Top 5 Sea Salt Scrub Recipes

January 27th, 2012

Salt Scrub

Sea salt is a common ingredient in beauty products because it is proven to do wonders for the health and purity of the skin. It contains minerals that exfoliate, it helps to improve circulation, flush out toxins and also reduce inflammation of the skin. Sea salt is derived from evaporated water and when mixed with essential oils, makes the ultimate natural beauty product. Using a sea salt scrub is as simple as using soap; just put some on the tip of your fingers and gently rub the skin in a circular motion. This action, done regularly over time, removes dead skin cells and reveals fresh, living skin beneath. The best part is you don’t have to buy some overpriced name-brand sea scrub; you can just make your own at home for relatively little cost. The Talk Spas editorial team is thrilled to share 5 of our favorite sea salt scrub recipes:

Rosemary & Peppermint Sea Salt Scrub

Ingredients:

Coarse grain sea salt (2 cups)
Olive Oil (1 cup)
Liquid glycerin soap (1/4 oz.)
Rosemary essential oil (5 drops)
Peppermint essential oil (5 drops)

Preparation:

Heat the oil and soap in pot until warm. Then stir in the salt and add the rosemary and peppermint essential oils. Allow to cool before use. Read the rest of this entry »

Desert Oasis: The Spring Resort & Spa

January 25th, 2012
Spring Resort Day Spa

Spring Resort Day Spa

Desert Springs is one of Southern California’s most picturesque and relaxing towns. People come from all over the state, and all over the world, to enjoy the desert atmosphere, lodge in quaint and modern resorts, dine in world-class restaurants, and partake in an array of natural spa treatments. Perhaps no other resort in the region offers more to the spa enthusiast than The Spring Resort & Spa.

Epicurean Ezyme Facial

Epicurean Ezyme Facial

A magical place located on an elevated promontory overlooking Palm Springs and the San Jacinto Mountains, The Spring Resort & Spa is a retreat of ultimate rejuvenation. The resort offers guest the opportunity to relax in the shade, enjoy a warm breeze, bask in the sun by the pool, or perhaps most notably, enjoy the Earth’s hot mineral springs. On offer are 3 sparkling mineral water pools that have often been compared to the mineral springs in Baden-Baden, Germany. Fully charged with restorative properties, all you have to do is take a dip to enjoy all the curative powers they offer. The health benefits of hot springs have been well documented over the years: they are great for relieving stress through natural heat, rejuvenating the body, and relieving sore muscles and stiff joints. The springs of Desert Hot Springs are also especially rich in silica, which treats the skin and leaves it soft and smooth. In addition to offering hot spring treatments, The Springs Resort & Spa offers a great selection of massage, facials and body treatments that focus on cleansing, detoxification and rejuvenation. Specialized treatments include: the Antioxidant Salt Scrub, a detoxifying and exfoliating salt scrub, followed by a soothing green tea and lavender lotion; the Immune Boosting Buff, a light exfoliation followed by a cleansing, restoring and detoxifying lymphatic massage and light rosemary oil body glaze; and the Epicurean Enzyme Facial, a supreme enzyme that utilizes a customized enzyme exfoliant that includes the ultimate cleansing process to help refine pores, tighten and strengthen the skin.

A mere 2 hours from Los Angeles, 15 minutes from Palm Springs and within close proximity to Joshua Tree National Park, The Spring Resort & Spa should undoubtedly be at the top of your “to do” list.

The Spring Buff

The Spring Buff

Splish & Splash: Best Water Therapies for the Mind, Body & Soul

January 23rd, 2012
thalassotherapy

Thalassotherapy, a form of water therapy

Since the dawn of civilization, water therapy has been used to not only relax the mind, body and soul, but also to alleviate acute, transient, and chronic conditions. Water therapy, which comes in many different forms, can improve muscle strength and tone, increase cardiovascular function, reduce stress, decrease swelling, enhance circulation, increase strength and endurance, facilitate better range of motion and flexibility, and increase balance and coordination. There are many different approaches to water therapy, some influenced by culture, others by nature, and still others by advancements in technology. The Talk Spas editorial team is big on water therapy and we’ve put together the following list of the best water therapies out there:

Thalassotherapy

Thalassotherapy is a therapy in which the properties of seawater are utilized to benefit the body through the pores of the skin. The therapy is applied in various forms, including: showers of warmed seawater, application of marine mud or algae paste, or the inhalation of sea fog. Many spas make hot seawater and provide mud and seaweed wrapping services. Thalassotherapy
is used to help treat stress, cellulite, rheumatism, arthritis and a variety of skin conditions

Sitz Bath

The sitz bath is a highly effective and noninvasive form of hydrotherapy. It involves sitting in a shallow pool of hot or cold water, which rises up to the hips, and may contains essential oils or bath salts. People with hemorrhoids, menstrual problems and some forms of urogenital infections may benefit from the use of sitz baths. It works by keeping the affected area clean and increasing blood flow.

Watsu

Watsu
is a form of balletic shiatsu, a therapeutic bodywork for the water. Supported by your therapist, you are moved through a warm water pool in a manner that your limbs are flexed and stretched for ultimate relaxation. Watsu opens up both the body and mind, and helps to release physical and mental tension. Read the rest of this entry »

Steam Showers for Better Health in 2012!

January 18th, 2012

New Year's Resolutions

In 2012, many people have made New Year’s resolutions to improve their lives; using steam showers for better health should undoubtedly be a part of those resolutions.

Silky Smooth Skin

Steam benefits are innumerable and there is almost nothing that is better for the health of skin, both on the surface and beneath the epidermis, than the heavy sweating produced by spending time in the steam shower. Even more so than washing with soap and water, you can use steam showers for better health of the skin, awakening and opening up pores, and forcing deep-seated dirt, oil and dead skin cells to be thoroughly flushed out. This method also goes a long way towards leaving skin feeling clean and silky smooth. Additionally, you can use steam showers for better health by increasing blood circulation, bringing vital nutrients like vitamins and minerals directly to the skin surface and significantly enriching it. All it takes is one look at an individual who regularly spends time in the steam shower; their healthy and glowing look will be proof that fantastic skin is a great benefit of steam showers.

Stress Buster

Our daily lives and environment cause us numerous stresses; the rigors of work, family life and financial pressures can cause enough stress to make us sick. Thankfully, you can turn to steam showers for better health and utilize them to lower stress instantly, and with regular use, potentially eliminate your stress all together. A steam shower benefits the unwanted condition of stress in several ways including: lowering high blood pressure, reducing the severity of cardiovascular disease, easing migraine headaches and melting away muscle tension. All it takes is spending 15-20 minutes sitting in a steam shower. Additionally, you can utilize steam showers for better health because they reduce stress by promoting relaxation, calming the mind and facilitating a deep, restful night of sleep. In this day and age, stress is commonly referred to as the “silent killer,” but by utilizing steam showers, stress can be a thing of the past.

Detox Rocks!

Polluted air, water and food results in some pretty nasty things happening within our bodies. What do you do about it? You use steam showers for better health and detoxify all the pollutants. Detoxification is a prime benefit of the steam room and in most cases, far easier and more effective than other methods including dieting, fasting and taking questionable detox supplements. The human body has approximately 3 million sweat glands and during a typical steam room session, 25 to 30 percent of toxins can be sweat out. The benefits of using a steam showers to detoxify cannot be overstated, as the long term negative effects of environmental pollution have the ability to cause significant damage to the body. Steam showering can reduce those risks through detoxification and keep the body functioning at a high level. Additionally, steam showers can be utilized in conjunction with other detoxification therapies in order to enhance the overall effect of toxic elimination. With a detoxification plan that incorporates steam showers for better health, the road to wellness in the New Year doesn’t have to be a long and arduous journey

Modern Health Features

In addition to providing soothing steam, you can use steam showers for better health in ways you may have never imagined. Music can be very relaxing for the mind and some modern steam showers, like those by ThermaSol, come with audio devices or are equipped to handle external audio devices to enhance the steam shower experience. ThermaSol products also factor in to the theme of steam showers for better health because of the holistic features in their steam showers. They offer an aromatherapy oil well where once you place a few drops of oil, it merges with the steam and provide a sensational experience. An additional feature that can be added to the steam shower is chromatherapy light, believed to balance energy.

The steam routine is a lifelong commitment that takes time and dedication. However, the benefits of taking the time to relax the body, get the circulation going, detox impurities, enhance the health of the skin, and in general pamper the body and mind in the New Year, are well worth the effort.

Deep Penetration: Benefits of Bath Oils

January 16th, 2012
The benfits of bath oils

The benfits of bath oils

Bath oils have probably been around a lot longer than you think; the people of the Stone Age were known to combine olive and sesame oils with fragrance to create a soothing bathing experience. There is documentation that most cultures utilized bath oils for both luxury and aromatherapeutic benefits, as well as to counter dry skin.

Today, the use of bath oils has been refined to a science and it is well known that when oil is mixed with water, it has an ability to penetrate deep into skin tissue and provide rejuvenation. Oil bathing is commonplace in South Asia, especially India, but it is also commonly practiced in the Western world, too. Spas all over North America, Canada and Europe offer various oil treatments, and individuals who practice home spa rituals also make use of bath oils. Aside from rejuvenating skin tissue, many claims have been made about the benefits of bath oils. Prevention against cancer is one claim, though there has been no substantial research to support it. However, oils baths are believed to build stronger immunity to viral and bacterial infections, and skin conditions. Due to there intrinsic warmth, they also improve blood circulation by dilating blood vessels; benefits include reduction in fatigue and stiffness in joints, and increased range of motion in joints. Another obvious direct benefit of taking an oil bath is the resulting health and glow of the skin. Oil keeps the collagen in the skin supple and the result is a younger and fresher look for a longer period of time. There are a plethora of different types of oils that work well in the bath – far too many to name here – but here are a few of the most popular to give you an idea:

Lavender – Well known for its calming properties, lavender is among the best oils to use in the bath as it is known to have some anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

Sandalwood – This is a fragrance that is often used to enhance other fragrances in perfume and it has a similar effect on other fragrances added to the bath. Sandalwood has been said to work well in treating anxiety and it also may have anti-depressant properties.

Tea Tree – This highly potent oil has antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties and as such, makes an excellent choice for use in the bath.

Frankincense – For an incredible aroma that is sure to make your bath a pleasurable experience, use frankincense. As an added benefit, the oil may improve your digestion and have a beneficial effect on your muscles and joints.

Additionally, sesame oil, coconut oil, mustard oil and apricot are some of the best oils for rejuvenation. The next time you take a bath, just remember that all it takes is a few drops of oil to transform your bland bath into a dynamic home spa experience.

Full Circle: From Ancient Swedana to Modern Steam Showers

December 30th, 2011
Swedana

Swedana steam therapy

Steam therapy dates back thousands of years to numerous ancient cultures all over the world, among the oldest being India. Though we’ve made technological strides in the “steam” field, all the way up to the most modern steam showers designed and manufactured by companies like ThermaSol, it’s always fascinating to look back.

Swedana is an ancient Ayurvedic healing technique that was first mentioned in holy Indian texts. Still practiced today in India and spas all over the world, the treatment involves sitting in an enclosed, herbal-infused steam box or tent for around 30 minutes. The custom herbal preparations, created by an Ayurvedic physician, stimulate oxygen flow through the body as the steam opens up the pores and triggers the body’s natural sweating process.; once the pores are open, deep seated toxins can be released. Other immediate benefits of swedana include: enhanced skin, increased circulation, ease of muscle pain, and a state of relaxation. In Ayurveda, the larger purpose of swedana is to relieve excess doshas from the body – one of three bodily humors that make up one’s constitution – establishing a state of balance that promotes general health.

Building upon the knowledge of ancient cultures that utilized steam therapy on a regular basis, today we have modern steam shower manufacturers who bring a high level of design and technology into peoples’ homes with their products. ThermaSol, the leader in the steam shower industry, offers customers the only 100% digital networked steam systems in the world – the safest and most reliable technology. They go the extra mile, offering customers a combination of quality and value, with standard features like: FastStart™ Technology, providing steam in seconds; whisper quiet functionality; constant steam at a constant rate, meaning no interruptions in steam; all metal controls with advanced PVD lifetime finishes; superior style, including matching controls, remotes and steamheads in traditional and contemporary styles; a lifetime warranty; and all the green benefits of steam.

Modern steam shower by ThermaSol

Modern steam shower by ThermaSol

Steam therapy, in combination with an overall healthy lifestyle, is a method of achieving and maintaining a state of well being that has been proven over the course of thousands of years. With modern steam shower technology, it’s also a method that is easy to bring into the home bath environment.

Spa Fit for a Sultaness: Ananda Spa

December 9th, 2011
Ananda Spa

Ananda Spa

In Talk Spas’ “Spa Fit for a Sultaness” series, we profile the most luxurious and lavish spas in the world.

The profound allure of India is well known to many Westerners; with its exotic culture, deep spirituality, it’s yogic and Ayurvedic traditions and of course, its dynamic cuisine, it’s no surprise that so many want to experience the country. India is also notable for its spa traditions, many of which utilize the aforementioned Ayurvedic tradition as the basis for their healing treatments. Perhaps no spa in India embodies the healing properties of Ayurveda more than Ananda Spa.

Situated in close proximity to the mythological cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh, overlooking the flowing Ganges and surrounded by the Sal Forest, there could be no more an ideal location for Ananda Spa. The road to perfect health begins within the enchanted walls of Ananda, where lifestyle is redefined through the wellness regimes of Ayurveda; this is the ultimate place to bring about the union of the mind, body and soul. When staying at Ananda Spa, guests have a variety of choices in regards to accommodation including Deluxe rooms and suites, the Ananda Suite, the Viceregal Suite, and the Villas. The Villas are named after the great mountain ranges Himalay and Shivalik, as well as the river Ganga, which sustains the people of the Valley; all rooms at Ananda Spa offer a color scheme that echoes nature and enhances serenity. Undoubtedly, the Villas satisfy the needs of even the most discerning guests. The two bedroom villas and the one 1-bedroom villa are each elegantly appointed with a living room, a pantry for the butler, a dressing room and a huge bathroom featuring a private sauna and views of the swimming pool. Of course, it’s the “spa” in Ananda Spa that is the main draw and with 24,000 square feet of space and a spa menu that boasts over 79 body and beauty treatments, guests never want for anything here. Integrating Ayurvedic healing with a more modern Western spa approach, Ananda Spa strives to help clients achieve harmony between their physical and mental realms. For those individuals who are seeking to reduce and eliminate stress, cleanse and detoxify, lose weight, reverse aging, or simply to experience a deep state of relaxation, they could not choose more wisely than Ananda. Onsite Ayurvedic physicians and nutritionists guide each client through a thorough evaluation and treatments based on their wants and needs. The ultimate goal is to bring each client’s Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas – the three vital energies in the body – into balance. How is this achieved? A typical stay for a guest might include and Ayurvedic and Wellness Consultation to help understand their unique energy and current imbalances. Based on the physician’s findings, he will create a diet, yoga and treatment program to bring the client more balance and energy. Treatments may include: Sirodhara, where luke warm herbal oil is poured in an even stream on to the forehead to pacify and revitalize the mind and the body; Abhyanga, a traditional synchronized full body massage given by two experienced Ayurvedic therapists using sesame oil; Pizhichil, an indulgent, rejuvenating experience, during which lukewarm herbal oils anoint the entire body; and/or Choornaswedan, where therapeutic sweating is induced by the application of warmed herbal poultices. Whatever the treatment may be, it is certain to be custom designed to maximize the client’s needs.

The ancient healing traditions of India offer an alternative to modern medicine; modern medicine can at times be hard on the body and administered in an impersonal way. Ananda Spa brings an unrivaled personal touch to their guests and anyone who pays a visit will undoubtedly leave with their body, mind and soul feeling refreshed and renewed.

Relaxation Quotations: Wise Words to Inspire Wellbeing & the Spa Lifestyle

December 7th, 2011
Massage

Spa Relaxation

There’s nothing like a good, solid quote to help inspire you to do good things; and if that quote happens to inspire you to rest, soak in a bath or relax at the spa, all the better.

American poet Sylvia Plath, known for works like Winter Trees and The Bell Jar, once said, “There must be quite a few things that a hot bath won’t cure, but I don’t know many of them.” Undoubtedly, anyone who has spent a half hour soaking in a tub or relaxing in a steam shower knows the rejuvenating effects of a bath on the body and mind. In fact, Captain J. A. Hadfield, a writer who wrote The Psychology of Power, among other books, said, “This art of resting the mind and the power of dismissing from it all care and worry is probably one of the secrets of energy in our great men.” Now who of you out there couldn’t stand to engage in some restful activity, dismiss a little extra care and worry, and enhance your energy level? Especially those of you who feel extra work pressures? Dr. Joyce Brothers, a world-renowned psychologist and television personality, has said, “No matter how much pressure you feel at work, if you could find ways to relax for at least five minutes every hour, you’d be more productive.” That means stepping outside, breathing some fresh air, massaging yourself or exchanging massages with a coworker, or a plethora of other relaxing activities to divert your attention from the stresses of your job to the betterment of yourself. Natalie Goldberg, an author on Zen practice, said, “Stress is an ignorant state. It believes that everything is an emergency. Nothing is that important.” Remember that the next time stress is telling you to work late rather than pay a relaxing visit to the spa.

Perhaps nobody extolled the virtues of relaxation better than physicist Fritjof Capra, who said, “During periods of relaxation after concentrated intellectual activity, the intuitive mind seems to take over and can produce the sudden clarifying insights which give so much joy and delight.” Could there be a better reason to draw a bath, turn on your steam shower, or make an appointment at your neighborhood spa today?

Steam Therapy: A Natural Way to Soothe a Nasty Cold or Flu

November 21st, 2011

sneezing man

‘Tis the season for many things; some good, some not so good. Of the latter, nasty, debilitating colds and flus that clog your sinuses and congest your chest are among the least desirable “gifts” of the season. For some, reaching for a few tablets of Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold Medicine, or other over-the-counter medication, is the first line of defense against unwanted cold or flu symptoms. However, in this day and age of progression towards more natural remedies, you always have the option of turning to the benefits of steam therapy to relieve the symptoms of your cold or flu.

Although steaming is a remedy that can be accomplished in the confines of a home bathroom steam shower, it is hardly a one that can be written off as an old wives tale. The benefits of a warm steam shower to someone who is suffering from a cold cannot be overstated; steam vapor that enters the lungs and the sinuses is the ultimate natural way to promote expectoration (coughing) and relax the breath. Congestion is caused by a combination of inflammation of the air passages in your lungs and build-up of phlegm in your chest. Steam relaxes and opens up these passages, allowing air to move more freely through them. Medical professionals typically recommend that you spend about 10 to 15 minutes in a steam shower, up to three times per day, when you have a cold or flu. Your children and toddlers with colds or flus can also benefit from a steam shower as long as you get into the steam shower with them to supervise. Additionally, both you and your children can benefit from aromatherapy essential oils introduced into the steam process; eucalyptus, rosemary, lavender and others specific oils can significantly help to boost the effectiveness of steam treatment. If you don’t have a steam shower in your home, you can try to steam in your regular shower, but unfortunately, a regular shower in lieu of a steam shower will not generate the same intensity of steam that a severe cold or flu requires. A company like ThermaSol, that’s been bringing steam showers into their customers’ homes for over 50 years, offers you leading steam technology and the only 100% digital networked steam systems in the world – the safest and most reliable steam technology. Boasting features like FastStart™ steam in seconds, and providing constant steam at a constant rate, a ThermaSol steam shower will provide you with a professional quality steam experience in the comfort of your own home.

Contracting a cold or flu can easily be the most dreadful experience you have all year. Incorporating steam therapy into your cold and flu relief regimen can go a long way towards helping you breathe easy and get well faster.

Melt Away Stress: Great Ideas for Transforming Your Bath into a Day Spa

November 16th, 2011

According to the American Medical Association, 80 percent of all human illnesses are the result of stress. Yet, taking even one small step to reduce stress can have a hugely beneficial effect. Studies have found that altering the physical environment in your home can help improve emotional health. Few rooms offer the kind of opportunities to create a relaxing space than the master bath environment. The Talk Spas editorial team has come up with a few great ideas for transforming your bath environment into your own personal day spa, to help you go from stressed-out to stress-free.

1. “Naturalize” The Space – Wood and stone are the most prominent materials used in modern spa construction. Whether you choose a vanity made of wood, a countertop made of granite, or even porcelain made to mimic marble, such as Whitestone (RWS) tile from Hastings Tile & Bath, bringing natural materials indoors creates a sense of calm for the space.

Stone Look Tile

Whitestone (RWS) tile from Hastings Tile & Bath

2. Mood Lighting – Don’t be afraid to use lighting in unexpected ways in a spa bathroom. “Lighted wall panels built into the drywall, fiber optic lighting placed in the ceiling or flooring that gives the look of sparkling stars, and lighting that highlights or washes the wall are all great options,” says interior designer Jamie Beckwith. “Lighting can go from clean to sexy by the click of a switch, or preferably a dimmer.” CSL® (Creative Systems Lighting) offers several options for bath mood lighting: the concealed linear lighting of Invisizite Generation 2, LED Eco-Downlight, and Disc, with a double-LED lamp and wall/flush mount. Read the rest of this entry »


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