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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. HERBAL WRAP

7. 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

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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

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

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

15. HEATED WRAPS

16. UNHEATED WRAPS

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

18. 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

19. 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

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

21. 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

22. 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