The Benefits Of Body Treatments

Mind and Body Treatments in Melbourne, FL

Ask yourself this: Is your skin smooth and firm? Does it give off a healthy glow? Does your body feel relax? If the answer to any of those questions is no, maybe it’s time to consider a body treatment. Whether you’re being wrapped in mud or massaged with a revitalizing scrub, these soothing treatments don’t simply feel good but more, they offer health and beauty benefits and give you a chance to let out a much-needed ahhh—something we all need from time to time.

Once you’ve chosen a therapy that appeals to you, speak with a reservationist when you book your treatment to share any physical body issues or discomfort you’re experiencing. Let her know if you’re pregnant and tell her about any medications you’re taking; this will help her avoid using ingredients that you might be sensitive to. And if something doesn’t feel right during your treatment, don’t hesitate to speak up.

Benefits of Body Treatments

Body Scrub This treatment is all about exfoliation. Your therapist will vigorously rub you from your shoulders down to your feet (speak up if you’d like her to skip a certain area, like your stomach) with a grainy mixture, often including ingredients like sugar, salt or coffee grounds, which slough off dead skin. The friction also helps improve circulation and leaves you feeling energized. Most body scrubs end with a short massage that includes moisturizing oils, butter or creams that can penetrate more deeply after the exfoliation has done its work.

Tip: Consider forgoing shaving before a scrub as it can irritate freshly shaved skin. Avoid the treatment altogether if you have a sunburn or any open cuts or wounds.

Body Mask Just like a facial mask, a body mask is a thick paste or cream made from minerals, plants, fruits and other natural elements (think: clay or mud) that detoxify and firms your skin by drawing out impurities and absorbing excess oil. It’s generously applied all over your body and left to dry for about 20 to 30 minutes. The mask you choose may feature ingredients designed to address specific concerns; for instance, caffeine, which can increase circulation and reduce the appearance of cellulite, may be added to a body mask. Or a treatment might include alpha hydroxy acids, which aid in repairing sun damage and combating the signs of aging.

Tip: Make sure you let the reservationists upon booking know if you have any allergies to shellfish or iodine, as many masks have seaweed or other types of ingredients that you should not partake of.

Body Wrap This treatment is similar to a body mask, with the added step of having your body wrapped in sheets, seaweed, Mylar® or another “cocooning” material after a mask is applied. The idea is to raise your body temperature, which boosts circulation, opens pores and helps the mask to better absorb into your skin.

Tip: If you’re claustrophobic you may want to skip this treatment as it doesn’t allow you to move freely or you can ask to have your arms left out of the wrap, which also helps.

Dry Brushing This ancient technique involves brushing your skin with a natural bristle brush (synthetic materials can be too harsh) without any moisture or water. The brushing removes dead skin, boosts circulation, flushes out toxins and even improves the appearance of cellulite. Your therapist will start at your feet, working up your body and brushing in circular motions towards your heart, which encourages natural lymphatic flow, the body’s system for boosting immunity and keeping fluids in balance. If you’re receiving another treatment that includes water or products—like a body mask, wrap or massage—expect your dry brushing session to come first.

Tip: Learn how to use a dry brush and other devices, like a Supracor bath mitt or Clarisonic body brush.

Massage The health benefits of massage are many, from improving circulation and lymphatic drainage to easing pain and reducing stress. You’re likely to find that a massage will enable you to relax and let go as your therapist works to soothe your muscles and address any specific concerns you’ve shared. There’s no shortage of different types of massage: Keep in mind a relaxation massage like the Ultimate Unwinder (Swedish) is much different that the Elemis Athletic Rub, which is much more deep of a massage. A reservationist can assist you with concerns upon booking.

Tip: Try starting out with the Swedish Relaxation Massage. You can always upgrade to massage to a more firm Deep Tissue type if you like.

DIY Body Treatments

The easiest treatments to do at home are body scrubs. Body wraps are more difficult and probably best to be left for visits to the spa.

Try this recipe:  3 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 1 tablespoon honey

Mix all ingredients together, take into the warm shower with you. Rinse your body first, then scrub in a circular motion all over your body, rinse and pat dry. You can use this scrub 1-2 x per week or as needed.