subject: Spa Treatments: From Medieval Times To Modern Amenities [print this page] While the popularity of spas have recently experienced an upswing due to their provision of beautifying and stress relieving treatments, the practice dates back to medieval times. Belief in the healing effects of water transcends cultures and religions. Mineral water has long been drunk to cure iron deficiency. Natural hot and cold springs have long been used to bathe in both for personal hygiene, relaxation and relief from ailments such as arthritis. As far back as the 18th century, resort spas were attracting tourists. These health resort patrons socialized, dined, attended concerts and gambled in addition to bathing.
The modern spa has evolved to become less about bathing and all about relaxation and beautification. The International Spa Association defines them as being "places devoted to overall well-being through a variety of professional services that encourage the renewal of mind, body and spirit."
Modern technology has recreated the hot spring in the form of a hot tub, making it fully hygienic, accessible and comfortable. Traditional treatments like the saunas and steam baths too have been transformed. Consumers have a wide variety of choices based on their budget and goals, from those at resorts, health-based destinations to the fully convenient day spa.
With so many options, it can be difficult to choose the best one available. A consumer can first look at their budget and time they have available. It's possible to go for an hour and then get on with your day, or spend an entire weekend at a lavish resort where you not only indulge in spa treatments but participate in exercise and get treated to gourmet healthy food.
Then ask, do you prefer a quiet time to yourself, or do you want to gather some friends and get pampered together? How important to you is atmosphere and ambience, and how much are willing to spend for a luxury experience? Have a good idea of what services you are looking for so you can find locations that specializes in those.
Once you have given these questions some thought, ask friends for referrals, read local magazine reviews and peruse the websites of local businesses to help make your selection. If specific products or brands are important to you, ask about those. Then find out what specials, packages or deals they have available that will allow you to get the most for your money and keep you coming back again and again.
by: Abigail Aaronson
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