Spanista » Self Care Rituals, Reflections & Resources for Joyful Living by Ginny Shiverdecker

Spa Therapies Spanista Philosophy Belief #3

Spa-Therapies-Spansita-Philosophy-Belief-#3.jpegPINIMAGEDear Wellness Seekers,

Spa Therapies Spanista Philosophy Belief #3 focuses on the many physiological benefits of spa practices especially when they become Rituals. It is troubling to realize how divorced from our bodies we let ourselves become, as if we exist from the shoulders up – we recognize this only when a loved one may reach over to rub our shoulders – we let out a moan of pleasure as the tension is released. We push our bodies like machines, ignoring signals of stress which leads to compounding negative effects. The physical body needs nurturing – and the power of therapeutic touch can have vital,restorative impact on our wellbeing. Addressing this issue is the foundation of  the next tenant.  

Spansiata Philosophy  Belief #3: Taking control of our wellbeing through spa therapy practices achieves deeper, more holistic outcomes that are longer lasting.

Today there appear to be almost as many Spas as there are Starbucks. But not all Spas are created equal. Today they generally fall into three types: Wellbeing Services; Medical/Sports Services and Beauty Services and range from local to destination. 

Right now there is little third party advice, other than personal reviews on sites to help pick a Spa that is right for you. There are some common services across Spa types but the one I use as a primary indicator of quality care is Massage Therapy. One of the oldest healing arts, massage is a powerful antidote to stress. While some people still see Spa Therapies like massage as a form of pampering, more and more informed people seeking proactive wellness strategies consider these practices as essential. Why? Because the holistic health benefits have long been realized amongst those who are on the right wavelength. This growing like-minded community sees such therapies as investments in our quality of lifestyle that will pay us back with health and happiness.

I came to this conclusion through a few years of experimentation. So much so, it inspired the birth of Spanista as shared in My Story.  I was introduced to massage therapy by my first boss who believed in my talents so wanted to help me relieve a reoccurring stiff neck. My first massage experience was something I will always remember because my body felt true relief – but as a novice I was in no way properly prepared  to get the most out of the experience nor understand how to integrate it into my schedule. But it did start my exploration into this unique world. My uncle a medical doctor encouraged it saying he saw patients who responded to such practices. Now I love massage therapy and recommend it to everyone I know.

What I do observe in our society is strengthening interest in the Spa Therapies and the Power of Touch to honor our bodies as the temples of life. ‘Studies at the University of Miami School of Medicine’s Touch Research Institute demonstrated that premature infants who were massaged developed more quickly and were less irritable. Touch is equally important to adults as everyone has the needed to be cared for, and nurturing touch fosters a sense of well being. It anchors us and enhances calm thinking and clarity.’ This maybe why as we seek smarter wellness lifestyles, massage has grown in popularity.

Unfortunately we wait too long in life to adopt Massage Therapy as a Ritual. We got into fitness craze, adding yoga, now healthy foods and eating, some have come to the power of touch as a significant healing benefits. Massage is the next big thing. Thank goodness it is more and more accessible to everyone – but it’s time we wake up to embrace it like we do our fitness regimens. The emotional weight we carry around from everyday stress deeply affects our bodies – massage treatments are a healing solution. Just ask anyone who goes regularly.

There are extensive Spa Practices that offer healing – and they too can become part of your Spanista Self Care Values System. It all depends upon your personal desires. In the future I will provide a guide that can act a resource for you to evaluate and select a Spa that is right for you depending upon your needs whether it is a Spa close to home you want to start a relationship with or a Spa while traveling or a destination Spa Experience. Watch for this information in future posts.

To Your Self Care Journey To Joy,

Ginny

Spanista Founder & Self Care Advocate

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