People are more mindful about regular self-care after the pandemic and
Immunity-boosting Spa treatments are booming
It should come as no surprise that health and wellness are on everyone’s minds these days. As we work toward recovering from the Covid-19 fallout, increasingly more people want to take control of their health. And the spa can be a powerful place to start.
Spas are seeing a surge in immunity-boosting treatments, in response to the growing demand from people who want to level up their health.
One study by the Harris Poll and Samueli Integrative Health Programs found more than 80 percent of people said they intended to be more mindful about regular self-care after the pandemic. In addition, Vida Health reports that its members are more health-conscious since the Covid-19 outbreak. Its data found that daily exercise has grown by 43 percent; people are sleeping more and paying more attention to what they eat, and mental health is a huge priority. There has been a 186 percent increase in mood tracking.
Spas & Wellness
A visit to the spa is now much more than an optional luxury. Spa treatments play an important role in improving your health and wellness, both mentally and physically. Research has proven again and again that regular massages are good for our health.
For example, one study by the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles found that massage can stimulate the lymphatic, circulatory and hormonal systems; regulate the autonomic nervous system; improve joint pain and poor posture; and reduce other pain, like arthritis and sciatica. Other studies have found massage can boost our immune system and improve circulation. A massage can increase white blood cell activity, and it also can reduce cortisol levels.
There is a tie between a strong immune system and regular massage. Massages also can regulate blood pressure and ease pain, as well as improve mobility, range of motion and coordination. The human touch, in and of itself, has been found to trigger oxytocin – a hormone that can ward off stress, dopamine and serotonin – both of which can balance out your emotions. Touch can trigger the parasympathetic nervous system and be a catalyst for rest and recovery, both of which are important parts of a strong and healthy body and mind.
And, don’t underestimate the stress-reduction component of a spa day. Stress actually compromises the immune system.
Immunity-Boosting Spa Treatments
Now with wellness on the mind, people are looking for more ways to boost their immunity. Spa treatments and products that can improve your immunity are hot. While not all of these treatments are new, there now is a brighter spotlight on them.
If you’re looking for immunity-boosting spa treatments, look for offerings that stimulate circulation. Lymphatic drainage (or a lymphatic massage) is one option. This is a gentle massage designed to encourage the movement of the lymph fluids. This fluid removes toxins and waste from the tissues.
Reflexology can also boost your immune system. This is an alternative treatment whereby pressure is applied to certain points on your feet (and sometimes hands and ears) with the aim of easing stress, improving circulation, improving nerve function and more.
As for immune-boosting products, some people swear by aromatherapy and essential oils, whereas others are fans of products that boost gut health. Many spa boutiques and online stores sell products that they say can be good for your health.
A special Immune Boost session which includes a massage with a special blend of immune-boosting essential oils; a lower leg and foot scrub with an Immune Boost scrub; and hot towels. This treatment is designed to enhance lymphatic and respiratory systems.
Here is a look at other ways the spa might be able to improve immunity:
Infrared light therapy. The infrared light therapy sauna can boost immunity, as well as improve the health of your skin and improve your sleep.
Halotherapy. Crystal salt therapy is said to be especially beneficial to ward off respiratory viruses. It also can help skin conditions and benefit the overall immune system. You can find halotherapy rooms and crystal stone massage, in many spas such as Capella Shanghai and Swissline.
Herbs and oils. Massage boosts circulation using pressure point massage and an essential oil blend of grapefruit and ginger. You then enjoy an “infection-fighting” tea with ginger, lemon, honey and turmeric. The spa also can offer a more intense “Body Wrap” which adds on a scrub and wrap with cloves, cinnamon, ginger, black powder and galangal.