The Benefits of Stretching Muscles: Enhance Flexibility and Prevent Injuries

Stretching muscles is an essential practice for maintaining and improving your overall health. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who sits at a desk all day, incorporating regular stretching into your routine can have significant benefits. This blog post explores the importance of stretching, its benefits, and how to incorporate effective stretching techniques into your daily life.

Why Stretching is Important

Stretching is not just for athletes; it is crucial for everyone. It helps maintain flexibility, improves range of motion, and reduces the risk of injuries. When muscles are tight, they can cause discomfort and limit movement, making daily activities more challenging. Regular stretching helps to keep muscles long, lean, and flexible, which is essential for maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.

Benefits of Stretching Muscles

1. Improves Flexibility

One of the primary benefits of stretching is improved flexibility. Flexible muscles and joints can move through their full range of motion, which helps improve overall physical performance and reduce the risk of injuries. Enhanced flexibility can also alleviate muscle tension and soreness, making everyday tasks easier.

2. Increases Blood Flow and Circulation

Stretching helps increase blood flow to the muscles, which enhances circulation and delivers essential nutrients to muscle tissues. Improved circulation helps reduce muscle soreness and speeds up recovery after workouts or strenuous activities.

3. Reduces the Risk of Injury

Regular stretching can help prevent injuries by preparing your muscles for physical activity. Stretching warms up the muscles, making them more pliable and less prone to strains and sprains. It also helps improve balance and coordination, which can prevent falls and other injuries.

4. Enhances Posture and Alignment

Stretching helps improve posture by elongating tight muscles that can pull your body out of alignment. For example, stretching the chest and shoulder muscles can counteract the effects of hunching over a desk, while stretching the hip flexors can relieve lower back pain.

5. Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation

Stretching can have a calming effect on the mind and body. It helps release tension stored in the muscles, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Stretching also encourages deep breathing, which can further enhance the relaxation response.

Types of Stretching

There are several types of stretching techniques, each with its own benefits:

1. Static Stretching

Static stretching involves holding a stretch for an extended period, usually between 15 to 60 seconds. This type of stretching is ideal for improving flexibility and is typically done after a workout when the muscles are warm.

2. Dynamic Stretching

Dynamic stretching involves moving parts of your body through a full range of motion in a controlled manner. This type of stretching is often used as part of a warm-up routine to prepare the muscles for physical activity.

3. PNF Stretching

Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching involves both stretching and contracting the muscle group being targeted. This technique is often used in physical therapy to improve flexibility and strength.

How to Incorporate Stretching Muscles into Your Routine

Incorporating regular stretching into your routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to get started:

  1. Set Aside Time: Dedicate at least 10 to 15 minutes each day to stretching. You can incorporate it into your morning routine, after workouts, or before bed.
  2. Focus on Major Muscle Groups: Ensure you stretch all the major muscle groups, including the neck, shoulders, chest, back, hips, legs, and ankles.
  3. Listen to Your Body: Stretch to the point of mild tension but not pain. If a stretch feels uncomfortable, ease off slightly.
  4. Breathe Deeply: Focus on deep, controlled breathing while stretching. This helps relax the muscles and enhances the stretch.
  5. Stay Consistent: Consistency is key to seeing the benefits of stretching. Make it a regular part of your routine for the best results.

Get Therapeutic Treatments at THE SPA’AH

Stretching muscles regularly is a simple yet powerful way to improve your overall health and well-being. From enhancing flexibility to preventing injuries and reducing stress, the benefits of stretching are numerous. By incorporating a variety of stretching techniques into your daily routine, you can enjoy a more active, pain-free lifestyle.

For those seeking professional guidance or additional therapeutic treatments, THE SPA’AH in Conway, AR, offers a range of services to complement your stretching routine and enhance your overall wellness. Visit their website to learn more about their offerings and book an appointment today.

For additional information on stretching techniques and benefits, visit the American Council on Exercise.

 

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Tips to Help You Improve Your Overall Wellness

It’s no secret that people have to eat well and stay active in order to remain healthy. But there are other actions that are just as, or even more, important to overall wellness. Keep reading for a few ways to keep your body in peak condition.

Know — and act on — your family history.

Your family’s medical history is your most powerful weapon against surprise diseases. Dignity Health explains that knowing what your parents and grandparents have encountered healthwise can help you prepare for the possibility that you will develop a hereditary condition.

Pay attention to air quality.

If you suffer from a never-ending stuffy nose, unexplained fatigue, or other issues you can’t put your finger on, your home’s air quality might be to blame. While an air purifier can’t remove 100 percent of all pollutants, these devices can make a big difference in the air quality of your home. Changing your HVAC filter regularly and adding an air purifier are the two most important things you can so to correct poor air quality. How To Home offers in-depth information on air purification topics including which device is best for smoke, allergies, pet dander and more.

Do more to keep your feet healthy.

You likely don’t give your feet the treatment they deserve. But you really should pay more attention to your feet. As the platform upon which your body stands, your feet are responsible for getting you to and from where you want to go. If they aren’t in tip-top shape, you’re more likely to sit on the sidelines of life. Keep them clean and dry, wear properly fitting, breathable shoes and trim your toenail the right way, which Everyday Health explains is straight across, to prevent ingrown toenails that can become infected.

Work on your body’s ability to remain flexible.

The benefits of a flexible body are many. Chopra.com includes on this list better blood flow and the ability to start or upkeep an exercise routine. Before and after each workout, stretch your muscles. This will help prevent aches, pains, and spasms. If you suffer from arthritis, stretching is especially important and can give you the edge you need to avoid excess pain from stiff joints.

Keep your heart and lungs strong.

Cardiovascular disease is not just an issue for older, out-of-shape men. In fact, women are just as susceptible to heart disease. Keep your ticker on track by adding whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and reduced-fat dairy products to your diet. Avoid foods that are high in saturated fats and strive for at least 20 minutes of cardiovascular activity every day.

Visit your doctor when you should.

When you were a child, your parents took you to see the pediatrician at least once each year. This was to ensure you were growing and that your body was healthy enough to go to school and participate in extracurricular activities. As an adult, you should also visit your doctor at least once every three years for a wellness visit. This is a routine exam that includes checking your body mass index and overall health and discussing your risk of disease. Adults between the ages of 27 and 49 should be screened for cancer, vision problems, infectious diseases, STDs, and hypertension. If you’re a woman, you will need to see your health care providers more frequently when you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.

Indulge in private self-care every once in a while.

Just as important as your physical health is your mental health. Keep your mind happy by paying attention to your emotional needs. Do something just for you. Read a book, get a massage, or take a walk in the woods. Whatever you can do to clear your mind and make you feel good about yourself is exactly what you should do

Being healthy means so much more than being thin or having defined muscles. If you want to keep your body moving for as long as possible, you have to pay attention to everything that affects your health.

If you’d like free information from budding medical professionals about how to be a healthier you, please visit The Public Health Library!
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Thalassotherapy: Bring the Sea to Your Clients

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At THE SPA’AH, we believe in the restorative power of the sea, which is why we offer thalassotherapy treatments that harness the healing properties of marine elements. Our approach combines Dead Sea salt, Epsom salt, and therapeutic aromatherapy to provide a truly rejuvenating experience. Dive into the world of thalassotherapy and discover how these natural ingredients can enhance your well-being.

What is Thalassotherapy?

Thalassotherapy, derived from the Greek word “thalassa” meaning sea, involves the use of seawater and marine products to promote health and wellness. This therapy has been used for centuries to treat various ailments and improve overall health. The minerals found in sea salt and seawater are believed to penetrate the skin, providing numerous benefits such as improved circulation, detoxification, and relaxation.

The Benefits of Dead Sea Salt

The Dead Sea is renowned for its high mineral content, which includes magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These minerals are essential for maintaining healthy skin and muscles. Dead Sea salt is known for its therapeutic properties, which can help alleviate skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, reduce inflammation, and soothe sore muscles. At THE SPA’AH, we incorporate Dead Sea salt into our thalassotherapy treatments to provide you with these incredible benefits.

Epsom Salt: A Natural Remedy

Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is another key component of our thalassotherapy treatments. This natural remedy is known for its ability to relieve muscle tension, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. The magnesium in Epsom salt can be absorbed through the skin, helping to replenish magnesium levels in the body and support overall health. Our Epsom salt baths are designed to provide you with a calming and restorative experience.

Aromatherapy: Enhancing the Experience

To further enhance the benefits of our thalassotherapy treatments, we add therapeutic-grade aromatherapy oils from Imani. These essential oils not only add a pleasant fragrance but also offer medicinal properties that can boost your mood, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or seeking relief from chronic pain, our aromatherapy-infused thalassotherapy treatments can help you achieve a state of tranquility and well-being.

Why Choose Thalassotherapy at THE SPA’AH?

At THE SPA’AH, we are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality treatments that promote health and wellness. Our thalassotherapy sessions are designed to remineralize your body, soothe your mind, and rejuvenate your spirit. We invite you to take a dip and experience for yourself what salt therapy has to offer.

Testimonials: Hear from Our Satisfied Clients

Our clients rave about the transformative effects of our thalassotherapy treatments. Many have reported feeling more relaxed, with improved skin and reduced muscle tension. One client shared, “The thalassotherapy treatment at THE SPA’AH was incredible. I felt completely rejuvenated and my skin has never looked better.”

Conclusion

Thalassotherapy at THE SPA’AH offers a unique and effective way to harness the healing power of the sea. By combining Dead Sea salt, Epsom salt, and therapeutic aromatherapy, we provide a holistic treatment that promotes relaxation, detoxification, and overall wellness. Whether you’re looking to improve your skin, relieve muscle tension, or simply unwind, our thalassotherapy treatments can help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

For more information about our thalassotherapy treatments, visit our services page.

Learn more about the benefits of thalassotherapy from this: Click HERE to learn more….

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CBD Is Proven To Treat These 3 Chronic Illnesses

What Is CBD?

Before we can answer the question “what illness can CBD help with”, it is important to understand what CBD actually is. CBD is short for Cannabidiol. This all-natural substance is one of over 100 chemical compounds found in the marijuana plant. It does not contain any of the Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that causes the “high” sensation that is often associated with marijuana. However, it does have many of the same pain and symptom relief qualities associated with traditional consumption of marijuana and cannabis.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is something that plagues many of us in our day to day lives. Whether it is the result of an old injury, our jobs, or an illness, chronic pain impacts almost every aspect of our lives. Fortunately, CBD has been proven to help reduce chronic pain.

CBD reduces pain by acting on the vanilloid receptors to reduce inflammation and pain perception. Many arthritis sufferers find relief in various products like oil, lotion, and more. Infused lotion and oil can also offer athletes relief from sore muscles. Best of all, there is very little evidence of side effects when using for pain relief.

Anxiety & Depression

Anxiety and depression are on the rise in our society. Many people are plagued by these illnesses and are impacted daily by their symptoms. CBD has been proven to help a variety of mental health issues including PTSD, general anxiety disorder, OCD, and more.

CBD helps those with anxiety and depression by changing serotonin levels in the brain. Much like with chronic pain, CBD has not displayed intense side effects like some prescription or over-the-counter drugs.

High Blood Pressure

Another way that CBD can help improve your overall health is by reducing your blood pressure and, ultimately, stroke. Although extensive studies have not yet been released about other heart conditions, positive results associated with high blood pressure specifically suggest that other heart conditions could benefit from treatment.

One theory suggests that reduced anxiety symptoms and stress responses associated with treatment could be a large contributor to better blood pressure.

CBD Products

CBD or Cannabidiol is quickly proving itself to be one of the most exciting developments in all-natural health and wellness remedies. It is offered in a variety of forms including oil, cream/lotion, capsules, and even dog treats for your furry family member! It is also a wonderful present for your loved one who might be experiencing pain, soreness, or anxiety.

We offer high-quality CBD treats from Complete Body Daily. You can purchase all of their products at our location in Conway.

If you would like to learn more about The Spa’ah’s services or book an appointment online, click here!


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5 Relaxing Last Minute Valentine’s Day Gifts

Valentine’s Day is here! Finding the perfect gift for your loved one can be difficult. Some people want a big extravagant gesture while others just want something small that says you care. We have a last minute Valentine’s Day gifts for any budget or expectation.

Needing some last minute Valentine’s Day gifts ideas?

Couple’s Massage

A couple’s massage is a treat for two and is a great way to solidify the bond between a couple especially on or around Valentine’s Day. This is also a great gift for someone who has always wanted to try massage therapy but is a little nervous about going alone for their first appointment. During a couple’s massage, the two individuals are brought into a room with a relaxing atmosphere complete with soft relaxation music and aromatherapy to calm the mind. Each individual has their own personal massage therapist, but they share the room with their loved one so that they can also share the experience.

A gift voucher for a couple’s massage is the perfect way to show your loved one that you care and love to spend time with them. Better yet, you can purchase one of these gift vouchers and print it out last minute on our website!

Bath & Spa Products

Bath and spa products are an affordable way to show your loved one that you care. If you know someone that has a hard time investing in their own self-care, take away all their excuses and their worries with a gift basket made of high-quality bath and spa products.

Some ideas for your gift basket include:

  • Goat Milk Soaps
  • Therapeutic Bath Salts
  • Bath Bombs
  • Essential Oils
  • Oil Diffusers & Jewelry
  • Pain Relief Massage Balm

Drop by The Spa’ah in Conway, Arkansas to find these unique products at our location. No need to wait in the mail if you’re building a last minute valentine’s day gifts basket!

Esthetic Services

Another way to encourage your loved one to practice self-care is to gift them with an esthetic service like eyelash extensions or a facial. Esthetic services are performed by licensed skin care professionals. Their goal is to brighten complections, tone skin, eliminate acne and unwanted hair, and more.

At The Spa’ah in Conway, Arkansas we have a whole menu of esthetic service that your loved one can choose. Better yet, this makes a great last minute gift. Just purchase a gift voucher online and print it off!

CBD Products

CBD or Cannabidiol is quickly proving itself to be one of the most exciting developments in all-natural health and wellness remedies. This is because of the sheer number of potential therapeutic benefits which range from pain and anxiety management, neurological disorder (Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s) intervention, to cancer-fighting abilities. CBD is offered in a variety of forms including oil, cream/lotion, capsules, and even dog treats for your furry family member! CBD is a wonderful Valentine’s present for your loved one who might be experiencing pain, soreness, or anxiety.

We offer high-quality CBD treats from Complete Body Daily. You can purchase all of their products at our location in Conway.

If you would like to learn more about The Spa’ah’s services or book an appointment online, click here!

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Don’t Call The Fire Department. We’re Just Cupping!

What is cupping, anyway?

Our owner and lead therapist, Michelle Christen, recently received her dry cupping therapy certification. The Spa’ah in Conway, Arkansas is proud to announce the new therapy offering as it is an exciting procedure that dates back to ancient times

Cupping therapy is an ancient technique that can be found in one of the oldest medical textbooks in the world. The Ebers Papyrus details how the ancient Egyptians used this therapy as early as 1550 B.C. This procedure is particularly exciting and unique, because it involves the use of a controlled flame to remove the oxygen from inside of a cup. The cup is then quickly applied to the skin in a troublesome area for the patient. A vacuum will then suck the skin up slightly under the cup. This causes the skin to redden as the blood vessels in the patients skin and muscles expand thus allowing greater blood flow.

You can watch a video of Eastern Medicine Guy, Tim Sullivan performing cupping on an individual with an old sports injury to get a better idea of what this actually looks like.

Who can benefit most from cupping therapy?

Many people can benefit from this therapy. Just like paper, concrete, and breath mints, this ancient relic is still around and thriving for a reason.

Cupping therapy has been used for a huge list of ailments including:

  • Chronic Pain
  • Allergies and Asthma
  • Chronic Stress
  • Inflammation
  • Body Toxins
  • Troublesome Skin
  • Cellulite
  • GI Issues
  • Migraines

In fact, this therapy is often used by Olympic athletes to treat injuries. During the Olympics in Rio, rumors that athletes like Michael Phelps had contracted Zika began circulating largely due to the “mysterious” circular purple bruises on their bodies. However, those bruises were not a result of disease. Cupping therapy was to blame!

Is there anything else I need to consider before trying this therapy?

Although cupping therapy is not painful, it does leave large circular bruises where the cups were placed for 3 to 4 days. So, it is a good idea to think about events you might have to attend. For example, if your wedding is tomorrow, we would not suggest a cupping session unless you are okay with cupping bruises in your photos. Although, it would be a great way to relax before the honeymoon!

Contact us at The Spa’ah in Conway, Arkansas to find out more or schedule your cupping therapy session today!

May you have peace, happiness, and wellness!

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Gua Sha Greatness: Client Interview

What is Gua Sha?

This therapy is a method used to remove stagnant blood and lymph from the subcutaneous fascia. It uses rounded smooth edged tool to repeatedly stroke over an area of the body, allowing the body to metabolize cellular waste and promote fresh blood and cells in that area. In other words, this treatment is an effective way to promote blood flow to areas that were previously getting less than the necessary amount of healing blood and oxygen. This treatment is very effective at relieving pain.

What does our interviewee have to say about her experience?

Why did your therapist suggest an additional treatment for you ailments? Was the therapy in addition to another treatment?

Michelle suggested Gua Sha because I carry a lot of stress in my shoulders, neck, and upper back. She had been working on those muscles for 45 minutes, before the Gua Sha, with deep tissue massage. She knew that the Gua Sha would help relieve those muscles even more and start to draw the toxins out of my body.

What was your impression of Gua Sha before receiving treatment, and how did your view of the therapy change once it was complete? 

I was hesitant at first. I had never heard of it before and I really wasn’t sure if it would make any difference in the tight muscles and pain I was having. Immediately after she finished with Gua Sha, I knew it had made a difference. I felt instant relief.

Did this service help with your pain, inflammation, or other chronic ailments? 

Yes, it made a huge difference on the stress and pain that I was carrying in my neck, shoulders, and upper back. The pain and inflammation were instantly gone. It took several days before I began to feel any discomfort return after the treatment, which is very unusual for me. After a normal massage, I tighten back up within a day or two.

Would you return to The Spa’ah specifically for our Gua Sha services? 

Yes! I scheduled a second appointment before I left The Spa’ah that evening.

Would you recommend this therapy to a friend of family member? Please explain why. 

Absolutely. I have been raving about Gua Sha since Michelle used it on me. I suffer with chronic upper back pain and stress carrying, and I know many other people do, as well. This treatment is something that everyone should have to help with those symptoms. The instant relief was incredible and I could not be more thankful for how it continued to work for several days after treatment. I am very thankful that Michelle recommended this treatment to me!

You can find out more about our different services including gua sha, here!

May you have peace, happiness, and wellness!

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Hot Stone Massage Can Provide These Four Wellness Benefits

What is hot stone massage therapy?

Hot stone massage therapy has a long history and has been practiced by ancient civilizations all across the world. According to a Massage Magazine article, “Both verbal and written history confirm the Chinese used heated stones more than 2,000 years ago as a means of improving the function of internal organs.” It was even used as a means of healing in North and South America, Africa, Europe, Egypt, and India.

It is a massage therapy technique that involves positioning warm stones along key areas of the patient’s body. Flat and oblong river rocks are often used in this massage therapy. Due to their high iron content, the river rocks maintain adequate temperatures throughout the duration of the session. The hot stones can either be used as stationary pockets of heat to target trouble areas or as deep-tissue massage aides. Stones are used in a variety of other therapies as well including facials, pedicures, manicures, meridian therapy, and more.

There’s no need to worry about the “hotness” of the stones during hot stone massage therapy, however. There is always a barrier between a client’s skin, and the stones unless the therapist is moving the stone. There is no need to worry about safety or discomfort during hot stone therapy if it is performed by a trained professional.

What benefits does hot stone massage provide?

Stress / Anxiety Reduction

A survey that was conducted on May 18th in 2017 found that 77% of adults regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress. Hot stone therapy can help reduce stress by lowering your heart rate and increasing your body’s natural “feel good” chemicals called endorphins.

Aides Sleep

According to an Examined Existence article, “Stress is one of the main factors causing insomnia and other sleep disorders. When stressors are present, the body naturally heightens its response system, thus, leading to wakefulness.” Hot stone massage helps the body sleep by decreasing the body’s cortisol (stress hormone). High levels of cortisol impede the production of melatonin (sleep hormone).

Boosts Immunity

Hot stone massage can have a marked impact on the body’s immune system.  Researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles found that, “people who received a 45-minute massage had an increased number of lymphocytes.” Lymphocytes are white blood cells. These white blood cells play a large role in defending the body from disease.

Relieves Muscle Tension / Pain

Generally, muscle tension or pain is the main complaint of massage therapy clients. Hot stone massage is especially suited to relieving these ailments. The heat of the stones stimulates that body’s circulatory system which allows stiff muscles to receive rejuvenating and oxygenated blood. The heat from the stones can also treat painful muscle spasms and particularly troublesome knots.

What else should I know about hot stone massage therapy?

While hot stone massage therapy is wonderfully beneficial for most people, be sure to check with you massage therapist before scheduling an appointment if you are experiencing any of the following:

  • Pregnancy
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Heart Disease
  • Nerve Damage
  • Sun Burn

These conditions do not preclude anyone from receiving this type of  massage. However, we recommend that you disclose this information before your session.

If your trained massage therapist does not think you are a good candidate for hot stone massage, there are many other treatments and therapies at The Spa’ah in Conway, Arkansas that can alleviate almost any ailment. You can view our full list of services here.

May you have peace, happiness, and wellness!

 

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Perpetuating Factors and Chronic Pain

What are Perpetuating Factors?

According to the Institute for Integrative Healthcare, perpetuating factors are “things that perpetuate myofascial pain due to muscle trigger points.” In other words, these factors are essential components of chronic conditions that often cause pain. Many individuals who have perpetuating factors of chronic pain often find temporary comfort in massage therapy. Because the reprieve from pain is only temporary for these sufferers of perpetuating factors, they often consider massage therapy to be a luxury service rather than a viable source of chronic pain relief. The reality is that a massage therapist as well as your medical doctor or chiropractor can help you identify any perpetuating factors that may be contributing to your chronic pain. Unless the true source of pain can be identified, you will have a hard time finding long term relief.

There are four different types of perpetuating factors:

  1. Mechanical Stress: Caused by body structural inadequacies like one shorter leg, postural stress like a ill fitting office desk / chair, dental malocclusion or misfitting teeth, and / or outside factors of muscle constriction like heavy purses or backpacks.
  2. Nutritional Inadequacies and Excess: Cause by a deficit or surplus of specific nutrients including Vitamins B1, B6, B12, and Folic Acid.
  3. Hormone Inadequacies and Diet: Caused by hormone fluctuations during menstrual cycles and inadequate levels of thyroid hormone. Allergies and hypoglycemia can also play a role in this kind of perpetuating factor.
  4. Acute or Chronic Infection: Caused by a viral or bacterial illness like the Flu as myofascial trigger points increase during systemic illnesses or active infections.

Most Americans can identify one or more of these types of chronic pain perpetrators as present in their lifestyle. Many of those Americans are also turning to massage therapy as a source of long term relief!

How can massage therapy help address Perpetuating Factors?

Massage therapy can provide temporary and long term relief to chronic pain. Temporary relief is provided by a therapist’s skill with various modalities of treatment. Long term relief can be found by an experienced therapist’s knowledge and practice.

An experienced massage therapist can help you identify lifestyle changes that can greatly impact your chronic pain. For this reason, it is a good idea to continue using the same spa for your massage therapy needs. This will allow the therapists there to all become familiar with you, your lifestyle, and your perpetuating factors. An experienced massage therapist can help chronic pain sufferers break their cycle of rehabilitation and relapse.

When you visit the same experienced therapist regularly, they will notice a specific pattern of problem areas. For example, your therapist might notice that you consistently have very tense shoulders. If he / she knows that your job involves sitting for long periods of time, your therapist might suggest a more ergonomic desk. Your massage therapists can suggest when a visit to your regular medical doctor might be warranted for a nutrition evaluation or treatment of an infection.

How can I identify Perpetuating Factors in my chronic pain?

Click here for a very helpful chart of potential perpetuating factors. Give this link a look before your next massage therapy appointment, and prepare yourself to discuss any potential chronic pain perpetrators with your therapist. Perpetuating factors are often the difference between temporary relief and long term recovery.

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Esthetican Provided Skin Care at The Spa’ah

A licensed esthetician can help you look and feel great!

Keeping Bodies in Motion at The Spa’ah

Spas offer many services, ranging from massage to aromatherapy or even skincare offered by either therapists or an esthetician. While most people think of skincare as focusing only on the face, skincare can be used to treat all of the skin. Services offered can include hand and foot massages (reflexology), paraffin baths to soothe joints and soften skin, and the more commonly known facial. Some spas stick to the facials that massage therapists can offer, called relaxation facials. These are very basic facials, using warm, moist towels, and offer a simple skin treatment of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing.

While we do offer relaxation facials at The Spa’ah in Conway, Arkansas, we will soon be able to offer advanced skincare services that can only be performed by a licensed esthetician. A licensed esthetician goes through schooling specific to esthetics. Many dedicated estheticians are members of the National Coalition of Estheticians, Manufacturers/Distributors, and Associations (NCEA); this certification requires double the average number of hours of training that most estheticians have.

What does an esthetician actually do?

Licensed estheticians, unlike a massage therapist, have training in the evaluation of skin tone, skin issues, and are qualified to recommend skincare products to treat client’s trouble areas. Estheticians can also provide services like blackhead removal, peels, waxing, makeup application, and more. They are also trained in methods of sanitation, human physiology, skin care, and hair follicle growth and development so that they can offer a comprehensive set of skin care services to any and everyone. Etheticians spend a lot of time with each client to learn their skin care needs, and often perform skin care consultations in which they recommend the optimal skin care routine for your skin type. Please keep in mind that estheticians are not a replacement for visits to your dermatologist for medical issues and diagnostics, as they cannot provide prescription medications.

Stress doesn’t only affect your muscles, it can affect how your skin behaves. Hormone changes that occur during pregnancy or menopause can also cause skin changes that lead to acne or dry skin. Spa services by a licensed esthetician can help alleviate these symptoms. Getting regular facials, along with an optimal daily skincare regimen that is recommended by a licensed ethetician, can help your skin maintain its healthy glow and encourage good circulation, while mitigating the visible signs of stress.

When do I need a licensed esthetician?

Skincare needs often change from season to season (a moist summer requires less moisturizing than does a dry, cool winter). This means that your skin care regimen should also be evaluated as the seasons change. A licensed esthetician can help you determine your skin type (which can sometimes vary between parts of your face) and give recommendations as to what products would benefit your skin in whatever conditions you may find yourself. The products recommended by estheticians are most often their “tried-and-true” products and are the same products they use on their own skin.

The epidermis (skin) is the largest organ in the human body so it is important to treat your skin kindly. Like any other organ, certain things can be done to make sure it functions at its best. Giving your skin the proper care (moisturizing, cleansing, etc.) can help you to maintain a healthy, youthful appearance. A licensed esthetician can assist you in finding the best skincare regimen for your skin type. Your skincare regimen should be regularly reevaluated for optimal performance and an esthetician can help you make the correct choice for your skincare and budgetary needs.

Skincare needs extend beyond just the face, however. An esthetician can help you with things like back acne and other locations on your body. Backs can really be beautiful expanses of skin, but sometimes they need a little help to look their best. The back equivalent of a facial may be just what you need to keep your back ready for those sweetheart tops, or for showing off the toned arms you’ve been working on for months. An esthetician can help by doing extractions as needed and by helping you to improve the overall condition of the skin on your back.

Spa Treatments and Esthetics at The Spa’ah can help you look and feel great!

Paraffin wax can also be used on the hands and feet to soften the skin, ease any joint pain, and aid in moisturizing some of the most often neglected parts of the body. Moisturizing and paraffin treatments can help fight the effects of aging on the skin. Hands that are well-taken care of give a great, youthful appearance. A good pampering on the feet can add some pep in your step, and there’s nothing better than soft feet in clean sheets back at home. Let us help you enjoy the skin you’re in!

Quality of service is paramount to The Spa’ah so that we can better serve the skincare needs of our clients in the Central Arkansas area. We can’t wait to be able to expand our already comprehensive selection of services offered at Spa’ah to those services that only a licensed esthetician should provide. The next time you’re fighting a breakout or feeling the stress of daily life, come on in to the Spa’ah! We can help you and your look and feel amazing!

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