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A is for... Acupressure, anti-ageing, aromatherapy, ayurveda and more.
AbhyangaAcupressure
Affusion shower
Ai Chi
Alexander Technique
Algotherapy
Allergens
American facial
Anaerobic exercise
Anthotherapy
Anti-ageing
Aquagym
Arctic shower
Aroma bath
Aroma room
Aromatherapy
Ayurveda
Abhyanga
Abhyanga Abhyanga is a massage therapy used in the Indian holistic medical practice of Ayurveda. Your therapist will massage you using warmed herbal oils chosen to suit your dosha (your mind and body type).
See also: Ayurveda: An overview of Ayurvedic spa treatments; Ayurvedic massage types explained; Chakra and qi - what are they?
Acupressure
Acupuncture without the needles. During this ancient Chinese holistic medical practice your therapist will apply finger-tip pressure at strategic points along your meridians. This is said to remove blockages and improve the flow of energy around your body.
See also: Complementary therapies: Acupuncture; Massage: Shiatsu; Complementary therapies: Reflexology
Affusion shower
Also known as a Vichy shower, this is a light, warm, mineral-rich shower of water that is sprayed or sprinkled over your body as you are lying down.
See also: Hydrotherapy; Hydrotherapy: Hydromassage; Thalassotherapy: Marine and seawater treatments
Ai Chi
A combination of Tai Chi, Shiatsu and a pool, this relaxing exercise programme performed in warm water. Ai Chi uses a repeated sequence of movements alongside deep breathing to promote relaxation.
See also: Hydrotherapy: Watsu; Spa treatments explained by the experts: Shiatsu; Tai Chi
Alexander Technique
A technique that focuses on posture, used to improve the efficiency of your body. By teaching you how to use the right amount of energy for each activity you undertake, the Alexander Technique aims to increase overall energy and ease tension.
See also: Bowen massage; Yoga: An introduction; Pilates
Algotherapy
A blanket term for any spa treatment that utilises algae or seaweed, or marine minerals extracted from them. Such ingredients are often used in "detoxifying" spa treatments.
See also: Thalassotherapy: Marine and seawater treatments; Detox treatments: an introduction; Wraps
Allergens
Any substance that can cause an allergy or allergic reaction.
See also: Labels and chemicals; Q: Do spas use products that will irritate my skin?; Q: What ingredients may be harmful to my skin in spa treatments?
American facial
An American facial is a results-focused spa facial, usually featuring "manual extraction" (removal of blackheads and other impurities by hand or "implement"). The American facial can feel more like a procedure than a treat(ment), But the results can be quite dramatic.
See also: Q: Where can I get an American facial?; Facials: How to choose the right one for you; Facials that use specific equipment
Anaerobic exercise
High-intensity physical exercise of a short duration. During aerobic exercise (low intensity, long duration) your body uses oxygen to generate energy. During anaerobic exercise, oxygen is used more quickly than the body can replenish it, so your body switches to using energy stored in the muscles. E.g. sprinting or weight training.
See also: Aerobics; Gyms; Aqua aerobics
Anthotherapy
Spa treatments in caves! A bit like having a treatment in a steam room or sauna as some caves are hot and wet, others hot and dry.
See also: Thermal suites: An overview; Thermal suites: The therapeutic effect of heat; Thermal suites: Hammams, rasuls and serails
Anti-ageing
Used to describe any product or treatment that claims to be able to arrest, delay or even reverse the visible signs of ageing on the skin.
See also: Anti-ageing spa treatments; Treatments for special occasions; Facials by brand: Carita Pro-lift
Aquagym
Gym equipment especially designed for use in a pool. The incorporation of water adds to the resistance as well as providing a supportive environment for your body.
See also: Water-based exercise; Aqua aerobics; Hydrotherapy
Arctic shower
A shower cold enough to turn you blue! Arctic showers are a type of "experience shower" that you may find in a thermal suite.
See also: Hydrotherapy; Thermal suites: An overview; Hydrotherapy: Hydromassage
Aroma bath
A bath containing water infused with fragrant herbs, flowers or essential oils.
See also: Hydrotherapy: Baths; Treatments for two; I want to relax
Aroma room
Also known as an aroma grotto, this is a tiled or rock-lined room, heated to a moderate temperature, with seating for a few people. Aromatic steam infused with essential oils is wafted into the room.
See also: Thermal suites: Steam rooms; Complementary therapies: Aromatherapy; I want to relax
Aromatherapy
A complementary therapy using fragrant essential oils designed to activate your sense of smell and increase your sense of wellbeing.
See also: Complementary therapies: Aromatherapy; Hydrotherapy: Baths; Massage: Relaxation massage
Ayurveda
A general term for a variety of ancient Indian massage techniques. An Ayurvedic massage will usually feature the use of essential oils and/or herbs chosen especially for you after an initial lifestyle and health assessment.
See also: Ayurveda: An overview of Ayurvedic spa treatments; Ayurveda: Ayurvedic massage types explained; Complementary therapies: Indian head massage
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