You've heard of, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." What about, "A massage a month to help fight the flu?"
Does it sound too good to be true?
Here's the relaxing reality.
Some of the pampering pros say getting a massage isn't only one of the most relaxing things in the world. They say, even in Houston's latest blast of winter, it's one of the best ways to fight off the cold and flu.
"The massage, it really loosens up your muscles. So it relieves all the tension and tightness and that eliminates your stress," says Denise Walker, owner of Massage Heights.
Walker says eliminating stress keeps that stress from suppressing your immune system. She says while rub downs are relaxing, they also reduce your chances of becoming ill by taking out harmful toxins from your body.
Walker points out massaging helps stimulate your lymphatic glands, the natural ways to get rid of negative toxins.
"It improves their circulation, sending all the essential nutrients and oxygen to the body," says Walker.
She says with better blood flow, your body better fights off germs.
"That's something good to know if it's gonna help me stay healthy" says Houston mom Evelyn Branscomb.
It may not be what the doctor ordered, but getting a massage might just be the relaxing remedy you need for more reasons than one.
2010年2月25日星期四
2010年2月24日星期三
Ajax spa owner charged with fraud
A 45-year-old woman faces several charges after a woman allegedly posing as a qualified healthcare provider was offering massage, naturopathy and acupuncture without credentials.
The Durham Regional Police Fraud Unit, along with the Major Crime Unit, the Intelligence Branch and the West Division Target Team conducted a month-long undercover investigation into services being provided by an unqualified and unregistered suspect.
A search warrant was executed at the Ajax Unisex Salon and Spa, at Westney Road South and Clements Road West. The business had been operating since 2007 by a woman, police allege posed as a doctor of natural medicine or as a registered massage therapist.
Jenny Tran, 45, has been charged with fraud over $5,000, two counts of attempted fraud over $5,000, forgery, uttering a forged document, two counts of defrauding the public, and attempting to obstruct justice.
The Durham Regional Police Fraud Unit, along with the Major Crime Unit, the Intelligence Branch and the West Division Target Team conducted a month-long undercover investigation into services being provided by an unqualified and unregistered suspect.
A search warrant was executed at the Ajax Unisex Salon and Spa, at Westney Road South and Clements Road West. The business had been operating since 2007 by a woman, police allege posed as a doctor of natural medicine or as a registered massage therapist.
Jenny Tran, 45, has been charged with fraud over $5,000, two counts of attempted fraud over $5,000, forgery, uttering a forged document, two counts of defrauding the public, and attempting to obstruct justice.
2010年2月23日星期二
Spa City paid parking plan suffers setback
The prospect of instituting a paid parking plan in the city in 2010 suffered a serious setback Tuesday afternoon.
A 12-member advisory committee charged with forwarding its recommendation about a paid parking plan to the City Council voted to not accept any of the four proposals received from parking management companies vying for the job.
"I think it's a flawed process," said advisory committee member Charles V. Wait, who compared the paid parking plan to an addict's "heroin shot," that would only serve as a temporary fix for the city's budget problems.
"I think this would be a very foolish thing to do," he added.
When Finance Commissioner Ken Ivins crafted the city's 2010 budget, it included about $1.35 million in revenue anticipated from a paid parking program the city hoped to implement by May 1. The measure was suggested as an alternative to cutting city jobs, Ivins said.
Last week, the city received four valid responses to a request for proposals.
A majority of the advisory committee members - the committee is made up of local business leaders - found the prospect of on-street paid parking, as well as the four specific proposals that were submitted, flawed. They cited fuzzy math, inconsistent mapping of city streets suggesting where meters should be placed, and large discrepancies in estimates of how much annual revenue the city might receive as major reasons for their disapproval.
"It's like putting four pills on the table. Take your choice. Each one of them is poison," said committee member Joseph Dalton. "Paid parking is a disaster."
A visibly dejected Ivins thanked the committee members for their time and told the crowd of about two dozen who gathered in City Hall, "this was not the solution I was looking for coming out of here."
Despite the outcome, Ivins said he will take the proposals to the five-member City Council, which will ultimately decide whether to accept any of them. Approval must come in a majority vote, and it is not clear whether the idea has enough support from council members to move the project forward.
The City Council is expected to discuss the proposals prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting on March 2, and a public forum on the topic will take place at the Canfield Casino on March 8.
A 12-member advisory committee charged with forwarding its recommendation about a paid parking plan to the City Council voted to not accept any of the four proposals received from parking management companies vying for the job.
"I think it's a flawed process," said advisory committee member Charles V. Wait, who compared the paid parking plan to an addict's "heroin shot," that would only serve as a temporary fix for the city's budget problems.
"I think this would be a very foolish thing to do," he added.
When Finance Commissioner Ken Ivins crafted the city's 2010 budget, it included about $1.35 million in revenue anticipated from a paid parking program the city hoped to implement by May 1. The measure was suggested as an alternative to cutting city jobs, Ivins said.
Last week, the city received four valid responses to a request for proposals.
A majority of the advisory committee members - the committee is made up of local business leaders - found the prospect of on-street paid parking, as well as the four specific proposals that were submitted, flawed. They cited fuzzy math, inconsistent mapping of city streets suggesting where meters should be placed, and large discrepancies in estimates of how much annual revenue the city might receive as major reasons for their disapproval.
"It's like putting four pills on the table. Take your choice. Each one of them is poison," said committee member Joseph Dalton. "Paid parking is a disaster."
A visibly dejected Ivins thanked the committee members for their time and told the crowd of about two dozen who gathered in City Hall, "this was not the solution I was looking for coming out of here."
Despite the outcome, Ivins said he will take the proposals to the five-member City Council, which will ultimately decide whether to accept any of them. Approval must come in a majority vote, and it is not clear whether the idea has enough support from council members to move the project forward.
The City Council is expected to discuss the proposals prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting on March 2, and a public forum on the topic will take place at the Canfield Casino on March 8.
2010年2月22日星期一
Art Islands Japan Tour
This fall, Journeys East, a northern-California-based company specializing since 1985 in cross-cultural Japan tours, is taking a small group of travelers to Japan’s Inland Sea to Benesse Island for the Setouchi International Art Festival.
Artists such as Olafur Eliasson, Rei Naito and Yukinori Yanagi are installing artworks on the theme of ‘utilize existing elements, and create elements that do not exist, a vision that marries art, community revitalization and environmental consciousness to create a ‘Sea of Hope’ on seven islands in the Inland Sea. Starting in the 1990’s on Benesse Island (also known as Naoshima), the Benesse Corporation has worked with architect Tadao Ando, building museums and lodging to house their art as well as visitors to the island. The permanent art collection includes work ranging from Claude Monet to contemporary artists Hiroshi Sugimoto and James Turrell.
Journeys East participants are also traveling to Inujima — an island where a former copper smelting plant has been transformed into an artwork by artist Yukinori Yanagi and architect Hiroshi Sambuichi.
On Honshu, Japan’s main island, the work of traditional Japanese artists is also a focus on this small group Japan tour. Visits to the studios of bamboo master, Jozan Sugita, potter Yoshinori Izumi and indigo artisan Hiroyuki Shindo are other highlights. Besides focusing on the arts in Japan, the “Asian Havens” tour seeks out the best in Japanese hospitality, highlighting exceptional ryokan (inn) experiences. — elegant inns in the mountains, by the sea and in onsen (hot spring) towns.
Artists such as Olafur Eliasson, Rei Naito and Yukinori Yanagi are installing artworks on the theme of ‘utilize existing elements, and create elements that do not exist, a vision that marries art, community revitalization and environmental consciousness to create a ‘Sea of Hope’ on seven islands in the Inland Sea. Starting in the 1990’s on Benesse Island (also known as Naoshima), the Benesse Corporation has worked with architect Tadao Ando, building museums and lodging to house their art as well as visitors to the island. The permanent art collection includes work ranging from Claude Monet to contemporary artists Hiroshi Sugimoto and James Turrell.
Journeys East participants are also traveling to Inujima — an island where a former copper smelting plant has been transformed into an artwork by artist Yukinori Yanagi and architect Hiroshi Sambuichi.
On Honshu, Japan’s main island, the work of traditional Japanese artists is also a focus on this small group Japan tour. Visits to the studios of bamboo master, Jozan Sugita, potter Yoshinori Izumi and indigo artisan Hiroyuki Shindo are other highlights. Besides focusing on the arts in Japan, the “Asian Havens” tour seeks out the best in Japanese hospitality, highlighting exceptional ryokan (inn) experiences. — elegant inns in the mountains, by the sea and in onsen (hot spring) towns.
2010年2月21日星期日
Nashville Massage & Yoga Studio
Rachael Holliman began Nashville Massage & Yoga Studio in one room in January of 2008. Now, it has expanded to a four-room studio.
Holliman has had clients come to Nashville from Atlanta and even St. Augustine, Fla., for massages, yoga and spa treatments.
“Business has been great,” Holliman said. “I am very grateful for my clients (because) without (them) my dreams would have never come true.”
Holliman is married with two children, but she usually runs the business on her own.
Her husband, who is stationed at Moody Air Force Base, has been on several tours to Iraq and Afghanistan.
“It’s hard to do it all on your own but well worth the sacrifice,” she said. “I am very proud that he is defending our freedoms. I have a very big support system. My friends are always willing to help, and the people in Nashville are the best on Earth. I am very blessed.”
Q: How long have you been involved in the massage, yoga, spa business?
A: I have been a massage therapist for four years and a yoga instructor for two years. I have always had a passion for the spa business. At the age of 19, I started sweeping floors, doing laundry and worked as a tanning operator for a local hair salon. Six years ago, I started a home-based business selling skin care and cosmetics. I would travel the state of North Carolina hosting girls night out, birthday, bachelorette parties. I hired a massage therapist to help with these parties, and she mentioned that she thought I would make an excellent therapist. I was interested as well and signed up to a Medical Massage School in Raleigh, N.C.
Q: What kind of massages do you offer clients?
A: I offer Swedish massages, deep tissue, hot stone, pregnancy massage, reflexology, body wraps, mud treatments. The most interesting thing that I offer is Thai yoga massage. This is ‘lazy man’s yoga.’ It involves a lot of stretching and compressions along the meridian energy channels. I (also) offer Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy. I have taken all of three levels of this modality. Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy is ‘the deepest most luxurious massage on the planet.’ I use bars overhead for balance and literally walk on the client’s back.
Q: How did you get involved with Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy?
A: I heard about it when I was in school and immediately wanted to learn this modality. It just looked so fun!
Holliman has had clients come to Nashville from Atlanta and even St. Augustine, Fla., for massages, yoga and spa treatments.
“Business has been great,” Holliman said. “I am very grateful for my clients (because) without (them) my dreams would have never come true.”
Holliman is married with two children, but she usually runs the business on her own.
Her husband, who is stationed at Moody Air Force Base, has been on several tours to Iraq and Afghanistan.
“It’s hard to do it all on your own but well worth the sacrifice,” she said. “I am very proud that he is defending our freedoms. I have a very big support system. My friends are always willing to help, and the people in Nashville are the best on Earth. I am very blessed.”
Q: How long have you been involved in the massage, yoga, spa business?
A: I have been a massage therapist for four years and a yoga instructor for two years. I have always had a passion for the spa business. At the age of 19, I started sweeping floors, doing laundry and worked as a tanning operator for a local hair salon. Six years ago, I started a home-based business selling skin care and cosmetics. I would travel the state of North Carolina hosting girls night out, birthday, bachelorette parties. I hired a massage therapist to help with these parties, and she mentioned that she thought I would make an excellent therapist. I was interested as well and signed up to a Medical Massage School in Raleigh, N.C.
Q: What kind of massages do you offer clients?
A: I offer Swedish massages, deep tissue, hot stone, pregnancy massage, reflexology, body wraps, mud treatments. The most interesting thing that I offer is Thai yoga massage. This is ‘lazy man’s yoga.’ It involves a lot of stretching and compressions along the meridian energy channels. I (also) offer Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy. I have taken all of three levels of this modality. Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy is ‘the deepest most luxurious massage on the planet.’ I use bars overhead for balance and literally walk on the client’s back.
Q: How did you get involved with Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy?
A: I heard about it when I was in school and immediately wanted to learn this modality. It just looked so fun!
2010年2月20日星期六
Massage therapy and prostate cancer topic of talk
The Orillia Prostate Cancer Awareness Group is pleased to welcome Jeremy Clark on Wednesday, Feb. 24, to speak on the subject of manual therapy and the creation of scar tissue.
Clark graduated with honours in 2004 and is a local registered massage therapist working in the Orillia and Barrie areas. Some of his patients include international volleyball players as well as local high school athletes and others.
Residing with his young family in Horseshoe Valley, he will add new dimensions in the management of side effects associated with prostate cancer.
The gathering will take place at the Royal Canadian Legion, Normandy Room, with doors open at 6.30 p.m. and featurng live music until the speaker at 7 p.m.
Light refreshments will be available. There is no charge for admission or refreshments.
Clark graduated with honours in 2004 and is a local registered massage therapist working in the Orillia and Barrie areas. Some of his patients include international volleyball players as well as local high school athletes and others.
Residing with his young family in Horseshoe Valley, he will add new dimensions in the management of side effects associated with prostate cancer.
The gathering will take place at the Royal Canadian Legion, Normandy Room, with doors open at 6.30 p.m. and featurng live music until the speaker at 7 p.m.
Light refreshments will be available. There is no charge for admission or refreshments.
Officers Raid Massage Parlor in North Jakarta
A massage parlor located on Jl Sinar, Lagoa, Koja, North Jakarta became the target of a raid conducted on Friday (2/19) by local public order officers. The officers arrested five workers and the manager of the massage parlor for questioning in connection with the existence of their business place.
The raid starting at 9 a.m. was carried out by around 10 officers. The officers found no customers during the operation.
Valentino, head of operational section of public order police squad of Koja sub-district said the operation was a response to public complaints citing the massage parlor also ran prostitution practices.
“(During questioning), the management of the massage parlor said they only provided health-massage service,” he told beritajakarta.com, Friday (2/19), adding that, from the raid, his side did not find any indication of prostitution.
However, he pledged to continue keeping eye on the massage parlor, and would take legal action should, later, the massage parlor be found practicing prostitution.
The raid starting at 9 a.m. was carried out by around 10 officers. The officers found no customers during the operation.
Valentino, head of operational section of public order police squad of Koja sub-district said the operation was a response to public complaints citing the massage parlor also ran prostitution practices.
“(During questioning), the management of the massage parlor said they only provided health-massage service,” he told beritajakarta.com, Friday (2/19), adding that, from the raid, his side did not find any indication of prostitution.
However, he pledged to continue keeping eye on the massage parlor, and would take legal action should, later, the massage parlor be found practicing prostitution.
2010年2月10日星期三
The benefits of massage are explained
There’s no denying the power of receiving massage bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.
Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into: decreased anxiety; enhanced sleep quality; greater energy; improved concentration; increased circulation; and reduced fatigue.
Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects.
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch — which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat post surgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.
Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into: decreased anxiety; enhanced sleep quality; greater energy; improved concentration; increased circulation; and reduced fatigue.
Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects.
Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch — which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat post surgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.
2010年2月9日星期二
Spa City takes step toward paid parking
The $2 you planned to spend on an exacta at Saratoga Race Course might go to parking if you visit downtown this summer.
With revenues running low, the city has requested bids for its first paid parking program in nearly 40 years. Several companies are expected to propose plans for installing and managing a private parking system in parts of the city by Feb. 17, when the bids will be publicly opened, Finance Commissioner Kenneth Ivins said.
Ivins has requested two options: Paid parking for existing garages and lots or a broader plan that would also include side streets downtown -- but not Broadway.
"The average price is $1.50 an hour," Ivins said Monday in announcing a new bid deadline. He was set to open proposals Thursday but pushed that back at the request of vendors who needed more time to put proposals together.
Ivins needs new revenue to balance this year's city budget. He budgeted $1.35 million in parking fees and has said that he wants meters in the ground by May. Four other City Council members tacitly supported the budget by not proposing different measures.
But even Ivins admits that it's not certain if paid parking has City Council support. The plan would need to be approved by at least three of the council's five members. Many downtown merchants oppose it.
Charles Wait, president of the Adirondack Trust Co., was one of several community leaders who participated in a committee chaired by Ivins that studied paid parking. Charging for spots downtown would send shoppers elsewhere, create store vacancies and lower real estate values and tax revenues, he said.
"That's a tax, and a tax is an impediment and blockade, the last thing any area needs during a recession, especially small business owners," Wait said. There could be some support for charging for parking in existing lots outside downtown, he said.
The city eliminated parking meters from its streets about three decades ago, which helped fill storefronts and lift the area economy, according to Joseph Dalton, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, who opposes paid parking.
Presently, many spaces in parking lots, garages and on the city's streets offer free two-hour parking, with fines for those who exceed time limits.
But other destination locations like Lake George have collected for parking since the 1950s without a noticeable decline in business. Lake George meters charge 25 cents for 15 minutes. Parking generated $465,791 in net revenue for the village in 2008.
Saratoga Springs Public Safety Commissioner Richard Wirth said he would wait until bids are opened before deciding on paid parking, which a majority of the City Council would have to approve.
"Of course, revenue is so important for the city in today's economic times," he said, "but we have to do what's right for the city by looking at all ways of raising revenue."
With revenues running low, the city has requested bids for its first paid parking program in nearly 40 years. Several companies are expected to propose plans for installing and managing a private parking system in parts of the city by Feb. 17, when the bids will be publicly opened, Finance Commissioner Kenneth Ivins said.
Ivins has requested two options: Paid parking for existing garages and lots or a broader plan that would also include side streets downtown -- but not Broadway.
"The average price is $1.50 an hour," Ivins said Monday in announcing a new bid deadline. He was set to open proposals Thursday but pushed that back at the request of vendors who needed more time to put proposals together.
Ivins needs new revenue to balance this year's city budget. He budgeted $1.35 million in parking fees and has said that he wants meters in the ground by May. Four other City Council members tacitly supported the budget by not proposing different measures.
But even Ivins admits that it's not certain if paid parking has City Council support. The plan would need to be approved by at least three of the council's five members. Many downtown merchants oppose it.
Charles Wait, president of the Adirondack Trust Co., was one of several community leaders who participated in a committee chaired by Ivins that studied paid parking. Charging for spots downtown would send shoppers elsewhere, create store vacancies and lower real estate values and tax revenues, he said.
"That's a tax, and a tax is an impediment and blockade, the last thing any area needs during a recession, especially small business owners," Wait said. There could be some support for charging for parking in existing lots outside downtown, he said.
The city eliminated parking meters from its streets about three decades ago, which helped fill storefronts and lift the area economy, according to Joseph Dalton, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, who opposes paid parking.
Presently, many spaces in parking lots, garages and on the city's streets offer free two-hour parking, with fines for those who exceed time limits.
But other destination locations like Lake George have collected for parking since the 1950s without a noticeable decline in business. Lake George meters charge 25 cents for 15 minutes. Parking generated $465,791 in net revenue for the village in 2008.
Saratoga Springs Public Safety Commissioner Richard Wirth said he would wait until bids are opened before deciding on paid parking, which a majority of the City Council would have to approve.
"Of course, revenue is so important for the city in today's economic times," he said, "but we have to do what's right for the city by looking at all ways of raising revenue."
2010年2月8日星期一
Hot Stone Massage
Beautiful spa ads may have you believe that hot stone therapy is a gimmick for producing artistic photographs, implying it’s not a serious massage experience. The truth is, a massage utilizing stones can be incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating, more so than traditional massage.
How Does it Work?
Much like the spa pictures you see of people with dark, flat stones along their spine, the stones are warmed and then placed on the body while the therapist actively uses additional stones as an extension of their hand while they massage you. The placement of the stones can be aligned with chakras, meridians, and zones depending on the therapist’s training which can help increase the flow of energy through your body, as well as allow for a deeper relaxation of the muscles compared to traditional massage. Hot stone can also be an effective remedy for stress and anxiety.
When to Get a Hot Stone Massage?
The idea of a hot stone massage might only appeal to you in the winter, but the benefits should be enjoyed year-round. If your energy is low, if your stress levels are high, or if other forms of massage can’t get your muscles to release, hot stones in the hands of a caring therapist can work miracles.
How to Have a Great Experience
The effectiveness of a stone massage can vary with the skill of each therapist. They are longer and usually more expensive (due to additional preparation and cleanup), so it’s worth your while to find a therapist who specializes in them. Start with a referral, and before you invest in a hot stone massage, consider booking a Swedish or other similar massage first if the therapist is new to you. Ask how long a they have been performing hot stone and what their philosophy is around it. During the session, communicate with your therapist if the stones are too warm or the pressure is uncomfortable – a good therapist will always listen and respond to your needs.
2010年2月7日星期日
Spoil Me Spa opens in Hastings
Sheila Hanson is hoping her new business can be Hastings’ one-stop-shop for all things spa-related.
From the usual hair and nails, to facials, waxing, massages, purses, jewelry and lingerie, Spoil Me Spa, at 1250 S. Frontage Road, next to MGM Liquor, has a little bit of everything. They also carry the Scentsy line of candles and Body Magic body wraps.
Hanson, a Hastings native, said she always liked doing nails, and recently went to school and got certified to do it professionally. When she was planning to open a business, friends of hers who specialized in cosmetology, massage and retail asked if they could join up with her, and thus, Spoil Me Spa was born.
There are four cosmetologists there, two masseuses, and Hanson, who specializes in nails.
Hanson’s cousin owns Little New York in River Falls, Wis., and Ellsworth, Wis., and she said she knows a lot of people from Hastings drive to those stores for purses and accessories. Now, merchandise from the Little New York stores can be found in Hastings at Spoil Me Spa.
Walk-ins are welcome and you can call for appointments, too. Hanson is also hoping to specialize in private spa parties.
“What we really want to do is host spa parties,” she said. “We have different packages where a group can come in and get their hair done, get their nails done, get a facial and a massage.”
The spa will also offer “Princess Packages” for younger groups of girls to get their nails and hair done.
Weekly specials will also be on the menu, like cheap haircuts on certain days for men or women. Hanson said they want people to know they do men’s haircuts, too. Those specials can be found on the spa’s Facebook page.
From the usual hair and nails, to facials, waxing, massages, purses, jewelry and lingerie, Spoil Me Spa, at 1250 S. Frontage Road, next to MGM Liquor, has a little bit of everything. They also carry the Scentsy line of candles and Body Magic body wraps.
Hanson, a Hastings native, said she always liked doing nails, and recently went to school and got certified to do it professionally. When she was planning to open a business, friends of hers who specialized in cosmetology, massage and retail asked if they could join up with her, and thus, Spoil Me Spa was born.
There are four cosmetologists there, two masseuses, and Hanson, who specializes in nails.
Hanson’s cousin owns Little New York in River Falls, Wis., and Ellsworth, Wis., and she said she knows a lot of people from Hastings drive to those stores for purses and accessories. Now, merchandise from the Little New York stores can be found in Hastings at Spoil Me Spa.
Walk-ins are welcome and you can call for appointments, too. Hanson is also hoping to specialize in private spa parties.
“What we really want to do is host spa parties,” she said. “We have different packages where a group can come in and get their hair done, get their nails done, get a facial and a massage.”
The spa will also offer “Princess Packages” for younger groups of girls to get their nails and hair done.
Weekly specials will also be on the menu, like cheap haircuts on certain days for men or women. Hanson said they want people to know they do men’s haircuts, too. Those specials can be found on the spa’s Facebook page.
2010年2月4日星期四
Destination Japan Announces the Tokyo Anime Freedom Tour 2010 is Now Confirmed and will be Going
H.I.S' most popular annual tour to Japan is confirmed and going this year too! Tokyo Anime Freedom 2010 from March 21 to March 29, 2010 - 9 days 7 nights in Tokyo.
Destination Japan's Tokyo Anime Freedom Tour was created for people who are crazy about Anime, Manga, and Video games AND want to see Japan. The Tokyo Anime Freedom 9 day and 7 night tour includes admission to the Tokyo International Anime Fair 2010 and Ghibli Museum, a Tokyo sightseeing tour, and a shopping day in Tokyo escorted by one of our staff, strolling in popular areas like Akihabara, Harajuku, and Shibuya and taking local trains. The tour also includes two full free days. It has a good proportion of escorted tours and independent tours for the independent traveler who likes adventure and still has someone available to help them with their trip. An experienced, bilingual tour guide will be available to help negotiate the city and give advice. Destination Japan calls the tour a "one-of-a-kind experience on a tour with flexibility you won't find with any other tour service." You can sign up for tours until the reservation
deadline of Feb-19.
Destination Japan's Tokyo Anime Freedom Tour was created for people who are crazy about Anime, Manga, and Video games AND want to see Japan. The Tokyo Anime Freedom 9 day and 7 night tour includes admission to the Tokyo International Anime Fair 2010 and Ghibli Museum, a Tokyo sightseeing tour, and a shopping day in Tokyo escorted by one of our staff, strolling in popular areas like Akihabara, Harajuku, and Shibuya and taking local trains. The tour also includes two full free days. It has a good proportion of escorted tours and independent tours for the independent traveler who likes adventure and still has someone available to help them with their trip. An experienced, bilingual tour guide will be available to help negotiate the city and give advice. Destination Japan calls the tour a "one-of-a-kind experience on a tour with flexibility you won't find with any other tour service." You can sign up for tours until the reservation
deadline of Feb-19.
2010年2月3日星期三
Massage, rolfing help ease pain
Also, spinal manipulation and Rolfing, apart from the Alexander technique and the Feldenkrais method can have great effect. The January issue of Mayo Clinic Women’s HealthSource discusses these methods in detail.
Massage
It involves applying pressure to the body’s soft tissues by rubbing, kneading or rolling. In deep tissue massage, the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue are manipulated. Another approach focuses on trigger points, where in muscle ‘knots’ that are painful are pressed.
Spinal manipulation
This therapy is a treatment for restricted spinal mobility. It ensures that the spinal movement is restored. A controlled force or thrust is applied to a joint of the spine. Also, known as spinal adjustment it can provide long-term or short-term relief.
Rolfing
Rolfing manipulates the fascia, the protective tissue surrounding the muscles. The practitioner uses hands, knuckles, thumbs, elbows and knees to manipulate the patient’s tissues aiming to improve posture and realign the body.
Alexander technique and Feldenkrais method
These therapies use touch and direction to help the patient become more aware of movement. An Alexander session might begin with the patient seated in a chair. The practitioner helps the patient adjust head, neck and spine positions. With Feldenkrais, the patient may be lying down, sitting on a chair or standing. Researchers feel the Alexander technique can provide long-term relief for back pain.
Massage
It involves applying pressure to the body’s soft tissues by rubbing, kneading or rolling. In deep tissue massage, the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue are manipulated. Another approach focuses on trigger points, where in muscle ‘knots’ that are painful are pressed.
Spinal manipulation
This therapy is a treatment for restricted spinal mobility. It ensures that the spinal movement is restored. A controlled force or thrust is applied to a joint of the spine. Also, known as spinal adjustment it can provide long-term or short-term relief.
Rolfing
Rolfing manipulates the fascia, the protective tissue surrounding the muscles. The practitioner uses hands, knuckles, thumbs, elbows and knees to manipulate the patient’s tissues aiming to improve posture and realign the body.
Alexander technique and Feldenkrais method
These therapies use touch and direction to help the patient become more aware of movement. An Alexander session might begin with the patient seated in a chair. The practitioner helps the patient adjust head, neck and spine positions. With Feldenkrais, the patient may be lying down, sitting on a chair or standing. Researchers feel the Alexander technique can provide long-term relief for back pain.
2010年2月2日星期二
Fit to be tried: Thai Massage
IT says something about our emerging multicultural society that here I am, laid out on the floor of a small north Dublin salon, with a beautiful woman from Mauritius pushing her bare feet hard into my thighs in an ancient ritual hailing from Thailand.
But between us, the combination of Irish, Mauritian and Thai influences work well to achieve a mix of relaxation, stretching and exercise that challenges your flexibility and improves your blood flow.
Thai massage is different to what you might expect from the traditional Western oil-and-rub experience.
For a start, there's no oil, and no rubbing or kneading and you soon discover why the literal translation for this treatment means 'Thai yoga'.
The therapy uses weight and leverage to move and stretch your body -- front, side, back and sitting.
"People are a bit dubious at first because it's very different, but they usually enjoy it and find it improves their ability to stretch and therefore relax," says Sherina, my petite Mauritian dynamo, who has been practising her craft for over seven years.
Sherina sticks to traditional Thai massage on a specially designed mat placed on the ground, and doesn't compromise by Westernising the process.
For example, she employs her feet to do much of the work as in this massage it's normal to walk on clients' backs.
But Sherina is so deft, you can only tell the difference between her use of feet and hands by sneaking a peek from your comfy position on the floor.
The treatment starts off with a pleasant salt rub on your feet. Then it's time to don loose cotton pyjamas and the real work begins. The treatment works along the body's meridians (energy lines), says Sherina.
She uses a combination of acupressure, joint manipulations, stretches and adjustments to release knots and tension and free blockages.
And you do plenty of the work as she helps you stretch and bend.
Some of the moves are quite tough -- like a challenging yoga class. Sherina gets you to lie on your stomach face down while she grasps your hands and you hold on tight to her small wrists while she pulls you up into an arched bow shape.
Another move involves lying on your back, arms outstretched, as each leg is stretched over to the opposite side of your body across your tummy, shoulders remaining flat.
Hamstrings are also stretched right out, as well as hips.
The whole body gets elongated through a set of exercises and Sherina helps you achieve positions it would be tough to manage solo.
As someone who suffers from a sore shoulder I would have probably liked a bit more done to this area, but to be fair deep tissue work is not the aim of Thai massage.
The treatment, known in Thailand as 'movement education', gets your blood flowing and is very detoxifying.
Although Thai massage therapists here say people were dubious at first, this treatment -- part stretch, part relax, part workout -- is, not surprisingly, a hit, and Sherina is booked out for the rest of the week.
In Thailand the benefits of this treatment are well established, and the government has even set up an official massage division as part of the Department of Health.
Since our own Government can do nothing to massage our finances into shape, maybe we should follow suit.
It's enough to make you want to head for sunny Thailand -- purely in the interests of research of course.
But between us, the combination of Irish, Mauritian and Thai influences work well to achieve a mix of relaxation, stretching and exercise that challenges your flexibility and improves your blood flow.
Thai massage is different to what you might expect from the traditional Western oil-and-rub experience.
For a start, there's no oil, and no rubbing or kneading and you soon discover why the literal translation for this treatment means 'Thai yoga'.
The therapy uses weight and leverage to move and stretch your body -- front, side, back and sitting.
"People are a bit dubious at first because it's very different, but they usually enjoy it and find it improves their ability to stretch and therefore relax," says Sherina, my petite Mauritian dynamo, who has been practising her craft for over seven years.
Sherina sticks to traditional Thai massage on a specially designed mat placed on the ground, and doesn't compromise by Westernising the process.
For example, she employs her feet to do much of the work as in this massage it's normal to walk on clients' backs.
But Sherina is so deft, you can only tell the difference between her use of feet and hands by sneaking a peek from your comfy position on the floor.
The treatment starts off with a pleasant salt rub on your feet. Then it's time to don loose cotton pyjamas and the real work begins. The treatment works along the body's meridians (energy lines), says Sherina.
She uses a combination of acupressure, joint manipulations, stretches and adjustments to release knots and tension and free blockages.
And you do plenty of the work as she helps you stretch and bend.
Some of the moves are quite tough -- like a challenging yoga class. Sherina gets you to lie on your stomach face down while she grasps your hands and you hold on tight to her small wrists while she pulls you up into an arched bow shape.
Another move involves lying on your back, arms outstretched, as each leg is stretched over to the opposite side of your body across your tummy, shoulders remaining flat.
Hamstrings are also stretched right out, as well as hips.
The whole body gets elongated through a set of exercises and Sherina helps you achieve positions it would be tough to manage solo.
As someone who suffers from a sore shoulder I would have probably liked a bit more done to this area, but to be fair deep tissue work is not the aim of Thai massage.
The treatment, known in Thailand as 'movement education', gets your blood flowing and is very detoxifying.
Although Thai massage therapists here say people were dubious at first, this treatment -- part stretch, part relax, part workout -- is, not surprisingly, a hit, and Sherina is booked out for the rest of the week.
In Thailand the benefits of this treatment are well established, and the government has even set up an official massage division as part of the Department of Health.
Since our own Government can do nothing to massage our finances into shape, maybe we should follow suit.
It's enough to make you want to head for sunny Thailand -- purely in the interests of research of course.
2010年2月1日星期一
Ixtapan Spa Offers Affordable Relaxation
If you are looking for pampering with a capital P, then head to Mexico, to stay at one of the most affordable spas around. NY1’s Valarie D’Elia filed the following Travel with Val report.
Ixtapan Spa, Hotel and Golf Resort is located 65 miles southwest of Mexico City in the 75 degree year-round rapture of the surrounding Sierra Madre mountains.
At 5400 feet above sea level, this 220- room resort is heralded as one of the cheapest in the world, and you'll be able to figure that out once you do the math, with or without a tape measure.
What's great about this place is the sheer number of spa treatments they throw in. Take the weeklong trip for instance, and you will get 21 spa treatments, including massages and facials, averaging 50 minutes each. On a month-long stay, it's more than 100.
No matter how long you stay, your visit will also include all meals and most beverages, several pilates, yoga and fitness classes, as well as free golf and tennis lessons.
Week long, all-inclusive stays from now through March 27th are discounted by 15 percent – so a seven-night Spa Classic package is $999 per person, based on double occupancy. Single occupancy is $1,182.00.
If you have more time to burn, you can get 10 percent off monthly rates through March 27th, costing $3,340 based on double occupancy, $4,178 for single occupancy.
The monthly package includes round-trip airport transfers, which otherwise cost $340, for up to four people from Mexico City. Transfer from Toluca is $170. There is also a local bus from Mexico City airport.
There are a few extras you will pay for, including laundry, alcoholic drinks, soda, taxes and gratuities.
You can fly to Mexico City non-stop from New York, which is a two-hour transfer to the spa, or connect with an overnight in Houston and fly into Toluca, which is a 90-minute transfer.
Ixtapan Spa, Hotel and Golf Resort is located 65 miles southwest of Mexico City in the 75 degree year-round rapture of the surrounding Sierra Madre mountains.
At 5400 feet above sea level, this 220- room resort is heralded as one of the cheapest in the world, and you'll be able to figure that out once you do the math, with or without a tape measure.
What's great about this place is the sheer number of spa treatments they throw in. Take the weeklong trip for instance, and you will get 21 spa treatments, including massages and facials, averaging 50 minutes each. On a month-long stay, it's more than 100.
No matter how long you stay, your visit will also include all meals and most beverages, several pilates, yoga and fitness classes, as well as free golf and tennis lessons.
Week long, all-inclusive stays from now through March 27th are discounted by 15 percent – so a seven-night Spa Classic package is $999 per person, based on double occupancy. Single occupancy is $1,182.00.
If you have more time to burn, you can get 10 percent off monthly rates through March 27th, costing $3,340 based on double occupancy, $4,178 for single occupancy.
The monthly package includes round-trip airport transfers, which otherwise cost $340, for up to four people from Mexico City. Transfer from Toluca is $170. There is also a local bus from Mexico City airport.
There are a few extras you will pay for, including laundry, alcoholic drinks, soda, taxes and gratuities.
You can fly to Mexico City non-stop from New York, which is a two-hour transfer to the spa, or connect with an overnight in Houston and fly into Toluca, which is a 90-minute transfer.
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