Tag Archive for: acne

What is Lymphatic Massage?

To answer the question, “What is a lymphatic massage?”, you must first understand your body’s lymphatic system. According to a Live Science article, “The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials.” In other words, the lymphatic system is essential to a healthy immune system and proper nutrient absorption.

The lymphatic system is made up of fluid or lymph, fluid transportation vessels, and organs that contain lymphoid tissue (i.e. lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus). Each of these serves a specific purpose within the lymphatic system. The fluid or lymph contains nutrients, oxygen, hormones, and fatty acids, as well as toxins. Fluid transportation vessels transport the lymph to the cardiovascular system. Lymphoid tissues monitor what is in the lymph / fluid, and produce nutrients to be transported by the cardiovascular system to other parts of the body.

Lymphatic massage, also known as Manual Lymphatic Drainage, is a gentle non-invasive technique designed to increase the movement of lymph and interstitial fluid. As you can imagine, an under functioning lymphatic system can wreak havoc on your ability to fight infection. A compromised lymphatic system can even impact your body’s healing process and energy levels.

How do I know if I can benefit?

This therapy can be beneficial for many ailments or illnesses. It relieves chronic inflammation associated with conditions like acne, eczema, and allergies. It  is also great for individuals who are recovering from surgeries, because it is known to reduce swelling. Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia suffers are also great candidates for lymphatic massage.

Rejuvenating the lymphatic system can have some more surprising benefits as well. Often times, breastfeeding mothers find relief in lymphatic massage, because it helps reduce fluid retention and plugged ducts. Lymphatic massage can also help with cellulite, migraines, and sinus congestion.

Almost everyone has one or more of these ailments that can be managed with lymphatic massage, and would be a great candidate for this revolutionary therapy!

I’m convinced. Now, where can I get a Lymphatic Massage?

The Spa’ah in Conway, Arkansas now has a Manual Lymphatic Drainage Certified massage therapist on staff that would be delighted to assist you. If you choose to schedule this massage with The Spa’ah, there are a few things that you can do to get the most out of your session.

Before your Lymphatic Massage at The Spa’ah in Conway, Arkansas, you should:

  • Think about increasing your intake of antioxidants to aid in the detoxification process.
  • Drink lots of water in the days leading up to your appointment.
  • Avoid alcohol or recreational drugs so that your lymphatic system is not compromised during your session.
  • Plan for a short period of gentle movement after your session to support lymph transportation.

May you have peace, happiness, and wellness!

 

 

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!

What is LED Photon Therapy?

LED Photon Therapy, also known as color light therapy, is a revolutionary skin care technique that uses UV-free LED lights to boost collagen generation. This skin care technique was first developed by NASA to help plants grow in space, and LED Photon Therapy has also been used to speed up the healing process for injured Navy Seals. According to a Nasa News article, “this special lighting technology helps hard-to-heal wounds, such as diabetic skin ulcers, serious burns, and severe oral sores caused by chemotherapy and radiation.”

This revolutionary light therapy works by focusing various light colors on the skin to facilitate different regenerative properties. Amber light stimulates collagen and elastin growth, while red light penetrates deep to tighten the skin and reduce inflammation. LED Phonton therapy often uses two other lights: blue to destroy acne-causing bacteria, and infrared to accelerate skin recovery.

How can LED Photon Therapy help me?

LED Photon Therapy can be used to treat a multitude of illnesses, but it can also have esthetic applications. A licensed Esthetician can use LED Photon Therapy to treat many different skin conditions. This therapy can serve the following functions and more:

  • Clear, lighten, smooth the skin
  • Firm and enhance skin texture
  • Reduce and prevent wrinkles, helps fight fatty areas
  • Improve skin elasticity
  • Minimize Pores
  • Balance skin tone
  • Enhance circulation 
  • Inhibit the formation of melanin pigment
  • Fight acne
  • Accelerate blood circulation

However, according to Dr. R. Glen Calderhead, a leading expert in phototherapy and photosurgery, “LED-LLLT (Light Emitting Diode-Low Level Light Therapy) is a safe and effective stand-alone therapy for patients who are prepared to wait until the final effect is perceived.” In other words, studies and real word experiences support the validity of LED Photon Therapy, but clients will not see massive results overnight.

What else should I know about LED Photon Therapy and skin care?

Maintaining a good skin care regimen is a great way to increase self esteem and practice self care. Sometimes, regular skin care routine activities like washing, exfoliating, and moisturizing don’t quite cut it anymore. LED Photon Therapy is a great way to take your skin care to the next level.

If you have questions about LED Photon Therapy or any other esthetic services, contact us! The Spa’ah has a licensed Esthetician on staff. Visit us at our location in Conway, Arkansas to find out how to schedule a consultation!

May you have peace, happiness, and wellness!