A conventional spa offers several services including, massage therapy, hot and cold or mineral water treatments, facials, aromatherapy and exercise regimens. Typically, an individual will spend a couple hours being pampered and groomed in a relaxing environment. Each visit may cost a few hundred dollars or more depending on the resort and services being performed. Fortunately, a consumer has the option to use at home spa products which will provide similar benefits without the exorbitant prices. Hawaiian inspired formulations are ideal alternatives because of their natural compositions, fragrances and lowered potential to irritate the skin. Allotting some time to this worthwhile endeavor will produce favorable results while simultaneously reducing stress levels and tension.

The Evolution of Spa Therapy
The use of hot or cold springs in the treatment of ailments can be traced back to the prehistoric era. Bathing in these geological formations was thought to encourage the purification of the body and spirit. Civilizations including the Egyptians, Native Americans, Babylonians, Persians, Romans and Greeks all indulged in ritualistic bath treatments. The first documented use of bathhouses originated in Greece. Foot baths, wash basins and small tubs were created for relaxation and cleanliness. Springs and tidal pools were also used, many of which were considered blessed by the great Gods.

The Roman Empire drew inspiration from the early Greek bathers. The development of complex spas confined in elaborately built structures became the norm. The idea of bathhouses was considerably improved after the introduction of indoor plumbing. Water from aqueducts was run into these large buildings adding to the charm and opulence of spa treatment facilities. The bathing ritual was far more organized. An individual would undress, bathe, sweat in the hot rooms, receive an invigorating massage and then rest. The decline in the Roman Empire during the Middle Ages led to a breakdown in systematic bathing rituals and improved sanitation. Most bathhouses fell into disrepair and improper use of these structures resulted in an increase in disease transmission. Soon bathing was deemed a dangerous practice by the church leading to a cessation of bathhouses.

The 16 th century marked a new era. Physicians began advocating the use of mineral springs for the treatment of most conditions. By the 19 th century public bathhouses and spas peaked in popularity. The Spa industry grew beyond Europe and reached the colonies. After the American Revolution, bathhouse usage increased exponentially. Wounded soldiers in the great Civil War made it a habit to visit these spas for treatment where they also partook in other activities including horseback riding, hunting, swimming, fishing and gambling. Today several more options have been implemented. The therapeutic aspect of spa treatment is greatly emphasized and a full complement of procedures is now offered.

At Home Spa Products
There are several products marketed specifically for use in the spa environment. Some of these are professional grade formulations that can only be applied by a trained cosmetologist. These include products that contain strong chemicals like glycolic acid and salicylic acid which are both capable of removing the top layers of the dermis revealing younger, healthier skin. There are other formulations, however, that are tailored for home use. These tend to be milder and do not require professional application.

Naturally based products, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular because of their efficacy and reduced potential to cause irritation. These contain beneficial ingredients that are extracted directly from plant sources. Herbs and essential oils are some of the more popular compounds used to create these formulations. Typically, natural alternatives will include facial and body scrubs, volcanic mud masks, soothing aloe vera gels, oils, lotions, bath salts and body butters. Additionally, the rich fruity and floral fragrances associated with these products make them ideal for home spa treatment. Many of these have aroma-therapeutic properties which help to induce relaxation, relieve tension and promote peace of mind.

Recreating the Spa Experience
Modern day Spas offer several therapies that promote overall health. These non-medical procedures are carried out by trained cosmetologists, beauticians and massage therapists. Most resorts will provide a combination of purifying baths, body wraps, facials, massages, nail care, waxing, nutritional support and physical activity. A visitor to a resort may choose to indulge in all the available options or select the therapy of choice.

Aromatherapy - This involves the use of aromatic agents to stimulate relaxation and stress reduction. Typically, the scents are derived from essential oils that exude potent fragrances. The aromas may include a mixture of floral, fruit or artificial scents.

Bath Spa - This involves mud bathing (derived from pure mineral enriched mud), immersion in a hot spring, hot tub soaks or the use of a sauna or steam room. Bathing procedures will generally clear the pores and purify the skin.

Body Wraps - Hot linens, plastic sheets and blankets are used to wrap the body. This encourages detoxification and may help stimulate weight loss. Mud and other herbal compounds may be added to enhance the process.

Facial Spa Treatment - A typical facial will include skin exfoliation with scrubs, massage therapy, the application of products and steam therapy. After each session the skin will feel noticeably softer and look visibly radiant.

Massage - Different forms of massage may be offered. A trained masseuse will help to release muscle tension and improve circulation throughout the body by concentrating on different areas.

Nail Care - This includes manicures and pedicures performed by a nail technician. Typically, the foot will be soaked in a purifying bath until the skin is softened and ready for treatment. Some spas offer specialized manicures and pedicures that cater to diabetics and other individuals who are at greatest risk for acquiring fungal infections of the nails.

Nutritional Support and Physical Activity - These offerings will vary depending on the spa. The resort may provide personal exercise programs, yoga and nutritional advice.

It may not be possible to replicate every aspect of a spa session at home, however there are several products that can be utilized to emulate the spa experience. For best results, indulge in this exercise when the environment is serene and devoid of distracting noises. Consider playing soothing background music and lighting scented candles to create an atmosphere that is inviting and relaxing. Choose fragrances that are aroma-therapeutic, preferably those that are fruit or floral based. Incense sticks or diffusers may also be used. These will release stronger aromas and will permeate the air completely.

The first part of the process will involve cleansing and purification using a hot water bath. Add Hawaiian body washes and scented bath salts to the water to encourage skin softening, detoxification and pain relief. The use of bath salts will also make it possible to soak for longer periods without causing over drying or wrinkling of the skin. Additionally, apply a natural body scrub during the bathing process to promote exfoliation. Massage the beads into the skin gently and be sure to avoid excessive rubbing as this will leave the epidermis raw and prone to bruising.

Once the cleansing process is completed, perform a self massage using tropical body oils and/or Hawaiian lotions. Be sure to focus on areas that are tense or achy and lavish the skin with these natural formulations until it is completely saturated. For skin that is particularly dry, consider using rich tropical body butters for increased hydration.

After the cleansing and massage process are complete, stretch the body using yoga or Pilates like movements. These exercises will help to release tension and enhance flexibility. Aim to perform these stretches for at least 8 minutes or until all muscle groups have been targeted.

Other activities may be carried out during the process. A facial may be performed using steam treatments, mud masks, scrubs, low grade peels, and other available formulations. Hair may also be deep treated with Hawaiian shampoos and Hawaiian conditioners and nails may be groomed using a foot bath and a simple manicure/pedicure set. To end the spa day, indulge in a healthy meal that includes a serving of fruit and vegetables.

Benefits of Spa Therapy
There are several benefits that may be derived from spa therapy. The effects will be felt immediately after a session has been completed. An individual is guaranteed to feel less tense and rejuvenated after indulging in an at home spa session. A gradual improvement in circulation and a reduction in muscle pain will also occur especially if mineral salts are used to aid the process. Additionally, skin clarity and texture will dramatically improve after the application of a scrub and steam. Consistent spa therapy over time will reduce stress levels significantly and increase energy levels. Reserve some time each month to delight in this wonderfully refreshing experience that will purify and relax the body.

The benefits of spa treatment are indisputable. The effects can be replicated in a home environment with the use of products that will enhance the experience. While a day spa will offer far more services, the results are still comparable. Each session will promote stress relief, relaxation, improved circulation and skin health. The inclusion of Hawaiian inspired products will optimize the experience by providing gentle yet effective skin care and soothing aroma-therapeutic fragrances.

You might also be interested in these other natural bath and body articles:
Natural Bath and Body Products | Natural Bath and Body made in Hawaii | Discover Natural Bath and Body Products from the Islands | Polynesian Bath and Body Fragrances | Benefits of Natural Bath and Body Care Products | Men's Tropical Bath and Body | Benefits of Bath Salts | Sensual Bath and Body Gifts | Romantic uses for Bath and Body Products | Bath and Body Gift Giving Secrets | Polynesian Hair Care | Keeping your Hair Naturally Healthy | Tropical Bath and Body Products | Hawaiian Steam Bath | Perfumes and Fragrances | Hawaiian Thalassotherapy | Hawaiian Seaweeds | Hawaiian Balneotherapy | Benefits of Hydrotherapy

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