Where ould you put the massage chair?

Where ould you put the massage chair?

The first thing to think about is whether you have the space for a massage chair. Where would you put it?

Massage chairs can be bulky, which is why they often wind up in the bedroom or home office. Although you may think it would look great in your living room, other people in your household may feel differently. Discuss it with others who share the space to be sure it works for them.

If the only place you can agree on is in the corner of the bedroom or in your home office, you'll want to really consider whether you'll use it there.

If you'd like a massage chair that reclines, you won't be able to position the back of the massage chair close to a wall. Measure the space you have in mind before selecting a chair. A massage chair salesperson should be able to tell you how much room you need for the massage chair to recline all the way, and whether the particular model you're interested in will work in your space.

Some massage chairs, such as the Ijoy (www.interhealth.com), have wheels, so the chair can be moved from room to room or out of sight. This makes them ideal for people who don't mind a massage chair in their living room, but want to be able to move it out of the way when company comes.

If you just don't have the space, you may want to consider getting a portable massage cushion. Although not as feature-rich as a massage chair, it can be placed on any chair and removed and stowed away when not in use.

Back Massage

Back Massage

Some massage clinics and spas offer 30-minute back massages. If a back massage is not expressly advertised, you can also book a 30- or 40-minute massage and ask that the massage therapist to focus on your back. Massage for Neck and Back Pain?

These are just 10 of the more popular types of massage. There are many more. Learn about more alternative therapie

Sports Massage

Sports Massage

Sports massage is specifically designed for people who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be a professional athlete to have one-it's also used by people who are active and work out often. The focus isn't on relaxation but on preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance.

A combination of techniques are used. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility.

Reflexology

Reflexology

Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet. To learn more, read the full article on reflexology.

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy Massage

Also called prenatal massage, pregnancy massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage know the proper way to position and support the woman's body during the massage, and how to modify techniques.

Pregnancy massage is used to reduce stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, and reduce anxiety and depression. The massage is customized to a woman's individual needs. To learn more, read the full article on pregnancy massage.

Thai Massage

Thai Massage

Like shiatsu, Thai massage aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compressions and stretches.

You don't just lie there--the therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures. It's like yoga without doing any work. Thai massage is more energizing than other forms of massage. It is also reduces stress and improves flexibility and range of motion. To learn more, read the full article on thai massage. Also, see photos of a Thai massage session.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians.

Each point is held for for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.

People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards. To learn more, read the full article on shiatsu.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.

Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage. To learn more, read the full article on deep tissue massage.

Hot Stone Massage

Hot Stone Massage

Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body.

The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting. Hot stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage. To learn more, read the full article on hot stone massage.

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs.

The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. One of the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender.

Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component. To learn more, read the full article on aromatherapy massage.

Swedish Massage Therapy

Swedish Massage Therapy

This is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. It is also known as Swedish massage or simply massage therapy.

Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil.

Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had massage before, this is a good one to try first. To learn more, read the full article on Swedish massage.

What The Aura-Soma Bottles Mean

What The Aura-Soma Bottles Mean

Each Aura-Soma bottle has a specific theme or meaning, such as "The Wisdom of Love," "Trust" or "Living in the Material World." The order you choose them in also has a specific meaning.

• The first bottle represents the potential and gifts you have brought with you into life.
• The second bottle represents the challenges you face, the things within you that you want to be brought into balance and another gift that will come out of that process.
• The third bottle represents the "here and now" and where you in relation to the potential and the challenge described in the first two bottles.
• The fourth bottle represents where you are going, the energy that you are drawing toward yourself and the future you are trying to create.

What Is Aura-Soma?

Aura-Soma is a form of color therapy, energy work and "soul therapy" that supports you spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically. It is only offered at a few spas, including Mii Amo, A Destination Spa at Enchantment in Sedona, Arizona, and also by independent practitioners.

The Aura-Soma consultation is a metaphysical spa treatment that is well suited for people who are at a crossroads, want to invite change or bring a new focus to their life, or are open to exploring themselves on a deeper level.

The idea behind Aura-Soma is "you are the colors you choose." For an Aura-Soma consultation, you choose four bottles of colored liquids -- most of them a combination of two different colors -- from a startlingly beautiful display of 107 bottles.

The bottles you choose are interpreted by a registered Aura-Soma consultant, who gives you a deeper understanding of your potential, your challenges and gifts, what's coming into your life in the present and what's coming in the future.

Metaphysical Spa Treatments

Metaphysical spa treatments are spa services that go beyond the physical world, working on the body's energy systems, employing traditional divination techniques, and calling on your own intuition. Examples of metaphysical spa treatments include Reiki, chakra balancing, psychic massage, tarot card readings, astrology, numerology, shamanic journeys and aura-soma readings.

Many people go to spas, particularly destination spas, to retreat from the everyday world, gain insight into themselves, or go on a spiritual journey. They are often at a crossroads in their life -- perhaps they have just gone through a divorce, or lost a loved one, or are trying to make a decision about what to do next with their lives.

Metaphysical spa treatments can help such people on a physical, emotional and spiritual level. Treatments like reiki (offered at most spas), chakra balancing and psychic massage help balance the body's energy systems and make you feel more "grounded" and "centered." Readings that use tarot cards, aura-soma, or other divination systems can provide a pathway to understanding your feelings and what you need to know at the moment.

People who are interested in metaphysical services are often seeking insight or direction on a specific issue. in a spa you can generally be assured that the people who give such readings are of a very high quality and have a supportive approach. Certain spas, like Mii amo, a Destination Spa at Enchantment in Sedona, Arizona, are particularly known for their metaphysical services. If you're interested in exploring metaphysical services, a well-regarded destination spa is a safe place to do it.

In the outside world, you need to be careful who you consult. Try to get a personal reference to make sure the people you go to are skilled in their work, and ask about their training.

Be alert to anything that feels "off," and feel free to stop the session if it takes a wrong turn. For instance, I once had a past life reading (not at a spa) where the woman told me one upsetting thing after another. I should have walked out

My Psychic Massage at Mii Amo

My Psychic Massage at Mii Amo

I received a psychic massage from Bhadra at Mii Amo in Sedona, which is known for its metaphysical spa treatments. The psychic massage took place in a beautiful treatment room that had spectacular views of the canyon walls that the spa is famous for. We started by sitting across from each other and having a chat. "What are your expectations?" Bhadra asked. "I don't have any," I said. "What are the possibilities?"

Bhadra said if there was an issue that I wanted clarity on, it would be a good time to bring it up. I talked about a subject he has a lot of experience with -- working with a spiritual teacher -- and he gave me practical advice and insights. After 15 or 20 minutes he invited me to get on the massage table, face down, and left the room so I could take my robe off.

When he came back I kept talking -- apparently I had more to say! -- and he kept sharing his viewpoint as he did very gentle massage and energy work. He pointed out that my "fear and uncertainty" were located around my shoulders (always hunched and knotted) and that lower down, in the area that corresponds to the second chakra, I had more of a sense of "knowing" and self-trust.

He had me turn over onto my back, as you would in a typical massage, and continued to give gentle massage and bodywork. At a certain point I fell quiet and just experienced the work, and at the end felt much more balanced, centered and whole.

According to Bhadra, psychic massage reconnects you with that part of yourself that lies beyond all problems and conflicts. "It supports a state of resting within yourself, where you feel relaxed and you don't wish to change anything because the moment is full and complete."

After my psychic massage, I took a two-hour nap, and the next day spent a lot of time by the pool, gazing at the looming cliffs. "It is helpful that Mii amo is a very protected environment and that people have the luxury to take time to rest and integrate," says Bhadra. "An atmosphere of meditation helps transformation and integration."

What To Look For in A Psychic Massage Therapist

If you want a psychic massage, ask if the therapist was trained and certified by Sagarpriya. The trainings are only open to people who have years of meditation experience and have been interviewed to ensure sure they have a high level of integrity. "There might be people out there that call their treatment psychic massage but did not have the training," says Bhadra.

Psychic Massage

Psychic Massage Won't Predict The Future

A psychic massage is a specialty spa treatment where you receive very gentle massage and energy work that leaves you feeling balanced, centered and supported. During psychic massage, the therapist gives you verbal feedback on what they perceive in your body and helps you release old patterns and develop healthier ones through awareness and touch.

Psychic massage is not about predicting the future or anything a "psychic" might do, according to Bhadra Ruttiger, who gives psychic massage at Mii amo, A Destination Spa at Enchantmentin Sedona, Arizona.

Psychic massage was developed by Sagarpriya (formerly known as Roberta Delong Miller) while directing the massage program at Esalen Institute. She wrote her first book, "Psychic Massage", in 1975. Sagarpriya says psychic massage is a way for the therapist to share love through bodywork. The client feels accepted as he is, relaxes deeply and experiences trust.

"Psychic massage is about awareness, meditation and real transformation," says Bhadra, who was trained by Sagarpriya in 1984. "It is helpful if the person is truly interested in getting to know themselves better. It isn't a treatment you should book to be entertained."

Tips for Skin Brushing

Tips for Skin Brushing

To brush your skin, start at you feet and sweep up the legs in long, light brisk movements. All skin brushing movements should be towards the heart, to encourage the return of blood and encourage lymphatic flow.

Pay particular attention to the cellulite-prone areas like your thighs. Brush your abdomen with a circular clock-wise motion. Brush your arms with an upward motion, moving towards the heart. The whole process should take two to five minutes.

Don’t be too rough. Overbrushing causes the skin to turn red and become irritated

Do it first thing in the morning, when the increased blood flow will help wake you up, or before you take a shower.

How Skin Brushing Helps With Cellulite

Dry Skin Brushing Stimulates Blood & Lymph Flow

Skin brushing – also called dry body brushing -- is a simple technique that stimulates blood and lymph flow, exfoliates the skin and encourages new cell growth.

Murad says skin brushing helps control cellulite by bringing nutrients and oxygen to the outer layer of skin (the epidermis). “Although there are no blood vessels in the epidermis, the dermis is rich with blood vessels, and the epidermis receives nutrients and oxygen supply from the dermis,” says Murad.

All you need for skin brushing is a body brush with natural bristles. The best is a Tampico Skin Brush (compare prices) made with natural agave plant fiber. This simple technique stimulates blood and lymph flow, removes dead skin cells and encourages new cell growth. Skin brushing is also inexpensive. You can get a good quality body brush for $6-$8.

What You Should Know About Body Exfoliation:

What You Should Know About Body Exfoliation:

• You can use a body scrub once or twice a week with no problem.
• Body brushing every morning is a gentle way to exfoliate -- and wake up!

What You Should Know About Facial Exfoliation:

What You Should Know About Facial Exfoliation:

• Be extra careful with the delicate skin of your face.
• It's easy to overexfoliate. Talk to a good esthetician about the product and frequency that is best for your skin. Your should be especially cautious if you have sensitive or aging skin.


• Be careful not to overdo microdermabrasion. It can make thin, aging skin even thinner if you get too many treatments too quickly.
• Don't overexfoliate, especially in summer or in very sunny climates. You're making it easier for your skin to be damaged by the sun.
• Never use body scrubs on the face. They're too rough.
• Be very careful with peels. Don't get one peel and then go somewhere else to ask for another. You can remove too much of your protective layer and end up exposing the living dermis. Again, be careful about going out in the sun afterwards, or doing it in summer.
• Never wax if you've had a peel recently. It might expose raw, living skin, which will have to scab over to heal.

Why Is Exfoliation Important?

Why Is Exfoliation Important?

The skin is constantly generating new skin cells at the lower layer (the dermis) and sending them to the surface (the epidermis). As the cells rise to the surface they gradually die and become filled with keratin. These keratinized skin cells are essential because they give our skin its protective quality. But they are constantly sloughing off to make way for younger cells.

As we age the process of cell turnover slows down. Cells start to pile up unevenly on the skin's surface, giving it a dry, rough, dull appearance. Exfoliation is beneficial because it removes those cells that are clinging on, revealing the fresher, younger skin cells below.

It is possible, however, to overexfoliate, especially on the delicate skin of the face. Overexfoliating will dry and irritate the skin.

Chemical Exfoliation

Chemical Exfoliation. Enzymes, alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) or betahydroxy acids (BHAS) loosen the glue-like substance that holds the cells together, allowing them to slough away. Facial peels are a form of chemical exfoliation. Chemical peels can either be very gentle or very aggressive, depending on how the strong the peel is. Body treatments might use mild chemical exfoliants like pineapple enzymes.

Mechanical Exfoliation

1) Mechanical Exfoliation. The dead skin cells are physically rubbed off with an abrasive. Examples of mechanical exfoliation include a salt glow, a body scrub that might use sugar or coffee grounds, or skin brushing. On the face, mechanical exfoliation ranges from scrubs should use small, round, gentle abrasives like jojoba beads to more aggressive procedures like microdermabrasion.

What Is A Vichy Shower?

A Vichy shower is a metal arm with five to seven shower heads that runs parallel to a cushioned treatment table, so you can get a shower while lying down. It is usually part of a body treatment, like a salt scrub or body wrap. Instead of jumping up and getting in a shower to rinse off the salt or mud, you simply lie there.

The Vichy might be attached to the wall, or freestanding. It has a hinge so the therapist can turn the water on and adjust the temperature while it's away from the treatment table. Once it's the right temperature and pressure, he/she will swing it over your body. The cascade of water feels delicious!

During a Vichy shower you are usually draped with towels -- one between your legs and for women, one across your breasts. You can wear disposable underwear. When you're on your back, the therapist might put something over your face to minimize the water spray in your face.

If you're anxious about nudity, this is probably not the treatment for you. Turning over with wet towels tends to be a little sloppy.

Where Can I Find A Vichy Shower?

Check the spa menu to see if they have a Vichy shower as part of their body treatments, or ask the receptionist. Large day spas, resort spas and destination spas usually have a Vichy shower, but a small local day spa probably won't.

Thalassotherapy

Thalassotherapy is the therapeutic use of the ocean, its climate, and marine products like algae, seaweed, and alluvial mud. The name comes from the Greek words thalassa ("the sea") and therap ("treat").

The principle behind thalassotherapy is that repeated exposure to sea air and immersion in warm seawater, mud, clay, and protein-rich algae helps restore the body's natural chemical balance. Seawater and human plasma are very similar. When immersed in warm seawater the body absorbs the minerals it needs through the skin.

What You Need to Know About Thalassotherapy

• There are about 100 thalassotherapy spas in the world, most of them in Europe and Africa. Thalassotherapy was pioneered in France in the early 1900s, and it still has more thalassotherapy spas than any other country.


• Modern thalassotherapy centers are located by the ocean and have complex facilities, including pools of varying depths and temperatures for various purposes. The seawater comes from a depth of 40 feet so there is no surface pollution. It also comes from some distance from shore.


• You get a benefit from warm seawater that you don't get from swimming in cold seawater. The main component of seawater is sodium choride (salt), but it is also rich in minerals and trace elements. Immersion in warm seawater allows those minerals to pass through the skin.


• Thalassotherapy never took off in the United States so you can't find the same complex thalassotherapy facilities of Europe. Gurney's Inn & Spa in Montauk, New York is the closest thing to a thalassotherapy spa in America.


• If you're at a spa by the ocean, you can still get thalassotherapy benefits by walking on the beach, breathing the sea air, or getting a seaside massage. And seaweed wraps are a classic thalassotherapy treatment available at most spas.

Indian Face Massage (Facial rejuvenation) is a natural facelift through massage.

Indian Face Massage (Facial rejuvenation) is a natural facelift through massage.

It is designed to be a gentle non-invasive approach to looking younger. It works primarily by freeing constrictions both within the facial muscles and in the connective tissue.

Tension can build up within our facial muscles from the pressures of everyday life without us realising it. It can be easy for certain thoughts and emotions to become habitual, locking themselves into expressions on our faces - sometimes over a duration of a whole lifetime. Under such conditions muscles can actually “dry up” and contract, inhibiting freedom of expression. This can encourage ageing and the formation of wrinkles as the face loses its muscle tone and elasticity and begins to sag.

Through gentle massage of the face, we can help to delay the ageing process. This is achieved by using simple massage techniques and energy balancing, thereby giving the facial muscles a lift and a new lease of life.

This is a precise healthcare modality, working the face systematically, releasing deep-seated tensions, freeing layers of muscle and connective tissue so that there is space for the muscles to relax, encouraging an opening so that micro circulation and elimination can begin again and the tissues can glide smoothly over the deeper layers of muscle and bone. Although it is difficult to stave off the ageing process, we can do much to extend the appearance of youth and beauty by using simple, natural and effective massage techniques and energy balancing to take care of the assets we possess.

It is designed to be a gentle non-invasive approach to looking younger. It works primarily by freeing constrictions both within the facial muscles and in the connective tissue.

Tension can build up within our facial muscles from the pressures of everyday life without us realising it. It can be easy for certain thoughts and emotions to become habitual, locking themselves into expressions on our faces - sometimes over a duration of a whole lifetime. Under such conditions muscles can actually “dry up” and contract, inhibiting freedom of expression. This can encourage ageing and the formation of wrinkles as the face loses its muscle tone and elasticity and begins to sag.

Through gentle massage of the face, we can help to delay the ageing process. This is achieved by using simple massage techniques and energy balancing, thereby giving the facial muscles a lift and a new lease of life.

This is a precise healthcare modality, working the face systematically, releasing deep-seated tensions, freeing layers of muscle and connective tissue so that there is space for the muscles to relax, encouraging an opening so that micro circulation and elimination can begin again and the tissues can glide smoothly over the deeper layers of muscle and bone. Although it is difficult to stave off the ageing process, we can do much to extend the appearance of youth and beauty by using simple, natural and effective massage techniques and energy balancing to take care of the assets we possess.

Facial Massage-To Enhance Youthful Skin

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Massaging the face is a must follow beauty regime to keep early aging and stress at bay. The add on to this daily care not only promises soft skin but also helps in stimulating blood circulation and removing dead skin. It helps in tightening the skin tissue, thus preventing the flabby and undesirable sagging skin. Follow these tips to maximize skin's natural radiance with a youthful look.

Face massaging tips Before massaging the skin, clean your face with a cleansing milk thoroughly to remove all traces of make up. This helps in avoiding the skin pores to get blocked by any dirt particles. Tie a head band and drape a towel below the shoulder. Avoid applying lot of pressure on the face since, while massaging you may cause the skin to bruise or swell. Move the finger tip around the face as directed in swift, light and firm way. Make sure to massage at least for 20 minutes. Do not apply any make up for the next 3-4 hours after massage. The best time for a face treat would be at night before going to bed. Apply a massaging oil or cream that is suitable for your skin type. For instance, massage dry skin with a cold cream. For oily skin use olive oil with few drops of lemon juice.

Face massaging steps
To ensure the right pressure use index, middle and ring fingers. Do it with a

	Before massaging the skin clean your face with a cleansing milk thoroughly to remove all traces of make up.

slow and steady rhythm. Always remember to massage in an upward motion as it helps in delaying the force of gravity.

Forehead or the temple: gently move across the temple, with the index and middle finger in circles with the sign of number eight. It should be done just like you number the temple with several small 8's. Cover the forehead area from the eyebrow to the hairline. Repeat it in slow and firm motion for at least 5-10 times.

Eyes : While massaging the area around the eyes, work out from the outer temple inward the bridge of the nose as this will help the facial muscles around the eyes suspend from the temple towards the nose. By stretching the skin in the opposite direction the skin will have less risks of any kind of skin damage. To get rid of work stress, gently place your finger in the hollow of your eye, next to your nose and press in gently, releasing the pressure after every 5 seconds. Repeat the step for 5 times for instant relief.

Nose : For the nose begin stroking the area from inner hollow of the eye, massage downward, along the sides of your nose. Do it with the help of index finger and repeat it for 5 times.

Cheeks : start circular motions from the chin and move upwards across the cheeks to the temples. After reaching the temples, massage in circular motions three times. Repeat the entire sequence for 5 times. Stretch the cheek bone skin in an outward motions, that is start from the chin and move it outwards towards the earlobe.

Around the lips: with the help of index and middle finger make circular and upward motion around the mouth and lips. Start the gentle massage form the chin and move upwards to the area under the nostrils. Repeat the massaging technique for 5 times.

Chin : By starting from the ear lobe where the right jaw meets grasp the skin between your index and middle fingers and move them the length of the jaw in a form of scissor motion. Massage back to the starting point in a circular motion. Repeat the entire sequence for 5 times.

Kundalini Magick

Kundalini Magick by Kaile Dutton and Jodi St. Onge

Kundalini is a Hindu term referring to the channel of energy that spirals up along the spine, through the chakras, and out through the crown. Hindus call this the serpent. By raising the Kundalini, you open up to channeling more of the universal life force energy. This opens the way for more unconditional love and deeper spiritual healing.

One method used to help raise the energy of the Kundalini is called the Hui Yin, often compared to Kundalini Yoga, Tantra Yoga, and Ch'i Kung. It allows the body to create a channel of universal energy to flow through the spine and out the crown. By using the Hui Yin, you can create a constant channel, which will naturally activate and raise the Kundalini with practice.

Hui Yin

The Hui Yin is a term that describes the act of contracting the perineum, which is located at the base of the root chakra. This exercise is another method similar to Kundalini yoga, which activates the channels throughout the body and allows sexual energy to be transmuted into spiritual energy.

Once you have contracted your Hui Yin, place your tongue on the roof of your mouth. This will establish a channel of energy rising and falling through your base. This channel releases energy blocks in the body and creates a constant channel for divine energy to flow through your body. This process also raises the vibration, also known as “ Kundalini rising.”

The idea is to activate the Kundalini between both partners prior to lovemaking. Creating a heart link will enhance sexual energy. This helps give the lovers a strong sense of euphoria and help create an orgasmic state.

Hui Yin Exercise

• Sit facing each other. Take three deep breaths, breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth. Concentrate on your breathing. While contracting the Hui Yin, hold your tongue on the roof of your mouth. You may find it difficult to breathe; just try to breathe through your nose slowly.

• Visualize a golden cord connecting your heart to your mate's. Feel the universal life force energy rising up through your chakras, out your heart, and into your mate's heart chakra, creating a cycle of energy. Focus on feeling the energy traveling up the back, up your Kundalini, and back around again, creating a channel of energy. The longer you hold this position, the more blocks you release.

Try doing this for at least fifteen minutes prior to lovemaking. This technique is excellent for helping you achieve an orgasmic state of mind while lovemaking.

Determine how you plan to use the essential oil Making larger quantities

Making larger quantities
To make 8 fluid oz (1 cup or 250 mL) massage oil, use:

48 drops lavender essential oil
12 drops chamomile essential oil
12 drops sandalwood essential oil
8 drops ylang ylang essential oil

Determine how you plan to use the essential oil.Method

Determine how you plan to use the essential oil.Method
To fill a 10 mL bottle of the essential oil blend, add the following to the bottle:

• 1 teaspoon plus 20 drops lavender essential oil
  
• 30 drops chamomile essential oil
  
• 30 drops sandalwood essential oil
  
• 20 drops ylang ylang essential oil

Cover tightly.

To make a massage oil, add the following essential oils to the 4 fluid ounce bottle:

• 24 drops lavender essential oil
  
• 6 drops chamomile essential oil
  
• 6 drops sandalwood essential oil
  
• 4 drops ylang ylang essential oil

Fill the rest of the bottle with your desired massage oil. Cover tightly.

Determine how you plan to use the essential oil.

Determine how you plan to use the essential oil.
If you simply want to make an essential oil blend to use in an aromatherapy diffuser (a small table-top device provides continuous scent) or to store in a bottle for a variety of purposes, you will need a 10 mL small amber or blue glass bottle with a dropper cap. This essential oil blend should not be applied to skin undiluted.

If you would like to make a massage oil, you will need a bottle that holds between 4 fluid ounces (1/2 cup or 125 mL) and 8 fluid ounces (1 cup or 250 mL), depending on how much you would like to make. Again, amber or blue glass is preferred.

Complementary Therapy for Dogs

Doggie Aromatherapy

I do not suggest adding any essential oils directly to water, as they will not mix water and will rise and stay on the surface. On the other hand you can use essential oils diluted with base oils such as olive, safflower, jojoba, almond or any other vegetable oil and use it externally on your dogs.

• 5 drop of your choice of essential oil
• 10 ml of carrier oil (olive, jojoba, almond etc.)

Mix well and apply away from head (ear, eye, nose) area always. You can use this for dogs and yourself too.

a.. Citronella and lemongrass mixture with your choice of base oil "carrier oil" would make a great insect repellent.

b.. Rose (Rosa damascena), Ylang Ylang (Cananga Odorata), Clary Sage (Salvia sclare) diluted with base oil should help taming tension for your over active dog about to take a trip to the vet or groomer or yourself during a stressful event!

c.. Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis), Peppermint (Mentha piperita) with a base oil will help itchy skin, dry or sluggish skin and coat and helps fight against skin parasites.

d.. Lavender and Marjoram diluted with a base oil can help tight, cramping, sore muscles, etc. Add a few drops on your palm and rub gently. Excellent for working dogs and people too!

e.. Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha), Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) with light base oil will help eczema, bruises, and cracked or chapped skin. You can use it on minor cuts as well. Niaouli Essential Oil (Melaleuca viridiflora) can be included to treat viral infections as well. Please be cautions using certain essential oils on pregnant or seizure prone dogs or people. I say this though I know all is dose-related. Using herbs, essential oils, hydrosols and all other natural therapies need to be respected and used with care as you would all medication. If in doubt always use your best judgment and always ask your trusted vet.

There are many more essential oils and certainly even more combinations one can use, but as you try a few yourselves you can learn to experiment and come up with wonderful concoctions of your own.

Just keep in mind to use essential oils externally, always keep them away from face, eyes and nose and never use them on or around cats, birds, ferrets, etc. I will strongly suggest that you find a few good aromatherapy books and read about essential oil safety first so that you do not fear it, but respect it!

Infusing, a safe and simple alternative:

You can infuse base oils such as olive oil, grapeseed oil (almond oil etc.) with herbs, leaves, and roots, which you can use on your dog without fear. Best of all you can use these infusions on the whole family; you can cook with it as well as using it in your favorite bath recipe.

Prepare enough herbs to make one cup total. Crush them well or you can use a blender to chop them. Place them in a jar (I use a mason jar.) Get your choice of vegetable oil (I prefer olive and hazelnut, but omit hazelnut in case of nut allergies). Slowly pour the oil just enough to cover your crushed herbs. Close the lid as tight as you possibly can. I use a small thick plastic over the jar's mouth and than close the lid to make it more airtight.

Try to keep your herb jar in a warm place about 75 degrees for 7-10 days. I move my infusion jars near the window on sunny days and move them to the cozy warm shelves above my beloved oven!

A few herbs/botanicals of my choice are Alkanet (root), chamomile flowers, calendula petals, chickweed, comfrey root, neem, nettles, peppermint leaves, rosemary, rose blossoms or petals, St. John's Wort and yarrow.

I use only organically grown and suggest that you try your first few infusions with dry botanicals at first. You can venture into fresh ones later as they do have the tendencies to go bad faster.

The combinations are endless and using natural ingredients should not be costly or very hard to make and now you can make your own canine goodies. Next time you are at your health shop look for tea bags, organic apple cider vinegar and dried herbs. Soon you will be busy collecting mason jars, cool new herbs, flower buds and start seeing each and every herb and flower in a different light. A very powerful and healing light.

Welcome to the bewitching world of Mother Nature.

Author: Sevi Kay
© 2001 Mundo L.L.C
http://www.cybercanine.com

Things To Keep In Mind: I do not use or recommend using essential oils internally and suggest you contact a holistic veterinarian to guide you in case you do. Each dog is different so always involve your trusted veterinarian when introducing a new diet as certain herbs may cause allergic reactions however natural or organic they may be.

These aromatherapy recipes are for dogs only. Never use aromatherapy products on cats, birds or other exotic pets and animals. Always keep essential oils away from pets, kids and store them in a cool dark place. Never use essential oils undiluted "neat" on skin or coat. Always label your finished products (date,ingredients used) and store them in a cool place.

Dos and Don'ts of Oils and Creams

Dos and Don'ts of Oils and Creams

There are some important things to keep in mind when dealing with massage oils and creams:

Don't put oils where they are not intended to go. Keep in mind that most massage oils are not intended to go inside the body. Instead, you should use specifically designed lubricants (water-based products like Astroglide are best) for any activities involving penetration or areas inside the body. You should also take care to avoid getting any kind of oils or creams in your eyes.

Do check the Internet, where you can find lots of “recipes” for making homemade massage oils. Experiment and find one that you like best, or be creative and come up with your own unique blend.

Arousing Scents

Arousing Scents

Although it's tough to prove this scientifically, there are certain scents that are commonly believed to encourage erotic feelings and arousal. The most powerful scent connected with arousal is one you can't buy in a bottle: Human pheromones (chemicals the body releases during sexual excitement) tend to have a magnetic effect during close contact with potential partners.

Among nonbiological scents, everyone's tastes are different, so it's virtually impossible to pinpoint a single scent that will be 100 percent effective. However, scents that have been traditionally linked with arousal include cinnamon, vanilla, rose, and musky smells.

In the late '90s, Alan Hirsch, M.D., of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago, conducted a study to determine which scents people found most physically arousing. Of more than two dozen different scents, men showed the most aroused reaction in response to a blend of lavender and pumpkin pie. Another surprising finding: Both men and women became aroused after smelling a blend of licorice and cucumber.

Oils by Bobbi Dempsey

An essential part of a sensual massage is the use of oil. You can find massage oil just about everywhere — even major chain stores like Wal-Mart sell massage oil, usually near the bath supplies or personal merchandise such as condoms. Here, you can often find very affordable oils in a wide variety of types, including warming massage lotions and oils that heat up on contact.

Types of Oils

When choosing a massage oil, be sure to choose a high-quality product. Keep in mind that there are three basic types of oils: lightweight, medium-weight, and heavyweight. Light oils are moisturizing, as they are absorbed more easily into the skin. Medium oils are a bit slicker and slower to absorb into the skin. Finally, heavy oils are very slick and remain on the skin for an extended amount of time. You won't have to reapply this oil very often. It is best suited for long, Tantric massages.

Massage oils can be great for the skin — but terrible for upholstery and linens. Keep in mind that oil can often be tough to get out of fabrics, so it is a good idea to put down an old (yet comfortable) sheet or towels to protect carpet and furniture.

Massage oils come in a nearly unlimited array of scents (and even flavors). Many people enjoy natural types of scents like vanilla, coconut, rose, lavender, or orange. But there is no one “right” scent. It is completely a matter of personal preference. Variety can be exciting, so keep experimenting with a lot of different scents and combinations of scents to find the fragrance you and your partner enjoy most. Try visiting aromatherapy shops and making your own unique scent combination.

Abhyanga Massage Instructions

Abhyanga Massage Instructions

• Use comfortably warm massage oil. Store your massage oil in a plastic flip-top and warm it by holding the container under running hot water for a few minutes.

• Dip your fingertips into the warm oil and apply it lightly to the entire body.

• Wait for 4-5 minutes to let some of the oil be absorbed by your skin.

• Massage the entire body, applying even pressure with the whole hand - palm and fingers.

• Apply light pressure on sensitive areas such as the abdomen or the heart.

• Use more oil and spend more time where nerve endings are concentrated, such as the soles of feet, palms of hands and along the base of the fingernails. Circular motions over rounded areas such as your head or joints, and straight strokes on straight areas such as your arms and legs, work best.

• After you're done, relax for 10-15 minutes, allowing the oil and the massage do their magic. Follow with a relaxing warm bath or shower.

If your schedule doesn't allow for a daily massage, try and squeeze it in at least 3 or 4 times a week. You'll find it's worth it!

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy

Aroma massage oils also deliver double the benefit - the healing aromas in the massage oil blend, if properly chosen, are particularly effective in balancing the mind and emotions while the act of the massage works on both body and mind. Ayurveda recommends different base oils and aroma blends depending on what you are attempting to balance. Coconut oil, for example, is a cooling base oil. When combined with a relaxing aroma oil such as lavender, this massage oil will be effective in cooling down the mind, body and emotions. Sweet Orange or Geranium Rose aroma oils are fragrant and relaxing, Basil or Rosemary are vibrant pick-me-ups. If you have a favorite aroma oil or blend, try making your own aroma massage oil by adding 5-10 drops of the essential oil or blend in 4 fl. oz. of the base oil. Almond oil, a light olive oil or jojoba oil can all work as base oils.

Healing Herbs

Healing Herbs

Healing herbs are important in Ayurveda. Herbalized massage oils contain a blend of carefully chosen herbs known for their ability to strengthen the physiology and balance the mind. So the daily massage with an herbalized massage oil has twice the beneficial power - the benefits from the massage and the wisdom of the herbs. Country Mallow, Winter Cherry and Sensitive Plant are some Ayurvedic herbs you'll find in herbalized massage oils. Country Mallow is renowned for its nourishing effect on the physiology. Winter Cherry, a powerful adaptogenic, aids the body's natural ability to withstand stress, and helps balance the mind and emotions. Sensitive Plant helps nerve regeneration.

Bliss at Your Fingertips

photos.com

How can a ritual so luxuriously relaxing, so blissfully comforting as a full-body warm oil massage rev up your body and mind, gearing them up for peak performance? Ayurveda, the 5,000-year-old holistic healing tradition from India, has an explanation for the seeming contradiction. Accumulated stress and toxins in the mind and body dissolve during the daily massage, says Rama Kant Mishra, Ayurvedic expert. A daily full-body warm oil massage therefore acts as a powerful recharger and rejuvenator of mind and body.

Abhyanga - the Ayurvedic oil massage - is an integral part of the daily routine recommended by this healing system for overall health and well-being. Traditional Ayurvedic texts wax eloquent on the benefits. Here's what one says - Give yourself a full body oil massage on a daily basis. It is nourishing, pacifies Vata and Kapha, relieves fatigue, provides stamina, pleasure and perfect sleep, enhances the complexion and the luster of the skin, promotes longevity and nourishes all parts of the body. When the views expressed in the different Ayurvedic texts are put together, here are the benefits that can be expected from regular performance of this pleasant daily ritual:

• Increased circulation, especially to nerve endings
• Toning of the muscles and the whole physiology
• Calming for the nerves
• Lubrication of the joints
• Increased mental alertness
• Improved elimination of impurities from the body
• Softer, smoother skin
• Increased levels of stamina through the day
• Better, deeper sleep at night

The Ayurvedic massage is traditionally performed in the morning, before your bath or shower. You can use cured sesame oil, an herbalized massage oil, or an aroma massage oil.

If you choose sesame oil, look for cold-pressed, chemical-free organic sesame oil for the best results from your massage therapy. To cure or purify the sesame oil, heat the oil to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from heat once this temperature is reached, cool and store for use as needed. Up to a quart of oil can be cured at a time. Of course, you should observe safety precautions when curing oil. All oils are highly flammable. Use low heat, and don't leave the oil on heat unattended. You can look for professionally cured sesame oil at stores that sell Ayurvedic products if you'd rather not do the curing yourself.

Sensual Body Massage

Sensual Body Massage

Now that you have created your atmosphere and a beautiful love synergy blend to use as your massage oil, it is time to perform your magick. Use your own hands as a tool for creating sexual energy.

Essential

Warm up the massage oil by either rubbing it between your hands to create friction or with a warmer. Create warm relaxation rather than tension. Cold massage oil will cause the muscles in the body to contract and tense.

Lay a towel on the bed for protection. Keep extra towels available to cover parts of your partner while he or she lies down.

• Have your partner lie face down on the bed, using pillows where needed for added comfort and proper alignment of the spine.

• Have your partner concentrate on breathing and listening to beautiful, soothing music.

• Beginning at the neck and shoulders, use long fluid motions to rub lengthwise to reduce any tension and stress. Watch your partner's body language to adjust your motions for good pressure and touch.

• Bring your hands down the spine and back muscles using consistent fluid motions.

• Massage the buttocks and thighs. While rubbing the thighs, start to move your hands up and down the inner thigh, occasionally gently brushing against your partner's private areas. This helps build sexual energy.

• Continually move up and down your partner's legs, moving down to the feet. Massage the feet according to the likes of your partner. Use great care and caution not to tickle the feet; this will disrupt the sexual energy.

• Take your time and work all over the body. Have your mate turn over. Beginning at the chest, lightly massage the breasts or pectoral muscles, moving in circular motions around the breast and nipples.

• Bring your hands down to the waist in long strokes. Try not to rub too lightly here. Continue rubbing the thighs and around the genital area.

This beginning should lead you to a wonderful night of enchanted lovemaking. Make things interesting by using the softness of feathers or flowers to stimulate the senses further.

Love Body Massage Oil Ingredients

Love Body Massage OilIngredients

8 tablespoons apricot kernel oil

6 capsules vitamin E

3 tablespoons aloe vera gel

24 drops Egyptian musk

8 drops patchouli oil

• Combine all ingredients in a wooden or glass bowl. Mix well with a wooden spoon. Recite the following incantation:

  “Friction and fire,

  Burning desire,

  Pulsing and beating ever higher.

  Shakti, Shakti bless for me,

  Shiva, Shiva balance the need,

  Passion and Tantric waiting to be,

  Love and spirituality it shall be.”

• Warm oil slowly in a double boiler. Be careful not to overheat it.

• Apply massage oil liberally on the skin without allowing the oil to pool. Should you feel the need to add more essential oil, use a 4 to 1 ratio between Egyptian musk and patchouli. Both scents are aphrodisiacs, and you don't want to overpower your partner

Love Body Massage Oil

Love Body Massage Oil

When creating massage oils, choose an appropriate carrier oil to blend with your essential oils. There are many base oils, including jojoba, grapeseed, sunflower, and almond oil. All of them work well and have been used in conjunction with other oils to create beautiful blends. It is up to you to choose the right base for you. Consider your skin type, scent, and viscosity when you select a base. Almond oil tends to be thicker and spreads well, while grapeseed oil is thinner and tends to be absorbed into the skin with ease. You can also try using store-bought lubricants such as Astro Glide or KY warming massage as an alternative to traditional massage oils.

Other Things You Should Know About Body Polishes

Other Things You Should Know About Body Polishes

• Some spas do body polishes in a room without a shower and remove the exfoliant with steamed towels.
• You can get a body polish on its own, but often it's the first step in a body wrap , often a seaweed or mud wrap.
• You can also combine a body polish with a massage. Get the body polish first because it is stimulating, whereas the massage calms you down. Some spas have signature treatments that combine both body polish and massage.
• Salt and other exfoliants can be abrasive, and some therapists have a heavier hand than others. Individuals also differ in their skin sensitivity. If it feels too harsh, speak up

What Happens During a Body Polish?

What Happens During a Body Polish?

A body polish usually takes place in a wet room, which has a tile floor and a drain. The therapist may offer you disposable underwear, the leave the room. You will start face-down on a massage table covered with a towel, a sheet or a thin piece of plastic, or on a special wet table that has a Vichy shower overhead. In that case you won't have to get up to be rinsed off.

The therapist will return and start by gently rubbing the exfoliant on your back, the backs of your arms, and the backs of your legs and feet. You are draped with a towel or sheet, so only the part she is working on is exposed. Then you turn over and she does the other side.

When the therapist is finished, you usually step into a shower to rinse off. Be sure to rinse thoroughly so you don't take little granules back to the table. And don't use shower gel -- it's good to keep the oil and aromatics on your skin. If the spa is doing the treatment on a special wet table, the therapist will either rinse you off with a hand-held shower, or turn on a Vichy shower.

If you step into the shower, the therapist will put clean sheets on the treatment table while you're showering and step out of the room again. You dry off and lie face-down on the treatment table underneath a sheet or towel. Then the therapist returns and applies body lotion or oil.

Body Polish: What Is A Body Polish?

Lay Back, Relax and Enjoy the Scrub

A body polish is a popular body treatment that exfoliates and hydrates your skin, leaving it smooth and soft.

A body polish is primarily a treatment for the skin -- sort of like a facial for the body. It should not be confused with a massage,

A body polish can be done with any number of materials -- salt, sugar, coffee grounds, rice bran, pecan hulls -- usually mixed with some kind of massage oil and aromatic like essential oils. If the polish uses salt, it might be called a salt scrub, salt glow or sea salt scrub. The exfoliation is usually followed by a shower and an application of body lotion

Things To Watch Out For With a Body Wrap

Things To Watch Out For With a Body Wrap

* Don’t expect a body wrap to be a massage. You can get both treatments – body wrap and massage -- or look for signature treatments that include scrub, body wrap and massage.

* If you have claustrophobia, this may not be the right treatment for you.

* You might be left alone during the treatment. If that bothers you, ask before you book the service.

What Happens During A Body Wrap?

What Happens During A Body Wrap?

Often a body wrap begins with exfoliation through dry brushing or a salt scrub. You lie down on whatever you will eventually be wrapped in – often plastic or mylar, but sometimes towels or sheets.

I think it’s best when a massage therapist does the body wrap, because they naturally incorporate massage techniques as they apply the product. An esthetician, on the other hand, is not trained in massage. She is simply applying product to the skin.

Once the product is on, you’re wrapped to stay warm, usually for 20 minutes. Oftentimes the therapist leaves the room, but sometimes they stay and give you a scalp massage (much better, in my opinion!)

When the time is up, you’re unwrapped and the body mask has to come off. This is why they often take place in wet rooms, equipped with a shower, wet table, or Vichy shower. You might either jump in a shower or the therapist will rinse you off with a handheld shower or a special Vichy shower that feels absolutely fabulous. It’s like taking a shower lying down. Then you dry off, and there’s usually an application of lotion to moisturize your skin.

What are the Benefits of a Body Wrap?

What are the Benefits of a Body Wrap?

Body wraps that use algae, seaweed, mud or clay are detox treatments that help rid the body of toxins through metabolic stimulation. *

Body wraps using shea butter and rich lotions are hydrating treatments geared towards softening the skin.

Sensual Massage

Sensual Massage by Kaile Dutton and Jodi St. Onge

A sensual massage can be an effective tool in foreplay, where the gentle massaging of the body activates the senses. The massage soothes and relaxes your mate, creating a stronger connection for deeper intimacy. Before getting started, it is essential to create ambiance, an important part of the stimulation process. Dim the lighting, light candles, play soothing music, and burn incense.

Body Wraps

Everything You Need To Know About Body Wraps

Body wraps were originally a treatment where Ace bandages or plastic wrap was tightly wrapped around the body to cause quick weight loss through vasodilation. You can still find these types of "slimming" body wraps, which result in the temporary loss of weight and inches, at some spas.

But today a body wrap in a spa is more likely to be treatment where you’re slathered with a body mask made of algae, seaweed, mud, clay, lotion or cream, then wrapped for 20 minutes to keep you warm. Later the product is rinsed off. The body wrap usually ends with an application of lotion (technically not a massage). This body wrap treatment is sometimes called a body cocoon or body mask.

Spa Review: Michael's at the Cove

Body Treatments Offered at Michael's at the Cove

Lights are Lowered During Manicures & Pedicures

A variety of body treatments and body wraps are available at Michael's:

• Cell U Lite Body Treatment Wrap--breaks down cellulite, stretch marks and body acne to firm, tone and hydrate the body. (60 minutes, 120 minutes or series of 5-60 minute treatments).
• Salt Glow Treatment--luxurious, exotic nutrient oils combined with sea salts (two kinds: one for sensitive skin and another for all other skin types) exfoliate the skin, leaving it soft and supple. Followed up with a warm soothing massage butter. (45 minutes)
• European Rose Clay Mud Treatment--Rose clay mud along with other minerals accelerate skin renewal, heals and protects, ensures renewed hydration and stimulates skin. Perfectly suited for dry, delicate, weathered or aged skin. Mud treatment begins with salt glow treatment and ends with light massage. (60 to 75 minutes)
• Black Baltic Mud Treatment--Enhances cell turnover, while deeply hydrating the skin, promotes cell oxygenation and assists in removing debris and impurities. This treatment is ideal for both dry and oily skin as it imparts freshness, firmness and uniformity to skin.
• Acti-Sea Body Mud Treatment--Submerges the body in pure marine actives to stimulate, firm and moisturize. Uses various vitamins to stimulate the thyroid, promote decongestion and waste elimination for better skin smoothness, rebalance and proper hydration. Prevents further skin damage by fighting free radicals. [/lu]

  Prices for Body Treatments range from $50 to $120.

What Is A Body Treatment?

Body treatments are essentially a facial for your whole body and leave your skin feeling velvety smooth and soft. The idea behind a body treatment is that is just as important to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin on your body as it is the skin of your face.

The most popular body treatment is a body scrub, sometimes called a body polish, salt glow or sea-salt scrub. This is an exfoliating treatment that takes place on a massage table covered with a sheet and a large, thin piece of plastic.

As you lay on your stomach, the massage therapist rubs a mixture of sea salt, oil, and aromatics like lemon into your skin. This exfoliates the skin and leaves it feeling velvety soft.

Once your whole body is scrubbed, which takes maybe ten or fifteen minutes, you shower it all off without soap, leaving a nice coating of oil. It's an invigorating treatment, and it's a good idea to get your scrub before your massage if you're having both.

Variations can come from the essential oils or scrub materials: you might get an orange blossom/peppermint salt glow or a cucumber salt glow, or a body scrub done with coffee grounds, finely ground pecan shells or Napa Valley grape seeds. Sometimes a hydrating lotion is applied afterwards.

A body mask and body wrap often takes place after a scrub. After you rinse off the salt you return to the treatment table. If you're slathered with mud, algae, or seaweed and wrapped in a thermal blanket, it's a "detoxifying" treatment that stimulates your metabolic system, speeding its ability to carry away waste products. If the product is cream or lotion, it's a "hydrating" treatment.

A body wrap can also be a wrapping treatment used to treat cellulite. It sometimes has a diuretic effect that aids in temporary weight reduction.

More On Body Treatments

What Is A Salt Scrub?

Salt Scrubs Leave Your Skin Soft and Smooth

At a spa, the salt scrub is followed by a shower and an application of body cream, or lotion, leaving your skin feeling very soft and fragrant. Alert! Many states allow people without a massage license to give salt scrubs and other body treatments. This means you might get someone still in school, or an esthetician who is more skilled at facials. I recommend you ask if you're getting a licensed massage therapist when you book a salt scrub.

What Happens During a Salt Scrub?

A salt scrub usually takes place in a wet room, equipped with a shower. The scrub is generally a blend of sea salt, sweet almond oil and some aromatic essential oil like lemon, lavender, or mint.

As the client you are either laying on a massage table covered with a towel or sheet or a thin piece of plastic, or you are lying on a wet table that has a shower attached to it. You are offered a pair of disposable underwear, and men are usually required to wear them. You are draped with a towel, and only the part the therapist is working on is exposed.

As you lay on your stomach, the therapist rubs the salt scrub gently over your skin. The abrasiveness of the salt removes the dead skin cells. Then you turn over and the therapist exfoliates the other side. If they rub too hard, be sure to let them know.

When the therapist is finished, you may be asked to step into a shower to rinse off all the salt. Don’t use soap or shower gel because you want to keep the oil and aromatics on your skin. If the spa is doing the treatment on a special wet table, the therapist will either rinse you off with a hand-held shower, or turn on a Vichy shower, a special six-headed shower that is parallel to the table.

After you dry off, the therapist applies a lotion. Don't expect a full-massage unless it's part of a longer signature treatment, often called a "ritual" or "journey" (usually involving a scrub, wrap and massage.)

You can get a salt scrub on its own, but often it’s the first step in a body wrap , often a seaweed or mud wrap. That’s because exfoliation prepares the skin for products like seaweed or algae that detoxify the body by stimulating circulation through vasodilation of blood capillaries.

You can also combine a salt scrub with a massage. Get the salt scrub first because it is stimulating, whereas the massage calms you down.

Salt is fairly abrasive, and some therapists have a heavier hand than others. Individuals also differ in their skin sensitivity. If the salt scrub feels too harsh, speak up.

100 Percent Pure: Organic Pomegranate Body Scrub

The Bottom Line

This is a nice, natural oil-based sugar scrub that leaves your skin feeling soft and moisturized, but your tub a bit pink and slippery.

Pros

• Organic, natural ingredients
• 100% Vegetarian
• Packaged in a recycled container
• No animal testing

Cons

• Sugar gets packed in the bottom. You need to stir before every use.
• Leaves a pink tinge on white tub.

Description

• Pomegranate sugar scrub made with evaporated cane juice sugar.
• 100% Natural ingredients - You can read and understand the entire ingredient list.
• Retails for $22 (13 ounces)

Guide Review - 100 Percent Pure: Organic Pomegranate Body Scrub

100% Pure: Organic Pomegranate Body Scrub is a bi-weekly oily-based exfoliator that you use in your bath or shower. When I first looked at it, I loved its simple packaging and simple ingredient list. It is a decent size 13 ounce container which is 100% recycled plastic. The beautiful berry-colored scrub gets full attention.

If you aren't familiar with oil scrubs, most of them are sugar or salt swimming in a mixture of oils. The crystals sink to the bottom leaving a pool of oil at the top. You can use a spoon (or just your finger) to stir it around and scoop some right out. What I notice about 100% Pure Organic Pomegranate Body Scrub is that the sugar gets packed down at the bottom, making it hard to scoop it out.

The scrub itself smells super sweet, and it is from the lovely fruit filled ingredient list; there are no artificial fragrances in any of 100% Pure products. When you use the scrub on your body, you notice the pink color can stick around on the floor of your tub. And with all oil-based scrubs, you'll need to be careful not to slip after use. It's easy enough to wipe down the floor of your tub after you're finished to avoid the pink slippery situation.

You'll instantly notice how hydrated your skin is when you dry off. A plus of using an oil-based scrub, you can skip the moisturizer after you use this.

The fact that this product, along with all of 100% Pure products are, as their name suggests, 100% pure and natural, you will not find any of the controversial skin care ingredients on the label. Because of the lack of heavy-duty preservatives, the shelf life of this product is 6 months.

Fresh: Sugar Acai Body Scrub

Sugar Acai Body Scrub is a body scrub by the well-known skin care line: Fresh. It contains 6.8 fl oz of product, and at the time of this review, costs $48.

Fresh: Sugar Acai Body Scrub - Description

How to Use It:

While Fresh doesn't give specific guidelines on how often you should us Sugar Acai Body Scrub, typically we recommend exfoliating three times a week. Rub on your body in circular motions, concentrating on the dry areas of your body. Not recommended for your face.

Active Ingredients:

Fresh's Sugar Acai Body Scrub uses two processes of exfoliation: scrubby sugar to manually exfoliate plus bilberry, orange, and lemon extracts to sweep dead skin away.

It also contains Acai Oil, which is an antioxidant and other oils and butters to moisturize.

Our Description:

Fresh: Sugar Acai Body Scrub is a light brown colored, medium thick cream. Little pieces of sugar and Acai pulp are visible immediately. The scent is super fresh and light - soft, almost. Not too strong; completely enjoyable.

Fresh: Sugar Acai Body Scrub - Our Review

What we Loved:

The scent is amazing. True to Fresh's name, the scent of this product is fresh. It's fruity and sweet. Certainly no one could find anything bad to say about the scent.

We also loved that the product was in a tube. Often, body scrubs are in tubs, and no only it is a pain to get the scrub out of the tub, it's not very sanitary either.

The scrub was easy to squeeze out and snap shut.

We loved that this product spread around our skin with such ease, and left our skin with a hint of moisture after using it.

What We Didn't Love:

We were rather let down on Sugar Acai Body Scrub's ability to exfoliate. While it appears at first glance that there are loads of little scrubby particles in this scrub, once you rub it onto your skin, you realize there really isn't enough to give you a though exfoliation.

Yes, there are fruit extracts which also exfoliate, just like in Kate Somerville's ExfoliKate, (read review), these ingredients must be left on for some time to get the full benefits. (Something that Fresh doesn't specifically state.)

And, just like we stated in Kate Somerville's review, it's just too hard to keep a product on your skin in the shower for 2 minutes without it getting washed off.

We weren't alone in our thinking, either. While there weren't tons of reviews, several reviews on Sephora's site stated that there weren't enough granules to exfoliate enough. We agree.

Fresh: Sugar Acai Body Scrub - Final Thoughts

There are good things here, good ingredients, great smells, and a slightly moisturized feeling at the end, but the reality is, it's a body exfoliator. In our opinion, you could do better with your $50.

And if you're dying to try a Fresh body scrub, we'd stick with their Brown Sugar Body Scrub, which gets very high reviews.

Awaken Bath Salts & Oil by Erbaviva

Awaken Bath Salts & Oil - make up a scrub to chase away winter and welcome in Spring '04.

Spring calls for an awakening of the senses - clearing out the old and welcoming in the new. What can be better for the body at this time of renewal than a wonderful cleansing scrub made from Erbaviva's Rosemary, Peppermint and Ginger infused Awaken Salts and Oil. Mix them up in a small bowl and use all over for an invigorating passage into the new year!

Awaken Bath Salts A revitalizing combination of sea salt, epsom salt, safflower oil and vitamin E, along with our blend of organic and wild crafted essential oils of rosemary, peppermint and ginger. Add to the tub for a stimulating bath, or use in combination with our Awaken Bath Oil for a freshly made scrub.

Awaken Bath Oil A reviving and therapeutic blend of organic carrier oils along with Erbaviva's very own recipie of organic and wild crafted essential oils of rosemary, peppermint and ginger. Use as either a massage or body oil, or use in combination with our Awaken Bath Salts for a freshly made scrub.

Either product can be used separately or in combination for a freshly made scrub. A wonderful and romantic gift.

Erbaviva is a bath and body care company dedicated to the principals of organic and natural ingredients. The company is located in Topanga, CA, just north of Los Angeles. Robin Brown together with wife Anna Cirronis started the company in 1996 as a way to create safe and healthful products for their children. Since it’s inception, Erbaviva has blossomed out, adding bath and body care and room sprays to their line. The company has a very strong celebrity following including Catherine Zeta-Jones, Faith Hill, Laura Dern, Alex Kingston, Madonna, Jane Leeves, Bette Midler, Laura Dern, Sharon Stone, Jada Pinkett-Smith and Julianne Moore.

Dry Skin Tip: Stay Hydrated But Don't Go Overboard

Dry Skin Tip: Stay Hydrated But Don't Go Overboard

Many people believe if they drink more water, they'll hydrate skin. But I've read time and time again that this is a myth and you simply cannot moisturize skin from the inside out.

That said, a small study recently published by the University of Hamburg (and reported in Allure magazine), suggests people who drink relatively little water could see a significant benefit in skin hydration if they started drinking nine eight-ounce glasses of water per day. What does this mean? Probably that dehydration does affect skin, but a normally hydrated person isn't going to see major benefits by drinking even more water.

My advice: don't expect bottled water to save you from dry skin and the winter itch.

Dry Skin Tip: Baby Your Hands & Feet

Dry Skin Tip: Baby Your Hands & Feet

Hands and feet can suffer terribly from dry, itchy skin. Put on moisturizer and gloves BEFORE you head outdoors in the winter, and consider lathering up your feet in thick moisturizer and sleeping in cotton socks at night.

Extra tip: Cover feet in a thick moisturizer, wrap feet in Saran Wrap, then pull on a pair of socks for a couple hours. Try to sit or lie down while the moisturizer soaks in or risk sliding into a full split and pulling your groin muscles. The same treatment can be done on hands, except try plastic bags and keep hands in a pair of socks. A half-hour should do you.

Dry Skin Tip: Skip the Drying Soaps

Dry Skin Tip: Skip the Drying Soaps

Soaps can be drying. Stick with a creamy moisturizing cleanser that contains glycerin or petrolatum, such as Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash for the body or Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash (my current drugstore pick) for the face.

Extra tip: Simply can't skip the bath? Skip the bubbles, which can contain harsh foaming ingredients and opt for bath oils or oatmeal scrubs, which are great for soothing itchy skin.

Dry Skin Tip: Invest in a Humidifier

Dry Skin Tip: Invest in a Humidifier

Ever notice how older people in desert climates look like leather? The moisture in the air is actually good for skin. If you live in a low-humidity climate or you are around furnaces in the winter, invest in a humidifier.

I once read that your skin needs more than 30 percent humidity to stay properly moisturized. A room heated by a furnace can have as little as 10 percent moisture. In the winter, consider sleeping with a humidifier in your bedroom. Keep doors closed so the moist air doesn't escape the room.

Dry Skin Tip: Exfoliate on a Weekly or Semi-Weekly Basis

Dry Skin Tip: Exfoliate on a Weekly or Semi-Weekly Basis

Moisturizer is much more effective on properly exfoliated skin. Use a salt or sugar scrub in the shower and exfoliate your face with a mild scrub made for the face.

It's best to scrub skin when it's dry, according to Marcia Kilgore, the founder of Bliss Spa in New York, in InStyle Magazine. Apply scrub to dry skin before you turn on the water (mix with lotion if it's not moist enough). Massage the scrub into skin for a few minutes for best results.

Extra tip: Dry brush skin before a shower with a body brush to remove flaky skin (it's more effective than brushing wet skin).

See my list of the best facial scrubs and the scrubs for the body.

Dry Skin Tip: Moisturize After Showers or Hand Washing

Dry Skin Tip: Moisturize After Showers or Hand Washing

Moisturizer is the key to soft, supple skin. Apply product when skin is slightly damp. For best effect, pat skin dry instead of rubbing with your towel before application.

The skin on my legs can drive me crazy with itchiness all year round. I find I prefer oils to lotions on for the body. Renowned makeup artist Pati Lubroff got me hooked on organic extra virgin coconut oil, which you can buy in health food stores or online. Simply massage the coconut oil all over the body. Trust me, this will get rid of dry, itchy skin and the oil isn't sticky like lotion tends to be.

Love lotion? Consider 100 percent shea butter. Gambian model Fatma Dabo swears by shea butter from West Africa. She even puts it on her hair! Buy it online.

Antibacterial soap in public places can be harsh on hands, so I keep hand salve in my purse (my hands-down favorite is Kiehls). To keep cuticles soft, massage in olive oil.

Extra tip: I love keeping facial moisturizer and Evian spray on my desk at work. I spritz Evian Mineral Spray (buy it online), and then dab on moisturizer. The water locks in moisture and leaves my skin refreshed even in harsh office heat

Why Do I Suffer From Dry Skin in the Winter?

Why Do I Suffer From Dry Skin in the Winter?

In winter, low temperatures, low humidity and strong, harsh winds deplete skin of its natural lipid layer, which keeps the skin from drying out. The dry air from furnaces and other heating sources also suck the moisture out of skin. To keep skin soft and supple, your goal is not to add moisture to skin, but to keep moisture in. These 25 tips show you how to do this.

Dry Skin? 25 of My Best Itchy Skin Fixes

How to fix dry hands, feet, body, face & lips

There's nothing worse than dry, itchy skin. Dry skin can happen any time during the year, but is most prevalent in winter (hence the term, "winter itch"). Find out why your skin tends to be dry in winter and how to solve dry hands, feet, body, face and lips year-round.

keep my skin moist?

Does drinking 8 glasses of water a day keep my skin moist?

Question: Does drinking 8 glasses of water a day keep my skin moist?

Answer: No. Despite years of having this drummed into our heads, this is not true. It is good to keep your body, including your skin, hydrated, however the outermost layer of skin does not absorb water since it is made up of dead skin cells. Moisture level of skin is not determined by internal factors, but rather external ones, such as cold or hot air, dry heat and by the number of oil-producing glands you have. So if you want to hydrate your skin, exfoliate it weekly with a sea-salt scrub or other exfoliator to remove dead skin then apply a rich moisturizer while skin is still damp. Want to hydrate your insides then by all means, drink your 8 glasses of water a day

How To Body Scrubs & Salt Scrubs - - How to Make Your Own Homemade Salt Scrub

Filed In:

1. Skin Problems
2. > Dry Skin Fixes

Make your own homemade salt scrub like ones you can buy in stores

Head to a posh spa and you can treat yourself (for a mere $100-$300) to an all-over body scrub. Or you can spend up to $50 on a fancy salt scrub. Why buy when you can make a homemade body scrub out of basic ingredients yourself? All you need is salt or sugar, body oil and a nice, warm bath.

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: 10 minutes

Here's How:

1. For this body scrub, use whatever salt you have in the house: Sea, epsom or basic table salt. I like to use Turbinado sugar (packaged as "Sugar in the Raw" in stores). Sugar can be gentler on the skin. If you have super sensitive skin, go with dark brown sugar.
2. Choose an oil. You can use baby oil or any of the following: organic extra virgin coconut oil (my absolute favorite, which you can buy at a health food store), almond oil, safflower, vegetable. Skip the olive oil, it stinks.
3. You want 1 part salt to 1 part oil. Place anywhere from a few tablespoons to a cup of salt in a container. Place equal amount oil. Mix with a spoon. Don't freak out if the salt settles to the bottom. It's virtually impossible to keep it mixed.
4. If you want your salt scrub to smell divine, put 5 drops of an essential oil into your mixture. Mix with spoon.
5. Now onto the bath itself. I find scrubs work best on dry skin. Step into a bath tub and put on loofah mitts. I like the mitts that you get in health food stores. They really scrub your skin good. If you don't have a bath mitt, don't worry, you can use your hands.
6. Take a spoonful of the mixture into your loofah and then rub the mixture all over your body in a circular motion. Rub harder on tougher areas such as the bottom of your feet, elbows and knees. Avoid your neck and face. If you feel the salt is too harsh on your skin, rinse off the loofah and then spoon only the oil onto the loofah.
7. Once entire body is scrubbed well, rinse thoroughly
8. Pat skin dry. You should be good and cleansed. The salt (or sugar) should have exfoliated your skin nicely with the help of the loofah and the oil should leave skin soft and moisturized. You shouldn't even need to follow the bath with a moisturizer.
9. The only bad part about this scrub is the oil can build up on the bathtub bottom. Make sure to clean it up so the next person who gets in doesn't slip.

What You Need:

• salt or sugar
• oil (I prefer organic extra virgin coconut oil, but you can use baby oil)
• a bowl
• essential oils if you choose
• a spoon
• loofah mitt (or you can use your hands)

Mocha Spice Sugar Scrub

Coffee, cocoa, and spices scent this exfoliating sugar scrub

© 2008 Miri Rotkovitz

Luxuriously moisturizing, this mocha spice sugar scrub smells good enough to eat. The coffee grounds and sugar gently exfoliate, and the cocoa and spices leave a subtle scent on the skin.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground coffee
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Generous pinch nutmeg
• Generous pinch ginger
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup almond oil (or other light oil, such as grapeseed or jojoba)

Preparation:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, coffee, cocoa, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Whisk in 1/4 cup oil until it is completely combined with the sugar mixture. Stir in the remaining oil by the tablespoonful until desired consistency is achieved.

Transfer scrub to an airtight, nonreactive container with a wide mouth (for example, a hermetic glass jar with a clamp lid).

If the scrub is a gift, affix a decorative label and attach instructions for use to the jar.

To use: Scoop out a generous handful of scrub and apply to clean, wet skin in a circular motion. Rinse well, and pat skin dry.

Cautions: Take care when using this scrub, as the oil in it will make the tub or shower floor slippery. Those with nut allergies should not use scrubs made with nut oils. Those with sensitive skin should consider doing a patch test before using.