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Spa Holidays Massages can be given using the hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearm, and feet and with over 80 recognised forms of massage originating from all corners of the globe, each has a unique philosophy and technique. One of the wonderful, and sometimes confusing, things about deciding on a particular massage is, with so many on offer, how does one choose? And just as there are many types of massage to consider, therapists also use a wide variety of lotions and oils. Maybe it's best to dive in the deep end, try different techniques and learn from the experience. No matter what you choose, a good massage is guaranteed to make you feel amazingly relaxed and rejuvenated. Lomi Lomi Lomi Lomi is a unique healing massage derived from the ancient Polynesians and more specifically the master healers of Hawaii. The massage works gently yet deeply into the muscles with continuous, flowing strokes, totally nurturing the body and enabling the recipient to relax, give in, and simply be. Seeing things in terms of energy flow, the Hawaiians believe that an idea or belief can block energy flow just easily as muscle tension. Lomi Lomi helps release the blockages while, at the same time gives energy a new direction. Lomi Lomi is not just considered a physical experience; it also facilitates healing mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Shiatsu Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on therapy originating in Japan. There are two main Shiatsu schools; one based on Western anatomical and physiological theory and the other based on traditional Chinese medicine. Shiatsu is an evolving form and its various styles incorporate aspects of Japanese massage traditions, Chinese medicine practice, and Western anatomy and physiology. Indian Head Massage Indian Head Massage originated in India over 1000 years ago and was initially a way of keeping the hair in good condition. Hot Stone Massage Hot Stone Massage Therapy dates back over 3000 years. The hot stones are usually volcanic rocks such as basalt and cold stones are marble or cool sedimentary stones. This therapy combines the benefits of hydrotherapy and the use of heat applications with the strokes of massage using stones to create a deep, relaxing and healing treatment. The heat of the massage stones warms the skin enabling the absorption of the moisturising and therapeutic oils while simultaneously preparing the musculature of the body so the therapist can work into the deeper muscle layers. Reflexology Reflexology is one of the oldest healing arts and was practiced by the ancient Egyptians, Indians, and Chinese. The basic concept of reflexology is based on the belief that the reflex points in the feet and hands are directly associated with the rest of the organs in the body. Reflexology applies pressure to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger and hand techniques without the use of oils or lotions. Russian Massage Russian Massage has three phases and these apply to all patients. The first phase is the slow, gentle stage. The therapist applies gentle massage techniques to the body, preparing it for the deeper manipulation It is based on the ancient healing system of Ayurveda. This form of massage works on the upper back, shoulders, upper arms, neck, scalp, ears and face. The areas are massaged using firm yet gentle, rhythmic movements that involve acupressure points. Ayurvedic oils were traditionally used in this form of massage although the use of 8 www.paradisesonline.com that is part of the next phase. The second phase involves faster, deeper, and harder movements to the body by the massage therapist. This is the part of the massage that has the most therapeutic effects. It is also the most active phase as it involves intense manipulation of the body muscles to relieve tension and pain. Finally, there is the third stage during which the therapist switches back to the gentler, slower techniques. The slow movements are used to complete the session and to promote relaxation. With the increasing pace and stress of modern living, planning a spa holiday is becoming increasingly popular. No matter which spa you choose, or which treatment, you are sure to feel the benefit ten-fold! oils is now optional. Indian head massage is great for relieving the stress and tension in our everyday lives. The technique uses controlled movements and has a strong effect on the three higher chakras—the mind, body and spirit.