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Acupoints
Points along the meridian channels where chi, or Qi (life's energy) gathers. Acupressure
Application of pressure to the acupoints on the body to improve the flow of energy. Acupuncture
A healing technique from ancient China, where fine needles are inserted into acupoints in order to maintain the flow of health and correct imbalances. Aerobics
Cardio-vascular fitness exercise to burn calories and increase the heart rate. An athletic dance-style workout usually performed to music. Affusion
Hydrotherapy treatment when liquid is poured onto a part of the body. Aikido
Japanese martial art that focuses on using the opponent's own energy against himself. Alexander Technique
Therapy that retrains you to stand and move around in a more balanced way by re-aligning bad posture – developed by Australian F M Alexander in 1890s) Algotherapy
Use of algae in spa treatments. Alternative Therapy
Health system not traditionally utilised by conventional Western medical practitioners, and which may complement orthodox treatments. Also known as Complementary Therapy. Aquaerobics
Aerobic exercise, performed in a swimming pool, where the water provides support and resistance to strengthen muscles. Aromatherapy
The use of essential oils from plants and flowers in spa treatments. Aromatherapy Massage
Massage in which essential oils are applied to the body, usually combined with Swedish massage techniques. Aura
An electromagnetic field or energy, believed to surround every living thing. Its colour, shape, size and action are believed to reflect your physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual wellness. Aura-Soma
Form of colour therapy, which involves you choosing from an array of Equilibrium Bottles or Balance Bottles containing two layers of jewel coloured oils. The therapist will relate your choice to your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. Developed in 1984 by Vicky Wall. Ayurveda
An ancient Indian holistic system of healing that encompasses diet, massage, exercise and yoga. Ayurvedic Massage
Massage that may be performed by more than one therapist to loosen the excess doshas. Promotes circulation, increases flexibility and relieves pain and stiffness. Applied with herbal oil. Bach Flower Remedies
Thirty-eight flower remedies, developed by Dr Edward Bach in the 1930s. The remedies are derived from solarised flowers that work on a vibrational level to effect an emotional change. Balneotherapy
General term for water treatments that use hot springs, mineral water or seawater to restore and revitalise the body and ease stress and pain. Bath
Cleansing or soaking of the body in water or steam. Can be infused with salt, flowers, herbs, minerals, algae, mud or essential oils. Body Scrub
An abrasive exfoliating body treatment using products such as salt, sugar, seeds or herbs to remove dry, dead skin cells, soften the skin and boost blood circulation. Also known as body polish. Body- Wrap
Treatment in which substances such as seaweed, mud or even chocolate are smoothed over the body in the form of a paste. The body is then cocooned in towels, foil, cling film and sometimes kept under a heated blanket to detoxify the system and hydrate the skin. Brushing
A special brush, loofah or rough cloth is rapidly brushed over the body to remove dead skin cells and boost blood circulation. Also known as dry brushing. Bust Treatments
A massage to firm and tone the bust and décolleté. Chakras
The seven energy centres in the body associated with the flow of the body's energy in Eastern medicine and philosophies. Channel
To convey energy or thoughts to another person through therapy or mind. Chocotherapy
The therapeutic use of chocolate in beauty and health treatments. Cold Plunge Pool
A pool of icy water to stimulate blood circulation usually incorporated into thermal spa experiences following heat treatment. Colonic Irrigation
The cleansing of the intestine using warm, purified water, which is introduced into the colon via the rectum. The therapist also uses a special massage technique during the procedure to stimulate the release of stored faecal matter. The detoxing treatment gives an instant boost in energy and well-being. Also known as Colonic Hydrotherapy or Colon Therapy. Colour Therapy
The use of colour to bring balance and harmony to the mind and body. Complementary Therapy
Health system not traditionally utilised by conventional Western medical practitioners, and which may complement orthodox treatments. Also known as Alternative therapy. Compress
A hot or cold folded cloth or pad, which is applied to parts of your body. Couples Treatment
A treatment, which is carried out simultaneously on two people by two therapists working in a Couples Treatment Room, especially prepared with two treatment beds to enable couples to share the spa experience together. 
Crystal Therapy
The use of crystals to balance body and mind. Believed to work on ‘vibrations'. Cupping
Chinese treatment, where small glass cups are attached to the skin by a vacuum that is created by placing a lit match inside each cup to burn up the oxygen. Boosts circulation and the flow of chi or Qi (life energy). Dancercise
Aerobic exercise derived from modified modern dance steps. Dead Sea Mud
Application of mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea, to detoxify the body and relieve rheumatic and arthritic pain. Deep Tissue Massage
Firm and deep massage using specific techniques to release tensions, blockages and knots in the muscles. Doshas
According to Indian Ayurveda, the five elements of water, fire, air, earth and ether are believed to combine in pairs to form the doshas. Dry Flotation
A treatment in which you float on a ‘waterbed' so that your body is relieved of tension and stress, but you will not get wet as you are separated from the water by a rubber mattress. Can be combined with a body mask or warm oil treatment. Energy Healing
General term used to describe a series of treatments and practices used to balance the flow of energy and remove energy blockages around the body to increase the flow of chi through the meridians. Enzyme Peel
Treatment to deep cleanse the skin using ingredients derived from papaya or pineapple. Essential Oils
Oils extracted from plants and flowers that have specific characteristics, which determine their use – they can be stimulating or relaxing or even anti-bacterial and healing. Usually inhaled or used in treatments, such as massages, where they are absorbed into the skin. Exfoliation
Removal of dry, dead skin cells and impurities using products such as salt or herbs or by techniques such as dry brushing. Also known as scrub or polish. Eyebrow Shaping
Grooming and improving the shape of the eyebrows to suit facial features – can also be combined with eyebrow tinting. Facial
A treatment to cleanse, tone and moisturise the complexion using products that best suit a specific skin type. May include exfoliation, the application of masks, and massage to face, décolleté and even hands and arms. Anti-ageing procedures, such as faradic muscle stimulation can sometimes be included. 
Facial Mask
A product or paste is applied to the face and left on for a period of time to cleanse pores, hydrate the skin and exfoliate dead skin cells. Can be formulated to suit skin types. Facial Scrub
Gently abrasive creams are used to remove dry, dead skin cells and boost lymphatic drainage and blood circulation. Leaves skin clean and glowing and improves fine lines. Fango
Italian for ‘mud'. Floatation Therapy
Treatment where you float on the surface of water, which is warmed to body temperature and has heavy salt and mineral content similar to the Dead Sea. This increases your body's buoyancy and gives a feeling of weightlessness and relaxation. Floatation Tank/Sensory Deprivation tank /Isolation Tank
An enclosed tank, without external sensations and stimuli, to aid the relaxation process of floating by providing a deep feeling of sensory awareness. May be done in complete silence and darkness or with music and videos. Flower Essences
Essences derived from solarised flowers that work on a vibrational level to induce an emotional change. Footbath
A bath for the feet, sometimes with water jets for gentle foot massage. Four-Hand Massage
Massage performed by two therapists working in synchronised movements on the same person. Fruit Acid Peel
An exfoliating skin treatment to renew the top layer of skin, using mild organic fruit acids. Excellent for reducing fine lines and imperfections. Glycolic Facial
A treatment that uses glycolic acid to break down the bond, which holds dry skin on the face. Exfoliates the dermis, smoothes the skin and softens fine lines. Hammam
Arabic steam bath. 
Hay Bath
Treatment in which the body is surrounded by warm, moist hay. Usually given in conjunction with a dry flotation session. Herbalism
Therapeutic use of herbs and plant-based medicines in treatments and diets, to prevent and cure illness. Herbs are used in many complementary therapies, including Ayurveda, homeopathy, naturopathy and Chinese, Indonesian and Japanese medicines. Can be taken internally or externally through various forms, including pills, teas, oils and compresses. Herbal Steam Infusion
Steaming with herbs to open the pores and promote relaxation. High-Impact Aerobics
Aerobic exercise involving airborne movements, such as jumping, jogging and hopping. Holistic Wellness
Integrated approach to health, fitness and wellness, which incorporates mind, body and soul – your total being. Homeopathy
Holistic heath care system, based on the concept of ‘like cures like', thus treating diseases by using minute doses of natural substances that, in a healthy person, would produce symptoms similar to those already being experienced. Developed by German physician Dr Samuel Hahnermann (1755-1843). Hopi Candles
A lit candle placed in the ear during therapy draws out earwax and impurities as it burns, thus improving hearing and easing tension and stress. Hydrotherapy Bath
A bathtub filled with water jets that pummel and massage all parts of the body. Seawater may be used, or the water may be infused with essential oils, mineral salts, algae, mud etc. Colour therapy may also be used, via underwater lighting. Stimulates and relaxes the muscles. Hydrotherapy
Therapeutic use of water, including baths, steam baths, Vichy showers, steam inhalation, in water and under water massage, and experience showers. Iridology
Analysis of the marks and changes on the iris, which is divided into areas linked to specific body parts and functions, to diagnose a problem or spot early signs of trouble in order to recommend appropriate action. Jacuzzi
Tub or pool of hot water, with massage jets of air from small holes at the base and sides of the pool. Also known as Whirlpool. Jamu
Indonesian traditional herbal medicine. Kanpo
Japanese traditional herbal medicine. Kapha
In Ayurveda, one of the three doshas. Kapha types are typically large-sized and stable. Believed to be made up of the elements of water and earth. Kinesiology
Use of fingertip pressure to locate weakness in specific muscles and diagnose a problem or a symptomatic illness. The fingertips are used to massage the appropriate points to disperse toxins and revitalise the flow of energy. Kick-Boxing
A combat-style aerobic exercise featuring martial arts and boxing movements. A fast, fun workout. Kneipp Baths
Herbal or mineral baths of varying temperatures combined with diet and exercise. Kneipp therapy uses hot and cold hydrotherapy treatments to improve circulation. Kneipp Kur
Treatments combining: hydrotherapy, herbology and natural foods for physical and emotional well-being. Developed in Germany by Sebastian Kneipp in the mid 1800s. Popular in Austria, Switzerland and Germany. Kraxton Stove
Herbal heat treatment, in which you sit against a hay-filled grading. Kur
German for ‘cure'. Preventative healthcare system based on the use of natural and spa therapies. La Stone Therapy®
Swedish massage incorporating the therapeutic use of hot and cold stones. Laconium
Gently heated sauna-style booth offering dry heat at around 55º C. Life Coaching
Counselling sessions that help to solve daily problems, and the understanding of life's natural philosophy. Light Therapy
Use of natural or artificial light in healing therapy. Lomi Lomi
Massage technique originating in Hawaii that uses the forearms and elbows with rhythmical rocking movements and long, broad strokes. Low-impact Aerobics
A gentle form of aerobics with marching or gliding movements which minimalises stress and the possibility of injury. Lymphatic Drainage Massage
A massage that uses a gentle, pumping technique to stimulate lymphatic circulation and drainage, thus detoxing and reducing water retention. Manicure
Hands are soaked and exfoliated to remove dead skin cells, cuticles are groomed and nails trimmed and shaped. They are then buffed to a shine and/or coated with a polish. Could also include hand and arm massage and warm wax treatment to soften the skin. Manuluve
Hand and arm treatment, comprising a scrub and heated seaweed massage. Marma Points
In Ayurveda, the body's vital energy points. It is believed that the dysfunction of any of these points leads to illness. Martial Arts
Forms of combat and self-defence techniques often practiced as sport or fitness programmes. Masseur
Male massage therapist. Masseuse
Female massage therapist. Mechanical Massage
Massage using machines that provide a greater depth than manual massages. Meditation
Method of deep breathing and concentration. During meditation, breathing, brain activity and heart and pulse rates slow, thus encouraging the body to relax and achieve a greater sense of inner balance and peace. Relieves stress and pain and reduces blood pressure. Meridians
Pathways or channels through which vital energy is circulated through the body. It is believed that all illnesses are a result of an energy imbalance. Microdermabrasion
A clinical skin resurfacing procedure in which a jet of fine crystals is vacuumed across the face to remove the top-most layer of skin. Reduces fine lines, acne scars and imperfections. Mineralise
Supply minerals to the body. Moor Mud
A rich accumulation of waterlogged plant deposits in the form of mud, many of which have medicinal characteristics. Cleanses, detoxes and helps to ease sore muscles when applied during treatments or in bath water. Mud Treatment
Mineral-rich mud is used to detoxify, loosen muscles and stimulate circulation in wraps, masks and baths. Nail Art
Beautification of the nails with patterns, paintings or other decorative motifs. Naturopathy
Holistic approach that believes in the body's ability to heal itself. Uses treatments to encourage the body's self-healing mechanisms. Symptoms are viewed not as part of the illness but as the body's way of ridding itself of the problem. Also known as Natural Medicine. Nutritional Consultation
A consultation with a qualified nutritional practitioner to review eating habits and dietary needs. Taking into account your lifestyle, food intolerances, appetite control and weight goals, and the nutritionist may compile a nutritionally balanced programme to help you attain optimal health and weight. Nutritional Microscopy
A revolutionary new blood test which analyses your live blood cells to enable NM practitioners to help improve health and promote weight loss through lifestyle changes, diet adjustment and supplementation. Organic Food
Food grown without the use of pesticides or other chemicals. Oxygen Facial
Facial treatment in which a fine mist of oxygen, infused with a liquid ampoule, is applied to the face. Oxygen Therapy
Umbrella term describing a wide range of treatments, including: hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the therapeutic use of ozone and hydrogen peroxide. In spas it typically describes treatments that supplement your body and skin with oxygen. Ozone Steam Bath
Individual steam cabinet in which about 99 per cent oxygen and one per cent ozone is pumped into the cabinet and mixed with steam. Pedicure
Treatment to beautify the feet and toenails. Feet are soaked and exfoliated with a scrub to remove dead skin cells, cuticles are groomed and nails trimmed and shaped. Nails may be buffed to a shine or coated with polish. May include a foot and calf massage. Pelotherapy
Health and beauty treatments using mud packs or mud baths. Personal Fitness Assessment
Programme that assesses your current fitness levels to recommend a suitable exercise programme. May include tests for aerobic capacity, body composition, blood pressure, heart rate, muscular endurance and strength. Personal Training
One-on-one personalised workout with a qualified fitness instructor. Physiotherapy
Rehabilative therapy that aids recovery from injury, surgery or disease. Treatments can include massage, traction, hydrotherapy, corrective exercise and electrical stimulation to help relieve pain, increase strength and improve mobility. Phytotherapy
Healing through plants, using herbs, aromatic essential oils, seaweed and floral extracts. Can be applied through methods including: massages, wraps, water and steam therapies, inhalation treatments and the drinking of herbal teas. Pilates
Exercise comprising slow, precise movements with coordinated breathing techniques and special exercise equipment. It aims to engage the body and mind and increase flexibility and strength. Pitta
In Ayurveda, one of the three doshas. Pitta types are typically medium built and driven. Pitta is said to be made up of the elements water and fire. Qi
Vital energy, or life force of the universe and the body. Also known as Chi (Chinese), Ki (Japanese) and Prana (Indian). Qi Gong
Chinese physical exercise of working with, or mastering, Qi. Uses breathing and body movement to help develop a powerful Qi. Rasul
Elaborately tiled steam room in which you apply different coloured mud to your body to cleanse and detox. Reflexology
Application of finger-point pressure to reflex zones on the feet, and also hands and ears – to re-establish the flow of energy through the body. Its underlying theory is that specific areas on the feet, hands and ears correspond with specific body parts, organs and glands and that the manipulation of those areas can bring about change associated with the corresponding parts. Reiki
Healing technique based on ancient Tibetan teachings. The practitioner s place their palms over, or on, various areas of the body for a few moments to energise and balance the body, mind and spirit. Helps to treat both physical and emotional problems. Rolfing
Muscular manipulation and massage therapy that involves deep tissue massage to correct musculaskeletal rigidity, misalignment and chronic pain. Re-educates body movement, improves energy flow and relieves stress. Comprises a series of ten sessions. Developed in the 1900s by Dr Ida Rolf. Roman Bath
Historically a series of rooms and pools of different temperatures that ancient Romans bathed and socialised in. Today it is used to refer to whirlpool bathing areas with benches for more than one person. Salt Glow
Exfoliating treatment in which the body is scrubbed with a mixture of salt and essential oils to remove dry, dead skin cells and boost circulation. Sauna
Dry heat in a wood-lined treatment room or cabin. The heat causes sweating which helps to cleanse the body of impurities and relax the muscles, boosts circulation and refreshes the body. A Finnish sauna includes the use of birch twigs to tap the body, thus boosting circulation. Shiatsu
A massage that uses finger pressure, and also pressure from the hands, forearms, elbows, knees and feet on acupoints. Benefits are calming and relaxing. Shirodhara
Ayurvedic treatment in which warmed, medicated oil is dripped steadily on the forehead. Relieves tension and calms the mind.  |  | Â |
Signature Treatment
A spa treatment, which has been specially created by a spa, often using indigenous ingredients with the spa's personalised twist. Spa
Term thought to originate from ‘sanitas per aqua' meaning ‘health through water'. In Europe the word was traditionally used to refer to mineral and thermal springs. These days it ideally refers to establishments that provide a professional and integrated approach to health. Spa Cuisine
Light, healthy meals, often organic. Typically low in calories, fat and salt. Spa Menu
Selection of treatments and therapies offered by the spa. Spa Package
Two or more treatments offered together. Often longer in length then individual treatments and providing excellent value for money. Can include lunch or refreshment and use of the spa facilities. Sports Massage
Deep tissue massage directed at muscles used in athletic activities. Before exercise it helps to prevent pain and injury; after exercise it helps remove lactic acid and restore muscle tone and range of movement. Steam Cabinet
Individual steam chamber in which wet heat bathes your body while your head remains in the open air. Steaming
Use of hot steam – often infused with essential oils or herbs Âto relax the body, soften the skin, open the pores and prepare the face or body for treatment. Steam Room
Tiled room with benches in which steam is generated at high pressure and temperature to open pores, eliminate toxins and relax the body. Can be infused with the aroma of essential oils. Step Aerobics
Aerobic sessions utilising a small platform for stepping up and down during exercise. Stone Massage
The use of warmed and chilled stones to massage the body using long strokes, facilitated by oils. Also known as stone therapy, hot stone therapy or warm stone therapy. 
Stretching
Flexibility workout where various parts of the body are stretched by assuming different positions – this helps to increase flexibility and relieve stress and tension in the muscles. Swedish Massage
Massage in which oils are applied to the body with techniques including effleurage, petissage, friction and vibration. T'ai Chi
Graceful movements that combine mental concentration with deep, controlled breathing and balance. Regular practice brings about relaxation and good health. Thai Massage
Traditional massage from Thailand that involves a combination of stretching and gentle rocking, and uses a range of motions and acupressure techniques. The massage is oil free and performed on a mattress on the floor. Loose pyjamas are worn. 
Thalassotherapy
Treatments that harness mineral and vitamin-rich seawater and seaweed for curative and preventative purposes. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Holistic system of health care that sees the body and mind as a whole. Treatments include herbal medicine, physical and mental exercises and therapies such as acupuncture and moxibustion. Tui Na
Chinese system of massage therapy, using the hands, elbows and even feet, to treat specific illnesses of body and emotional anxiety. Vata
In Ayurveda, one of the three doshas. Vata types are typically thin and highly-strung. Vata is believed to be made up of the elements air and ether. Vegan
Person who consumes a vegetable and fruit diet exclusively and does not eat animal products such as butter, cheese, eggs and milk. Vegetarian
Person who consumes mainly vegetables, fruit, nuts, pulses and grains, and who does not eat meat or fish, but eats animal products such as butter, cheese, eggs and milk. Vichy Shower
A spray of water from five micro-jets fixed to a horizontal rail, which rains down on you as you lie on a table below. May also include a massage. Also known as affusion shower or rain shower. Vinotherapy
The therapeutic use of wine and grapes in beauty and health treatments. 
Visualisation
Technique that involves focusing the mind by consciously creating a mental image of a desired condition to bring about change. May be self-directed or therapist-guided. Also known as Imaging. Water Treading
Kneipp therapy of walking in calf-deep cold water. Also known as water stepping. Watsu
Aquatic bodywork during which you float in a swimming pool, supported by a therapist who manipulates your body with stretches, rhythmic movements and pressure point massage to bring deep relaxation. Waxing
Temporary hair removal method. Warm or cool wax is applied on to areas of unwanted hair. A special paper strip or cloth is smoothed on to the area and quickly whisked off, pulling the hair off with the wax. Wet Area
Area in a spa where Jacuzzis, saunas, hot and cold tubs, steam baths and pressure showers are located. Yin and Yang
Yin is the universal energy force whose characteristics are feminine: cold, dark, quiet, static and wet. Yang is masculine: warm, bright, dynamic and dry. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) true balance and health are achieved only when these two opposing forces are in balance. Yoga
Ancient Hindu practice comprising focused deep breathing and stretching and toning the body, using various postures. The ultimate goal is to reach your full physical, mental and spiritual potential. Relaxes and improves circulation, flexibility and strength. Yogalates
An exercise system, which blends postures and movements from both yoga and Pilates. Glossary courtesy of ‘Spa Style Europe' (Thames & Hudson); an informative guide to spas by author Ginger Lee, recommended by Spa World magazine, which offers an insight into spas, treatments and nutrition.
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