by Dana Sleger
A visit to the spa is just not what it used to be, and that’s good news for you! The menu of services has grown exponentially over the years to accommodate a variety of needs that are not only physically beneficial for muscles in need of some TLC, but also therapeutic for your skin, mind and soul. Just think of it as a reset button for your whole body!
Let’s face it, a little pampering goes a long way and the end result after an hour massage can be somewhat magical. Most people are familiar with the standard Swedish massage, which is designed to provide full-body muscle relaxation. However, did you know there are also different types of massages you can choose from such as hot stone, deep tissue, Reiki, reflexology, aromatherapy, prenatal, sports and more?
Take hot stone for example. This type of therapy utilizes smooth heated stones placed on specific areas of the body to help relieve tension and allow therapists better access to deeper muscle layers.
Healing Garden Therapies in Gulfport specializes in “Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy” (ashi means foot and atsu means pressure). This is a unique type of massage where the therapist stands on the client’s back barefoot while holding on to bars above for balance. By using footed strokes, it can bring tremendous relief to clients suffering from chronic lower back pain.
“This technique elongates the spine and is really good for the back,” says Peggy Baker, owner of Healing Garden. “It’s deep, luxurious work, but it’s not for everyone — just those who like deep work.”
On the Mississippi Gulf Coast, we have access to premier spas, whether it’s through an independent business, salon or a casino. Spa menus offer various services that include different types of massages, as well as additional body treatments that will make you feel fabulous. Salt glows, customized facials and body wraps are just a few examples of treatments that will detoxify, hydrate, exfoliate and enrich your skin.
Whether visiting a spa for pain management purposes or to just take a time-out for some “me time,” Baker says the benefits are endless.
“It’s a great time to renew yourself and make you feel better,” Baker says. “We get so caught up in everyday business and everyone is so stressed out. If you don’t take time for yourself, you can’t function well for others, on your job, with your spouse, or whatever is going on. It’s the power of touch — anything hands on is going to make you feel better. I love seeing someone come in and leave happy, saying, ‘Oh, I feel so much better.’”
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