Glossary of Health and Beauty

Artful Lodger Liverpool has put together a glossary of general terms that are used within Spas, retreats and Health Farm environments

Acupressure
A specific technique used in massage, which releases muscular tension by applying pressure to the acupuncture points, releasing blockages and allowing the energy to flow freely. It is very effective for the relief of tension and stress.

Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses essential oils (natural oil concentrates, distilled from plants) to aid well being and is particularly effective when used to combat stress and anxiety as well as a wide range of other ailments. Oils are inhaled, massaged into the skin in diluted form or placed in baths where they can be inhaled and also absorbed.

Body Wraps
Also known as body envelopments - this type of treatment usually involves the application of rich, nutrient substances or crèmes. Heat and humidity make the skin particularly absorptive to active substances and this is often enhanced by the wrapping of the body (sometimes with heated towels whist lying on heated massage bed). This can increase the heat of your body and thus increase absorption of the applied lotions, potions or creams and will depend on what type of product is being used. This treatment can also sometimes include a relaxing scalp massage whilst the wrap does its good work!

Complementary Therapies
The objective of the Complementary Therapy is a collective term used to describe any treatments or practices which specifically create a feeling of well-being through rebalancing the body, alleviating the effects of stress, increasing energy levels and reducing aches and pains. Many conditions respond particularly well to complementary medicine and the benefits you derive can continue long after the treatment. Certain treatments are ideal to have on your day of arrival as a relaxing start to your stay.

Hot Stone Massage
Specially selected heated stones are used to massage the body, providing a nurturing and enhanced therapeutic effect. The application of heat not only increases the feeling of well-being but also enables the therapist to work more deeply and more effectively with chronic pain conditions. The smooth basalt stones have a high iron content, enabling them to retain heat. The stones are applied at varying degrees of heat, wet, onto an oiled body and the effect is similar to a combination of sauna and massage, without having to breathe in steam. The practitioner will massage with some stones and lay others on the body at particular points - including in between the toes! All the rage at the moment and described as "complete bliss"!

Indian Head Massage
Indian Head massage will soothe away stress and tension, leaving you refreshed, relaxed and with a renewed clarity of mind. This is a very popular treatment - perfect for a chilled out, calm and relaxed result!

Pilates
Pilates is an exercise system with and without apparatus which is based on eight basic principles. Its aim is to improve flexibility and strength and to create a balance in the body. Pilates includes comprehensive regulation of the physical functions and leads to physical and mental relaxation. It is particularly effective for back and posture problems.

Power Yoga
This is a combination of traditional yoga, with dynamic exercises. It Power Yoga places demands on all of the muscles, boosting circulation and improving muscle tone.

Reiki
Reiki is a Japanese treatment in which the practitioner places his or her hands on the client's body to channel energy. Blockages are released and energy is stimulated. It is very effective again for stress related problems. Leaves you feeling calm, relaxed and more in control! Reiki means universal life energy. During this healing treatment, the therapist will utilise various holding positions on the body. This will clear energy blockages and induce a deep state of relaxation and well-being. It is helpful if loose clothing is worn during the treatment.

Reflexology
This is healing process using a specialised massage technique, concentrating on reflex areas in the feet which reflect particular organs of the body.

Reflexology is a relaxing method or stimulating the body's self-healing properties. It can also fix "minor" problems and your therapist will often be able to identify physical problems you might have, just by manipulating the related area of your feet!

Scrub
A scrub is skin peeling (otherwise known as skin exfoliation) using fine-grained substances such as salts, ground fruit seeds, fine sand and others, which are often combined with a cream to ensure that you are comfortable whilst this is used on your skin. It is highly effective in sloughing off the old skin cells to reveal newer, softer and younger looking skin.

Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of acupressure (see Acupressure for full description). Gentle finger pressure rather than needles is used. This Oriental therapy combinines finger pressure on acupuncture points with gentle mobilisation of joints. The treatment works on the principle of enhancing the flow of vital energy through the meridians of the body. It has proved to be an interesting approach to numerous health problems. It is helpful if loose clothing is worn during the treatment session.

Swedish Massage
Similar to the connective tissue massage, combining long stroking movements with circular ones. Complemented by kneading to loosen deep into the muscle structure.

Thai Massage
Classic Thai massage uses no oil. Stretching movements are predominant and the client remains dressed. Elements of Chinese reflexology and Ayurveda are used in the meditation part of the treatment.

Yoga
The most commonly practiced yoga technique in Europe is Hatha yoga, which unites body, mind and soul using prescribed movements, controlled breathing and mental training. Yoga provides long-term increase of physical flexibility and resilience and leaves you feeling calm. It is very effective in relieving stress.