Wellness Glossary
A
Abhyanga
A warm oil massage using dosha specific oil. It can help to alleviate stress, improve immune function and revitalise and rejuvenate the body.
Acupuncture
A form of alternative therapy and healing practice of traditional Chinese medicine in which thin needles are placed at specific points in the body to rebalance energy channels, and alleviate pain and other various health conditions.
Aerial Yoga
This combines traditional yoga and moves inspired by Pilates, acrobatics and dance using a suspended hammock to support you through the various poses. The hammock helps provide assistance during more challenging poses and improve flexibility and strength.
Aerobics
A high energy gym class using choreographed routine to raise your heart rate. The class consists of a variety of movements and exercises set to rhythmic music.
Algotherapy
The therapeutic use of seaweed products in thalassotherapy treatments such as massages, wraps and baths. The benefits of algotherapy include stimulation of blood circulation, elimination of toxins and revitalisation of the skin.
Alkaline Detox
Consists of high alkalising foods such as leafy greens, seasonal fruit and protein. During the detox process, the body will release acidic toxins from the body and boost the immune and digestive system.
Aquabike
A stationary aquatic bike, sometimes known as a pool bike, is good for physical rehabilitation and fitness training as it has a low impact on joints and muscles.
Aromatherapy
The therapeutic application or the medicinal use of aromatic substances (essential oils) for holistic healing.
Asana
A Sanskrit word for posture or seat which is now commonly used to describe a pose in yoga.
Ashtanga Yoga
A dynamic type of yoga which creates a flow of sequences which links each movement to a breath. It is a more physically demanding type of yoga compared to others.
Ayurveda
An ancient Indian healing system tracing back to more than 5000 years ago which translates from Sanskrit to ‘science of life. It is widely recognised as a holistic medicine in India and focuses on achieving balance in the mind, body and spirit through a mix of treatments and diet and exercises tailored to your dosha.
B
Balneotherapy
The therapeutic use of thermal mineral water baths or mineral-laden mud. It is often combined with other spa treatments and therapies and has been proven to be effective in easing the symptoms of arthritis and skin conditions.
Biophoton Therapy
Application of light energy to different parts of the skin for healing purposes and to support the brains chemical systems responsible for mood changes. It is beneficial for weight loss, skin conditions, stress and pain relief.
Body Scan
A mental scan of your body in a gradual sequence to bring awareness to the whole of your body, noticing any aches, pains, tension, or general discomfort.
Body Scrub
A spa treatment which exfoliates and removes dead skin cells on the body using an abrasive product, usually a sea salt or sugar mixture, to leave your skin feeling soft, healthy and refreshed.
Body Wrap
A spa treatment which normally begins with a body exfoliation followed by a product, such as a cream, gel or paste, applied to the skin, followed by a plastic wrap or blanket. It is often a popular treatment for relaxation, detox or anti-cellulite.
Breathwork
The conscious control of breathing exercises or techniques which can improve physical, mental or emotional wellbeing.
C
Chakra
This refers to the 7 main energy centres of the body. Translating from Sanskrit as ‘wheel’, balance and harmony are achieved when all 7 chakras are open and energy is flowing freely through the body to connect the physical body with mental, emotional and spiritual layers.
Champissage
Deriving from Ayurveda, this is more commonly known as an Indian head massage which also focuses on the shoulders, neck and face.
Chi Nei Tsang
An ancient Taoist practice which focuses on the abdominal area where stress, tension and negative emotions accumulate by massaging the internal organs.
Cold Plunge Pool
A small pool filled with extra cold water and most effective after the sauna or steam room to stimulate blood and minimise muscle inflammation.
Colon Hydrotherapy
A therapy which includes flushing the colon with liquid to remove waste. This is usually carried out by a therapist and its benefits include improving digestion, detoxing the body and supporting the immune system.
Cranio-Sacral Therapy
A non-invasive touch therapy using a gentle pressure across the body to release tension and stress. It is often used to treat chronic pain and release tensions in the body.
Cryotherapy
A therapy where the body is exposed to extremely cold temperatures for several minutes which has been shown to help with muscle recovery, weight loss and combatting the signs of ageing. This can be applied to just one area of the body or the whole body which involves standing in an enclosed chamber.
Cupping
A traditional Chinese therapy where warm cups are placed on the skin to create a suction to increase blood flow and stimulate the energy flow through the body. It is often used to treat chronic pain and migraines.
D
Deep Tissue Massage
A firm massage using specific techniques aimed at releasing muscle tensions and knots. It is often used to treat muscle pains and tightness.
Destination Spa
A hotel or resort which is centred through the spa and its wellness offerings. The purpose is to help individuals develop a healthier lifestyle through a healthy diet, holistic of medical spa treatments and fitness activities.
Detox
To abstain from or rid the body of toxins for a period of time in order to improve health and boost weight loss.
Dosha
The physical and mental constitution in the body according to Ayurveda. There are 3 doshas, Vata, Kapha and Pitta, of which one is usually more dominant in the body.
E
Exercise
A physical activity which is carried out to maintain or enhance health and fitness.
Exfoliation
The removal of dead skin cells and impurities from the surface of the skin.