The Complete Spa Book for Massage Therapists BODY WRAPS, MUD, CLAY, AND HERBAL THERAPIES: PART II – HERBS LESSON L-8.1

SPA THOUGHT “If you’re going to incorporate herbs into your practice, you need to plan your space accordingly.” Rae Dunphy owner, Rae Dunphy Aromatics

HERBAL THERAPIES Herbs used for centuries for healing Medicines derived from plant compounds Herbal application in spas: full-body herbal wraps herbal compress therapy herbal baths herb-based exfoliation ingestion of herbal teas most common less common

HERBAL THERAPIES Herbs used in spa treatments are: cultivated wildcrafted Herbs often used in bulk for infusions Important active ingredient = phenols serve as plants’ defense

EFFECTS OF HERBS antipyretic – help lower fever antispasmodic – reduce muscle tightness demulcent – softening or soothing effect diaphoretic – increase perspiration diuretic – fluid loss through urinary system nervine – soothe the nervous system stimulating – uplift and energize

HERBAL WRAP

HERBAL WRAP One of the most effective spa treatments Can have a real impact on well-being True heat treatment Sheets soaked in herbs induce sweating Induces hyperthermia – a “false fever” Releases impurities through pores

The Complete Spa Book for Massage Therapists BODY WRAPS, MUD, CLAY, AND HERBAL THERAPIES: PART I – BODY WRAPS AND MUDS LESSON L-8.0

SPA THOUGHT “Therapists need to think of creating a total experience for customers the moment they come in the door.” Rae Dunphy owner, Rae Dunphy Aromatics

INTRODUCTION Therapists like using spa body products: natural non-toxic therapeutic sustainable for the environment locally cultivated, when available For centuries, European spas have offered “the kür” with similar natural ingredients

PURPOSES OF VARIOUS BODY WRAPS To heat & detoxify the body To relax and improve mood & well-being To nourish, cleanse, & improve the skin To purge impurities & improve joint elasticity To remineralize the skin & entire body To soothe sunburn pain & improve circulation

SLIMMING WRAPS Claim that they aid weight loss & inch loss Effects temporary & caused by fluid loss Most spas do not feature slimming wraps Some day spas do offer them Text book does not refer to slimming wraps

ADDED VALUE IN BODY WRAP SERVICES Important to offer extra $ value for expensive wrap services spa reflexology scalp massage not necessary for herbal wraps

TYPES OF BODY WRAPS Two main types heated unheated herbal aromatherapy wraps seaweed wraps mud wraps

HEATED WRAPS

UNHEATED WRAPS

MORE BODY WRAP CLASSIFICATIONS Loose wraps Tight wraps Partial wraps leg, foot, hand, back, & torso Whole-body wraps

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS OF BODY WRAPS Comfort and security: comfort of being “tucked in” only available in the spa Warmth: a sense of nurturing & deep relaxation Enclosed environment: ideal conditions for spa products to act on body

BODY WRAP GENERAL PROTOCOLS Communicate let the client know you are available inform client about wrap & how long it lasts offer water, cold compress, & other comforts Use a bolster under knees wraps create an extra weight load on legs

BODY WRAP GENERAL PROTOCOLS (CONT.) Exercise caution claustrophobia burning skin uncover mouth & nose check for allergies & sensitivities

FEAR OF BEING WRAPPED Approximately 25% of people feel at least a little claustrophobia in wraps Especially in hot sheets & blankets 99% of all spa clients can still experience body wrap treatments using a simple technique

TECHNIQUE TO AVOID CLAUSTROPHOBIA IN WRAPS Reassure client – can exit wrap at any time Leave arms unwrapped over head Lower arms onto wrap atop body Wrap only topmost blanket over arms Reassure client again – monitor comfort