapy
Essential oils derived from plants can be inhaled or applied in diluted form to the skin. There are about 100 commonly used essential oils, each for a different purpose. Some have demonstrated an ability to decrease fatigue.
Peppermint oil has shown the capacity to improve exercise performance and lessen tiredness. Sweet orange and spearmint essential oils are used for enhancing athletic performance. Rosemary has been studied in school-aged children for its impact on memory and focus, helping them do better at their studies. Lemon essential oil can help a person create a positive mood and is traditionally thought of as uplifting.
Other oils that are being studied for energizing abilities include:
- Wild orange
- Bergamot
- Pine
- Frankincense
- Thyme
- Eucalyptus
- Cinnamon
4. Crystal Healing Therapies
Those who love crystals believe the stones have rejuvenating abilities. Selenite, for example, is believed to have cleansing powers, while sodalite and amber are believed to have the power to improve energy flow.
Spas incorporate crystals into their treatments in various ways. Technicians may use a jade roller during a facial, for example, or you may have a crystal-infused product applied to your body. Some people believe simply hanging crystals in the spa room can help a person feel energized.
5. Energizing Spa Beverages
For a refreshing addition to your spa treatment, try a drink designed to heal you with every sip. You can try water infused with fruits, vegetables and herbs or a cocktail that combines ingredients such as lemon and mint with vodka. Some spas serve smoothies with nutrient-rich ingredients and protein that gives you energy for hours.
6. Flotation Therapy
What can an egg-shaped tub filled with warm water do for your brain? While you are floating in a soothing bath of Epsom salts and gazing at a calming blue or red light, your mind is free of distraction, allowing it to make deep, meaningful neural connections. After your session, your refreshed brain and relaxed body can feel energized and strengthened.
If you need a spa treatment, there’s no need to make excuses or justify your reasons. However, knowing you can increase your energy level with a visit to the spa may give you the motivation to make an appointment soon.
