Glossary of Spa Terms Acupressure - Oriental technique of applying pressure to specific "pressure points" to improve the flow of energy. Acupuncture - Oriental technique of inserting needles into specific pressure points to stimulate healing and balance. Aerobics - Exercise regimen which elevates the heart rate; increases blood circulation, strengthening heart and lung, and encouraging weight loss through the burning of fat. Algotherapy - A form of thalassotherapy where thin layers of heated seaweed are applied to the skin; infra-red lamps are also used in the treatment to maintain the heat of the prepared seaweed. Treatment reduces pain and functions as an anti-inflammatory. Aquaerobics/Acquacize - Exercises done in water involving resistance, which helps to strengthen body and tone the muscle. Aromatherapy - Twentieth century term which is based on the ancient practice of utilizing essential oils to heal by "therapeutically" stimulating the nasal/olfactory senses, mental responses, circulatory and respiratory functions. Aslan Therapy - Developed in Romania, gerovital drug therapy believed to combat the aging process. Ayurveda - Eastern Indian philosophy and practice of utilizing herbal and other folklore adaptations, as well as meditation, to create a balance between the internal and external self Biofeedback - Tracking method of physiological responses and behavioral reaction to various situational stimuli. Used as an attempt in understanding human behavior and developing programs of modification to restore well-being. Brush and Tone - Exfoliating treatment involving the dry brushing of skin to remove dead cells and stimulate circulation, and then applying hydrating oils or moisturizing agents to soften the skin. The dry brushing technique may also be used as a preparatory step for other treatments such as a seaweed wrap or fango/parafango. Cathiodermie - Electric stimulation of skin, in low voltage doses, believed to stimulate circulation and remove impurities. Circuit Training - Exercise regimen using a series of weight training devices combining the resistance with aerobics. Craniosacral Therapy - Massage therapy focusing on the head and neck. Crenotherapy - Any treatment incorporating mineral water, mud and vapor. Dead Sea Mud Treatment - As stated. This type of fango is nutrient and mineral rich and known for its detoxification and exfoliation properties. Dulse Scrub - Exfoliating body treatment, which utilizes dulse seaweed powder, which has been rehydrated with either water or an essential oil. This treatment removes impurities and dead skin cells and re-mineralizes the skin. Duo Massage - Synchronous massage treatment done by two therapists; done properly, the sense of touch isn't discernible that four hands are performing the treatment. Endermologie - Developed in France, this massage therapy significantly reduces the appearance of cellulite, while defining the figure; performed by an esthetician specifically trained in this therapy. Essential Oils - The aromatic (liquid) substance extracted from roots, bark, flowers, grasses, etc., which are then used as part of a cosmetic or "therapeutic" treatment, such as aromatherapy. Exfoliation - The process of removal and sloughing of dead skin cells. This process also aids in improving circulation through stimulating blood flow. The pressure used to generate the process, further aids in relaxation and stress reduction. Fango Therapy - Treatment utilizing various types of mud, which are rich in minerals and nutrients. Mud removes toxins from the skin's pores, and aids in the exfoliation process as well. For many more definitions of useful 'spa terminology', click on this link Spa Glossary of Terms

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