Once regarded as an excuse to be pampered in a eucalyptus-infused sanctuary, spa treatments have finally earned a legitimate seat at the wellness table. Even medical professionals agree that some treatments have demonstrable health benefits – especially as we age. Massage, for example, is “an effective treatment for reducing stress, pain, and muscle tension” and may be helpful for a wide variety of conditions, including anxiety, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, headaches, insomnia, strains or injuries, and joint pain, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Indeed, the health benefits of spa treatments mean that your weekly or monthly appointment is more than an indulgence; it’s part of your healthy aging plan. Here’s a look at a few of the most effective treatments available.
Massage: Although it’s not a cure-all, the health benefits of massage are well documented (and oh-so-enjoyable to receive).
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Reduces restrictions in myofascial tissue – The web of tissue that surrounds your organs and muscles often become tight, which prevents muscles, ligaments, and tendons from moving the way they should – and in turn affects flexibility and motion. A good deep-tissue massage targets and stretches the fascia to keep everything moving smoothly.
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Improves circulation – Blood circulation is a key element in the body’s ability to heal, regenerate, and restore – and the kneading and pulling of massage treatments help move blood through the body. As blood flows through blood vessels, it supplies fresh oxygen to your brain and organs, and promotes healthier skin and cell growth.
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Assists with lymphatic function– The rhythmic strokes of a skilled massage therapist improve the flow of lymphatic fluid, which helps to flush toxins from the body. The healthier the lymph nodes, the better the immune system operates, which can help keep you healthy year-round.
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Try: Fire and Ice Massage – Uses warming and cooling thermal treatments to decrease inflammation, provide deep muscle pain relief, and increase circulation using warm oil, heat pack, and cooling gels.
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Relieves stress – Never underestimate the power of human touch. By setting aside time to be treated by a certified professional, spa clients are investing in their own well-being. Both the calm, quiet atmosphere of a spa and the care of the therapist help relieve stress. The serotonin and dopamine boost provided by the session often lasts several hours (or even days) after the treatment.
Local Ingredients: Indigenous cultures have been using natural elements like flowers, stones, and minerals for thousands of years as part of their wellness rituals. Fortunately, many spas are now following suit – and creating unique treatments that leverage local ingredients and centuries-old tradition to help their clients feel their best.
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Stones – Known for their unique mineral qualities, stones can be heated and applied to the body to alleviate muscle soreness and draw out toxins, and mineral-rich mud is often used to hydrate and condition the skin.
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Try: Gemstone Facial – Uses Tourmaline, Topaz, Lepidolites, and over 45 other micronized gemstones in combination with Bentonite Clay to create a highly energizing, deeply hydrating, tightening, and detoxifying effect on all skin types.
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Hot Stone Massage - An ancient Native American healing art utilizing heated basalt stones to massage the body.
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Himalayan Stone Massage - incorporates warm, smooth Himalayan salt stones to warm up the tissue and release tension and toxins from the body.
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Plants + Flowers: The aromatic qualities and healing functions of local plants provide powerful anti-aging remedies – not to mention exceptional skin hydration. Try:
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Aloe and Lavender Wrap - Cooling aloe vera application and wrap heals and reconditions dry or aging skin.
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Hydrating Rose Facial - Using rose in several different forms, this treatment restores hydration, balance, circulation, and moisture.
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Seaweed Treatment - Reduces the appearance of cellulite, removes dead skin cells, and helps the body with lymphatic drainage.
- Blueberry Detox - A full body dry brush with Magnesium muscle melt scrub and solution jump starts recovery.
Specialty Skin Treatments: Whether you choose an enzyme-based scrub, collagen induction therapy, or pore cleansing, caring deeply for your skin is one way to stave off the effects of sun, wind, and environmental factors. Some of the best skin treatments focus on removing dead skin cells, applying hydrating botanicals, and repairing any damage that may already exist. Try:
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Refresh Micropen Collagen Induction Therapy - Reduces fine lines, scarring, and discolorations; triggers new collagen production.
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Swept Away Facial - Microdermabrasion “sweeps away” dead skin cells with a penetrating enzyme mask. Deep exfoliation and increased blood flow encourages collagen formation, firming and toning the epidermis.
- Ageless Facial - Known as the “nonsurgical face lift,” the layering of signature masks encourages detoxification, cell metabolism, skin clarity, and elasticity. Skin appears brighter and firmer.
Feeling ready for some pampering with a side of major health benefits? If you’re a Trilogy Member, you won’t have to travel far to treat yourself! Many of our communities feature full-service spas, each with a comprehensive treatment menu that’s uniquely tailored to local rituals, traditions, and ingredients. As an added bonus, Trilogy Members receive discounted spa rates, so you can spa away and feel good about your health (and your wallet) while you do it.