reflexion

Tips To Have the Perfect Spa Day in Hinsdale & Chicago, IL

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 14:02:38 GMT

Visiting the spa, whether it’s for the first time or the hundredth time, can feel exciting. However, things can quickly go wrong if you don’t carefully plan for your session. At Reflexion Spa , we recommend making the most of your experience by early preparations.

We offer the perfect space for relaxing, rebooting, and repairing. Whether you’re going for a facial treatment, massage, or body treatment, preparing for your day is an excellent way of ensuring that you get the most out of your day. This is more important if it’s your first time. Below we have listed a few tips that you can utilize to ensure you have a perfect spa day.

Choose the Right Spa

This is the most critical step that you should take before you begin planning your spa day. If it’s not your first time, you probably already have your go-to place. The right spa should help you enjoy your session through excellent customer service and responsive physicians and therapists.

If it’s your first time, ask as many questions as possible to know what to expect. Check all the services provided and choose what you want. Be sure to ask what each entails to avoid confusion.

At Reflexion Spa, we offer saloon, facial, massage, and waxing services in the Hinsdale area . Do some research to find out the average cost in your area and read reviews to know what other customers say about the spa you chose.

Take Advantage of Packages

Like any other service provider, your spa will likely have discounts and membership programs for its customers. We recommend inquiring about spa membership programs and packages to get the most out of your money.

Buying a package usually means buying more than one service, with each service coming with a discount. For instance, instead of getting a manicure for $40 and a Pedicure for $80, you can get both at $100.

If you’re more comfortable and think it’s a good idea to be a spa regular, then it’s worth checking what the membership program has to offer. Membership programs usually allow you to pay a flat monthly fee, which is also discounted.

Clear Your Schedule of Stressful Events Afterwards

The last thing you want is to have to answer calls in the middle of your spa session or read uncomfortable conversations on your phone. It’s also challenging to relax and enjoy moments when you have stressful events in your mind, such as a breakup or a sick child. So, to make sure you get the most out of your session, eliminate any stressful events that can hinder the perfect experience.

Bring the Right Spa Partner

Bringing a partner can be a great option, especially if it’s your first time . You can come with your experienced best friend or spouse. However, we do recommend having your spa day by yourself.

So, you can be alone with your thoughts and get some quality time. If you bring someone, make sure it’s someone who will help enhance your overall experience. Most spas have a couple of massages and couple packages.

Are You Ready for the Perfect Spa Day?

At Reflexion Spa, we’re all about ensuring you get the perfect spa day every time you visit. We offer spa services in Hinsdale and Chicago areas. Contact us to book your next spa day today!

Finding the Best Spa Treatments in Hinsdale & Chicago, IL

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 18:43:42 GMT

Finding the proper spa treatment for your skin is as important as finding the ideal spa. It becomes challenging since there are dozens of spa treatments, each with surprisingly accurate and satisfactory results. At Reflexion Spa , you will have professionals curate the perfect relaxation, repair and reboot day at our Chicago and Hinsdale centers. Here is everything to help you find the best spa treatment and where to go.

Understand Your Body

You’ll be booking yourself a spa day to rejuvenate your body, so you must pay more attention to it when planning. Is it asking for stretches to uncoil your stressed muscles, or do you need deep tissue techniques to release the pressure on your nervous system?

Many spa treatments are available, and understanding what your body needs will help cut down the list. You can also consider reaching out to a professional to help advise on the best treatment for your condition. Matching the treatment to your body guarantees more effectiveness from the treatment and relieves stress better.

Share Your Concerns and Expectations

It would be best to have several interactions with the spa attendants and other professionals to bring out any concerns about the treatments. Instead of getting carried away by the treatments available, use the opportunity to understand how the treatment helps your well-being. You should also share your expectations and confirm if the recommended spa treatments will meet your needs.

Be Ready to Learn

The terms and concepts used in spa treatments may appear intimidating to individuals without medical knowledge. However, instead of succumbing to the verbiage and technical terms used in the spa, use it as an opportunity to learn. Be ready to ask the doctor about the products used, from the ingredients used to how the technique will help.

The treatment professionals are best positioned to provide you with more knowledge in their field. Question everything from the techniques to the equipment used; your curiosity might have you discovering other ideal spa treatments.

Plan Your Schedule Accordingly

Most individuals argue that they desire to visit the spa but lack the time. Understandably, you may lack free time to consider spa breaks , especially during the tough economic times.

Try finding spa treatments and routines that match the time you are available. You might feel time oppressed over time if you consider lengthy procedures without adjusting your schedule. Luckily, many harsh treatment options guarantee the perfect routine while respecting your schedule.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle also significantly impacts the type of spa treatment your body needs. If you want a massage, find one with a technique that fits your lifestyle. For example, go for Swedish techniques to focus more on your legs if you stand for long hours. If recovering from illnesses like lymphatic drainage massage, go for deep tissue massage to relieve stress from your overworked muscles.

Book Us

Finding the best spa treatment is not as easy as most individuals think. You have to consider aspects like your health, lifestyle, and free time to ensure you get maximum results. At Reflexion Spa, you have the option to choose from a Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and even cranial and neck massage. Book your next massage today for quality services in Hinsdale and Chicago.

Tips For A Successful Spa Rejuvenation in Hinsdale, IL

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 16:49:36 GMT

A Spa and rejuvenation is a perfect way to revitalize and refresh your body's senses with the infusion of fresh energy and power within. A spa offers an ideal opportunity to unwind and break from life's rush. Skin treatments and saunas in a tranquil ambiance provide a rejuvenating experience after a tiring day or week at work. Since you’ll spend money and look forward to an excellent spa treatment, it's best to make the most of it. At Reflexion Spa , we provide a relaxing, repairing, and rebooting experience through therapeutic massage and cupping. Here are a few tips to help you learn how to have successful spa rejuvenation in Hinsdale.

Know the Process

If it’s your first time getting a massage, you may not feel confident about the whole process. That’s why you need to read more about the service you’ll get and know what to expect. Make sure you choose your ideal spa carefully. Go through the extensive menu and enquire about different procedures before deciding. Identify what you want and book your session. If you’re considering getting a completely new treatment that you’ve never done before, like Nuga Best, make sure you know everything about it and what to expect. Having enough knowledge about your massage helps you feel comfortable and get a satisfactory service.

Dress Appropriately

Most high-end spa facilities in Hinsdale offer a wide range of services. Besides a massage, you can try different treatments for fitness, facial or waxing services . That means they have plenty of slippers, gowns, and basic toiletries like shampoo and shower gels. In case your spa doesn’t provide all these items, pack your own. Also, if you don’t like what the spa provides, you can get suitable gear and toiletries, especially if you have sensitive skin. For instance, you can get your swimming cap, goggles and swimsuit if you are swimming.

Request a Tour Around the Facility

If it’s your first time visiting the spa, it’s prudent to take a tour around the place before deciding if it’s the place for you.

Check the bathrooms, equipment, and products the facility has invested in before deciding. Spa day means getting that calming and relaxing experience. The last thing you want is to get lost in a spa while in a gown. Arrive at the facility earlier than your scheduled appointment.

Request your receptionist to give you a thorough tour, and they will happily show you around. If you’re taking multiple services, you’ll have to move around from one room to another. Taking a tour around the facility helps you understand the areas you need to go to and how to get there comfortably. If you’re not sure which service to get, this tour can help give you an idea of the treatment you may want.

Trust Your Therapist

Therapists are trained professionals who understand the importance of massages and how they can help you. Since there are many types of massages, a therapist can advise you on the best massage service based on your body, allergies, preference, health condition, and other factors. That’s why it’s essential to consult your therapist and trust them to perform treatment without interruptions.

Top Health Benefits of Regular Massage Therapy in Hinsdale & Chicago, IL

mollie@upcity.com (Mollie Upcity) — Thu, 11 May 2023 18:09:20 GMT

Massages are among the earliest known therapeutic practices. Egyptians, Indians, Greeks, and Chinese would use it to treat various disorders with the belief that it had curative characteristics. For many decades, some people have viewed it as a luxury for the wealthy, but until recently, people have recognized massage as an essential tool for physical and mental health. Massage therapies are often offered along with other standard treatments for various medical conditions. At Reflexion Spa , we believe that a massage should be more than a quick rundown. We offer various massage services to fit your overall health and wellness. If you’re wondering how a massage can benefit you, here are the health benefits of massage therapy we thought you should know.

Boost Mental Health and Wellness

A human touch that is friendly, professional, and safe can be incredibly soothing and therapeutic. When you are stressed, depressed, and anxious, a message can help bring harmony to your body and mind. Stress makes you feel tired all the time, which makes it difficult to accomplish daily activities. Some people also experience chronic headaches. A massage helps relieve such issues by helping your body to relax and relieve tension.

Lower Stress

Whether you have postural stress or general mental stress, massage therapy can help treat both. According to most experts, stress tends to manifest on the shoulders and neck due to prolonged periods of sitting. A massage can counter the imbalance caused by sitting, meaning you can keep working on your desk as long as you schedule a regular massage. People who go for regular massages experience physical and mental benefits as they feel less stressed physically and mentally. For instance, you may notice that you have more energy, your mood improves, and you’re more relaxed and less anxious.

Manage Pain

Pain automatically affects your quality of life and slows recovery from an injury or illness. Doctors may recommend therapeutic massages alongside medication to improve pain management . For instance, if you have a leg injury, your doctor may provide medications to treat the leg and lower pain and recommend therapy to improve mobility and blood flow and strengthen the muscles so you can start walking again. In addition to soothing and reducing pain, therapeutic massages offer maximum recovery for sore muscles after a workout or sports activity.

Increase Immune Function

If you’re often down with cold, flu, and other minor illnesses, chances are that you have low immunity. Luckily, a good diet and therapeutic massage can do the magic. Research has found that massage therapy increases the number of lymphocytes—white blood cells responsible for defending your body from illnesses—in your blood.

Improved Physical Fitness

Recreational and professional athletes can benefit from massage therapy as it helps reduce tension, prevent injuries, and improve exercise performance. The physical benefits include increased blood circulation, improved flexibility, decreased muscle stiffness, quicker recovery between workouts, reduced joint inflammation, and many others.

Finding a Massage Therapist

Now that you know how beneficial a message is, your next step is to find a therapist near you. If you’re in the Hinsdale or Chicago areas, feel free to check out Reflexion Spa. Our team understands what your body needs, and we work with you to ensure you get the attention you deserve. We offer various services, including Salon, facials, prenatal & maternity massage, and waxing services. Contact us to book your massage at Reflexion Spa today!

The Best Massage for a First Timer

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 17:55:01 GMT

Massages are great for an array of different reasons. Whether you want to reduce stress, decrease inflammation, improve circulation, or simply relax, massages are for everyone. Massages for the first time, however, can be a little intimidating. There are so many different types of massages that offer unique benefits for our bodies. How does a first timer know where to start? No need to fret. Here is your guide to the best massage for a first timer:

Types of Massages

Tui Na Massage

A massage that originated in ancient china. This massage is great for injury or pain from blockage in the body. It's also good for arthritis, sprains, and stress!

Deep Tissue Massage

Uses a firmer pressure and slower stroked massage that works out heavy knots from stress and overworked muscles.

Refloxology Massage

Focuses on your hands and feet. This massage applies pressure to those essential pressure points in elemental areas like your hands and feet, and is known to help with migraines and medical issues like diabetes and heart conditions.

Swedish Massage

One of the more popular massages. This is a form of a deep tissue massage that focuses on gliding strokes along the body. These massages are great for pain management, blood flow, posture, and boosts your immune system.

Cranial Massage

Focuses on your scalp and neck, some of the most neglected muscles of the body. This massage can release the tension of your nerves, boosting your immune system and taking away some stress pain. These massages are also ideal for those who suffer from TMJ or consistent migraines.

Prenatal Massages

For mothers-to-be who need a little relief. These massages are known to decrease depression and anxiety, along with relieving those aches and pains in your muscles and joints. If you're interested in a prenatal massage , read more about what your local spa can offer you specifically.

Reasons Why You Should Be Getting Regular Massages

There are many benefits that come with each type of massage! While some massages lower stress and anxiety, others can help you manage pain in target areas. Regular massages can also improve your overall blood circulation, which can actually help your organs function more properly. They can also lower your blood pressure and heart rate, so you can see that there are many physical and mental benefits to regular massages.

How to Get the Most from Your Hinsdale or Chicago Massage?

It's important to visit a professional spa for your first massage experience. Find out which massage is the right one for you by either looking at the services on the website or contacting the spa directly.

Reflexion Spa is located conveniently in Chicago and Hinsdale. We offer a range of services from Swedish massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Cranial/Neck massage, Tui Na, and more. Contact a friendly associate today to learn more about the best type of massage to address your individual needs today.

Healing Abilities of a Swedish Massage in Hinsdale, IL

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 17:53:53 GMT

Massages have been used for many years to relieve pain, inflammation, and other problems. Swedish massage is one of the most popular massage therapies that has been in use since the 1830s due to its healing properties. That means there are many different types of massage therapy, and each depends on your condition. The Swedish massage differs from the rest as it focuses on the full body. If your doctor suggests you get a Swedish massage, you may wonder what it entails. Expert therapists at Reflexion Spa will help you learn about this unique massage and its benefits.

What Is a Swedish Massage?

The Swedish massage is a type of full-body massage therapy for individuals who wish to release tension, need a gentle massage or are new to massage. Our therapists will apply light to medium pressure and fluid strokes to boost blood circulation and the proliferation of antioxidants. Oils combine with touch to create an individualized massage experience that meets the needs of each client. The type of movement and duration may vary based on the practitioner and the client. The therapist will use a combination of:

Long-flow strokes towards the direction of the heart

Vibration

Kneading

Tapping

Deep circular motions

Passive joint movement techniques

History of the Swedish Massage

The Swedish massage was started in the 1830s by Per Henrik Ling, a fencing instructor who healed his injured elbows with the power of touch. Later on, Johan Georg Mezger, a Dutch physician, built what closely resembles the current Swedish massage. This massage has grown significantly throughout the years and has become one of the most popular forms of healing and relaxation for people worldwide.

Healing Abilities of a Swedish massage

While the Swedish massage is most often associated with relaxation, there are many reasons you may want to try this massage. You can also combine it with other types of massage for a more personalized experience. Some of the healing properties of a Swedish massage include:

Reduced stress

Improved immunity

Reduced pain

Improved flexibility

Increased mobility

Increased blood flow

Difference Between a Swedish Massage and a Regular Massage

The main difference between a regular and a Swedish massage is what they accomplish. A Swedish massage is mainly used to help people restore their health and relax their bodies. It can also be a great stress reliever. On the other hand, a regular massage is suitable for eliminating the pain caused by muscle tension.

Different Types of Massages at Reflexion Spa

At Reflexion Spa, we offer our clients many

massage options

and allow you to choose your needs best. Our team understands that massage works best when you use a combination of massages, as it helps give attention to the entire body. Our massage types include:

The Swedish massage

The Tui Na Massage

Deep Tissue massage

Host stone, bamboo, and hybrid massage options

Cranial and neck massage

Reflexology massage

Book your Massage today

At Reflexion spa, our services are all about commitment to exclusivity and focusing on your body and needs. You can book a massage for yourself alone or as a couple. Check out our prices to determine what massage best fit your needs, and feel free to contact us for queries.

Get your Galentine's Day facials on with your BFF!

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 18:39:12 GMT

While there's no reason to not treat every day like a holiday for the special people in your life, there's also no better time to indulge. This Galentine's Day, put your friendship on a pedestal with a day of pampering. Book facials and treat yourself and your BFF this Valentine’s Day right here in Hinsdale.

Types of Facials

In total, there are 18 different facials available at Reflexion Spa . There's an option for every budget and interest. We're going to break down the categories to help you decide the perfect option to get done with a gal pal.

Standard Treatments

Whether it's aging, acne, or exhaustion that's weighing on you, there's a facial in this category that will have you walking away feeling like a weight has been lifted. Ingredients vary depending on the chosen service, but all include bringing out your inner glow. A selection from the five options ranges from 30 minutes up to an hour.

AHA Peel

AHA peels, an alpha-hydroxy treatment, were designed with a few goals in mind. To begin with, the peel smooths out fine lines. Next, it works to reduce pores. Lastly, you can expect to walk away with an even skin tone across the face. Expect to set aside 30 or 40 minutes for either peel.

Essential Aveda

The Aveda treatment improves your skin inside and out. There are four choices in this category that range from a 30-minute facial to a facial plus an hour of a hot stone massage. If that's not a great time to chit-chat with friends, when is?

Extractional Facial

Choose one of these facials when you have a particular skin issue that requires specific attention. Feel renewed with either a 40 or 60-minute session.

Green Science Facial

Isn't it time for a full-on rejuvenation? These scientifically engineered facials are like living life through a filter of smoothness. After a facial that lasts up to an hour and 15-minute session, your face will feel firm and lifted.

New Pumpkin Enzyme Peel

Whether you pick a pumpkin peel or the peel with a mask, it takes about 30 minutes before you get a new lease on healthy skin from exfoliation. Normal to oily is the recommended skin type.

What goes well with a facial?

If the thought of spending a pampering day with one or more of your closest girlfriends is inspiring, there's no reason to stop at a facial. If you're already at Reflexion Spa, why not spend the whole day recharging all over? Here are a few other services the group might be interested in:

Salon

Massage

Waxing

Let's not forget, if one of your friends is an expectant mama, the spa offers prenatal and maternity massages , too!

Whichever services you line up for the day of joy, everyone involved is guaranteed to have an amazing time. Book today to reserve your time slot!

Most Popular Spa Treatments for the New Year

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 18:05:20 GMT

It's out with the old and in with the new, and there's nothing to make you feel brand new like a trip to the spa. Going to the spa is the perfect way to spend an intro to the New Year because there are so many benefits that come along with it! If you're not too sure of which specialty treatments to get, we offer some amazing spa treatments that will leave you feeling healthy, calm, and all-around right. Check out these incredibly popular spa treatments for the New Year!

Massage/Specialty Massage

You can never go wrong with a massage or specialty massage to start off the New Year in the best way. When it comes to a massage, there are so many benefits that come along with it. If the previous year has brought a lot of stress and baggage, massages are a great way to relieve some of that tension. Not only can they relieve tension, but massages are a great way to regain some of that energy back so that you feel fresh and alert!

When it comes to specialty massages , we offer Tui Na Massages, Swedish Massages, Hot Stone and Bamboo Massages, Reflexology Massages, along with some other special favorites at our Hinsdale Location. For those moms-to-be, prenatal and maternity massages are an excellent way to take care of your body before the baby comes! Get much-needed pressure points taken care of while you relax and start your year off with rejuvenation and wellness.

Facials

The past year might have brought on some wrinkles, you might have lost some of that elasticity in your skin, or you just could have been feeling a little out of your skin care routine.

Facials are a great way of making your face glow in all the right ways. Not only do facials increase circulation, but they also do wonders for relaxation efforts. There's nothing quite like getting a radiant makeover at the beginning of a new year to go along with new hopes and wishes for the rest of the year.

Whether you want a classic facial, Green Science anti-aging products, a facial that restores your vitality, or a deep clean -- we've got a little something for everyone that wants to freshen up their face and feel good in their skin again.

Body Therapy

Body therapy is the ideal way to truly listen and take care of your entire body. Reduce any pain that you've been feeling over the past year, lower your heart rate and blood pressure, decrease stress and anxiety, and take care of that immune system now that you're saying goodbye to another year.

Say hello to better skin, better wellness, and mental ease. After a little body therapy, some valuable facials, and some specialty massages, you're in for a real treat this year. Book your spa service today and get ready for the New Year!

All About Tui Na Massage: Uses & Benefits

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 19:19:50 GMT

You might be wondering, well what is a Tui Na massage? What is it used for? Tui Na, also phrased as Tuina, is defined as Asian bodywork that focuses on balancing your energy. It is the balancing of a person's qi, which can ease pain and illness. It's the idea that the best health comes from focusing on your energy and balancing of the body. If you're in the market for a massage that improves your overall health and energy, then a Tui Na Massage might be just what you need.

How It Works

Tui Na works by focusing on different pressure techniques varying in speed and force. It focuses on your bones, joints, and muscles in order to work deeper within the body and improve the overall energy of your body. It's supposed to be relaxing while also invigorating life back into your body and aura. There are parts within your body that tend to be energy-blockers from poor health and bad habits, but this massage allows those blockers to be worked through in order to fully re-balance your energy.

Technique

Tui Na is similarly compared to Swedish massages with the techniques, with a heavy emphasis on your pressure points throughout your body (much like acupuncture).

Massage therapists

use rolling, finger-pushing, bone-setting, rejoining, palpating, kneading, holding, and Nei Gung methods. While methods like the rolling technique is vital for sprains and strained muscles, other techniques like the Nei Gung technique focus on your entire body and revitalizing energy.

However your massage therapist decides to do a Tui Na massage , feel free to ask about what they offer and what sorts of techniques they use, depending on how your body feels throughout.

What Does It Treat?

There is a multitude of things that a Tui Na massage can treat. It can treat your normal neck & back pain or headaches, and it can also treat deeper problems within the body like your digestive system and your respiratory conditions. What is everything that it treats? Well, here's a list of some treatments:

· Musculoskeletal Disorder

· Reproductive Disorder

· Arthritis & Carpal Tunnel

· Stress

· Fatigue & Insomnia

· Body & Joint Pain

Benefits

There are an abundance of illnesses, diseases, and pain points that a Tui Na massage treats, so what are the benefits of this incredible massage? A Tui Na massage can help your blood circulation, it can reduce a plethora of body pain, it helps with fatigue and depression, and eases a variety of muscle and joint problems. It is particularly great for arthritis and carpal tunnel! With so many benefits such as these, you can't pass up an opportunity to get a Tuina massage.

Do we have your attention now? If you're interested in this special Tui Na massage, feel free to contact us and book today ! You'll feel completely refreshed after one much-needed appointment fixing your energy and your body.

Benefits of Hand and Foot Reflexology

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 15:02:21 GMT

Massages are known to benefit your body and health in many ways, but there's more than just the regular back massage to make your body feel refreshed and relaxed. What you might not know is that there are several different types of massages that focus on different areas of your body. Reflexology is a massage that focuses on key reflex points. Like your typical massage , reflexology is known to decrease stress and decrease pain. If you're wondering whether or not reflexology is good for you, we've got the answers!

What Is Reflexology Good For?

If you think about it, our hands and our feet are key elements that we use in our everyday lives. We walk and stand on our feet all day -- we type, write, drive, and pretty much do everything with our hands. While we use these every day, they don't get the deserved attention that they need.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

One of the main benefits of hand and foot reflexology is that it reduces stress and anxiety. When you focus on those key reflex points, you circulate the nervous system. When your nervous system gets circulated, that means the nerves in your brain are also circulating. That means that those neurological functions which control things like movement and thought and emotion are circulating.

Lifts Depression and Improves Mood

This goes hand in hand with the first tip, but if you circulate those nerves and reduce anxiety, then you are bound to feel less depressed. Depression can lie heavily on your nervous system, which could be eased with some reflexology. When reflexology puts pressure on your nerves, it's known to release certain chemicals into your brain which improve your mood.

Pain Relief

As stated above, we use our hands and our feet for everything. Because we use them for everything, that means we also get sore from using them so much. When we are sore, massaging that pain can help ease the tension and provide relief for aching muscles and nerves.

Improved Blood Flow

Circulating that nervous system also circulates oxygen, which improves your blood flow. Blood flow is vital in ensuring healthy organs within your body! That goes to say, this is a pretty essential benefit when it comes to deciding whether or not hand and foot reflexology is right for you.

Better Sleep Habits

When your body eases tension and your nerves relax, your overall sleep improves. These massages will make your entire body and muscles loosen, helping to improve your overall sleep through the night. It has found that anxiety and sleep are heavily reliant on one another.

Healthy Feet and Hands

In order for the oxygen in your body to move through your body more efficiently, you need to circulate and stimulate the nerves in your body. We know that reflexology and massages improve circulation, which means that your oxygen will improve over time.

If you want to feel relaxed and if you want to experience the advantages of reflexology, then a hand and foot reflexology appointment sounds like just what you need. Try one of our many services to experience luxury and comfort. Book now!

Benefits of Prenatal Massage

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 16:59:14 GMT

Massages are historically great for the body and mind, but what you might not know is that massages are exceptionally great for pregnant women. In fact, prenatal massages are highly recommended by both doctors and moms alike! If you're debating on getting a prenatal massage, there are many benefits of a pregnancy massage . Here is what moms-to-be can expect with a prenatal massage!

What is a Prenatal (Pregnancy) Massage?

Of course, there's the question, "well what is a prenatal massage?" A prenatal massage is actually a full body massage where you are positioned for comfortability for both you and your baby. Prenatal massages are often done lying face down while you're pregnant. The second most popular position is side-lying. Why is that? Well, most specialists prefer these positions because it supports the baby bump. Not only does it provide relief to breasts that are tender from pregnancy, but it also provides relief to the pelvic area.

What Are the Benefits of Pregnancy Massage?

There are many benefits that come with getting a prenatal massage. Pregnancy massages are incredible for reducing swelling and alleviating any back, leg, muscle, or joint pains. From a massage, any tight tissue around the lower bag or legs gets stimulated. From this stimulation, the blood circulates further and alleviates the pain. Not only does it alleviate pain, but it also decreases anxiety, depression, and stress.

Massages, in general, are particularly great for mental health. This is even more so with pregnancy brains. Not only does it regulate your hormones, but it also relaxes the nervous system. The relaxation of the nervous system is what leads to less stress and depression, but it's an added bonus that it also improves overall sleep. What are all of the benefits? Well, prenatal massages are known to:

· Overall Uplift Mood

· Reduce Labor Pain During Birth & Improve Labor Preparedness

· Help with Insomnia

· Reduce Leg, Back, Joint, & Muscle Pain

· Improve Circulation & Reduce Swelling

· Decrease Depression, Anxiety, and Stress

Pregnancy Massage Stimulates Circulation!

As said above, pregnancy massages greatly improve circulation. This is because massages stimulate the inflamed nerves and tension in the pregnant body. This stimulation helps oxygenate the muscles and joints as well, thus reducing built-up fluid and inflammation. Why is there so much swelling when it comes to pregnancy? Well, your pregnant body holds more water than your body is used to, along with the growing pressure in your womb that is hitting against your nerves. The combination of this increases swelling, especially in the lower part of your body.

Enjoy an Exclusive Retreat for Moms-to-Be

If reading these benefits makes you want to schedule your own retreat, you can never go wrong with a spa day full of pampering. Book your prenatal and pregnancy massage now to experience a one of a kind massage. Not only will you alleviate all your stress and pain, but you'll soon come to realize that you need prenatal massages more often than not while pregnant. Whether you go by yourself or with a group of other moms-to-be, you won't regret this truly incredible experience.

Book now!

How to Prepare for Your First Spa Day Experience

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 15:28:10 GMT

If you're in need of relaxation and a little body refresh, spas are a great way of getting your fill. If you've never been before, there's a lot to expect. Between all of the services and options to choose from, the first spa experience can be quite overwhelming. Don't worry, however. We've got just what you need in order to feel prepared before your first spa day experience.

What to Look for in a Spa

When choosing the right spa for your spa day, find a place that has all of the services that you're looking for. If you're looking for salon specialties, make sure that they include that. If you're specifically wanting a facial, choose one with specialized facial services. The right spa for you depends on the atmosphere you're looking for as well as the services.

What to Expect

Expect the staff to ask you plenty of questions about what you want. The spa experience is all about you and what you want. There will be plenty of questions about which type of service you want, how sensitive your skin is, and what you're generally looking for. When it comes to massages, they'll ask you how hard or soft you want it, and of course the gender of the staff taking care of you.

What to Wear

Spa days are for relaxation and ultimate comfortability. Make sure that you wear something comfortable enough to slip in and out of, especially if you're going for a specific spa service. Body wraps, mud treatments, and massages could all require you to get undressed for the service. If you're not okay with going nude, that's perfectly fine. Wear something that can be easily moved around for a specific service.

Pass on the Perfume

Besides irritating the staff and other guests who could potentially be sensitive to perfumes, too much perfume can also keep you from experiencing the benefits of any aromatherapy. If you want to smell good when you go to the spa, they'll have scents that you can incorporate into your massage or service. If you don't care about yourself smelling good, but you want the atmosphere to smell good, then add on some aromatherapy like lavender essential oils.

Consider the Gender of the Therapist

Sometimes we like massages, preferably through a woman's touch or preferably from a man's. Whatever you're looking for, note that when you book your massage. Also, it's important to ask about the gender of the therapist in case you prefer not to be touched by a woman or if you prefer not to be touched by a man.

Your first spa experience should be catered to you. Always prepare for the service you want and know what you're looking for before you head in. Also, know that the friendly staff is extremely knowledgeable and can answer any questions that you may have in the course that you feel uncomfortable or want to know more.

Book Today!

Best Massage Types For Couples

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 20:12:41 GMT

It's time for a romantic and intimate day with your partner in an experience that is special to you both. Quality time and shared memories make couples stronger, and nothing is more intimate than a couple's massage together. A couple’s massage is a fantastic way for couples to enjoy some quality time together in a relaxing environment.

If you and your significant other are in the market for a massage, here are the best massage types for couples:

The benefits of couple massage

Not only can a couples massage offer a unique way for two people to connect, but it also stimulates your body and mind. A massage, in general, reduces pain, helps individuals relax, and reduces soreness. It can also lower blood pressure and the heart rate. Getting one with each other will help ease the stress and tension of everyday life -- releasing any negative or toxins from the body and mind.

Quality time spent together is also hugely known in helping each other bond more. There's a reconnect that comes with laying next to each other and both becoming less stressed with an intense and special massage.

Types of massages for couples

When it comes to the best couples massages, you can never go wrong with a Swedish Tissue Massage or a Hot Stone Massage. When it comes to the best couples massages, there are a few that come in mind for a truly special spa experience together:

Swedish Tissue Massage

Posture, flexibility, and blood circulation are all vital for body and mental health. Release your annoyingly stubborn tension spots with a deep tissue massage. Get closer as you and your partner both unwind from any stress that you carry within your body. One Swedish tissue massage will leave you both feeling completely fulfilled and satisfied.

Hybrid Therapy Hot Stone Massage

Hot stones and bamboo stretch out your muscles and nerves as you relieve muscle tension and rejuvenate your body. This is a wonderful way of letting your body become vulnerable and stretching out those tense muscles and nerves that have been holding you back. Hot stone massages are great for your mind and body health.

Similar to yoga, your body stretches and alleviates any stress or tension that you have in your body.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massages impact your blood pressure and targets any damages from injuries. Because of this, you'll both feel completely anxiety-free as you release your toxins and bacteria from your bodies. Get this side by side as you relax from all of life's troubles.

When it comes to couples massages, you both deserve an extraordinary experience that amplifies your love. Through deep stress-relieving massages and quality time, there's nothing like a massage together to make every day unique and extraordinary.

Book Today! You'll both enjoy a spa day that eases your body and unwinds the mind.

Best Tips for Healthy Summer Hair

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 15:53:28 GMT

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Summer is here. Bring on the heat, the pool, and the fun! With this new season, we have to keep in mind the different ways to care for our hair now that the sun is out. Whether it's a dry heat or a humid heat, you deserve the best treatment and tips for healthy summer hair.

Here are the 6 best tips for healthy summer hair:

Wear A Hat

Avoid damage to your scalp by wearing a hat to protect your head and hair from the ultraviolet rays. Although you want to be aware not to wear a hat too tight or too excessively, this is the best thing to protect your scalp from the harshness of the sun. Too much of the harsh UV rays on the scalp can cause dryness and frizziness, which is why we recommend the hat, but wearing the hat too tight doesn't allow the scalp to breathe. That's why it's important to wear a hat that fits your head in rotation, mostly wearing it when the sun is out and the UV rays are strong.

Use A Hair Mask

Moisturize your hair with a hair mask! This is good for the hair in general, but it's especially great if you feel like your scalp got too much sun or if you feel the frizziness getting more extreme. Hair masks also boost the strength of your roots and the healthiness of your scalp. If you've been out in the sun too long and you've damaged your hair, then a nourishing hair mask can treat and cure the damage, providing the silky smooth that your hair needs.

Swap In A Hydrating Shampoo And Conditioner

Moisturizing is so important for your hair, between hair masks and hydrating shampoo and conditioner. Not only is the moisturizing properties of a hydrating shampoo and conditioner great for the substance of your locks, but it is also great for protection from the sun as a preventative measure. It guards against color fading, dryness, and removes any potential chlorine. Chlorine is another factor that you'll have to worry about this summer, as it extracts the natural oils from your hair and causes your hair to feel dry.

Protect Your Hair From The Sun

Obviously, from the above tips, you know that the sun can do some serious damage to your hair and scalp. Unprotected, the sun can cause dryness, brittleness, discoloration, split ends, hair thinning, and extreme frizziness from broken hair. Protecting it -- whether with a cap, moisturizing masks, or hydrating hair treatments can do your hair wonders.

Leave The Straighteners Alone

Straighteners can break down the hair and leave it looking weak, which leads to frizz. Don't damage your hair by extra heat on it. For the summertime, leave the straighteners and heated hair tools alone so that your hair can fully recover from the sun. When it comes to treating your hair from the sun, putting down the straightener is a life changer.

Give Your Hair The Salon Treatment

When all else fails, head to the salon and treat it with some salon goodness. They'll know just how to give your hair the attention that it needs. Don't wait any longer. Head to the salon for absolutely healthy summer hair.

Book now!

Best Waxing Tips for the Summer

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 20:25:08 GMT

Waxing should be an essential part of your skincare routine and beauty care . It keeps your skin looking smooth, even, radiant, and clear. You won't be prone to cuts like shaving and your hair will grow back thinner while your skin looks more polished in the process. If you're on the fence about whether or not to wax or you need a little extra tips to get you going, we have created a list just for you! Here are some of the best waxing tips and tricks to get you in the mood.

Avoid shaving before or after waxing

Shaving before waxing can make your hair too short, thus making it harder to wax. You want your hair to be about the length of a grain of rice (or about 1/4 inches long). This is the optimized length in order to fully wax the hair follicle. If you happen to shave before, it's best to wait a bit before your appointment. This length could take anywhere from 3 weeks to 4 weeks in order to get a proper wax.

Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and cleans the pores of your skin. Exfoliation can actually make your skin look smoother. Without exfoliation, your hair follicles can become plugged frequently. This can turn into overgrown hairs or bacteria seeping into your skin. Exfoliation before you get a wax can help loosen those skin cells and decrease any possible irritation, ingrown hairs, and acne. Exfoliation is also important after though, so don't skip out on the routine!

Try A Spot Treatment

There are dark spot treatments as well as ingrown hair spot treatments. This is great for anyone who tends to get more ingrown hair than the next person, or those who have some spots on their body that they want to go away. Treat yourself to a spot treatment and work towards a shining, polished area.

Stay Moisturized

Moisturizing your body and waxed area can help hydrate it and keep it looking and feeling smooth. It helps the skin glow as well as rejuvenates those rough, dry patches. Moisturizing after a wax can help lock in that extra moisture, but avoid any fragrance lotions for a couple of days. Anything too fragrant can irritate the skin, especially after a fresh wax.

Keep a regular schedule

Waxing regularly not only helps exfoliate the skin, but it also helps hair grow back thinner and slower. Over time, a regular schedule with waxing can help decrease irritation and pain from the wax itself. A regular schedule will also keep your body looking fresh and glowing for a longer time.

Whether you're a first timer when it comes to waxing or a seasoned professional, you can never go wrong with knowing the right tips to keep your areas looking silky and smooth.

Book now!

Note that we only do hair and skin in the Hinsdale location, while we do massage and cupping in both locations.

The Best Spa Treatments for Mom

Thu, 05 May 2022 14:12:05 GMT

Moms deserve a little time to unwind and take care of themselves. Whether you're a mom yourself and want to treat yourself to a spa day or you're buying something a little special for someone else, these are some of the best spa treatments for moms to add to the list!

Mom life can be chaotic, and it can be hard to make time to care for yourself. Between taking care of children, running errands, and going to work–the daily stress of life can stress out the skin and cause tension in the body. These are some of the best spa treatments for moms to add to the list!

Facials

If mom wants truly glowing skin, you can never go wrong with a facial. Whether it's to even skin tone, deep clean pores, or hydrate–facials

are a great way to have glowing, radiant skin. Facials are a wonderful treatment because of the various benefits that come along with them. If you cater it the right way, you can get rid of wrinkles, acne, and any bad bacteria living inside the skin.

We offer several facial selections from alpha-hydroxy facial peels and glycolic peels to anti-aging masques and green science facials. All of our services help renew the skin and restore it to look and feel healthier all around.

Hot Stone Massage

Ease the stress and tension built up throughout the body with a hot stone massage. Hot stone massages may relieve depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and sore muscles. Hot stone massages may also boost immunity for those who tend to feel under the weather often. This form of massage is also great for releasing harmful toxins as well as enhancing lymphatic flow.

Deep Tissue Massage

Our body holds stress and tension in select locations throughout our body, and a great way to get rid of all that excess stress is through a deep tissue massage. Many benefits come from this form of massage, like stress relief, lower blood pressure, digestion, and respiratory function. Encourage blood flow in painful and tense knots, and let the body fully unwind when those kinks get worked out.

Hairstyle

When's the last time mom got her hair done? Full-service hair care should be added to a spa day for mom because it finally allows her to be pampered. Moms rarely have time to get their hair done, let alone get full-service hair care on top of spa treatments . We offer touch-ups, cuts, hair-loss treatments, and blowouts for those moms who deserve to be truly pampered in every single way.

When it comes to a spa day for mom, it's time to let her fully relax and take care of herself. Whether it's hair treatments, facial treatments, or a massage–she will love the time spent being cared for.

Book Now!

Note that we only do hair and skin in the Hinsdale location , while we do massage and cupping in both locations.

How Long Does Leg Hair Have to Be to Wax?

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 13:21:49 GMT

If you need to wax your leg hair, look no further than Reflexion Spa serving Hinsdale, IL, a place where you can Relax, Repair and Reboot.Contact Reflexion Spa to book now!

Minimum Hair Length for Waxing

When it comes to waxing , the minimum hair length should be between 1/4 and 1/2 an inch. If it is shorter than a 1/4 inch, then not all the hair may come away during waxing because the hair needs to be caught or held in the wax to come away. Or the hair may break, making a smooth finish almost impossible to achieve until your hair has a chance to grow out again.

If your hair is too short, rather reschedule the appointment to allow your hair to grow for a few more days.

Can Leg Hair Be Too Long to Wax

Yes, your leg hair can be too long to wax successfully . If the hair is longer than 1/2 an inch, then your therapist may struggle to pull away all the hair, or it may be more painful for you during the waxing session. If you have coarser hair, you should initially have hair closer to the 1/2 inch mark, and once it becomes finer, you can work closer to the 1/4 inch mark.

If your hair is too long, you can trim it lightly before your appointment.

Regrowth Tips and Preventing Ingrown Hairs

You only need to remember three things regarding regrowth and preventing ingrown hairs.

Moisturize

Your skin needs moisture , so like the rest of your body, be sure to moisturize your legs regularly to keep the skin and hair healthy. Healthy hair is less prone to breakage, allowing a smoother finish after your waxing appointment.

Exfoliate

Exfoliate regularly! Exfoliation helps with regrowth and prevents ingrown hairs by removing the dead skin cells that clog the skin. It also makes the hair come away more easily during your waxing appointment, and consequently, the waxing session will be less painful, especially if you are new to waxing. If you wax regularly, your hair will eventually become finer, and there will be less growth.

However, you should wait up to 48 hours after your waxing appointment to prevent irritation.

No Shaving

Once you have started waxing, you should avoid shaving unless it is absolutely necessary. Shaving only trims the thick part of the hair. Waxing removes the hair from the root.

Regular, planned waxing appointments help you from being caught off guard. Waxing is recommended every three to four weeks.

Benefits of Waxing

There are several benefits to waxing your legs and other parts of your body for both men and women. If you wax regularly, the hair will get finer and less hair will grow. It is a quick and easy way to remove unwanted hair, and most waxing appointments take approximately 30 minutes.

Waxing can be a confidence booster for some people, especially if hair crops up in unwanted places on the body. And finally, and most importantly, done correctly, it will give the waxed area a soft and smooth finish.

Book now!

Don’t let hair stubble dampen your day. A waxing appointment is a perfect way to get a quick and smooth finish to parts of your body. Reach out to Reflexion Spa serving Hinsdale, IL, to book an appointment with one of their trained aestheticians today.

Bikini vs Brazilian Wax: What Chicago Residents Need to Know

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 16:21:06 GMT

Bikini Wax vs Brazilian Wax

What is a Bikini Wax?

Remove that unwanted hair from your bikini line with a bikini wax. With a bikini wax, your salon technician will use either a hard wax or soft wax, removing any unwanted hair from your bikini line region.

Wanting a full bikini wax, but not an all-out Brazilian wax? Try a Bikini Full and get the hair removed from your pubic bone area as well as your labia area. The butt and anus areas are not included in this.

What's the Difference–Bikini Wax vs Brazilian Wax?

You've learned about a general bikini wax, a bikini full. Now we'll cover a Brazilian wax. With a Brazilian, your salon technician removes hair from almost everywhere depending on which variation you get. The most popular one would be the Hollywood Wax, which completely removes all hair.

Hollywood Wax: remove all the pubic hair from the front, between the butt area, and between the legs. This complete hair removal will have you feeling red-carpet-ready.

French Wax: This one won't remove all the hair. It'll remove some of your between leg hairs, and some hairs in the frontal area. However, you can leave a strip or a rectangular shape on the front, and it won't remove the butt hairs or labia hairs.

Can Men Get One Too?

Of course! Men can get a "Manzilian" wax which removes either all or most of their hair from the crotch area. It removes the hair from around the bikini line, as well as the groin. They can also remove hair from the scrotum and entire anal region. They can expect a longer-lasting and smoother feeling when they choose to get a wax over shaving the area themselves.

Which One Should You Choose and How Should You Prepare?

Reflexion Spa offers a wide variety of waxing services to choose from. Luckily, you can choose from a bikini or a Brazilian wax depending on how much hair you want to be removed.

Take a shower before your appointment, exfoliate your skin, and choose your wax. Realize that this can be a painful process and expect a little stinging. Also, to get a wax, you must grow your hair out to roughly 1/4 inches long. That way, the technicians can remove the hair from the root of it. This can take anywhere from one to two weeks or more. Other than that, depending on the activity you’ll want to prep for, it's up to you on which wax would be most beneficial.

Why Get One?

Simply being said, waxing is great for your skin. It exfoliates and helps produce collagen production–which, in turn, slows down the aging process and gives you glowing skin! Treat your skin right and schedule a waxing appointment.

Schedule an Appointment with Reflexion Spa in Hinsdale

Salon Treatments For A New Look At A Chicago Hair Salon

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 19:42:13 GMT

Hair Salon Services For A New Look

It is no secret that a bad hair day is disappointing, but it may go deeper than that. A study conducted by Physique showed that people from diverse backgrounds were all significantly affected by hair woes. Self-esteem and confidence are often lower when people are not happy with the way their hair looks.

Whether you are tired of your daily hairstyle or you have a special event coming up, the professionals at Reflexion Spa are here to help! Our hair salon offers several treatments for bridal hairstyles or a simple update to your current look.

Haircut

We have all heard of someone getting “the big chop” after a breakup, but simply hacking inches off your locks is not usually a great idea. A professional hair salon provides a more strategic approach to haircuts that considers a variety of factors.

The length, thickness, and type of your hair play a big role in which type of haircut will look best. It is also important to consider your face shape and the amount of time you have for upkeep and styling. Just because your best friend or favorite celebrity can rock a pixie cut doesn’t mean it is the right choice for you. Bring your ideas but consider your stylist’s input as well.

Hair Color

Some men and women find that their natural hair color may not be particularly complementary. Your hairstylist in Chicago will help you select a shade that works well with your skin tone to give the appearance of brighter and more even skin without ever scheduling a facial –though those are available too if you want!

Special Events Hairstyling

We know you want to look good every day, but some events require even more confidence than usual! The team at Reflexion Spa specializes in bridal hairstyles that hold up to the elements and look great in wedding pictures and videos. From Brazilian blowouts to updos, we can create a look that is sure to stand out from the crowd. Be sure to book your special events hairstyle appointments as far in advance as possible to ensure that your timing is right.

Specialty Hair Treatments

Hair woes are often unsightly and uncomfortable, affecting both physical appearance and self-esteem. There are many treatments available to address specific hair concerns.

Hair loss is devastating for both men and women. The hair salon at Reflexion Spa offers treatments for those experiencing hair loss. Our professional team welcomes your questions and inquiries to see if this procedure can help you regain control over your hair growth.

Styling, products, and the environment take their toll on your hair. A deep conditioning treatment can restore your hair to its best appearance by moisturizing and revitalizing both hair and scalp. In just 30 minutes, your hair will look softer and healthier.

Even hair issues that are due to hair texture can be addressed with the right treatment regimen. For instance, our Aveda Smooth Infusion treatment helps handle frizziness caused by humidity and other environmental factors. If you struggle with certain types of hair challenges, your hair salon professional can help you find the right treatment to meet your needs.

Make Your Look A Priority In 2022

There are many reasons to revamp your style, but the truth is that you don’t need any reason at all! Reflexion Spa is here to help you look and feel your very best!

Book a hair salon appointment in Chicago today!

Benefits Of Waxing For Men In Chicago

mollie@upcity.com (Mollie Upcity) — Sun, 09 Jan 2022 22:37:38 GMT

Guys, It's Time to Pamper Yourself With Our Chicago Area Spa Treatments!

Though waxing is often thought of as a service for women, this could not be further from the truth. Manscaping is growing in popularity throughout the world as more men become aware of the many benefits of waxing. Reflexion Spa welcomes both women and men for our full array of salon services, massage, and our full range of salon waxing services .

Improve Your Relationship with a Partnered Spa Visit

Join your partner for spa treatments in Chicago

What Are The Benefits Of Waxing For Men?

Both men and women are discovering the many advantages of a guy with smooth skin. Men experience most of the same benefits of waxing as women, with a few variations.

Smoother skin: Waxing results in less stubble and skin irritation than shaving

Hair takes longer to grow back after waxing than shaving. Many men enjoy not having to shave for three to six weeks rather than battling with their razor daily.

Hair grows back from waxing finer and softer than it does from shaving, which is a bonus for both men and their partners

Muscle definition is more apparent when not covered by hair, making waxing an excellent choice for athletic men who take good care of their bodies and want to show them off

Lower body odor: Sweat holds onto hair and waxing removes hair much better than shaving, resulting in less body odor

Where Do Men Get Waxed?

Where and how much to wax is a very personal decision and Reflexion Spa wants each of our clients to have a unique

spa day in Chicago

. Consider having your waxing professional remove hair from the following areas:

Back

Chest

Face: This includes cheeks, nose, chin, and lip

Legs

Full Bikini Wax: everything below the waist, including butt, upper thighs, and genitals, for a smooth look and feel

Tips For Your First Waxing Appointment

Booking a waxing service can be unnerving, but there is nothing to be afraid of. The friendly staff at Reflexion Spa is here to answer your questions and put you at ease. Make the most of your waxing experience by knowing what to expect.

Before Your Appointment

There are a few things you can do to set yourself up for waxing success.

It is a good idea to shower before your appointment so that your waxing professional can work with clean skin.

Avoid lotion and other body products that will leave your skin slippery.

Wear loose-fitting comfortable clothing that will not irritate your skin after your wax.

Do not let your fears get the best of you. It will not hurt nearly as bad as you imagine, and any discomfort will not last long at all!

During Your Appointment

Before beginning your waxing treatment, the waxing professional will check to make sure your hair is long enough to be waxed safely. Let your technician know how much hair you would like removed and from where.

The actual waxing process is pretty straightforward. The technician uses a small stick to spread warm wax on a section of hair and allows it to settle briefly. A cloth is then placed on the wax and lifted, removing both wax and hair. This process is repeated until all unwanted hair is removed.

Waxing Aftercare

It is best to avoid workouts for a few days after your waxing appointment. Continue to wear loose comfortable clothes and use lotion to moisturize until irritation subsides. Book your next appointment when hair returns to the length recommended by your waxing professional.

Book A Bikini Wax In Chicago Today
Waxing for men in Chicago does not need to be scary. Get in touch with Reflexion Spa to book a waxing appointment and experience smoother skin today!

Why Spa Certificates Make Great Gifts

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 01:43:51 GMT

Here come the holidays! The streets are illuminated by beautiful light displays and store windows. Seasonal gatherings and office celebrations are tempting too many of us to cheat on our diets. By the time 2021 draws to a close, it’s a pretty sure bet that almost everyone you know will be suffering the lingering aftereffects of holiday stress! If you go downtown at any time, you’ll see that the roads are filled with the hustle and bustle of shoppers seeking a perfect gift for that special someone–and anyone else who happens to be on the Nice List, which is why a gift certificate that covers massage therapy and salon services for your friends in Hinsdale and Chicago make the perfect gift!

Time to Glow Up!

Schedule A Spa Appointment for Someone Special Today!

Making a List and Checking It Twice?

Except for a pre-haunted Ebeneezer Scrooge and a certain Grinch, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone in the Chicago or Hinsdale area who doesn’t love the festivities of the holiday season. Celebrating the people in your life who make a special impact throughout the year, or treating a loved one to a well-deserved indulgence is just one of the ways that we all do our part to spread holiday cheer. But spreading all that joy does come with a cost beyond finances! Selecting a gift that will be appreciated without fretting over the value or appropriateness of the boon can also cause stress for all but the most experienced and organized shoppers. That’s why Reflexion Spa is happy to announce that we offer the perfect treat for everyone on your holiday gift list! Our spa certificates can be purchased in any denomination so that you can give a relaxing respite as a gift to other stressed-out holiday warriors, and the services can be scheduled at the giftee’s convenience.

Reasons to Give Spa Certificates As Gifts

Our locations in Chicago and Hinsdale proudly offer luxury spa experiences that function as a safe haven and a way to reboot the mind and body. Our highly trained staff is proud to offer salon services that can be redeemed for high-class full-service hair care, including coloring services, Brazilian blowouts, cuts, perms, and anything else you can think to request. Spa certificates can also be redeemed by your giftee on any combination of our bridal and special occasion styling appointments.

Facial and Waxing Services

The reason why we at Reflexion consider ourselves a “warrior’s retreat” is because we know that everyone has too much to worry about. Gifting someone with the luxury of a renewal session with one of our highly-trained estheticians for waxing services in Hinsdale or a relaxing facial in Chicago that will wipe away the stress of the holiday months is worth far more than just the service! Treating someone to a facial tells them that you appreciate all the times they put their own needs on the back burner and want them to have a special “me” day from the gifter.

Massage Services

The combination of winter cold and holiday stress can also cause pain issues to flare up at any age. Our Chicago and Hinsdale locations offer Chicagoland massage services that target pain areas through a variety of methods. Our highly trained massage professionals provide relief for neck pain, back pain, trauma damage, or a simple need to unwind. Reflexology services and a full assortment of Swedish, Tui Na, Hot Stone, and Deep Tissue massages are on offer at all times. A Reflexion Spa certificate can be redeemed for any of these indulgences.

Happy Holidays from our family to yours, and don’t forget to visit in 2022 to learn about our new specialty beauty services !

6 Facial Exercises To Tone Your Face After a Cranial/Neck Massage

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 18:17:14 GMT

Cranial Massage Basics

Cranial massage aims to restore natural positions of the bones to ease muscle tension and pain. In the cranial/neck area, massage treatment is also achieving impressive anti-aging and even reverse aging results, especially when combined with some self-care exercises. If you suffer from headaches, including migraines, neck pain, discomfort, or are simply concerned with skin/eyelids starting to droop, six facial exercises can help in between neck massage treatments at Reflexion Spa!

Discover the benefits of cranial and neck massage in Hinsdale.

What do facial exercises do?

Like any type of exercise, the goal of facial exercises is to strengthen the target muscles. Each type of exercise targets a specific cluster of muscles, just as traditional exercise does. Facial exercises may be done with the hand or small tools.

Benefits

Facial massage is used to achieve many goals. The act of stimulating the face muscles may have the following effects:

Eases stress and tension

Reduces wrinkles

Releases toxins by increasing blood flow

Increases circulation by sending more oxygen to the face

Do facial exercises work?

While no large-scale studies have been done on facial exercises (yet!), this practice is gaining in popularity due to the results reported by those who have tried it. With virtually no side effects or caveats, the best way to find out is to try some of these facial exercises for yourself!

Types Of Facial Exercises To Try After a Cranial Massage

15 Skull Circles

Place your left hand (or a small rubber ball) behind your earlobe at the base of your skull. Move your hand/ball in small circles for about ten seconds (you should be able to complete about fifteen circles in this time) and then stop and press the area down gently for a count of two breaths.

The Temple Mandibular Joint

Locate the joint by opening and closing your jaw, then tilt your head and place the base of your hand (or the ball) right under the cheekbone where the joint begins. Another ten seconds of small circles and then a count of two breaths before releasing pressure will help with toning the skin of the lower face.

Keep Head Tilted and Move Hand to the Temple

Extra gentle pressure is needed here, as the temple encloses a mobile bone called the sphenoid, and you don’t want to push in too far. Make the same small circles for ten seconds and press/hold for two breaths. Perform the same techniques again at the jaw and the base of the skull. Don’t forget to repeat on the opposite side!

Collagen-boosting “Sweep Rinse”

Use the tips of your fingers on each hand to very lightly sweep your face and neck (both sides at once) as if you were rinsing the area. Brush from your collarbone downward, then move down from the outside of the throat towards the inner collarbone. Your hands will make the letter V as you move. Then brush your fingers under the eyes, and sweep from the forehead outward, towards the temples.

The Upper-eye Exercise

Take the three middle fingers of each hand and place them underneath each eyebrow. Then push your eyebrows straight up while looking straight ahead and using your forehead muscles to push down against the fingertips. Hold for ten seconds and then relax. Repeat a total of three times.

Neck Stretches

A tense and tight neck

will eventually do damage to your face, causing a downward set to your features and increasing the onset of wrinkles. If you stretch and massage your neck to relieve tension, this can be avoided. First, tilt your head towards the right shoulder and then use your hand to pull it closer for a deeper stretch. Hold for a count of ten. Repeat on the other side. Then use your hands to massage the muscles at the back of the neck from the base and move upward to the back of your skull.

Ready for a neck massage in the Chicagoland area? Book now!

Are you ready to relieve all that tension you carry in your neck and head?

Reach out to one of our massage specialists today

to book an appointment! We look forward to providing you relief and relaxation!

Facials For Pores In Chicago And Hinsdale

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 23:22:24 GMT

Though pore size is mostly determined by genetics, there are a few other factors as well. Age, sun exposure, and skincare habits may all play a role in how large your pores appear. It is not possible to alter your genetics, but a facial is one pore treatment option for those who are self-conscious about the size of their pores.

Learn more about facial treatments to minimize pores in Hinsdale and Chicago.

Can Facials Help To Minimize Pores?

Yes, and no. A facial cannot change your genetic makeup or your skin type, but the right facial treatment minimizes how large your pores look by moisturizing, cleaning, or exfoliating the skin.

Best Facials to Reduce Large Pores

There are many facials available to reduce the appearance of pores. Try one of these popular treatments at Reflexion Spa

Exfoliating Facial Scrub

A facial scrub gets rid of dirt, buildup, and dead skin cells to reveal smoother skin and improve acne, which is a big contributor to larger pores. Opt for something soothing and as natural as possible, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Chemical Peels

A mild, gentle chemical peel is another option to help your pores. It works to remove the outer layers of your epidermis that are damaged. The acidic solution is geared towards improving your skin’s texture and appearance, making pores less noticeable.

Cleansing Facials With Natural Ingredients

Oftentimes, natural ingredients such as pumpkin enzymes and some essential oils are used by professional spas to minimize the appearance of pores. Your skin care professional will pick the ingredients best suited for your skin type to reduce oiliness or provide anti-aging properties that act as a pore treatment.

How It Works

The best way to treat large pores is to take good care of your skin. Facials provide deeper cleaning than your daily routine, lifting excess dirt and oil that is beneath the surface while treating acne. Regular facial appointments allow for continuous skin benefits.

Benefits

In addition to minimizing the appearance of pores, facial treatments in Hinsdale offer many other benefits . Facials may be alternated or combined with other types of facial treatments or spa services to result in healthier skin and a more youthful appearance. Facials also reduce stress and increase confidence.

Aftercare

Aftercare is important following a facial.

Avoid picking at your skin and wearing heavy makeup or skin products for a day to a few days since your pores are more open and are more susceptible to bacteria.

Do not schedule any heavy workouts on the day of your facial since sweat and heat can irritate freshly exfoliated skin.

Your skin may be more vulnerable to UV rays, so it is best to stay out of direct sunlight for a few days.

Do be sure to stay hydrated, go easy on washing your face, and stick to your regular skincare routine if you haven’t had anything too intense for your facial.

Ready To Book? Call Now!

Are you ready to book an appointment?

Contact Reflexion Spa

with your questions and to see what services would be ideal for you. We are happy to provide you with only the best facial treatments to improve your pores and leave you feeling amazing.

Best Massage Oils According To Chicago Massage Therapists

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 17:13:00 GMT

A massage at Hinsdale’s Reflexion Spa is more than just a quick rub down for sore muscles. Top Chicago massage therapists are on staff to ensure that you are treated to the best massage experience in the area, from arrival to departure. One of the factors that separates a massage at Reflexion from our competitors is the use of the best available massage oils to enrich your massage experience.

Explore massage options at Reflexion Spa.

What Type of Oil Do Massage Therapists Use?

The best massage therapists can provide a holistic treatment that targets and benefits the entire body. The use of oils that function as moisturizers and contain vitamins and antioxidants for the skin ensures that you will feel great long after your massage has ended. Your Reflexion Spa massage may include the following professional massage oils:

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is everywhere these days and for good reason . It is all-natural and helps promote collagen production, which can help to restore skin cells and fight the effects of aging. The natural scent of the raw oil evokes visions of the tropics. Coconut oil is fairly solid at room temperature, so it also can function as a lotion. What could be more relaxing?

Jojoba Oil

A high-quality massage also targets all the senses to maximize relaxation, and jojoba oil is often perfect for the job. Jojoba oil is considered to be non-allergenic and contains no fragrance of its own. This makes jojoba oil an ideal carrier for essential oils and a safe choice for anyone with sensitive skin. The other benefits of jojoba oil are well-documented , including its non-greasy feeling and the fact that it won’t clog pores.

Almond Oil

Almond oil, which has been considered a panacea in natural medicine for centuries, is a popular choice as a massage oil mainly due to its incredible antioxidant and antifungal properties. This oil is beneficial for all skin types due to its high concentration of vitamin A and vitamin E, which helps to keep skin moisturized and also improves complexion while treating sun damage, psoriasis, and other signs of aging.

Apricot Kernel Oil

The oil pressed from the pits of apricots is often used in baby products due to its gentle nature, but that doesn’t make it any less effective for an adult seeking a top-quality massage. Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin A, this oil is perfect for sensitive or damaged skin and is also an excellent carrier oil for aromatherapy accompaniment during the massage. Nourishing and moisturizing, liberal use of apricot kernel oil helps to keep skin supple and elastic, and also helps to calm inflammation.

Why Do Massage Therapists Choose Clean and Organic Products?

At the Hinsdale Reflexion Spa, our massage therapists want every client to leave with a wonderful feeling of relaxation, holding less stress in their body when walking out the door than they walked in carrying. High-quality clean and organic products are just one of the ways we ensure that you have the top-tier massage experience your body deserves. When you book an appointment at Reflexion Spa, our professionals ensure that you are receiving the best professional massage oils from natural sources so you can leave feeling ready to take on the next challenge!

Contact us today to book a session with one of our in-demand massage professionals to see the difference firsthand.

How Often Should You Get a Facial? A Hinsdale Skin Expert Explains

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 16:58:43 GMT

If scrolling through your Instagram feed has made you feel like your beauty regimen is woefully lacking, Reflexion Spa is here for you. Our locations in Chicago and Hinsdale are always available to allow you to relax, refresh, and reboot, but there’s another “R” that is key for anyone who is serious, or wants to get serious, about the image they present to the world: REJUVENATION. Your skin, which is the largest organ in the body, is the first thing people see when they meet you. Taking proper care of it or making up for years of not taking proper care of it is what our experts do best!

There are certain inevitable effects that aging has on the skin, especially the face. Factors such as stress and environment can be tempered with the intervention of a great esthetician and the application of the appropriate facial treatment.

What is a Facial?

Today, saying you’re “going for a facial” can mean a lot of different things. The range of treatments that are available to care for the skin of the face are virtually countless, but the most common types of facials contain one or more of certain elements:

Cleansing: The cleansing you receive when booking a professional facial can be thought of as a “deep clean” for the skin. Special techniques used by our experts can open up the pores for more effective cleansing. High-end products that aren’t generally priced for daily home application help to get your skin completely free of the toxins that build up in daily life.

Peels: A peel involves a substance that is applied to the skin with the goal of exfoliation. Though pure chemical peels (such as those that use glycolic acid, or other acidic solutions) remain popular and uniquely effective, a movement to embrace more green science and thus utilize vegetable enzymes (like our pumpkin enzyme peel) helps to reveal a softer, smoother layer of skin.

Masques: Masquing substances are applied for some time and accomplish a multitude of benefits, including the delivery of antioxidants, moisturizers, and other techniques to increase radiance and add to protection from toxins in the environment.

Benefits of Facials in Hinsdale

Getting the results you want can mean anything from daily changes to your routine to scheduled consults and treatments with the experts at Reflexion spa to determine what level of intervention will most benefit YOU and your unique condition. Generally, the more intensive treatments are not recommended to be performed more frequently than once per month, but that doesn’t mean that your skin doesn’t benefit from certain elements of the facial process regularly. Our dedicated consultants can help you choose the right products and techniques to keep your skin looking fresh, youthful, and radiant between visits, no matter what your skin type or condition. You can also count on us to advise you when it would NOT be beneficial to overuse a particular type of treatment. Too much of anything can have negative consequences, and at Reflexion, we care for your total wellness. There is no substitute for the advice that comes from the expert training and experience of our in-house technicians.

In the end, the answer to “how often should you get a facial?” is an individual choice informed by the guidance of qualified professionals.

Make an appointment at our Hinsdale location today to get started on the path to looking your absolute best!

What Is Asian Massage? A Chicago Massage Therapist Explains

Wed, 19 May 2021 17:25:38 GMT

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Massage therapy dates back at least as far as 3000 BCE in India. Originally practiced by Hindus as part of the Ayurvedic practice of healing illness by restoring the body’s natural and physical balance, massage was initially both a medical and spiritual practice. As massage spread throughout Asia over the next several thousand years, Chinese and Japanese practitioners adapted it to their own cultures. Massage is now practiced on every continent and there are unlimited variations, with new techniques being released every year, but Asian massage is still important and relevant. Reflexion Spa offers several Asian massage techniques for our clients to enjoy.

Asian Massage Disciplines

The early forms of Asian massage stemmed from the belief that balancing the body’s energy could heal pain and sickness. There are countless variations, but the following Asian massage techniques are among the most popular in the modern world.

Tui Na

One of the four main branches of Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage uses fingers to apply pressure to specific acupoints. Tui Na works similarly to acupuncture, but without the needles, aiming to balance the body by stimulating the flow of qi, or life’s vital energy. A Tui Na practitioner may use a gentle and passive yin approach, a physical and active yang approach, or a combination of the two, depending on the issues they are aiming to heal. Lotions, salves, or compresses may be used to enhance healing.

Cupping

Another technique of Chinese origin, cupping also aims to facilitate the flow of qi in the body and balance yin and yang. However, as the name implies, cupping does not use hands alone to achieve this. Special glass cups are warmed and placed on the skin. As they cool, the suction effect increases blood circulation and relieves muscle tension, promoting blood flow and cell repair.

Shiatsu

From the Japanese phrase for “finger pressure”, Shiatsu is another form of acupressure. The practitioner uses their fingers, thumbs, and palms to apply continuous pressure to points on the body believed to be connected to pathways called meridians Each point is held for 2 to 8 seconds to encourage the flow of chi. Typically, no oils are used in Shiatsu, though tools may enhance the movements.

Hybrid Massages

Asian massage techniques are the basis of modern massage therapy and are widely studied by students of massage theory. The movements and tools of Asian massage are often used to create new techniques or to combine several methods to provide a personalized experience that meets the needs of each client. Hot stones, bamboo, and reflexology are examples of Asian techniques that are used in Reflexion Spa massages.

Conditions Asian Massage Treats

Unlike many types of modern European massage techniques, most Asian massage is aimed at healing rather than stress relief. Since the movements target acupressure points that connect to various body systems, they can treat several conditions, depending on where they are applied. Reflexion Spa clients chose Asian massage to treat muscle aches, headaches, sinus issues, digestive problems, insomnia, arthritis, back and neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, respiratory issues, and much more. Ask your doctor if you have a condition that might benefit from massage therapy.

How Effective Are Asian Massages?

As with any form of complementary medicine, the results of massage therapy will vary based on different factors. It is important to choose a skilled and qualified massage therapist who is well-acquainted with the technique they will be using and understands what your goals are for your massage sessions. Ask your massage therapist how often you should schedule appointments to enjoy continuous benefits.

What To Expect

Regardless of the massage services you choose, Reflexion Spa aims for each of our visitors to leave feeling better and more relaxed. Be sure to let us know which type of massage you would like when you book your appointment. Though you do not need to make any special preparations for your appointment, many clients find it helpful to hydrate before a massage. Talk to your massage therapist before you get started and feel free to ask questions, address concerns, or tell us about any conditions you may have. Speak up if the massage is painful or uncomfortable, so adjustments can be made accordingly.

Benefits Of Asian Massage

Massage therapy is a very personal experience and each person will benefit in different ways. Many of our clients at Reflexion Spa turn to Asian massage as a complementary part of their healthcare regimen. Clients report less pain, improved breathing, improvement in their health symptoms, and better sleep long after their massage is over. Make sure to tell your massage therapist what conditions you are experiencing so they can create a truly customized experience that will change your life.

Book An Asian Massage In Hinsdale today!

Are Facials Worth It in Hinsdale? | Reflexion Spa

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 17:50:06 GMT

What Are The Benefits of a Facial in Hinsdale

Facials were once considered a luxury service reserved for the very wealthy, but a lot has changed. With many different types of facials now readily available at your local Hinsdale spa

, facials have become a basic act of self-care for people from all walks of life. If you have never gotten a professional facial service or are curious about new methods and types, read on to see how you may benefit from regular facials.

Is A Facial Good For You?

No matter what type of skin you have or what problems you may be experiencing, there is a facial that can help you look your best. Even if you are currently happy with your skin, there are numerous benefits to getting a professional facial service. Examine just a small portion of the reasons both women and men of all ages are booking facial appointments in Chicago:

Expert skin evaluation:

When you get a facial at a Hinsdale spa, you will work with a skincare professional. These experts can evaluate your skin and help you determine your skin type and challenges so you can use the right ingredients and develop an effective skin regimen.

Aging Skin:

As we get older, we wear the signs of aging right in plain sight on our faces. The effects of time begin showing on our skin as early as 22, so it is best to start your facial regimen early to prevent and minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. However, even if you do not discover the power of facials until later in life, it is never too late to slow down or even reverse the aging process.

Treating breakouts:

Having acne as an adult can be embarrassing. Regular facials extract pores without irritation and damage, allowing your skin to heal and prevent future breakouts.

Detox:

Your skin is your body’s major defense against outside forces. Facials help rid the skin of chemicals, oils, toxins, and dirt that build up over time. Certain types of facials exfoliate and replace lost nutrients for healthy skin.

Stress relief:

Never underestimate the power of relaxation for both physical and psychological well-being. A facial alone is extremely relaxing and rejuvenating. Combine it with other spa services in Chicago and the effects are simply heavenly.

Average Cost Of A Facial

There are many different types of facials, and prices vary widely. In general, a professional facial at a Chicago spa costs between $35-$70 per appointment.

Factors that impact the cost

If you do a little research, you will see that facials are available for very low rates while others can seem very pricy. Many variables impact the total cost of your facial services such as:

Ingredients used: You can expect to pay more for organic and natural ingredients than you might for my chemically-based services.

Experience of esthetician: A more well-trained facial provider will likely be more expensive than those just starting.

Length of appointment: Facial appointments range from 30 to 90 minutes, and you will naturally pay more for longer appointments.

Type of service: Depending on your needs, you may receive a signature facial, specialty facial, chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or other variations that will impact the total cost.

Location: As with most things, the price of facials depends heavily on location.

What To Expect

Proper preparation for your first facial depends on the type of service you will receive. You should be told when you book your appointment if there are any special instructions. Your esthetician will examine your skin and ask questions about your lifestyle, skin care regimen, and any allergies you have. It is important to be honest and ask any questions ahead of time to avoid poor reactions or surprises later.

Facial Aftercare

Once again, aftercare will depend on the type of services you received. A professional esthetician will provide you with follow-up instructions and make you aware of possible side effects. You will likely be advised not to touch your face for a short time following your appointment to allow your skin to absorb the ingredients without interference. If you are interested in making facials a regular part of your routine, you should ask your provider how often they recommend you get services. Book your next appointment before leaving to avoid disruption in benefits.

Get In Touch

There is never a bad time to start looking your best. Contact Reflexion Spa today to make an appointment for a facial in Chicago.

What Is A Swedish Massage? Chicago's Expert Explains

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 20:21:35 GMT

Hinsdale and Chicago Residents Trust Reflexion Spa For Massages

Origins Of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage began in the 1830s when a Swedish fencing instructor named Per Henrik Ling healed his own injured elbows with the power of touch. Later on, a Dutch physician, Johan Georg Mezger, built on the rudimentary beginnings of Ling and developed what most closely resembles the current form of Swedish massage. This style of massage has evolved and grown significantly over the years, yet it is still a popular form of relaxation and healing for people all over the world. The massage therapists at Reflexion Spa use Swedish massage alone and in combination with other techniques and treatments in order to provide many benefits to our clients at our Hinsdale and Chicago locations.

Contact Reflexion Spa to book a Swedish Massage.

How Swedish Massage Works

Unlike some other types of massage therapy that focus only on a very specific area of the body such as neck massages , Swedish massage is a full-body treatment in which oils are combined with touch to create a personalized massage experience that meets the needs of each client. Though the duration and types of movement may vary based on practitioner preference and client needs, Swedish massage is comprised of the followed movements developed by Ling and Mezger:

Effleurage: In this first stage of Swedish massage, constant light to medium pressure is applied with the assistance of oils in smooth movements towards the heart to warm up muscles and relax the body.

Pétrissage: This kneading motion squeezes the flesh further releases muscle tension.

Friction: This is the deepest pressure applied in Swedish massage. The massage therapist applies the weight of their body through various parts of the hands and arms in a continuous slide motion or an alternating circular motion, in order to properly work on the deepest muscles.

Vibration: This gentle shaking of the flesh with the fingertips helps relieve tension in small muscle areas such as the spine and the neck. The massage therapist does a small section at a time until all targeted areas have been reached.

Tapotement: Though considered one of the basic movements of Swedish massage, this choppy movement may be limited or omitted by some therapists as it can be overstimulating for clients with certain preferences or conditions. Tapotement can be accomplished with cupped hands or loose fists. Be sure to tell your therapist if you have a preference.

Benefits Of Swedish Massage

Though Swedish massage is most often associated with relaxation, there are many reasons to try this technique. A Swedish massage can also easily be combined with other types of massage for a more personalized experience. Some of the most common reasons that people choose Swedish massage are:

Reduced stress symptoms such as better sleep, less severe headaches, or renewed energy levels
Better immune system functioning due to lower cortisol levels
Pain management for chronic conditions or injuries
Improved mobility due to kneading and friction
Improved flexibility as muscles relax
Increased Blood Flow from the motion and direction of effleurage, ridding the body of toxins

Experience Swedish Massage in Hinsdale Or Chicago

Whether you are a massage enthusiast or just curious about the experience, Reflexion Spa is here for you! View our complete menu of massage services and salon services and book an appointment (or two, or three) today!

Deep Tissue Massage In Chicago And Hinsdale Illinois

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 23:26:14 GMT

In addition to our full range of salon services and spa treatments, Reflexion Spa offers a variety of massage techniques to help our clients reduce stress, recover from injury, and increase their general sense of wellbeing. The key to a successful massage therapy session is choosing the right technique to meet your individual needs. Read on to learn whether deep tissue massage could help you.

What Is A Deep Tissue Massage?

When most people envision getting a massage, the image that comes to mind is that of Swedish massage, also known as a classic massage. This type of massage is the standard foundation of other types of massage therapy and is aimed at promoting relaxation. A deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements as Swedish massage but employs a different technique to specific muscle groups, making it more suitable for the treatment of sports injuries and similar muscle tightness and soreness. The main difference is that the pressure of a deep tissue massage is, as its name suggests, much deeper and quite a bit slower than other methods, allowing the massage therapist to really work those sore muscles and tendons.

Benefits Of Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is the most popular technique chosen by athletes or those who engage in rigorous physical activity on a regular basis, but it can also be useful in treating other physical injuries as well as many forms of chronic pain such as sciatica, fibromyalgia, or plantar fasciitis. This approach to massage therapy works well on any conditions that involve the deeper layers of muscle tissue or tendons, as the pressure applied works deeper into the body than other techniques. Pregnant women are advised to hold off on deep tissue massage and instead start with a prenatal massage .

What To Expect From Your Deep Tissue Massage

Unlike some forms of massage therapy , deep tissue massage is not intended primarily for relaxation or stress relief. In fact, the movements and pressure applied during deep tissue massage may actually be temporarily uncomfortable as the therapist uses fingers, fists, and elbows to release contracted areas located in deep muscle tissue. Your massage therapist will typically begin with a lighter touch to warm up your muscles and will increase the pressure until the desired areas are reached or it becomes too painful. Make sure to communicate with your therapist about the nature of your injuries so they can allow ample time to address all problem areas. It is common to experience some soreness following a deep tissue massage due to the nature of the injuries clients have experienced beforehand, though this is usually relieved with a cold pack.

Book A Deep Tissue Massage In Chicago Or Hinsdale, IL

Deep tissue massage is very effective in handling many types of chronic pain, but individual success depends largely on finding a highly qualified massage therapist. Reflexion Spa employs only the very best professional massage therapists in order to ensure the best results for all of our clients. Contact us today to schedule a deep tissue massage at either our Chicago IL or Hinsdale, IL locations.

Where To Find The Best Facials In Hinsdale

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 20:18:42 GMT

Reflexion Spa strives to be your one-stop wellness retreat to help you unwind from the stresses of daily life. Our Aveda facial services use the most natural ingredients possible for healthier skin that truly helps you put your best face forward.

What Are Facial Services?

Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and it is also the one that comes in constant contact with the rest of the world. The skin of your face is affected by everything you do, everywhere you go, and every experience you have. The importance of taking care of such a valuable and irreplaceable asset is something that cannot be overstated. To combat the effects of age, stress, environment, and lifestyle it is important to design and implement a plan of care. The experts at Reflexion Spa can help maintain or restore a youthful glow, or assist you in solving skin issues that may have been plaguing you for years.

Reflexion Spa offers a multitude of facial services that can be customized for the specific conditions of your skin to ensure a healthy glow. One popular way to get your skin looking its best is a glycolic peel. This technique involves the application of a dermatologist-approved alpha-hydroxy acid to peel away older, dead, skin cells and stimulate the growth and surfacing of the fresh new cells underneath. Our specialists follow up this chemical peel with a chocolate masque to gently treat and moisten the newly visible, flawless skin, which allows you to leave with that youthful glow everyone craves!

What Are Aveda Facials?

The use and application of essential oils is an up-and-coming method of treating facial skin, and we are proud to use only Aveda oils in our full-service facial treatments that include deep cleansing, steam, massage, exfoliation, extraction, masque, and moisturizer. Aveda’s “Green Science” line allows our experts to provide a facial that can lift, firm, repair, and maintain healthy skin using natural and ethically-sourced ingredients. It is important to visit your facial care expert for the deep cleansing techniques that will allow for the maximization of the benefits of these ingredients.

Pumpkin Enzymes Peels

Our new pumpkin enzyme peel has become one of our most popular offerings for good reason. Enzyme peels are used by beauty professionals to break down the “glue” that holds the aging, dead skin cells together in a manner more gentle than a regular chemical peel. This can assist with breakouts, clogged pores, flakiness, dull skin, and even hyperpigmentation. The pumpkin enzymes are proteins that break down dead skin effectively, and you will see results after just one session.

Advantages Of Facials

The skin on your face is the first thing the world sees of you. It is vital that you give it the gentle, effective care that it needs to continue to do its job. All of our services are rendered by professionally licensed beauticians that will work with you to ensure that you will not be plagued by breakouts, drooping or damaged skin, redness, and clogged pores.

Get In Touch

Contact either of our conveniently located skin care facilities by submitting an online request or calling us directly during business hours. Our Chicago location can be reached at (312) 600-8861 and our Hinsdale location can be reached at (630) 731-1772.

Visit our social media for beauty tips, the science of looking your best, and specials.

Hot Stone Massage In Chicago And Hinsdale

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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Though hot stone massage has been popping up in trendy locales all over the world in recent years, many cultures have used hot stones for various therapeutic purposes for thousands of years. Ancient Romans used hot stones in their bath houses, Chinese cultures applied them to increase blood flow and improve internal organ functions, while groups all over the world featured hot stones in ceremonies and rituals.

Hot Stone Massage Today

Benefits Of Hot Stone Massage

Who Should Get A Hot Stone Massage?

As mentioned above, hot stones can be used with many other types of massages. This means that whether you are using massage to treat an injury, relieve stress, or simply need some self-care time alone or with a friend or partner, hot stone massage can be beneficial to you. As with any type of massage, it is important to let your massage therapist know if you experience any pain throughout the massage. If you are pregnant or have any medical conditions or have had recent surgery, consult with your doctor to find the best spa services for your needs.

Book A Hot Stone Massage In Hinsdale Or Chicago

Reflexion Spa is here to serve you at two locations in Illinois. Contact us today to book a hot stone massage and other spa services . Make a day of it!

How To Reduce the Appearance of Facial Wrinkles? A Hinsdale Expert Explains

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 00:00:00 GMT

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There is nothing you can do to avoid getting older, but it does not have to show on your face.

Facial treatments at our Hinsdale spa combined with the right lifestyle changes can help you keep your youthful appearance for longer than you might think possible.

Try these ideas to slow the effects of aging:

Avoid The Sun

Warm weather feels really healing, but direct sun exposure can actually be very harmful to your skin. Avoid spending excessive amounts of time in the sun, and be sure to wear sunscreen with a high SPF when you must be outside in the Summer.

Change Your Diet:

If you live a lifestyle that makes it impossible to avoid the sun, both cocoa and soy have found to counteract its effects and reduce the impact it has on skin.. Protein and omega-3 fatty acids help to build healthy skin, so eating foods that are high in these items can help. Cold-water fish like salmon are a great source of both of these nutrients. Avoid sugar and processed foods and instead reach for fruits and vegetables, which contain antioxidants to help rid your body of harmful toxins that can take their toll on skin tissue health.

Change Your Sleeping Habits: Most people don’t give much thought to their sleep positions, but research shows that sleeping face-down or on your side is more likely to cause wrinkles than sleeping on your back. If you do not get enough sleep, your body releases cortisol to regulate itself, which can break down skin cells. Adopt habits like regular massages and spa treatments to keep your body relaxed. Aromatherapy may also aid in getting enough sleep.

Chemical Peels: This common facial treatment encourages the body to create more collagen, resulting in smoother skin. A reputable Hinsdale spa uses the most natural ingredients possible to nurture and nourish the skin, allowing for optimal healing and a younger look.

Use The Right Skin Products And Regimens: There are so many miracle products on the market that promise to keep you wrinkle-free forever, but not all of them deliver results. Moisturizers keep your skin hydrated, but you should read labels carefully and look for products that contain vitamin C, Retin A, Alpha-Hydroxy Acids, pentapeptides, and idebenone. These ingredients have withstood the scrutiny of research and have been proven in multiple studies to hydrate, nourish, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It is also important to keep your face clean without overwashing it, because this could actually dry your skin out, producing the opposite of the intended effect. When you visit salons and spas, make sure that they use only the most natural and gentle ingredients in their facial treatments to avoid unexpected reactions.

Facial Services: No matter how hard you try to live your healthiest life, your habits, the environment, and time itself will all have their impact on your skin. Hinsdale spa technicians can determine which ingredients and types of facial services are best for your skin type. The length and frequency of services may vary based on your current skin condition and intended results. Different approaches may be combined for better outcomes as well.

Visit Reflexion Spa today for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience that will improve your skin and your mental outlook.

5 Favorite Nail Colors To Take The Chill Out Of Fall

Sat, 29 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

While the fact that we’re blotting a little perspiration from our brow is a sure sign that summer is still in full force, it won’t be too long until those first few cool breezes of autumn start flowing through the air. Fall is the time of year where everything feels warm and cozy. It’s the time when you finally bring out your favorite bulky sweaters and look forward to quiet evenings with a mug of warm cider. Fall is also the time that the beauty and fashion industry burst forth with the new trends that will take us through the fall holidays and into the new year.

One accessory for fall that we’re most excited about is the new color palette that fashion forward nails will be sporting this year. The colors that are trending this fall are warm, luscious and irresistible. Here are 5 of our favorite nail colors for fall.

JUICIEST BLACKBERRY

This year expect to see shades of blackberry that are so deep and juicy that you’ll almost be able to smell a freshly baked blackberry pie coming from the oven. Deeper tones – like jewel inspired purples – almost always make an appearance during the fall months, but this season the color is richer and more inspired by nature. Expect for blackberry to be a color that you see through fall and well into winter.

NOT-SO-SHY NEUTRALS

Thankfully, the “rules” of appropriate nail color have changed, but that doesn’t mean that rich, dark colors are appropriate for every occasion. If you’re occupation requires a lighter color, or you just prefer a more neutral look for your own nails, you’ll be happy to know that neutrals are staying strong this fall. The only difference is that they’ll be a bit more opaque than the sheer, shimmery neutral shades of spring and summer. Also, expect to see some darker neutral colors making an appearance, like warm chocolate brown and even stark white.

SHADES OF OLIVES AND LEAVES

The leaves may be falling one by one off the trees, but shades of green remain strong throughout the fall. To stay up with this trend, steer away from spring-like pastels and shades that lend a tropical flair. Instead focus on shades of green like rich olive or forest – the types of greens that appear silken when on your nails and lend warmth to any outfit. This season’s greens are classy and sophisticated.

SMOKY BLUES

Blue is a color that never seems to go out of style, regardless of the season. There are so many beautiful shades, from pastel to the deepest navy, that there’s always one to fit the mood and the season. However, this fall we’re seeing blues take on smokier hue. From grey blues to smoky teal, we’re excited to see this new range of a favorite hue come to life.

CLASSIC CORAL

Coral has become one of the most beloved, classic colors for spring and summer – probably because it accents lightly sun-kissed skin so well. It always a little sad when we have to pack away this bright cheery color come fall, but not this year! Coral is hanging around this fall and providing just the right burst of pinkish brightness to counteract cloudy fall days.

GET YOUR NAILS READY FOR FALL

Before you pack away your summer clothes, don’t forget to make an appointment for a fall inspired nail treatment. We offer a range of manicure and pedicure services. Contact Reflexion Spa today and let us help you feel inspired about the change in the seasons.

Short On Time? Making The Most Of A Quick Spa Appointment

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Who doesn’t love to feel pampered? The only problem is that when schedules get super hectic, the first thing to go is usually self-care. This is unfortunate because self-care isn’t selfish. In fact, just taking a short 30 to 60 minute break and letting it all go while you indulge in a little luxury is often enough to recharge and leave you feeling ready to take on the world. If you’ve been daydreaming of a spa day but just haven’t felt you’ve had a moment to breathe, let alone schedule an appointment, let us assure you that you don’t need to set aside an entire day to enjoy the spa experience.

Instead of waiting for the elusive “free” day to enjoy some spa luxury, why not take a trip on your lunch break or sneak away for a little morning pick-me-up before the demands of the day have the chance to steal away your “me time”. There are several options for spa services that provide a burst of rejuvenation, even when you’re short on time. Here are a few ideas of how to get the most out of a short spa appointment.

GET THE TECHNICALITIES OUT OF THE WAY

If you’re a seasoned spa-goer, then you’re already familiar with what to expect from the experience. However, for those making their first trip or visiting a new spa, there are plenty of questions they may have about the experience and the services they’re going to receive.

While the technician or massage therapist working with you will be more than happy to answer your questions and make sure you’re comfortable, you can save time and get the most out of every minute of your spa experience by asking questions ahead of time. For example, if you’re interested in knowing more about the experience of the staff, what to expect after a treatment or have questions about the products being used, these are all questions that can be answered with a quick pre-appointment phone call.

FOCUS ON WHAT MATTERS

While nothing beats the full treatment of an entire day at the spa, it just isn’t practical to try to cram too much into a short appointment. When you’re limited on time, it’s best to choose one service that will make you feel the most rejuvenated.

For example, if you’ve been spending a lot of time on your feet and are just feeling worn out, then a 30 minute foot relief pedicure could be your focus, or if stress and a hectic pace have been taking their toll on your skin, then an express facial can be the special treat that leaves you glowing and refreshed.

PLAN FOR EXTRAS

The last thing you want out of your spa experience is to feel stressed, so make sure to account for a little extra time to take care of the extras that might pop up. For example, you might want to rinse off after a massage or reapply makeup after a facial. There’s also the chance that you might decide on a little add-in like a polish touch up or a quick wax. Give yourself a little wiggle room in your schedule to make the most of your appointment.

Book an Appointment Today

Stop making excuses about why there isn’t enough time to take care of yourself. You deserve a little break and a trip to the best day spa in Chicago. Contact Reflexion Spa today and let us help you schedule a spa appointment that will leave you feeling refreshed, even if you only have a lunch hour to spare.

How Prenatal Massages Can Ease Pregnancy Pain

Wed, 15 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Pregnancy can take its toll on your body. As your baby grows, you’re bound to feel aches and pains, and particularly in your back, ankles and stomach. You may not be able to rely on medication to help ease these aches and pains, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t suitable treatment options available.

Prenatal massage has been proven to ease pregnancy pain throughout each trimester. Not only can it help you feel more comfortable and relaxed, but it can also leave you feeling energized.

Here’s how prenatal massage works, as well as the pain-relieving benefits it can deliver.

WHAT IS A PRENATAL MASSAGE?

So, what is a prenatal massage and how does it differ from a traditional massage?

The main difference lies in your body’s positioning. Obviously, when you’re pregnant, you can’t lay on your stomach or place pressure on your stomach area like you would in a traditional massage. During the first trimester, however, you’ll typically still be massaged in the face-down or prone position. After the first trimester, you’ll be massaged briefly while you’re lying on your back and then lying on your left side. During your third trimester, you’ll be semi-reclined.

The massage techniques used are designed to work deep into the body, to boost circulation and ease the strain on your joints and muscles.

HOW DOES IT HELP REDUCE PAIN?

Prenatal massages help to alleviate pregnancy pain by:

Easing Sciatic Nerve Pain
Reducing Swelling
Encouraging Proper Posture

As pregnancies progress, many pregnant women experience sciatic nerve pain due to the pressure placed on the muscles of the lower back and pelvic floor by the uterus. In turn, this pressure moves down into the legs, which causes swelling and places additional pressure on the nerves. Prenatal massages release the tension within your muscles, which can help to reduce swelling and ease pain.

As your baby grows, pressure placed on major blood vessels due to poor circulation and the heaviness of the uterus can also cause your joints to swell. A prenatal massage can help to stimulate the soft tissues and reduce fluid retention within the joints.

A good prenatal massage can also help to improve posture and alignment. As your baby grows, you may notice that the extra weight you’re carrying around causes you to have poor posture. When your posture isn’t right, however, it can place additional pressure on your joints and cause muscle spasms. Massage helps to improve muscle flexibility and tone, which makes your body better equipped to handle the additional weight.

While prenatal massages can significantly reduce pregnancy pain, it’s extremely important to see a trained professional who is well versed in these types of massages since there are a number of risks involved if it’s not performed properly.

If you’d like to eliminate your pregnancy pain, contact Reflexion Spa today. Our can help ease your pregnancy aches and pains, and leave you feeling both relaxed and energized.

3 Ways Acupuncture Can Combat Stress

Fri, 03 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Do you find yourself constantly feeling stressed out and run down? If so, acupuncture could be just what you need.

While a little stress is healthy, too much of it can cause a wide range of problems for the mind and body. It can lead to sleep issues, anxiety and depression, and even increase the likelihood of developing a serious medical condition like heart disease.

The good news is that there are a variety of different ways you can reduce stress, with acupuncture therapy being one of them. Here’s three ways it can help with stress.

1. BALANCES THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

Acupuncture helps to balance out the central nervous system. Using key points on the body where the needles are inserted, acupuncture encourages the nervous system to adapt and run in a more optimized state.

This is important for stress relief, as when the body is stressed, the sympathetic nervous system generates a fight-or-flight response. As a result, energy that would normally be used for general functions within the body is instead invested into fighting the perceived threat and/or fleeing from it. This will leave you feeling constantly drained if you’re suffering from chronic, long-term stress. Acupuncture can ease your body out of this fight-or-flight mode, and into a calmer and more relaxed state of well-being.

2. RELEASES ENDORPHINS

Endorphins are responsible for leaving you feeling happy and relaxed. You may already know that they’re released when you exercise, but did you know they can also be released through acupuncture?

A majority of people find that they feel more relaxed, calm and happy after an acupuncture session. While you’ll typically start to feel the effects after a single session, you will need approximately 6-8 sessions to experience the full benefits.

Additionally, acupuncture stimulates the production of oxytocin, which is known to be a calming hormone that often works in harmony with endorphins; giving you an extra happiness boost.

Since acupuncture uses needles, there’s a common misconception that it will be painful and stressful. This couldn’t be further from the truth, however.

When performed correctly by a reliable practitioner, acupuncture is painless and relaxing. Some patients even fall asleep during their sessions, particularly if they’re going through a very stressful period in their life.

While many believe that acupuncture can alter brainwaves, much like meditation does, it also relaxes the body deep from within. This means you’ll continue to feel the relaxing benefits long after you’ve left the treatment table.

At Reflexion Spa, our licensed practitioners have helped hundreds of patients reduce their stress levels through acupuncture. And with offices conveniently located in Chicago and Hinsdale, we’re here for you when you need a reprieve the most. Contact us today to learn more, and to schedule an appointment.

Why You Don’t Need A Special Occasion To Enjoy A Couple’s Massage

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Who doesn’t love the idea of a relaxing massage? After a long week, there’s nothing better than heading to the spa for a little pampering before the weekend. The only thing that might make it better would be inviting your favorite person to share the experience with you.

Couple’s massages have become an increasingly popular spa service, but if you’re waiting for Valentine’s day or your next anniversary, you’re missing out on all the wonderful benefits of a massage with your significant other in the meantime.

While the big occasions deserve celebration, so do the everyday moments. If you’ve been thinking about treating your special someone to a couple’s massage, here are a few reasons why even the most ordinary days can be the perfect time to share the experience.

Life gets busy and before you know it, another week has flown by and you’ve hardly had time to say hello to the person you love. After a long week, you need some time to decompress before you can even think about just hanging out and relaxing with someone else. Think about it, when was the last time that you and your partner really relaxed together?

A couple’s massage gives you a reason to push everything else aside, sink into the moment and completely relax in each other’s company. Any plans you have for unwinding will only be enhanced by the effects of your massage together.
Couple’s Massage Clears the Mind and the Air

When there’s some tension between you and partner, a couple’s massage can help bring a sense of peace and perspective to whatever it is that you’re experiencing.

Often, it’s just everyday stress that’s behind many of the little battles we fight with our partners. Massage is an excellent tool for relieving stress and allowing you to be fully immersed in the moment.

The relaxed atmosphere of a couple’s massage often promotes more open communication. Your heart and mind our open, and it becomes easier to speak freely in a way that helps to heal any issues. Couples who experience a massage together frequently leave with a renewed perspective and respect for each other in the relationship.
Couple’s Massage Brings You Closer

A couple’s massage is a very intimate experience. It’s just the two of you, enjoying and fully immersing yourself in the experience of the moment. Some might say that they can actually feel the connection between them and their partner growing during a shared massage.

Healthy relationships require intimacy and a feeling that you are connected in a way that you couldn’t be with anyone else. Do you really need a special occasion to make the care of your relationship a priority?

Treating you and your partner to a couple’s massage for no other reason that you love them goes a long way in making the big occasions even more memorable. Stop counting down the days to your anniversary and contact Reflexion Spa to schedule your couple’s massage today.

4 Reasons Why You Should Be Getting Regular Massages

Sun, 15 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

When was the last time you treated yourself to a massage just because? Unfortunately, too many are going to answer that question with “never”. While you might consider a massage to be a luxury, it’s one that you can, and should, work into your regular routine. Regularly scheduled massages promote health and mental wellbeing – two things you don’t need an excuse for.

If you’re of the mindset that a therapeutic massage or relaxing facial should be reserved for only the special occasions in life, we’d like to help change your mind with these 4 reasons that massage services should be a regular part of your self-care routine.

MASSAGE PROMOTES STRESS FREE RELAXATION

It’s a safe assumption to say that everyone reading this experiences stress or anxiety, at least occasionally. Stress has become a major factor in the average American lifestyle, with many experiencing stress or anxiety related symptoms chronically. When ignored, stress leads the way to significant health issues, such as high blood pressure or depression.

Regular massages are a great way of combating the effects of the accumulation of daily stress. Massage has been shown to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, while simultaneously increasing the amounts of the feel-good chemicals serotonin and dopamine.

A BOOST TO THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

Going back to cortisol, we know that overproduction of the stress hormone can sucker punch the immune system. This is why you’re more likely to come down with something at the most inopportune moments, like when studying for a big exam or stressing over the details of your upcoming wedding.

Since massage helps to lower the presence of cortisol in the body back to healthy levels, it should become a regular part of your wellness plan, especially during cold and flu season, or during times of stress.
You Want to Live Pain Free

Regular massages can help with pain management, even if you’re currently pain free and want to stay that way. While the primary reason that American adults receive massage is for health and wellness reasons, an overwhelming 89% believe it is effective for relieving pain.

Tense, tight muscles can be painful themselves, but they also make you more susceptible to accidents and injuries. Regular massage helps to keep your major muscles in working order and promotes increased circulation, helping the body recover from painful conditions more easily.

REGULAR MASSAGE PROMOTES HEALTHY SLEEP

Every benefit of massage that we’ve mentioned so far has an impact on one very crucial element of your health – sleep. Most of us aren’t getting enough of it, and even when we do, the quality is often poor.

Regular, high quality sleep is important for your body’s repair and rejuvenation, including the prevention of major health issues. Regular massage helps you get the quality ZZZs your body and mind need.
You’re Worth the Self-Care

Here’s a bonus reason for you to get a regular massage – you’re worth it. Self-care is important, and reserving 30 minutes once a week or even every month, can boost your self-esteem. You can’t take care of everything else if you aren’t taking care of yourself first. Contact Reflexion Spa today to inquire about our massage and facial services and start making a commitment to self-care today.

How To Pick The Right Leg Or Bikini Wax This Summer

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Waxing is one of the safest and most effective ways of removing unwanted hair from your body. Waxing is popular with both men and women because it offers a long lasting, cost effective solution for soft, smooth and hair-free skin.

Your approach to body hair removal is a personal choice, and there are a variety of options in waxing services that allow you to customize your experience. While your esthetician will talk with you to better understand your hair removal goals, and personalize your service based on a combination of your skin type, sensitivities and desired outcome, it’s important that you arrive at your appointment with an idea of what to expect.

To help you prepare for your next appointment and decide which type of treatment is best for you, here is a quick guide to the most popular waxing services.

LEGS WAXING – FULL AND HALF

Most women love the appearance and silky feel of hair-free legs, which is the reason that full and half leg waxing are the most popular services. Waxing eliminates the risk of injury from razor shaving – not to mention unsightly razor bumps.

Whether you choose a full or half leg waxing is a matter of personal preference. A half leg wax removes hair from just above the knee all the way down to the toes if desired. This is great option for preparing your legs for skirts, longer shorts and sandal season.

However, if you’re looking for more complete hair removal, a full leg wax is a better option. By removing hair all the way to the top of the upper thigh, this is the perfect solution for leg baring summer attire and for women who want luxurious, smooth feeling skin from the top of the leg down.

BIKINI WAX

A bikini wax is a treatment that extends past the legs to the bikini area and is typically offered in two forms – classic and extended.

A classic bikini wax is ideal for women who a want a clean appearance when wearing traditional bikini style bathing suits, or to avoid excess hair peeking out on the sides of their underwear. The classic bikini wax removes approximately 1 – 2 inches of hair from both sides of the bikini line and about an inch on top. The classic wax does not include removal of hair from the naval area or buttocks.

Based on your preferences, you may choose an extended bikini wax, which is similar to the classic, but with a focus on extra hair removal from the sides of the bikini line.

BRAZILIAN WAX

For women who prefer a completely hair free look in the bikini area, a Brazilian wax is often the best choice. For a Brazilian wax, your esthetician will work with you to carefully remove all the hair from the pubic area, including the labia and buttocks.

Some women, especially those coming in for the first time, have concerns and questions about waxing such an intimate area. Rest assured that our estheticians are professionals, with their only concerns being your safety, comfort and satisfaction with the results. We’re happy to discuss the procedure with you and answer any questions before your appointment.

Summer is coming, and that means it’s time to make plans for spa services that will have you looking and feeling your best as the temperatures rise. We offer waxing services to fit all your needs, including facial, arm, underarm, leg, bikini, and services for especially for men. Contact Reflexion Spa to learn more and schedule your appointment.

5 Interesting Facts About The Nuga Best Bed

Mon, 30 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

There’s been a lot of news lately about the Nuga Best massage bed. The technology has been around for years, but it’s been recently that we’re really beginning to catch on to the greatness of this therapeutic tool. We know that most people have lots of questions about the Nuga Best Bed and how the technology promotes healing.

Here, we thought it would be a great idea to share some of the most interesting facts about the Nuga Best Bed.

NATURAL BODY PROCESSES ARE ENHANCED BY THE NUGA BED’S FAR INFRARED TECHNOLOGY

Far Infrared light is light that’s not visible to the human eye but can be felt in the form of warmth. There is no danger associated with exposure to this type of light, in fact, our bodies use it every day to perform natural physiological functions.

For example, this type of light wave is important for improving circulation and boosting the immune system. These types of functions can’t occur without the type of heat that Nuga Best provides. With each treatment, you’re essentially healing your body from the outside in.

THE NUGA BEST BED IS CONSIDERED A PREVENTATIVE SOLUTION

Most people think of massage therapy and technology like the Nuga Best bed as being therapeutic and restorative, which they are. However, the Nuga Best bed is a wonderful tool for preventative care and maintenance, especially for very active people.

The Nuga Best bed has been used as preventative performance therapy for a variety of athletes, such as body builders, dancers, football players and fitness coaches. There’s no need to wait for a problem or ailment to arise before experiencing Nuga technology.

THE NUGA BEST BED IS IDEAL FOR PEOPLE WITH CERTAIN HEALTH CONDITIONS, INCLUDING DIABETES

Diabetes is a growing problem in this country. According to the CDC, more than 1 million people in the United States are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes. Blood glucose levels in a person with diabetes can affect the flow of blood and lead to poor circulation. Reduced circulation can lead to a variety of health issues including slow healing wounds which can cause the spread of infection.

The Nuga Best bed is ideal for people with diabetes because it gently stimulates blood flow throughout the entire body, including the legs and feet.

THE NUGA BEST BED STRENGTHENS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

We’ve already mentioned how the Nuga bed improves circulation, and this is crucial for an immune system to function properly. But, your immune system is also going to get an additional boost from the negative ions that are absorbed from the Nuga Best bed. Plus, those who have experienced a Nuga Best session often report getting more high quality sleep which is also important for a strong immune system.

THE NUGA BEST BED IS GREAT FOR EVERYONE

A Nuga Best treatment is effective, and gentle enough that anyone can use it. The Nuga Best bed is safe for people with injuries, pregnant women and even children. It’s a therapeutic treatment that works for everyone.

Are you interested in trying out the Nuga Best technology for yourself? Contact Reflexion Spa and schedule an appointment today.

How Massage Keeps Your Muscles In Good Health During The Cold Winter Months

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Many people experience muscle and joint pain during the winter months which prevents them from maintaining their usually level of activity. Add to it that treacherous weather conditions sometimes make it impossible to go out for a run, or even make it to the gym, and soon you’re feeling the effects of sore, tired and underused muscles.

Fortunately, there are ways to keep you muscles in good health during the winter months, such as regular massage therapy. We know, after a long winter you probably don’t need much convincing, but here are some of the ways that massage can heal and protect winter-tired muscles.

A WARMING REPRIEVE

Regular exercise warms your muscles, improves blood flow and prevents them from becoming stiff and knotted. During the winter, we tend to not be as active as we are during other times of the year, especially with outdoor activities. The desire to spend time indoors is strong, and that often leads to cozying up and relaxing.

When you’re accustomed to regular physical activity, even a few days of inactivity can leave your muscles feeling tired and weak. Soon, muscles will be stiff and sore from lack of use. Plus, even if you do happen to make it outside for a brisk run or walk, the cold air makes it even harder for cold, stiff muscles to warm up. It feels like a hopeless situation.

Massage can warm and stretch your muscles in ways that they’re missing during the winter. The friction of massage warms muscles, improves circulation and relaxes tense muscle tissue. Massage is also an important factor in preventing injuries once you return to your regular routine.

A CHANGE IN ROUTINE

Let’s say you do make it out of your cozy home to get some fresh air and exercise. Wintertime activities like skiing, ice skating, and even shoveling snow work your muscles differently. Often people who run in the winter have slight changes in their stride as they compensate for the slippery and uneven terrain.

All of this means one thing, sore muscles.

Regular massage helps keep your muscles healthy for wintertime activities. The gentle pressing and kneading motion will loosen and relax muscle fibers, which creates greater muscle stability and flexibility. Not only will you get more out of your winter time activities, but you’ll also reduce the risk of injury.

ACCIDENT PREVENTION

We all know there’s no shortage of opportunity for injury during the winter. But, sometimes accident prevention isn’t just about snow and ice removal. Often, it’s how we’re moving our bodies that leads to injuries. For example, tight hamstrings from cold weather might cause you to walk differently and lose your balance more easily on ice and snow.

A full body massage keeps all your muscle groups strong, healthy and working properly.

Don’t let the last blast of winter get you down. Keep your muscles healthy by contacting Reflexion Spa and scheduling a relaxing, therapeutic massage today.

4 Reasons To Incorporate Massage Therapy Into Your Workout

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Massage. Just the word alone is enough to invite daydreams of a spa day, and immediately relieve the tension in your shoulders. It’s the perfect way to pamper yourself after a long day or at the end of the week. As pampering as massage is, it’s important to know that massage can also help keep your body healthy and strong.

Integrating massage therapy into your regular workout routine is just one way of making this happen.

The whole point of exercise is to stay healthy, strong and resilient. Part of that process should involve taking steps to repair and restore your body, while supporting your mental health n the process. Regular massage therapy is arguably one of the most effective tools to prepare your body for physical stress, and help you recover. Here are just 4 reasons why you should make massage therapy an integral part of your regular workouts.

INCREASE FLEXIBILITY AND PERFORMANCE WITH A PRE-WORKOUT MASSAGE

You wouldn’t think of running a few laps without doing some stretches first. It’s a well-known fact that muscles need to be warmed up, or stretched, before starting any type of strenuous exercise. A little time invested in warming up boosts your performance and prevents injuries.

Massage helps to warm and loosen your muscles pre-workout. But it isn’t just strain on muscles and tendons you need to be worried about. Between your skin and muscles is a layer of connective fiber. These fibers can break down or become stiff, limiting your range of motion and causing injuries when you overextend. Typical stretching doesn’t always relax these fibers, but a therapeutic massage can.

FASTER RECOVERY

If you’ve ever pushed yourself during a workout, you’re probably too familiar with the saying “no pain, no gain”. Muscles naturally get tired and tense after a good workout, and we’ve been conditioned to believe that this is a good thing.

The discomfort and fatigue you start to feel at the end of your workout serves a purpose. It sends the message that you’re reached a physical threshold. This is important, but wouldn’t it be nice to not carry a reminder around with you for the rest of the day?

A post workout massage instantly relieves some of the tension and fatigue of freshly worked muscles. You’ll have the physical energy to keep up with that new load of endorphins.

LESS NEXT DAY PAIN

You really pushed yourself, and the next day you can barely move. After a strenuous workout, a buildup of lactic acid and toxins accumulate in your muscle tissue. This results in that all too familiar pain and stiffness the next day.

Deep tissue massage can help to flush out the lactic acid and toxins, so you can move around a little easier and enjoy your day off from the gym.

MENTAL BOOST

Regular exercise is a major contributor to mental health and a positive outlook. The endorphin rush after a tough workout is great. It’s important though, to remember to take care yourself emotionally long after the endorphins have worn off.

Regular massage helps keep you balanced, centered and reinforces the idea that you’re worth a little pampering and self-care.

We take your physical and mental well being seriously. We want to help you live your best life and offer a variety of services that will complement your regular workout routine. Contact us at Reflexion Spa to learn more and schedule an appointment.

An Introduction To Asian Massage

Thu, 15 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The history of massage therapy dates back thousands of years. Some of the earliest text documenting the use of massage was found in China, dating approximately 2700 BCE. The early Chinese practice of massage, which was developed to include various aspects of Chinese medicine, spirituality and even some aspects of martial arts, is what formed the foundation of Asian massage as we know it today.

What Is Asian Massage?

Asian massage techniques center around the principle that most of the illnesses and diseases we suffer from are the result of blocked or imbalanced energy in the body. This energy is said to flow along specific meridians, or paths, that are connected to our physiological systems. The goal of Asian massage is to relax, soothe and heal the body through a harmonious release of tension and free flowing energy.

It’s important to understand that there isn’t just one type of Asian massage. Instead, it’s more of an umbrella term used to describe the many massage disciplines that originated in China, Japan and other Asian countries. There are several types of Asian massage used in therapeutic massage settings today. As we look forward to the season of spring and renewal, now is the perfect time to learn a little more about them.

TUI NA MASSAGE

Tui Na is a type of Chinese massage that aids in balancing patterns of disharmony within the body. Much like acupuncture, but without the needles, Tui Na aims to balance the ying and yang of the body through manipulation of certain specific energy points on the body.

The process of Tui Na involves a pinching and pulling motion. Practitioners use their fingers, instead of acupuncture needles, to stimulate energy points. Tui Na massage is considered a whole-body treatment, meaning that entire body is balanced and restored rather than focusing on just one spot.

This doesn’t mean that Tui Na isn’t great for specific injuries and ailments. Patients will find that Tui Na helps to relieve headaches, IBS, PMS, respiratory disorders, sciatica and musculoskeletal conditions. While the “pinching and pulling” description might sound unpleasant, the fact is that Tui Na is one of the gentlest forms of Asian massage, being suitable for those with more delicate systems and even children in certain cases.

GLASS CUPPING THERAPY

Glass cupping is a healing therapy that was practiced in ancient Chinese, Egyptian and Middle Eastern cultures. As another type of therapy that focuses on specific points of the body, glass cupping is therapeutic for the release of pain and inflammation as well as increasing circulation and bringing about a sense of relaxation and wellbeing.

With glass cupping therapy, a trained practitioner places special warmed cups on the skin. As the cups cool, a natural suction process takes place, causing the skin to rise and blood vessels to expand. The process is gentle and relaxing.

We’ve only begun to touch on Asian massage. Other powerful therapeutic Asian massage practices include shiatsu, Thai massage, acupressure and acupuncture. We’d love to help you learn more about Asian massage and choose the therapy that you’ll find most relaxing and healing. Contact us at Reflexion Spa today to schedule an appointment.

4 Ways Massage Can Take Your Workout To The Next Level

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Massage. If there’s one word in the English language that suggests relaxation and tranquility, massage is it. It’s all about pampering your body and treating yourself, or is it? Massage is great when it’s time to relax, and indulge in a little luxury, but it can serve another purpose in your life, and that’s healing.

Especially after a workout.

When you’ve committed yourself to a regular workout routine, whether it’s a walk around the block or training for a triathlon, you’ve taking steps towards keeping your body strong and healthy. What too many people fail to recognize is that recovery is a crucial part of this process.

Massage not only helps you recover from physical activity, it also can help increase performance. Let’s look at 4 reasons why you should be including massage therapy into your regular fitness routine.

TO SOOTHE SORE, OVERWORKED MUSCLES

You know the feeling. You’ve had a great workout and are feeling super energized, just to barely be able to move by the time you go to bed. What’s happened?

The answer is lactic acid.

When you exercise, your body release lactic acid which accumulates in muscle tissue, where it causes muscle fatigue and soreness. A post workout massage will help to release lactic acid, flush out toxins and increase circulation, leaving you feeling less sore and stiff the next morning.

TO SPEED UP POST WORKOUT RECOVERY

After a good workout, do you find yourself heading for the ibuprofen or ice pack to relieve inflammation before it even starts? If post workout recovery is rough for you, massage is a natural pain reliever.

In a study, it was determined that massage switches certain genes on and off, working as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. While ice baths and over the counter medications can have the same effect, they can also slow, or even halt, muscle repair and growth.

Massage, on the other hand, eases discomfort and inflammation while promoting muscular healing and function.

TO INCREASE PERFORMANCE

Post workout massage focuses on healing and repair, but a pre-workout massage can help you to perform better and increase your endurance.

Massage works in much the same way as stretching before a workout.

A short massage, of 10-15 minutes, before a workout will increase blood supply to the muscles, allowing them to work at peak levels of performance. This combined with gentle stretching to support joint flexibility and to warm your muscles up will have you performing in your peak range longer.

TO INCREASE FLEXIBILITY

The nemesis of any good workout is limited flexibility. When you aren’t flexible, you’re putting more stress on the wrong muscles and are more likely to suffer from injury.

Staying flexible is something that everyone needs to continually work out, whether you’re working out regularly or not. Massage helps to stretch and loosen the muscles, meaning tendons and joints won’t be so tight either. Massage, whether it pre or post workout, keeps you flexible and injury free.

Are you ready to take your workouts to the next level? We would love to help. Contact us to learn more about massage and schedule a session today.

How Massage Can Keep Your Muscles From Getting The Winter Blues

Sun, 14 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

There’s a chill in the air.

Maybe arctic blast is a more accurate description. Whatever you want to call it, winter is here in all its glory. Whether you love it or hate it, the cold weather affects our bodies, and for many of us, that includes our emotional health.

When you’re looking for a way to lift yourself out of the winter doldrums, there’s no question that massage can make you feel better almost instantly. It provides and immediate emotional boost. But, even if you’re happy as a lark in the winter, your muscles might not be and now is the time to take extra good care of them.

IT’S TIME TO EMERGE FROM HIBERNATION

It’s cold outside, and even if you love winter, you’re probably not as active during the colder months as you are during other times of the year. The urge to hibernate is strong, the problem is that staying locked up inside and more sedentary than usual can lead to big problems for your health and how you feel.

Muscles get stiff, or even begin to atrophy, from those lazy winter days. Even if you’re not ready to try a winter marathon, there are steps you can take to keep your muscles healthy all winter, and this includes massage.

Massage wakes up tired, hibernating muscles and brings them back to life. Here’s how it happens.

HEAT THINGS UP

To stay flexible, your muscles need a certain amount of heat. Stretching and exercise helps to create this heat, but during the winter, the cold temperatures can affect how your muscles perform, leaving you more inflexible than usual.

Massage warms and stimulates your muscles in much that same way that stretching exercises, like yoga or Pilates, might. Regular massage helps to loosen tight winter muscles and relieve soreness from wintertime activities. Plus, you get to relax and enjoy a little pampering.

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

Think about how your body works differently in the winter. There’s shoveling and snow blowing that needs to be done. Ice and snow need to be scraped off hard to reach spots on your car, and you probably find yourself walking a little differently on slippery spots or through knee-deep snow.

The point is, we need to use our bodies differently in the winter, and this can lead to some unpleasant side effects, like injuries.

Regular wintertime massage will help to keep you muscles warmed up and flexible. A lack of flexibility is a leading cause of injury from physical activity, and massage can help prevent it.

IMPROVED CIRCULATION

When you’re cold, your body automatically protects your vital organs by increasing heat and circulation to those areas. This is great, except for your extremities which are the first to left behind. This is part of the reason why your hands, knees or ankles might be a little more stiff and sore in the winter. It a simple lack of circulation.

Wintertime massage can help promote healthy circulation throughout your entire body with lasting results. Plus, massage rooms are always comfortably warm and cozy, which is a nice break from the wintry chill outdoors.

Are you ready to treat yourself and protect your muscle health with a wintertime massage? We can’t wait to pamper you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

5 Ways Massage Therapy Can Bring You Better Sleep

Sat, 30 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Is there anything more relaxing than a professional massage? Massage is used as a way of pampering yourself and de-stressing after a long day. But, do you know that the benefits of a professional massage stay with you, long after you walk out of the spa?

One of these benefits is better sleep. Quality sleep is crucial for your mental and physical health. Good sleep habits will keep you healthy by keeping your immune system, and even helping you live longer.

Here are five ways that massage can help you sleep better, longer and more peacefully.
Massage Promotes Relaxation

We run around nonstop, never giving our bodies the chance to rest and recover. What happens when we don't honor the body's need for recovery? Stress and tension build up and that can spell disaster for your sleep habits.

Massage eases away stress and tension, especial in tight muscles around the neck and shoulder areas which can not only make it difficult to sleep comfortably, but also lead to headaches that can interfere with quality sleep.
Massage Reduces Pain

Chronic pain can lead to insomnia. Pain, that comes from an injury or chronic illness, makes it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. This, of course, makes it hard to fall asleep and maintain quality rest throughout the night.

Massage therapy that has been tailored to your individual needs will help to ease pain and give you the chance for some quality shut eye.
Massage Reduces the Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety can severely interfere with the quality of your sleep. Symptoms for these conditions include both overwhelming fatigue and insomnia. Massage is a therapeutic tool that can help ease these symptoms.

First, if you are suffering from depression or anxiety, it is important to speak to your doctor. The second thing you need to do is take care of yourself. A professional massage has been shown to ease symptoms like sleep disturbances and overwhelming emotions, while bringing about a feeling of balance and control.
Massage Brings Emotions to the Surface

How many nights have you stayed awake simply because there was too much emotional energy built up inside of you? Massage is a tool of relaxation that can help you release this emotional energy. There are also pressure points along the body, associated with emotions, that are stimulated during a massage. This opens you up and breaks down emotional barriers, so you can let go.
Massage Lets You Turn It OFF

It has been shown that massage reduces the activity of both Beta and Alpha brainwaves. These are the brainwaves responsible for thought and action. They are also the brainwaves that are on overdrive when you are wide awake at night. Massage has been shown to reduce the activity of these brainwaves, allowing your mind to relax, shut down and let it all go.

A good night's sleep is just a massage away. At Reflexion Spa, we care about your health and wellbeing. Contact us today for an appointment.

How To Improve Your Digestion With Massage Therapy

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We're all familiar with the uncomfortable bloating and side effects of a sluggish digestive system. Digestive issues are uncomfortable and bad for your health. It is estimated that about 80% of your immune system's home is your digestive system. Keeping it running smooth is the key to keeping your whole body healthy.

When digestive distress strikes, your first inclination might be to reach for an over the counter remedy. But, do you know that there is a more natural, holistic approach to easing your digestive woes? The answer is massage therapy, and it can do great things for your digestion.

Why Choose Massage for Digestive Ease?

A complete, therapeutic massage will include a gentle massage of the abdomen area. You should only receive therapeutic massage from a professional. It is especially important that this area of your body is handled with care.

Research shows that abdominal massage can increase the rate of digestion, and relieve constipation through gentle stimulation. What's more, the combination of light pressure and stimulation of specific pressure points will ease bloating and even calm a queasy stomach.

How Gentle Massage Stimulates the Digestive System

For your body to properly digest food, there needs to be a constantly flowing supply of blood. Proper blood flow brings oxygen and nutrients to the digestive system that are needed to help break foods down. Without good circulation, your digestion becomes sluggish.

A whole-body massage, with the focus of light, gentle pressure in the abdomen area helps to increase circulation throughout the entire body, including your digestive system.

Additionally, the stimulation will promote the production of gastric acid and protease pepsin in the stomach. These are the enzymes that help to break food down into smaller particles. Food that is not broken down quickly will sit in the digestive tract and begin to ferment. This leads to uncomfortable gas and bloating, both of which can be eased by massage.

Also, the increased production of enzymes that break down foods means that more of the nutritive value will be extracted from what you eat. Massage that promotes healthy digestion does more than ease immediate digestive symptoms. It keeps you healthy and strong going into the future.

The Effect of Reflexology on Digestion

Along your hands and feet are pressure points that will be stimulated during a professional massage. These pressure points are directly connected to specific areas and functions of your body. Even if you are not receiving a reflexology treatment, the stimulation of these points will have profound effects on how you feel, including digestion.

When certain regions on the hands and feet are stimulated, they can ease nausea, relieve constipation, ease heartburn and reduce bloating and gas.

The Soothing Approach

It really is amazing when you think about the interconnectedness in our bodies. What happens in your digestive system can affect your health from an annoying headache to chronic diseases caused by an imbalance of the digestive ecosystem. Ease digestive distress and promote your own wellbeing by scheduling a relaxing, therapeutic massage. Call us today, we are waiting to help.

Why People All Over The World Are Turning To Nuga Best For Pain Relief

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

When was the last time you felt your absolute best? Today, we're plagued by stress, chronic pain and inflammation that significantly impacts our quality of life. In response, we seek out therapies for pain relief. Recently, there has been a movement toward natural and gentle therapies that heal non-invasively.

As members of the spa industry , we see trends in pain relief come and go. We keep our focus on therapeutic remedies that we know work. In our experience, we have seen one therapeutic method grow in respect and popularity. This method is the Nuga Best technology, and more people are turning to it every day. Here's why.

WHAT IS SO UNIQUE ABOUT NUGA BEST THERAPY?

Nuga Best combines several healing therapies, each a powerful healing modality on its. When combined to work together, the healing experience is unlike anything we've seen in the spa industry before.

With Nuga Best therapy, patients receive an integrated approach that includes massage, acupressure, heat and far infrared light (FIR) therapy.

The Nuga Best technology has proven to be beneficial in treating a wider range of symptoms than traditional massage techniques alone. Clients have successfully sought out pain relief from Nuga Best therapies for many medical issues, including:

● Back and pain
● Nerve pain
● Sciatica
● Spinal misalignments
● Leg pain and muscle fatigue
● Arthritis and other inflammatory health conditions
● Cardiovascular health
● Elevated blood pressure
● Obesity
● Stress, tension and anxiety
● Sleep disorders

The key to Nuga Best Massage success for so many disorders is strongly tied to the use of far infrared light therapy. Never heard of it? Let us introduce you.

GENTLE HEALING WITH FAR INFRARED LIGHT (FIR)

FIR is a specific wavelength of light energy. All light transmits some form of heat energy. With wavelengths found at the far, red end of the spectrum, the effect is more pronounced. FIR wavelengths are completely safe and pose no threat to your health in the way that dangerous ultraviolet rays do.

It was discovered that FIR therapy can penetrate the skin, without damaging or burning it and reach into the deeper tissues of the body. It is here that FIR creates its magic.

Far infrared therapies have been studied and used for pain relief in Japan and China for decades. With the development of Nuga Best Massage Beds, more people the entire world over are experiencing the benefits of therapeutic FIR treatment.

Once FIR light penetrates your body, it causes amazing things to happen. It stimulates blood flow, which is great for people with circulatory problems. The heat component soothes chronic inflammation, which is precursor to many modern diseases. Muscle tension and knots are released without the need for muscular manipulation, which not everyone can handle. FIR light therapy offers a gentle, natural approach to health, the world over.

Are you curious and want to learn more about Nuga Best Massage therapy? We would love to help you learn more. Schedule an appointment at Reflexion Spa today.

The Therapeutic Benefits Of The Nuga Best Table For Chronic Back Pain

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

No one should have to live with back pain, yet chronic back pain is one of the most common reasons that people call into work. It is estimated that 80 percent of people will suffer from back pain, and many of those will unfortunately suffer from the emotional effects as well.

If you have ever suffered from back pain, you understand the feeling of being robbed of life's experiences due to the nagging or stabbing pain. At its best, back pain is an uncomfortable nuisance. At its worst, it interferes with every aspect of your life.

Unfortunately, there is no single, universal cause of back pain, and no one-size-fits all treatment. Therapeutic spa services are holistic, relaxing ways of soothing your back pain and restoring your health. One of the best therapeutic tools available today is the Nuga Bed Massage.

Here is what makes it a great treatment option for your chronic back pain.

RELEASING THE TENSION WITH INTERNAL HEATING PROJECTORS

When someone comes in for back pain relief, one of their concerns is the feeling of tightness and tension through the neck and larger muscle groups in the back. When muscles are tense, it can trigger the onset of lower back pain, or make an existing problem worse.

The Nuga Best Massage Bed has two built in internal heating projectors that relieve tension in the neck. The gentle rolling motion, and soothing heat, loosen and relax tense neck muscles, and alleviate not only back pain, but also headaches and tension-related fatigue.

In addition to the heating projectors in the neck area, Nuga technology contains exclusive thoracic heating sensors that stimulate and release pressure along the spinal cord. The result is a complete release of neck tension and spinal pressure.

TAP INTO THE HEALING POWER OF FAR INFRARED LIGHTS

Far infrared lights, or FIR, are waves of light that warm parts of your body through direct light conversion. This completely safe light therapy can penetrate and warm up to about two inches of body tissues. This includes those tight, tense muscles that contribute to your back pain.

The Nuga Best Massage Bed, and its accessories, is built with FIR technology. In addition to back pain relief, the use of FIR technology has also been shown to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation surrounding joints and nerves, and release built up toxins that have been keeping you from optimal health.

RELAX AND ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE

The only way to really understand the therapeutic value of the Nuga Best Massage bed is to experience it for yourself. When you need back pain relief, treat your body gently and help it heal naturally with the help of a spa that is trained in using state of the art, therapeutic technologies. At Reflexion Spa, we want to ease your pain and help you regain control of your life. Contact us for more details about the Nuga Best Massage Bed and discover how it can ease your pain and change your life.

7 Signs You Need A Professional Massage Treatment

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you spend your days working in an office, chasing after kids, or training for sporting events, daily activities are likely to strain your body. Your body develops pain and stiffness to tell you something is wrong. However, many symptoms are relieved through regular professional massage therapy .

Here are seven surefire signs that your body is telling you that it's time for a massage!

1. YOU EXPERIENCE FREQUENT HEADACHES.

Headaches are often a sign of tension in your neck and shoulders. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as sitting in an office environment for long periods of time or experiencing frequent unresolved stress. A massage will relieve this tension, resulting in less frequent headaches.

2. YOU SLOUCH AND YOUR LOWER BACK HURTS!

If you're unusually slouchy and experiencing pain or stiffness in your lower back, you may benefit from a massage. Because your lower lumbar provides most of the support for your upper body, you may experience pain if you're overly-active or spend too long sitting in upright, unsupported positions. A professional massage will relieve this pain, allowing you to stretch those muscles and lose the slouch!

3. YOU HAVE CONSTANT JOINT PAIN.

That stiffness and pain in your joints may not be arthritis. In fact, joints can easily become inflamed or stiff from overuse. If you find that you're experiencing joint pain, a massage can relieve tension in muscle tissue surrounding your joints.

4. YOU AREN'T AS FLEXIBLE AS BEFORE.

Decreased flexibility can be due to lack of exercise, but if you experience a sudden tightening in your muscles that results in limited mobility, your body may be saying it's time for a massage. Limited mobility is usually due to inflammation of muscle tissue around joints. This can be frustrating when trying to carry out daily activities. Professional massage therapy can reduce inflammation in the body and restore mobility to your limbs and joints.

5. YOUR ANXIETY NEVER SEEMS TO EASE UP.

Massage therapy works to break down and remove toxins and waste from the muscles. This can result in a euphoric, relaxed feeling. For this reason, professional massages are often sought out by those who suffer from anxiety disorders .

6. YOU HAVE NO ENERGY!

If you find that you're unusually sluggish, you may get a boost from a professional massage. Massages are proven to increase circulation, reduce pain, and speed up muscle recovery. This can reduce fatigue and provide you with increased energy throughout the day.

7. YOU EXPERIENCE INSOMNIA.

You may not notice the pain, but irritated nerve activity can dramatically reduce the amount of time you sleep, as well as the amount of rest you get while sleeping. If you find that you have a difficult time getting comfortable or falling asleep, it may be time for a massage. Professional massage therapy will decrease inflammation in your nerves, making it easier to get comfortable. This may help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and feel more rested when you wake.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, book a professional massage therapy appointment at Reflexion Spa now! Massage therapy can result in pain relief, better sleep, and relaxation that will greatly improve your quality of life.

How Couples Massage Can Improve Your Relationship

Sun, 15 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Often, the goal is to maintain a healthy, long-term partnership with someone you love. This can be more difficult today than ever, as the busy world provides many opportunities for stress to affect your attitude towards your partner as well as making it hard to find time to spend together.

However, Reflexion Spa offers a couple's massage therapy session that can provide the perfect opportunity for you and your partner to bond while letting go of stress. You may also experience many hormonal and physical benefits that can strengthen your relationship, helping you build a long-lasting connection.

RECONNECT A DISTANT RELATIONSHIP

Relationships can become distant for many reasons. Stress due to work or finances may impose an unnecessary strain on you and your partner. If you find that there is distance in your relationship, lack of communication, or that you and your partner are spending much less time together than usual, couple's massage therapy may bring the two of you together and re-open your lines of communication.

A massage will instantly help you find a relaxed physical and mental state. Physical touch, such as through a professional massage, decreases the body's production of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone. This decrease in stress will allow you and your partner to communicate more calmly and effectively, without regard to issues from the past or worries of the future.

The massage also dedicates time to bonding. Because this bonding is done in a relaxed, professional environment, there is a unique opportunity to connect deeply with your partner. Bonding over a massage can easily become a special, intimate experience.

IMPACTS OXYTOCIN LEVELS

Along with reducing cortisol, massage therapy greatly increases the body's oxytocin production. Oxytocin is a natural hormone produced through physical touch and affection, such as cuddling. Oxytocin affects your relationship with your partner in many ways. Many studies have shown that couples with higher oxytocin levels experienced greater longevity in their relationship. Some studies also show that greater oxytocin levels can help you experience more understanding and offer more support, both key components to a happy, long-term relationship.

BOOSTS INTIMACY

A professional massage is a physical experience. This, paired with the intimacy of having your partner near, can ready the body for further physical touch and affection. For this reason, along with increased oxytocin and decreased cortisol, many couples experience increased sex drive as well as heightened sexual experiences following a professional couple's massage.

Any massage can reduce the symptoms of many physical and mental ailments that can negatively impact your sex life, such as depression, anxiety, stress, or physical discomforts. Massages also increase circulation and reduce physical pain, which can increase sexual stamina. By adding the company and affection of your partner, you can really up the ante.

Whether you are experiencing a strained relationship or are just looking for new opportunities to bond with your partner, the two of you can greatly benefit from couple's massage therapy. Book your couple's massage today for a unique date night that will bring you and your partner closer together than ever before.

What Exactly Is Deep Tissue Massage?

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The massage therapists at Reflexion Spa are highly trained professionals concerned with bringing you relaxation, stress relief, and great health benefits through a wide variety of massage techniques. One of these techniques, and possibly the most popular, is called deep tissue massage. This style of massage is most often used to target chronic pain areas and relieve pain by breaking down scar tissue or muscle “knots” that can inhibit circulation or cause serious discomfort.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

A deep tissue massage may begin with light, slow strokes. These are used to warm up the muscles and increase the circulation around trouble areas. Because this massage is intended as a treatment for chronic pain and stiffness, your massage therapist will target your trouble areas. Particular techniques are used to apply heavier pressure to knots, joints, or scar tissue that may inhibit proper circulation and cause serious discomfort. The two most common of these techniques include stripping and friction.

Stripping includes a deep pressure sliding along the entire length of muscles in the direction of the muscle fibers. Friction is the opposite and includes pressure applied against the grain of the muscle fibers. This can help to break down swollen tissue and realign fibers, allowing muscles to heal more properly. Your massage therapist may use her knuckles, palms, elbows, or thumbs to administer these massage techniques.

It is normal to feel slight discomfort during your deep tissue massage, especially when pressure is applied to your most troubling area. However, a massage should not be painful and you should inform your massage therapist if you experience any pain so that he or she can adjust her technique accordingly.

HOW DEEP TISSUE MASSAGES DIFFER FROM THE REST

Typically the word “massage” is related to an idea of relaxation or unwinding. While deep tissue massages may also allow you to reap these benefits, a deep tissue massage focuses less on relaxation and more on rehabilitation. A deep tissue massage differs from other, more gentle styles of massage in that it requires intense, aggressive motions. During a deep tissue massage, you may feel more discomfort than relaxation because the nature of the therapy requires pressure on already uncomfortable areas. You will be asked to breathe deeply to help you manage the slight discomforts you may experience. After your massage, you may experience less pain or cramping and significantly increased mobility.

THE ENDLESS REASONS TO CONSIDER A DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

While the term “massage” may be misleading, it is more accurate to think of this form of massage as a “treatment.” In fact, deep tissue massage can be used to lessen the discomfort caused by an array of physical illnesses, such as sciatica, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, or carpal tunnel. Deep tissue massage may also be an effective treatment for sports injuries, back pain, neck pain, leg pain, or other ailments that may limit your mobility.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER A DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

Generally, you will notice the advantages of your massage almost immediately. You will notice that you have a greater range of motion in joints and muscle that were once stiff and sore. Although you will experience many benefits, it is not uncommon to experience some slight discomfort or light bruising. You may also notice some slight swelling in your muscles. You should be sure to drink plenty of water in order to rehydrate your muscles and help to flush out any waste materials released from your muscle tissue during your massage. In the case of swelling lasting more than a few hours, you may find that applying ice relieves the discomfort.

While some of these effects can be irksome, they are generally very temporary. The various benefits of your deep tissue massage will unquestionably outweigh any of these small drawbacks. If you suffer from chronic pain or muscle stiffness, scheduling a deep tissue massage appointment is your first step to easing your discomfort and significantly improving your quality of life.

How Prenatal Massage Can Help You And Your Baby

Mon, 28 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

During pregnancy, expectant mothers go through many psychological, physical, and hormonal changes. Therapeutic massage can provide significant relief for these stressful changes, as well as improve the overall function of both the circulatory and endocrine systems.

In fact, several research studies have found that prenatal massage can help alleviate many common symptoms associated with pregnancy, which results in safer pregnancies for both mother and child. Additional reports have found that women who receive regular prenatal massage tend to have reduced pain perception during labor. Often times, labor durations are shorter, babies are healthier (as measured by the Apgar and Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment), and the risk of premature birth decreases dramatically. And if that’s not enough, women who get regular massages during pregnancy show a greater propensity to touch their newborns lovingly, which is most likely due to a reduced risk of postpartum depression.

So how does something so basic do so much?

IMPROVED CIRCULATION

Massage helps to stimulate blood flow and encourage lymph to move around the body, thus helping to remove toxins and reduce swelling. On the metabolic level, the improved circulation helps the blood to transport oxygen and nutrients to cells and remove metabolic waste. So massage helps to make sure your system is running optimally to assure the best possible support for your baby’s circulation, nutrition, and development.

HORMONE REGULATION

Recent studies have shown that hormones associated with stress and relaxation are significantly altered by prenatal massage. Regular massage increases serotonin, the stress-relieving “feel good” neurotransmitter, increases norepinephrine, and decreases cortisol, the stress-response hormone. All of these hormonal optimizations are favorable for your baby’s development.

REDUCTION OF SWELLING

The circulatory system works twice as hard as it normally does during pregnancy, so edema and leg cramps are common during the later stages. In addition to improving circulation, massage helps to reduce swelling by stimulating soft tissues, to reduce the collection of fluids in swollen joints.

IMPROVEMENT OF NERVE PAIN

Another common complication of late pregnancy is sciatica nerve pain, due to increased pressure on the muscles of the pelvic floor and lower back. Massage therapy helps to release the tension in these muscles, and is often able to significantly reduce sciatica nerve pain.

ANEMIA DURING PREGNANCY

Iron deficiency is common in expectant mothers, due to the increased demands placed on your body. By helping to increase blood and lymph circulation, massage is shown to increase red blood cell count and help to alleviate the fatigue associated with pregnancy anemia.

Precautions For Prenatal Massage?

As always, it’s best to check with your prenatal care provider before beginning any new therapeutic practice, particularly if you have a high-risk pregnancy or are in your first trimester.

Will all these benefits to offer, massage is clearly a worthwhile option to add to your prenatal health regimen, both for you and your baby. Regular massage can significantly reduce pregnancy complications, lead to shorter and less painful labor, and improve the health of your baby. So what are you waiting for?

At Reflexion Spa, we are here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you have, or to set up an appointment.

What To Say To Your Massage Therapist?

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

You come in to tune out. However, a few words to your therapist can make for a more enjoyable experience. Having been both a receiver of massages and a giver, I understand how frustrating an uncomfortable massage can be. Get the Chicago or Hinsdale massage you need in order to feel better with a few of the following tips.

1. Tell your therapist about any specific conditions or medications that you may be taking. Individuals with blood pressure issues and chronic injuries should inform the therapist of their situation. If you have any allergies, such as to nuts or a specific essential oil, please inform your massage therapist. This helps providers use products with ingredients that will not cause an allergic reaction. All information divulged is kept confidential and is used to tailor your service.

2. Share if you feel uncomfortable with bolster placement, neck pressure when you are face down in the face cradle and overall pressure during a massage. A massage is about your comfort. The massage therapist wants to make sure that you are as comfortable as possible during your session.

3. Be comfortable telling a therapist to change pressure, move to another area, or that you feel sensitive or emotional when an area is touched. The same pressure applied to two different areas can feel very different. If you require a deeper or lighter touch, tell your therapist. In addition, touch can elicit emotional responses that can be unexpected. If something during a session makes you feel uncomfortable, please inform your therapist.

4. Talk to them about any areas of concern. Many people have neck and back pain and there are specific techniques that can be used to address tension and adhesions in the muscle in the affected areas. When you share information about your physical concerns with your therapist, they can adapt the session to meet your needs. If you want more focused work in a specific area, let them know, understanding that they may have to spend less time on other areas of the body to give the attention required to that area.

5. Know that the receptionist and therapist are there to help you. If you are new to having a massage in general or want to try a different type of massage, such as Tui Na, for the first time, know that they are available to answer your questions. Ask them about what to expect during a session, if you will be fully clothed or partially clothed, and anything you should do to prepare for a session. Reflexive Spa therapists want you to enjoy every session scheduled at their Chicago and Hinsdale locations.

How to Get the Most from Your Hinsdale or Chicago Massage?

Reflexion Spa, your local day spa, is located conveniently in Chicago and Hinsdale. They offer a range of services from Swedish massage, Deep Tissue massage, Cranial/Neck massage, Tui Na and more. Contact a friendly associate today to learn more about the best type of massage to address your individual needs today.

Can Acupuncture Help Fall Allergies?

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

With the arrival of fall, many people think the season offers welcomed relief for allergy symptoms. In reality, trees continue to bloom, pollen levels continue to rise, and ragweed makes those with allergies suffer even more. Unfortunately, the fall 2016 allergy is expected to be worse and longer than average, explains KXAN News . However, those who have exhausted medication treatment for allergies may want to consider how acupuncture in Chicago could alleviate these symptoms.

The History of Acupuncture and Allergies.

Acupuncture has been used for centuries to alleviate pain, inflammation and many other ailments, and according to Healthline , it does appear to have a positive effect on allergies as well. Most often, acupuncture is used too relieve the nasal symptoms of allergies, but recent evidence suggests acupuncture may improve overall allergy symptoms as well, including the following:

Itchy, watery eyes.
Pressure in the sinuses.
Headache.
Sneezing.
Runny nose.
Rashes that may occur on the body from contact with allergens.

Do People Still Need Antihistamines After Acupuncture?

In a 2013 study of allergy improvements through acupuncture, reports CNN , researchers created three groups of participants. One group received antihistamines and acupuncture, another group received acupuncture exclusively, and the third group received antihistamines and what they believed to be acupuncture.

The third group actually did have the tiny needles inserted, but they were not inserted according to the principles of acupuncture. This group was the placebo group.

Throughout the study, participants who received true acupuncture and histamines saw improved allergy symptoms within one week. However, some saw improvements in the group that did not take any antihistamines. As a result, researchers concluded acupuncture may have similar benefits to taking antihistamines for improving allergy symptoms.

A more comprehensive review of all known studies on the use of acupuncture for allergies found similar results. Some evidence suggests acupuncture does improve nasal allergy symptoms when combined with antihistamines. However, the current finds do not support the use of acupuncture without antihistamines for allergies.

Prepare for the Fall 2016 Allergy Season With Acupuncture.

Ultimately, people with severe or moderate fall allergies may benefit from adding acupuncture to their antihistamine regimens this year. In addition, these people may be able to reduce the dosage of antihistamines needed when combined with the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. Since acupuncture carries significantly lower risk than many medications or more invasive allergy treatments, it may be the perfect antidote to the upcoming, predicted-severe fall allergy season.

To schedule your warrior's retreat in Hinsdale or Chicago to fend off fall allergies, contact Reflexion Spa online or by calling 1 (312) 600-8861 today.

New To Acupuncture?

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Acupuncture Newbie? Five Reasons to Embrace the Needles

Recently, you celebrated a milestone birthday with close friends and family members at one of your favorite restaurants. Since this joyous occasion, you’ve started fretting about your age. Like others, you desperately desire to live a long, happy, and fulfilling life. To help you accomplish this task, you’ve scheduled your first acupuncture session. If you can relate to this scenario, consider the following five reasons to embrace the needles.

Improve Physical Appearance

Regardless of whether you’re in your thirties, fifties, or seventies, you may desire to look younger. Utilized for hundreds of years in China, acupuncture for facial rejuvenation is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Acupuncture needles stimulate facial tissue by enhancing the circulation of blood flow. This process speeds up the creation of collagen. As more collagen is manufactured, the formation of wrinkles diminishes. Cosmetic acupuncture can help you gain younger looking skin without subjecting you to:

Anesthesia
Potentially harmful chemical injections
Surgery

To achieve beautiful, lasting results, scheduling 10 to 15 cosmetic acupuncture sessions at Reflexion Spa, a warriors retreat is recommended.

Lower Blood Pressure Numbers

Do you suffer from hypertension? When left unchecked, high blood pressure can contribute to a myriad of serious, health issues such as heart disease and strokes. If you struggle to control your blood pressure, consider scheduling acupuncture sessions at a day spa in Chicago. Research suggests acupuncture may be able to reduce blood pressure.

Improve Mood

Do you have a serious case of the blues you can’t shake? If you’re depressed or anxious, seeking acupuncture treatment at a day spa in Chicago might help. Acupuncture is believed to be able to regulate the neurotransmitters in your brain associated with happiness.

Sleep Better

A lack of quality sleep can affect both your physical and mental state. If you frequently battle insomnia, you may have tried everything from investing in sleeping masks to counting sheep. Acupuncture is thought to stimulate sound sleep by increasing the production of the neurotransmitters in your brain connected to relaxation.

Annihilate Headaches

For some people, the excruciating pain of headaches can be crippling. Whenever they experience a headache, they don’t want to anything except lie down until the pain subsides. Studies suggest acupuncture might effectively treat a variety of chronic, pain conditions including headaches. If you suffer from chronic headaches, acupuncture can be a great alternative to potentially harmful and addictive prescription and over-the-counter medications.

If improving both your physical appearance and your health are top priorities for you, acupuncture might be a viable solution. The aforementioned perceived benefits of acupuncture are undeniable. If you’re ready to begin the journey to health and happiness, consider scheduling acupuncture sessions at Reflexion Spa, a warriors retreat today.

Alternative Approaches To Treating Seasonal Migraines: What You Need To Know.

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Migraines affect the lives of up to 21.8 percent of women and 10 percent of men, but when migraines tend to occur during seasonal periods, such as the transition from summer to fall, the migraine is known as a seasonal migraine, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) . Fortunately, persistent seasonal migraines can benefit from complementary and alternative treatment approaches, such as spa services in Chicago or Hinsdale, that counteract common side effects of seasonal transitions.

What Causes Seasonal Migraines?

Seasonal migraines may occur at any time of the year when temperature changes suddenly. However, they tend to be associated more often with the onset of spring and fall. Allergens, harvesting of crops, changes in average daily temperatures and time changes increase the possibility of seasonal migraines. The treatment for seasonal migraines depends on the exact causes of each person’s symptoms.

For example, seasonal migraines caused by sleep deprivation at the onset of daylight savings time may be treated by going to bed earlier. In addition, allergen-caused seasonal migraines may benefit from an antihistamine. Unfortunately, using medications to treat seasonal migraines can result in side effects, including drowsiness, irritability or metabolic problems.

Which Alternative Treatments Are Most Effective?

The simplest alternative treatments for seasonal migraines are to avoid migraine triggers, such as staying indoors, away from allergens. However, some of the seasonal changes, such as increasing or decreasing exposure to daylight, can be difficult to manage. The added stresses of these periods may contribute to the development of tension headaches as well.

Alternative means of controlling seasonal migraines include relaxation techniques to relieve overall stress, such as acupuncture and massage therapy, avoiding anxiety, increasing light exposure and meditation, reports MedlinePlus . In addition, neck massage has been shown to reduce pain associated with migraines by up to 68 percent, explains the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Meanwhile, acupuncture can help improve circulation to the brain, promoting healthier brain function and less pain. However, the health benefits of acupuncture can help reduce triggers associated with seasonal migraines.

For example, some evidence suggests acupuncture may reduce sensitivity to allergies or problems sleeping.

Take Advantage of Spa Services in Chicago for Seasonal Migraines Now.

Even though additional research is needed to learn more about the use of spa services for seasonal migraines, the possibility of a low-risk, non-invasive treatment is too great to ignore. Even if the effect is nothing more than a placebo, massage therapy and acupuncture may reduce the severity and frequency of seasonal migraines.

To learn more about these alternative treatment approaches, schedule an appointment at Reflexion Spa today. In fact, you can even book an appointment in Hinsdale or Chicago online or call 1 (630) 321-1772.

Can Reflexology Benefit Fertility?

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Reflexology has been used for centuries in Asia, and it is growing in popularity in the U.S. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), reflexology involves the application of pressure to specific areas on the hands and feet. Since it does not require any sort of invasive action, reflexology in Chicago and Hinsdale is rapidly becoming the "go-to" option for people with a variety of health ailments, including problems with fertility.

Before Considering Spa Services in Chicago to Improve Fertility, You Need to Understand Infertility Basics.

Infertility can be caused by many different factors, such as genetic anomalies in the formation of sperm or eggs, problems with the parent's overall state of health or even stress. Unfortunately, the treatment for infertility tends to focus on what is suspected of causing the issue, but the basic, underlying factor of overall health remains the same.

Improving Overall Health Is Key to Improving Fertility.

The overall health of a person determines his or her ability to produce viable offspring, and biological or psychological factors can have physical influences in the ability of the person's body to produce offspring. In essence, fertility treatments aim to increase the responsiveness of the reproductive system by encouraging the body to produce healthy sperm or eggs.

What Suggests Reflexology May Improve Fertility?

Reflexology used for fertility purposes is not something new to medicine. It has been traditionally used to improve fertility in the past, and several studies, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine, have found this practice can alleviate the symptoms of pregnancy, such as nausea, vomiting or fatigue. Since these symptoms can also be health problems that inhibit fertility, it may be used to produce the best chance possible for improving fertility.

Additional studies have found reflexology may have a placebo effect on fertility. In other words, fertility may have improved, but reflexology could not be identified as the primary reason for the improvement. To be clear, there are continuing studies and clinical trials underway regarding the health benefits of reflexology on improving fertility, reports ClinicalTrials.gov . However, the low-risk, non-invasive nature of this spa service means it cannot have a negative effect on your health. Even if reflexology only has a placebo effect on your mental or physical health, it may help improve your chances of becoming pregnant or increasing sperm count and viability.

To find out more about how Reflexology in Hinsdale can improve your quality of life, schedule your retreat at Reflexion Spa online or by calling 1 (630) 321-1772.

Can Massage Therapy Help Cancer Patients?

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

More than 1.6 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer by the end of 2016, explains the American Cancer Society, and for many, the pain and stress associated with cancer will come at a great cost. While medications may help, they may interact with cancer-fighting drugs. Fortunately, complementary and alternative medicinal (CAM) therapies, such as massage therapy, are available as spa services Hinsdale residents can use to continue their fight against cancer.

Massage Therapy Benefits Cancer Patients.

Massage therapy targets the aspects of life that are most impacted by cancers, including pain levels, state of relaxation and mood. Multiple studies have uncovered evidence to suggest massage therapy may also help reduce fatigue and improve immune function, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Thus, a person’s ability to overcome cancer may be heightened through massage, but researchers urge cancer patients to continue traditional courses of treatment in conjunction with massage therapy or other CAM therapies.

How Popular Is Massage Therapy For Cancer Patients?

There is stereotype regarding people living with cancer; they may lack the energy needed to engage in daily activities. However, the use of massage therapy in Hinsdale is completely strain-free, meaning a therapist performs the massage while the person rests. According to Asbestos.com, reflexology and massage therapy, practices embraced by Reflexion Spa, have shown positive, short-term results for cancer patients. Furthermore, more people currently battling cancer or who have a history of cancer are seeking out these spa services Hinsdale citizens frequent for their stimulating effect on the nervous, circulatory and musculoskeletal systems.

What Are the Concerns For Getting a Massage While Dealing With Cancer?

There are a few considerations for people thinking about getting a massage to help with cancer, which include the following:

The location of the cancer, including which systems are affected.
The degree and location of pain.
Areas of the body that are exposed, including sores, medication sites or medical devices currently being used to administer medication.
Weak areas of body tissue.

If a person with cancer tends to bleed, bruise or otherwise experience effects from prolonged massage or contact, the technician should be informed before the massage begins. The best solution is to obtain a note from the treating physician that explains what types of massage or spa services can be safely used in conjunction with current treatments and his or her overall level of health.

What Does It Mean to You?

No one wants to think about what it means to live with a cancer diagnosis, and the chaos of treatment can leave you confused and weary. Remember this adage. You may have cancer, but cancer does not have you. If you have been diagnosed with precancerous tissues or cancer, consider boosting your treatment regimen with massage therapy in Hinsdale at Reflexion Spa. Book your appointment online , or feel free to call our office at 1 (630) 321-1772.

Massage Therapy After Exercise: Benefits To Homeostasis

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Massage therapy is traditionally associated with stress relief and relaxation, and spa services Hinsdale residents can benefit from may have more to do with fitness than many realize. Recent evidence, reports the Massage Therapy Foundation , suggests massage therapy offers an additional means of achieving and maintaining fitness, and you need to understand why.

Recovery From Exercise Boosted With Massage Therapy in Hinsdale.

Massage therapy has been linked to reducing inflammation, stress levels and fatigue, explains the National Center For Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) . However, a recent study, explains the U.S. National Library of Medicine , found massage therapy effectively lowered heart rates faster than resting. Since he length of time required to return from an active state to a resting, homeostatic state can be measured by monitoring a person’s heart rate, the study implies recovery can be hastened with massage.

The action of nerve signals to the heart and lungs appeared to have an added, beneficial effect during massage. Participants who received massages after exercise experienced the following key changes:

Heart Rate Decreased To Less Than 73 Beats Per Minute (Resting Heart Rate), Meaning The Key To Balancing Exercise And Other Responsibilities May Be Massage Therapy Hinsdale Citizens Need.
Respirations Decreased To 7.1 Per Minute During A 30-Minute Massage, Compared To 17.9 Per Minute Over 30 Minutes Of Resting Recovery.

These two factors indicate participants could return to homeostasis more quickly than peers who only rested following exercise.

What Does Homeostasis Mean For Long-Term Results?

Returning to homeostasis more quickly can also have significant benefits for overall health. Too much oxygen in the body can be harmful to the body. Oxygen, while necessary to live, may also result in the formation of free radicals, which cause damage to cellular tissues, speed inflammation and result in premature aging. Meanwhile, the brain responds to high oxygen levels like the response to low oxygen levels.

For example, a person who cannot get enough oxygen hyperventilates, and the same pattern can be seen in the immediate aftermath of a strenuous workout.

Therefore, athletes begin a cool-down regimen at the end of a workout. A cool-down consists of gradually lowering the intensity of activity over 15 minutes. However, the need to cool-down also results in fewer overall calories burned per minute of activity, or it may cause trouble scheduling time for exercise around existing responsibilities. Consequently, positive results from exercise may be achieved faster when combined with massage therapy.

What’s the Next Step?

Spa services Hinsdale and Chicago residents need can help reduce exhaustion and immediate fatigue after exercise. Since it lowers the length of recovery time, massage therapy may be a critical step in encouraging more people to begin exercising, and it still provides stress-relieving benefits. Rather than struggling to catch your breath after exercise, book your warriors retreat in Hinsdale at Reflexion Spa or by calling 1 (630) 321-1772. It could help you get your fitness goals back on track without the added resting time.

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Is Cupping Therapy Risky?

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

In recent months, cupping has become a trend in the U.S. In reality, cupping therapy goes back thousands of years. Meanwhile, age-old medicinal therapies, including cupping and acupuncture, are in-demand spa services Chicago and Hinsdale residents want. However, cupping is also a debatable therapy, and some argue it is a risky procedure.

What Are the Benefits of Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy operates on the principle of removing toxins from the body by allowing capillaries in the skin to swell and burst when the heated cup is applied. This therapy has been used in conjunction with modern medicine for athletes, celebrities and everyday citizens for improving circulation, reducing pain and inflammation and improving overall health, asserts WebMD . Furthermore, cupping can be combined with other alternative spa services, such as acupuncture or massage, to obtain even more health benefits.

Why Does Cupping Therapy Cause Bruising?

Bruising is simply an indication that the therapy has been recently performed. According to Healthline , all signs of bruising tend to disappear within 10 days. In cases of wet cupping, which involves the puncture of the skin with a needle before or after applying the cup, it may take a few days for the puncture mark to heal. As a result, the spa technician may apply an antibiotic ointment and bandage to the area after treatment. However, this is still a normal part of this service.

What Are the Health Risks Associated With Cupping Therapy?

The health risks known to be associated with cupping therapy are minimal. During or immediately following cupping therapy, a person may experience slight lightheadedness, dizziness, sweating or nausea. The skin around the cup may feel irritated, or if wet cupping is performed, there may be a slight pain at the site. As a result, the risks follow standard infection prevention. In other words, the materials used during cupping should be clean, and when an acupuncture needle or scalpel is used in wet cupping, these objects should be sanitized between each client.

People living with certain health conditions, especially disorders that impact the clotting factors in the blood, such as hemophilia, may want to avoid cupping therapy unless authorized by a physician.

While few studies have reviewed the effectiveness of cupping therapy, its minimal risks suggest it is a viable alternative for people looking for alternative ways to improve their health. Ultimately, some may feel the effects of cupping therapy outweigh these minimal risks, and in fact, Reflexion Spa only performs "dry" cupping therapy sessions. To schedule your spa services in Chicago or Hinsdale, call Reflexion Spa at 312.600.8861 (Chicago) or 630.321.1772 (Hinsdale).

What Is A Tension Headache, And Why Does Medication Seem Ineffective?

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Unlike migraines, tension headaches are not necessarily debilitating. Also known as stress headaches, they remain the most common type of headache afflicting adults. Unfortunately, they can persist upward of 15 or more days per month, and medications may offer relief for sufferers. Thus, finding the best type of treatment requires out-of-the-box thinking, which may include massage therapy in Chicago and Hinsdale.

Why Don’t Medications Help With Tension Headaches?

Pain associated with tension headaches may wavier from mild to severe throughout the course of a day. People suffering may feel as though they can wait to take medications, enabling the continuation of pain. In other cases, the causes of the headache cannot be treated by traditional pain relievers.

What Causes Tension Headaches?

Tension headaches may be caused by a variety of factors, which include the following:

Sleep deprivation from not getting at least hours nightly may contribute to tension headaches.
Bad or poor posture, which may be common during long commutes, can allow stress and tension to build in the muscles of the back and neck.
Mental stress from work, school or home may cause people to make poor choices.
Anxiety over responsibilities or financial troubles can lead to sleep deprivation as well.
Fatigue from tension headaches only adds to overall stress.
Low iron levels may prevent the brain and body from obtaining enough oxygen.
Hunger from waiting to eat, such as while working or when in school, can cause tension and stress in the muscles and brain concurrently.
The obvious solution to tension headaches caused by sleep, hunger or low iron levels is to correct the imbalance. In other words, eating or sleeping appropriately may relieve symptoms. However, headaches caused by the remaining factors follow treatments for each respective cause.

Why Does Massage Therapy Reduce Tension Headaches?

Stress management is the most effective means of treating tension headaches, reports Healthline. In addition, managing pain and stress throughout the body can help alleviate symptoms. Similarly, massage therapy may reduce overall stress levels, explains WebMD , promoting healing and relaxation throughout the body. Meanwhile, massage therapy studies have found promising results for those suffering from tension headaches. Per the U.S. National Library of Medicine , massage therapy reduced pain intensity

Sometimes, medications fail to relieve pain associated with tension headaches, and since city living can be a source of significant stress, sufferers should consider getting a massage before diving into a bottle of pain relievers. The answer to tension headaches can be the very spa services Chicago and Hinsdale residents need.

You must be a warrior to survive the stress of daily life, so book your warrior’s retreat at Reflexion Spa online or by calling 312.600.8861 (Chicago Spa) or 630.321.1772 (Hinsdale Spa) today.

What's New In Nail Care: Vitamins, Oils And More.

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Keeping your nails shiny and healthy takes time, and Reflexion spa services Hinsdale residents really must know their stuff. In fact, the past year saw many new, alternative techniques to approaching nail health, including using oils, vitamins and regular nail treatments. Before you resign your nails to brittleness or discoloration, consider asking your technician about these options. In addition to Reflexion Spa's committment to only using the highest quality, most natural products possible for nails, we thought you might find these tips for how to nourish your nails useful.

What Oils Are “Hot” in Nail Health?

Remember those days when Mom would pull out the castor oil for any health issues? Today, castor oil is being used to reinvigorate nail health around the globe, reports Bustle.com . Castor oil has been shown to help strengthen brittle nails and help peel cuticles. In addition, castor oil acts as an anti-fungal when used in conjunction with an Epsom salt and water bath.

Another oil that became popular for nails in 2017 was hemp oil, reports The Huffington Post . Hemp oil contains high levels of essential fatty acids (EFAs), vitamin D and amino acids. While it might seem like hemp oil is only available in areas that have legalized recreational or medicinal marijuana, many similar versions are available on the market with 0-percent THC content. In other words, most hemp oils have specific labels indicating their lack of THC.

What About Vitamins to Improve Nail Spa Services in Hinsdale?
Vitamins play a major role in the overall health of nails. These vitamins include vitamin C, vitamin A, retinoids, retinal, zinc, silicon, copper, selenium, vitamin B12 and many more, explains the U.S. National Library of Medicine . However, different vitamins can help reduce specific nail problems. For example, a 2.5-miligram dose of biotin daily improves brittle nail syndrome. In addition, vitamins can provide that extra boost to your nails, improving your self-confidence along the way. If you are uncertain about the type of vitamins that will most benefit your nails, consider asking your nail technician or pharmacist for more information. If nothing else, a well-rounded, daily vitamin should help you get the vitamins you need to improve your nail health.

Of course, taking any sort of supplement can be dangerous if you take medications for medical issues. So, speak with your doctor to ensure vitamins and herbal supplements for nail health do not interact with existing medications.

Spa Services Hinsdale Residents Demand Can Restore Your Nail Vitality.
Life can be chaotic, and taking care of your nails can seem to find its way onto the back burner. However, you do not have to live with dry, brittle, cracking, yellowing or otherwise problematic nails. Speak with a licensed technician about what else you can do to get the healthy, vivacious nails you have been looking for. Book your warrior’s retreat online at Reflexion Spa or by calling 1 (630) 321-1772.

How To Enhance The Vitality Of Hair And Nails During The Winter Months

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Winter is harsh on the body, including nails and hair. Unfortunately, the best ways to reduce winter hair and nail damage tend to get lost in the holiday turmoil and resolutions made for the new year. However, your goal of improving your nail and hair health can start with using these tips and taking advantage of available spa services Hinsdale and surrounding areas need now more than ever.

1. Ditch the Hot Showers (I know, hearing this doesn't make those sub-zero days any better, sorry).
Water strips the skin, hair and nails of vital nutrients, and while it may feel comforting during the winter, it could be doing more harm than good, explains ABC News. Consider taking a lukewarm shower, and avoid spending extra time using the blow-dryer on your hair.

2. Wash Under Your Fingernails Often

Did you know that up to 42 percent of people, asserts PR Newswire , believe they will get sick this winter? Unclean nails are breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi. These pathogens can literally eat away at your nails over time. When washing your hands, make sure to scrub under your nails thoroughly.

3. Increase Your Intake of Healthy Fats.

Foods with healthy fats include beans, fish and nuts, a staple of winter. Healthy fats improve hair and nail strength while increasing your immune system. In other words, if you can help your body stay healthy, you can help your nails and hair make it through winter too. Do not forget to eat lean meats, which are key sources of amino acids, reports Glamour magazine , essential to nail and hair growth. But, if meats are not your fancy, consider taking a Zinc supplement.

4. Use Shampoos With Essential Fatty Acids in Them.

Many shampoos or conditioners are being sold that contain argan, coconut, olive or avocado oils. Each of these oils are a type of essential fatty acid, which help strengthen and improve the vitality of your hair. In addition, some of these products may be applied after showering for increased effect. Ask your spa services Hinsdale technician about what local products they recommend for your hair health during the winter.

Reclaim Your Nail and Hair Beauty From Winter.
Winter is dry and unforgiving, but it does not have to cause permanent damage to your nails and hair. Use these tips today, and treat your hair health with spa services Hinsdale residents can depend on. Book your warrior’s retreat now at Reflexion Spa in Hinsdale online or by calling 1 (630) 321-1772.

Female Therapists Can't Do Deep Tissue Massage / I Need REALLY Deep Tissue

Mon, 12 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Over the course of almost two years now I couldn't possibly count the number of times I have heard customers lament the many times they tried other places and ended up walking out feeling like they just wasted their time. Often the initial comment is followed up by a story of how they chose a therapist based on their size or because they were a guy, or because of a myriad of other reasons that seemed to make sense at the time. Then they found us, through Yelp, by a friends recommendation, or just passing by and within a single session everything they "knew" about massage changed. Further proof that you can't judge a book by its cover, despite some of our professionals petite stature, all of our therapists are deep tissue specialists, which unlike so many other places doesn't mean you will spend an hour feeling like you are being attacked by an elbow...there is so much more to it than that, and deep tissue doesn't have to mean extended pain.

Part of our commitment to service is providing consistency and quality regardless the therapist, and no matter when you have time for an appointment. While we appreciate that many of our customers have their favorites, don't be surprised if, on occasion we pair you with one of our other specialists to conduct your Fix It session. We are confident that regardless who is taking care of you, you will leave feeling refreshed.

If It Were Called Bioinformatics And Biomedicine Would That Change Your Mind About Acupuncture?

Sat, 26 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Some interesting things are happening in the field of medicine, health sciences, and big pharma as baby boomers keep getting older and those younger than them keep pushing harder, all resulting in greater need for proactive and preventative care. Personally I believe that within the next 2 decades we will be able to essentially replace major body components via either biological methods or synthetics. This is coupled with the belief that we will find many of these heavily marketed treatments pushing pills at us in the middle of our favorite shows that still only treat symptoms are horribly detrimental to our species in general. This again is paired with a personal mission to figure out how we can best listen to our bodies which were designed by a master craftsman and have the ability to not only heal but thrive if we just work towards balance. It is with this wellness mission in mind that Jade and I created Reflexion Spa. Unfortunately our quick fix society has trouble accepting programs that don't cause drastic changes immediately.

To make things even more muddy, those who do take a chance on alternative therapies like massage, acupuncture, and herbal treatments often end up in the hands of someone not truly capable. Some of our clients have implored us to add more staff to make appointments easier but within the same conversation they concur that it isn't just anyone who can do what we do nor have they found anyone else with the superior skills like that of TzuWen, Jade, Jenny, and Michael. These aren't your average off the street folks who took a couple continuing ed classes and then declared themselves experts...each one has worked years to truly master their craft in order to bring true healing to our customers.

I invite you to check a recent article from WSJ related to how the world is finally taking notice...its only taken the mainstream a thousand+ years to catch up...so are you hot or cold? Come find out...

Navigate Change With Acupuncture

Fri, 25 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

With the weather changing here is some food for thought:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sara-calabro/navigate-change-with-acup_b_6063912.html

When I Choose A 'Parlor'...And Other Things That Need To Be Corrected

Sat, 05 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Massage parlors, happy endings, masseuse...all such terrific terms right? I can't count the number of times I have heard these used in casual conversation by potential customers. On rare occasions past customers have even blown past all the terrific reviews, everything they read and see and experience intent that somehow their perception and expectations create truth...and then when our attractive, professional therapists that have spent years training and often have additional formal training provide the best massage they have ever had but don't entertain anything additional they are incensed and ask what kind of a "parlor" is this...that 'masseuse' gave horrible service...
Honestly, we will take those kinds of compliments all day long...we are Chicago's favorite fix it spot, and our therapists skills are unmatched. Bring a friend and see what you have been missing. See you soon ;-)

The Science Of Acupuncture

Sat, 05 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

You don't have to take our word for it, but once you have done your research and been fed up with other gimmicks we invite you to make an appointment and see the difference in your life. Here are some links to get you started:

http://brainblogger.com/2014/10/21/the-science-of-acupuncture/

http://www.healthandlovepage.com/green-tea-health-beauty-benefits/

Acupuncture Prevents Heart Attacks? – New Research

http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/582-acupunctureceusheartattackshrvlosangeles

and a bit of a light hearted info
Everyone Gets Acupuncture and so Should You!

5 Psychological Benefits Of Asian Massage

Fri, 30 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

While there are endless benefits to massage therapy, its impact on your psychological health is often overlooked. Massages are often related to physical relaxation, but they undoubtedly affect your mental health as well. Receiving regular massages can greatly improve your psychological well-being and help to lessen the effects of serious psychological disorders, such as anxiety and depression. The massage therapists at Reflexion Spa understand the importance of a healthy, balanced mind to compliment a healthy body and soul.

1. MASSAGE THERAPY GREATLY REDUCES STRESS

It’s no secret that stress can negatively impact the mind and body. In fact, stress is often the culprit of many different ailments, varying from serious conditions like sleep deprivation to simple, but annoying conditions, such as acne. During a massage, your brain releases great amounts of cortisol. This neurochemical is responsible for managing and reducing stress levels in the body. In addition to the extra cortisol flowing through the brain, a massage can satisfy the natural human need to feel nurtured. These few minutes of complete relaxation can allow you to mentally unwind, let go of simple stresses, and allow you the ability to take on new stresses with a clear mind.

2. LESS STRESS MEANS BETTER SLEEP

Stress reduction can instantly result in better sleep. The inability to fall asleep at night or stay asleep throughout the night is often directly related to increased levels of stress. If you have noticed that it is much more difficult to sleep the night before an important interview, it is likely that this insomnia is due to stress or worry. Achieving the recommended amount of sleep every night can be difficult when leading a busy life, and losing precious minutes of sleep due to stress can be incredibly frustrating. Using regular massage therapy to reduce stress can help you to fully utilize sleeping hours, which helps to improve your mental health and concentration.

3. REGULAR MASSAGES CAN IMPROVE YOUR ABILITY TO FOCUS

Along with regular, comfortable, stress-free sleep comes an increased ability to concentrate. In fact, many people agree that a regular massage can even reduce some of the frustrating symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder. A full night’s sleep will greatly increase brain function, allowing you to process information more quickly and avoid distractions. In fact, concentration has been shown to greatly increase even immediately following a relaxing massage.

4. A MASSAGE CAN HELP MANAGE ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

If you suffer from anxiety or depression, it is likely that you have considered clinical medications to treat your conditions. Usually, these medications will work to increase your serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain. However, receiving regular massages may be equally beneficial in this aspect. It has been proven that a massage will promote an increase in production of these two neurochemicals, which can help you naturally decrease your anxiety and depression. Often, you will feel significantly happier and calmer immediately after a massage, and regular massages can help to consistently increase your mood and control your anxiety.

5. HELPING THE BRAIN WILL HELP THE BODY

A massage can help make your brain healthier overall, which will help make your body healthier, too. Increasing your brain's ability to function, reducing your stress levels, and balancing your neurochemicals will allow your brain to more effectively control your body’s organ systems. Increased brain function means an increase in your body’s ability to perform regular, necessary functions, such as digestion or respiration. Using regular massages to increase your brain’s ability to control the body’s functions can also result in a more efficient immune system, helping you fight off illnesses much more quickly.

Whether you're looking for a safe, natural way to ease the effects of your psychological disorder or simply want to reap the benefits of decreased stress and increased relaxation, scheduling a massage appointment at Reflexion Spa today will get you on the path to a healthier mind. The benefits of regular massages are endless, and your mind - and body - will thank you for it.

Is There Even A Point To Facials? Can My Skin Really Get Better?

Fri, 27 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Why Get a Facial at All?

They say that 40 is the new 30 (Which is fine for those of us over 40 already :-) ). This puts more pressure on both men and women to look and feel their best. Good skin and a healthy appearance can impact people professionally and personally. What do Reflexion Spa's Aveda Hinsdale facials have to do with this? First, it is important to understand exactly what a facial is and then what regular facials as a part of a healthy skincare routine can do for your skin and appearance as you age. Get the inside scoop on why a facial might be the next best thing you do for your appearance.

Facials in a Nutshell

A facial is a process wherein an esthetician will carefully clean, steam, exfoliate and possibly extract blackheads, whiteheads and other sources of accumulated sebum, dead skin cells and debris lodged within the pores of your skin. Regular face washing does not get as deep nor is as thorough as a facial from an experienced and licensed esthetician. During the process, an esthetician may alert you to changes in your skin, any areas of concern and steps you can take to address any issues and improve the health of your skin.

The Mayo Clinic believes in the importance of basic skincare, maintenance and protection. To that end, facials provide a thorough cleansing, slough off dry, dead skin cells, and remove accumulated toxins that may have lodged themselves within the pores of the skin. An esthetician can advise you on the best skincare products to use on your skin type and help you create a more effective skincare regimen for your lifestyle and age.

You Never Knew Your Skin Could Look So Good

A facial can improve the appearance, texture and tone of your skin. Individuals that regularly receive facials note a more dewy appearance, fewer acne flare ups, and a more even appearance. Extractions are of particular interest and professionals are the only ones with the experience to remove trapped oil without damaging the skin. As the skin ages, it takes longer for the skin to repair itself and scar tissue is more likely to form. In general, skin is less resilient than for those in the teens and early 20s. Good facials and a skincare regimen that addresses your skin’s particular needs help to maintain a healthy and fresh complexion. A Marie Claire writer reported that after a facial, she went to work “bare-faced” with a touch of eyeliner, and loved that her skin felt “so soft and supple.” Imagine that, you can take your “I woke up like this” face to work or a date. Try it for yourself.

Reflexion Spa, your Aveda spa in Hinsdale, is a conveniently located, local day spa offering unparalleled value, so skip the Groupon places...do you really want to take a chance on your face? Hinsdale residents and visitors can unwind and renew at this well-appointed full service spa. Facials, Wraps and full skincare services are available at the Hinsdale location, in addition to a full suite of complementary offerings. Contact a friendly Reflexion Spa associate today to select the facial service best suited for your skin care requirements.

Can I Get Novalash Lash Extensions At Reflexion?

Fri, 27 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

You may be surprised at the type of requests we have received over the years from our customers asking us to <please please> expand services so they don't have to go everywhere for the other primping and feel good things they do. For Reflexion Spa to enter into any new offering it has to be the right environment, the right products (as natural as possible, safe, good corporate citizens, etc), and most importantly the right professionals providing top notch services. All you have to do is look around your neighborhood to see the number of places popping up and then disappearing and believe me, finding the right formula is easier said than done. Our Reflexion Spa in Hinsdale is the answer to much of what our customers have been asking for over the past 3+ years, and at only ~25 minutes from downtown Chicago is an easy trip even for our customers that live in the city.

The short answer as to whether we offer lash extensions is: YES. We were lucky enough to be able to bring on Angie, Marcela, and Suzy to the team, all of whom are specifically trained in the art of lashes.

Reflexion uses only Novalash, which has been on the market globally since early 2000's and uses award-winning, long-lasting, pharmaceutical grade adhesives that have earned NovaLash® its reputation as “the healthiest” professional lash extension system. Comprised of a wide-ranging palette of colors and textures that can be combined for looks that run the gamut from subtle and natural to trendy and glamorous; each application is a work of art with an intricate finish.

As the industry leader, NovaLash offers superior education and training to its most talented and dedicated lash artists, and superior products and service to its clients. NovaLash works diligently to embody and exemplify the best that technology, science, creative artistry and customer satisfaction can achieve.

So, if you happen to have not been blessed with naturally long, full eyelashes come to Reflexion - your secret is safe with us. See you soon!

Taking Care Of Your Skin

Mon, 04 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

I remember growing up I was amazed at how my grandma had a dressing table full of products with fancy sounding names, each with their own unique smells, not at all complementary of each other. I used to pick them up and read the ingredients listed and had no idea what so many of the words were...but she assured me that they were all good for her. I am sure she was right at least part of the time. Fast forward a few decades and we are at a point where many of us have evolved to demand better science and more natural products to use. The Aveda line Reflexion Spa features exceeds the expectations of even the most discerning, and the results speak for themselves as they deliver balanced botanicals to the body. Our professionals would be more than happy to speak with you in order to understand your concerns, and together we will work to create the right treatment program to ensure you look and feel your very best. Ask for Barbara, Marcela, or Suzy.

Master Aveda Stylists And A Fantastic Barber - Spotlight On Hair - Amy, Suzy, And Jackie

Tue, 29 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Have you ever walked into a hair salon and felt completely lost, or completely ignored, or just plainly uncomfortable? Were you greeted and listened to? At the end of your appointment did you feel like you were paying way too much for far too little? Reflexion Spa set out years ago to bring true service and comfort back for everyone, and in expanding our service line we are continuing to do just that. Being ex mil I still get a haircut every 7 days whether I need it or not (and having fantastic professional barber services on site in Hinsdale helps) , but I know not everyone is like me and for some, especially ladies who rarely change styles but spend hours at home working to look their best, considering a new style or even taking a trip to the salon can be nerve racking.
That is where Reflexion Spa's own Amy and Suzy come in. Amy is an Aveda master Stylist that has been cutting, coloring, and styling multiple generations of customers in Hinsdale for over 15 years, perfecting techniques that deliver classic styles while always staying up to date on the latest trends and methods for those that are more daring. Suzy complements Amy not only with similar Aveda trained style, but helps complete your look by providing a full suite of cosmetology services...facials, nails, makeup, even waxing. For the men in your life, even the ones who prefer to spend their time in the garage, bring them along to enjoy a massage, maybe a nail cleanup and a style or hot shave from Jackie...they will be floating on air and thank you for it later.
As for those special days...homecoming, prom, weddings, birthdays...I can't count the number of times I have seen entire groups of ladies (often with unfortunate men in tow), rushing around from one place to the next always running short on time, or worse, starting hours earlier having stylists and makeup artists come to the house to be rushed through a session...it is the epitome of chaos. What if a place existed where you could bring your suits and dresses with you, go to one place where you could get a massage, shower and get a cut or style; the men in your party could indulge in a hot shave while the rest enjoy skin treatments to make you glow and natural makeup to give your best features just the right accents, and then change on site and head out? That place is Reflexion Spa, and we may be new to Hinsdale but we are already your next favorite spot. Come see what you have been missing.

High Quality Full Service Spa In Hinsdale

Fri, 25 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Perhaps this is more of an announcement than a blog post...
Reflexion Spa was conceived of a goal to be the best independent, no nonsense spa in the Chicago area focused on core services and driven to perfection in delivery of the same to each of our customers. While we have been winning awards and are highly reviewed, we have learned quite a bit in the past three years by listening and valuing each of our customers while staying true to our core brand and identity as the only fix it spot. We have also learned how to not worry about those that try to imitate us, instead choosing to be flattered that others might (at least on the surface) share our vision of truly helping people.
So we are raising the bar, again. Over the past couple of years our customers have repeatedly asked us to apply our approach to providing even more service offerings. Keeping this in mind as we looked to open our second space, we finally settled on a location in Hinsdale. Located in historic downtown, the buildout is complete and we are open for business with an expanded range of services now offering not only the
best deep tissue and couples massages in Hinsdale along with
comprehensive acupuncture,
cupping and herbal medicines BUT we decided to make it a full service Aveda concept spa using natural products to offer
Full service Hair (cut, color, style),
Nails,
Lashes,
Facials, Wraps, Scrubs and believe it or not...Makeup...all at better pricing and more consistent quality than you will find anywhere else in the area.
This is all with the goal of truly being your one stop Fix It spot...see you soon!

Chicago Is One Of The World’s Angriest Cities: How To Feel Better Now

Fri, 26 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMT

With little surprise to many, Chicago was named as one of the world's angriest cities a few years ago by Men’s Health magazine. The magazine combined statistics for high blood pressure, traffic, speeding tickets, assault, and workplace deaths. Chicago came in eleventh. If you ask some Chicagoland citizens, you might get the impression that we’re actually first.

This survey poses an interesting question. Many of us aren’t able to move to a more relaxed city because of obligations to work and family. So how do we survive living in a place that is known for being an angry, stress-inducing environment?

Edit Your Life

The first step to feeling better is knowing which factors you can control and which you can’t. If you find yourself in an aggravating situation on a daily basis, you might have to make a serious effort to cut it out of your life. For example, if you absolutely hate your commute and find that it ruins your day several times a week, it might be time to consider switching either where you live or where you work to cut down on commute time.

Other factors are less rigid. If a certain subset of your friends frustrate you but you keep hanging out with them for some reason, make a conscious decision to either improve relations or get out of the friendship. There’s no reason to hang on to things that influence your life for the worse.

Stay Above It

Of course, there are also the things you can’t change about your life. With these, it’s important to come to terms with your situation and accept it as it is. At the same time, you should build some time in your day that is completely yours, when you can do whatever activity helps you decompress and recharge your batteries. Few people who get 30 minutes every day to do something they truly love, can say they’re unhappy with their life. Having this small block of time to yourself will help you prioritize aspects of the rest of your life, leaving you less angry and frustrated with modern urban existence!

The Top 10 Fitness Myths - Busted!

Tue, 04 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMT

We’ve all heard them, be it from our workout buddy at the gym or even (gasp!) a personal trainer...there’s certainly no shortage of fitness myths running loose out there. So let’s take a look at some of the worst culprits and start making that workout routine more effective!

1. Crunches will get rid of belly fat.

I think everyone is pretty happy to hear that thisone is a myth! I’ve never met anyone who enjoyed doing crunches.

While crunches will tone your stomach muscles, they won’t erase the layer of fat that is sitting atop them. So, you can do crunches until you can’t sit up anymore, but crunches alone won’t tone your belly for you.

Belly fat is often referred to as “toxic” fat, simply because it’s viewed as one of the hardest to get rid of. But in reality, belly fat is just simply fat, and ties in with your overall body fat percentage. Which is why there’s no way that…

2. Fat can be reduced in one area at a time.

This is directly connected to #1.

Having the appearance of a toned body is really all about one thing - body fat percentage. You can have the most toned muscles in the world, but if they’re hanging out under 25% body fat, nobody is ever going to be able to see them. In fact, you probably already have pretty toned muscles (or you’d have mighty big problems moving around), they’re just hiding out under your fat.

Interval and strength training can help in reducing overall body fat, but again, this really comes down to exercise and diet.

3. If you’re not sweating, you’re not working hard enough.

Put quite basically, quantity of sweat ≠ quality of workout.

Sweating is the human body’s cooling system. So if you’re sweating, all that means is that you’re hot, which can be influenced by any number of factors, such as what you’re wearing, the temperature of the environment, and what you were eating or drinking before your workout. Ever started sweating while eating some hot wings? Yeah, somehow that probably didn’t have anything to do with heavy lifting…

Burning calories can be accomplished in any variety of ways, and not all of them involve sweating. Exercises like light weight lifting and walking can be effective calorie burners without generating one bead of sweat.

4. Drinking water can help you drop weight.

Don’t get me wrong, water is great. It’s the number one thing that keeps our bodies running properly. But somehow, water has gained a reputation lately for all kinds of super powers it just does not have. And one of those is that it will help you lose weight.

Ever heard that drinking lots of water will help keep you from getting hungry? Or that drinking an obscene amount will actually cause you to lose pounds?

Unfortunately, it just isn’t true.

While rehydrating with water can help you lose a pound or two of water weight in the short term if you are extremely dehydrated, it cannot legitimately cause weight loss. However, replacing sugary sodas and fruit juices with water can definitely make a positive impact on your diet and help cut calorie intake.

5. Stretching before a workout is important to avoid injury.

Have you ever gone to the gym with a workout partner, and you head straight for the machines while they head for the stretching mats? You stop, scratch your head a little, and think to yourself, “am I doing something wrong?”

Many people believe that stretching before a workout warms you up and increases your range of motion. But while stretching after a workout can be important in maintaining flexibility, stretching before a workout can actually weaken the muscles, making you more prone to injury.

6. Cardio is better for weight loss than lifting.

Everyone is all about the cardio when it comes to dropping weight. But in reality, interval training and lifting weights is a much better way to reduce fat and shed pounds.

One of the biggest reasons? Muscle mass, pure and simple. The more muscle you maintain, the higher your metabolism and the more calories you’re burning everyday when you’re not exercising. So not only does strength training help to build more muscle, but it also is more responsible for pure fat loss when you’re doing it, whereas cardio will burn off both fat and muscle. Sounds a little counterproductive, doesn’t it?

7. I can eat whatever I want so long as I exercise.

Have you ever heard the phrase, “you are what you eat”? Well, it’s true, because about 80% of what you look like is based on what you’re eating. You can exercise day and night, but if you’re eating crap, that exercise will make little difference in your appearance.

Losing weight is all about math. Calories in MUST BE less than calories out. End of story. There’s no way around that equation, unless you have found some way to magically defy the laws of physics and thermodynamics.

So although exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle, if you’re looking to lose weight, diet should be the first thing going under the microscope.

8. Shakes are a great way to lose weight.

Most shakes contain ingredients that range from questionable to downright unhealthy, including cheap protein, lots of sugars, and chemicals, such as artificial sweeteners and dyes. Plus, shakes are almost completely ineffective for keeping you full. Real, diversified whole foods are better for your body and will do more for keeping you satiated.

There’s one more bonus to real food - it also takes more energy for your body to digest, therefore burning more calories and keeping your metabolism up!

9. If you’re a woman, weight training will bulk you up.

I’ve known very few men who look at a female body builder and say, “wow, that’s hot.” So of course, most women are scared that lifting will somehow bulk them up.

The truth is, women simply do not naturally possess the ability to bulk up in the way men do. Women have approximately 10 times less testosterone than the average man, which is necessary for that kind of natural muscle building.

So, unless the plan is to take testosterone supplements or steroids, women do not need to be concerned with bulking up.

10. Running will make you super fit.

Running seems to have become the Holy Grail of exercise. Folks are constantly talking about how they’re going to take up running and lose all this weight.

But really, the way human beings are built, we’re either meant to walk or to sprint short distances, and the art of “jogging” is actually detrimental to the body. This is especially true of women with wide hips, as the thigh creates a different angle between the knee and the hip.

The repetitive impact of long distance running is also notoriously bad for the knees, on just about anyone.

A better solution? Walking at a brisk, accelerated rate provides all the cardio benefits of running without the stress and impact. And if you’re looking to add some intensity to that workout, throw in a couple short bursts of sprinting during your walk.

Resources:

(Myself)

http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/top-9-fitness-myths-busted?page=2
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/tips/strategy/top-10-fitness-myths/
http://www.forbes.com/sites/jennagoudreau/2012/01/12/common-fitness-myths-health-well-being-lose-wei...

Boosting Your Immune System Before Flu Season

Tue, 04 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Blink once, and the summertime has passed, leaving cooler days and colorful foliage. Blink twice, and before you know it the chill of winter will be upon us, gusting in with snowy days and snuggly nights. Unfortunately, facing the approach of winter also means preparing for the return of flu season. But since we’re not quite into flu season yet, there’s plenty you can start doing to beef up that immune system!

Foods

odsGood old chicken noodle soup, right? Every time there’s a kid with a cold, there’s inevitably a mom who is force feeding that kid as much chicken noodle soup as he or she can take. Except that chicken noodle soup really does help in fighting off colds! In addition to containing electrolytes, it has anti-inflammatory and mucus reducing properties that make it an ideal food when you’re under the weather. Interestingly, some say that if you’re looking to stop a cold before it starts, you should hold off on the chicken soup and switch to tomato. Other foods that can ward off sickness include Chamomile tea, oats, and chili peppers. And of course, always of utmost importance, remember to keep your body hydrated with plenty of water!

Supplements

Supplements are probably the most obvious way to boost immunity. And within that most obvious way are the most obvious supplements, the ones that you’ve heard about every single time you’ve ever gotten sick: Vitamin C and Zinc. Granted, those are classically great. Yet there are some incredible immune boosters out there that are just starting to make a name for themselves. Colostrum, a form of mother’s milk that contains antibodies which protect against disease, and Elderberry extract, a supplement used for its antioxidant properties and activity against viruses/influenza, are both exceptionally beneficial for boosting the immune system.

Exercise

While experts aren’t entirely sure on the why, studies have found that exercise can help ward off infections. Theories on this range from the increased rate of circulation during activity helping white blood cells to find and identify invaders more quickly, to the rise in body temperature acting like a miniature fever and preventing bacterial growth. The one time that exercise should never be attempted is when you suspect you might be catching a bug or are already fighting one off. This is because when you are sick or coming down with something, your body needs to be able to put all of its energy into combating whatever is attacking it. The extra stress of a workout that can be so beneficial when you’re healthy now just becomes an additional drain on your body’s resources, possibly prolonging or intensifying your illness. So if you’re already feeling under the weather, skip the workouts for a while.

Cupping Therapy

A practice centered around the ancient Chinese beliefs of energies and chis, cupping therapy is a natural, relaxing, and non-invasive detoxification technique that places small cups, usually made of rubber or glass, at different keys areas of the body. The cups are then suction sealed, creating a vacuum that forces an increase in blood flow and draws toxins stored in tissue around the body. It is only once those toxins have been flushed out that they can be properly disposed of. The increased flow of blood and energy also results in a stronger physical body, boosting immunity and helping to combat infection.

De-stressing

Nothing can wear the body’s immune systems down faster than stress. Stress affects the body in so many negative ways, such as keeping you up all night (sleep deprivation is a sure way to find yourself coming down with something). If you’re leading a stressful life, you’re running a much higher risk for contracting an illness, not to mention the other bad effects that come with stress. So as flu season approaches, make sure you’re taking plenty of time for yourself to unwind. Ensure you’re setting aside time to practice the recreational activities you enjoy and perhaps learn some relaxation techniques. Did you and your significant other have a rough week at work? Maybe the weekend is a great time to go and get a couples massage. But whatever you need to do for yourself, keep those stress levels down! Do you have any favorite tips or tricks for boosting your immune system? Share in the comments below!

Not Your Typical Happy Ending

Tue, 14 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMT

We’ve heard many people talk about “happy endings” at the end of a massage. Shady massage “parlors” are to blame, as places that use massage as a cover-up for their illegal activities. The practice not only gives the ancient art of massage a bad name, it leads to quite a few uncomfortable moments when legitimate massage therapists are surprised by quick-draw clients who assume all massage is of the parlor variety.

As a spa that likes to do its job well, we wanted to address this issue and tell you about all the legitimate benefits of massage.

Massage is technically considered alternative medicine, but many studies have been done that reflect very real changes in the well-being of the massage recipient. Which is to say, that by the end of a massage, you might find that:

Your Anxiety Levels Have Dropped.
You Have Less Lower Back Pain Than When You Started.
You Have Less Pain From Osteoarthritis.
You Sleep Better.
Your Blood Pressure Has Declined.
If You Received Massage For An Injury, You Have Less Pain While Healing.
You Will Have A Stronger Immune System To Fight Off Diseases.
You Feel Less Depressed Than When You Came In.
You Have Less Likelihood Of Getting A Migraine.
You Have Reduced PMS Symptoms.
You Have Increased Alertness For The Rest Of The Day.
If You Are Receiving Cancer Treatment, Many Negative Side Effects Have Been Ameliorated.
You Have Healthier, Younger-Looking Skin.
Have Increased Joint Flexibility.
Your Muscles Will Recover Faster When Receiving A Massage Post-Workout.
You Feel Happier, Due To Increased Serotonin And Dopamine In Your Brain.

With a roster like that, it’s no wonder that people seem to be so happy walking out of our massage studio!

Resources:
http://annals.org/article.aspx?articleid=747008
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/12/061212091936.htm
http://www6.miami.edu/touch-research/AdultMassage.html
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S027322970500033X
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18315504

Post Marathon / Triathlon / Mud Run Massage

Tue, 14 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Marathons take a toll on your body. We won’t even go into mud runs, with their barbed electrical wire, fire pits, and extreme physical demands. Next time you are training for a high-endurance event, consider utilizing the regenerative power of massage to help you recover faster, avoid soreness, and perform at your personal best.

Why does massage help with muscle recovery? All vigorous exercise creates tiny tears in the muscles being used. Your immune system then kicks in, drawing blood to the muscle and attempting to repair it. Massage has been proven to both reduce inflammation-causing compounds called cytokines, and to increase mitochondrial biogenesis. What that means to you – less soreness, faster recovery, and no need to battle inflammation with conventional anti-inflammatory drugs.

According to a study done on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), the ideal time to receive a massage is approximately two and a half hours after you have finished exercising. Of course, not everyone can hit this time frame, which is ok. Many marathons now have brief massages (around 15 mins.) available on-site after the race, at a very affordable cost, but if you squeeze in a visit to Reflexion Spa for a massage within 24 hours of finishing the event, you can avoid some of the soreness and shorten the recovery time you need to get back to peak performance.

Acupuncture For Osteoarthritis

Thu, 09 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Just a quick note -
The link below is the article published by NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information). It is a government-funded national resource for molecular biology information. The research paper is technical, but it is a good reference to share on the blog for someone who wants scientific study on the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4158087/
Pain management with acupuncture in osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Conclusions

The use of acupuncture is associated with significant reductions in pain intensity, improvement in functional mobility and quality of life. While the differences are not as great as shown by other reviews, current evidence supports the use of acupuncture as an alternative for traditional analgesics in patients with osteoarthritis.

What Are The Benefits Of Massage For Desk Workers?

Tue, 16 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Since about 1960 America has seen a sharp decline in the number of people who are getting some kind of physical activity at their jobs.

Roughly 80 percent of people today are getting little or no activity at their jobs, and most of those people are spending their days sitting at a desk, staring at a computer.

Maybe that majority is no longer in danger of losing a limb to a massive machine or being buried alive in a coal mine, but office workers deal with their own physical challenges in today’s society.

Briefly, the most characteristic problem areas for desk workers include:

A Stiff Neck Or Neck Pain
Soreness In The Shoulders
Lower Back Pain
Aching Hips
Sore Wrists/Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Headaches & Migraines

If you’re a desk worker or somebody who sits for more than six hours a day on a regular basis, I’m sure you’ve experienced some or all of these symptoms in your life so far.

So the real question now is, how can these problem areas be addressed? And more to the point, how can the long term effects be removed from the equation?

Well, there’s always the quick fix route in a glass of wine after work or, heaven forbid, those nasty over-the-counter meds. But none of those solutions are going to truly address the problem, they’ll just hide the symptoms.

There are also various stretches and exercises that can be done both at and away from one’s desk to help in combating these issues in the long term, not to mention standing up at least once an hour and getting some moderate exercise every day. These can help to combat the issues in small ways and in moving forward, but won’t be as effective in changing negative patterns that are already developing.
Therefore, let’s finally take a look at the most fantastic option for relieving some of these issues and stopping them from coming back, which is - you guessed it - through the wonderful art of massage. Massage is a long proven art form that has been in existence since some of the ancient civilizations such as China and Egypt.

Just to help make the point, a list of the major long term benefits of regular massage include:

A Reduction Of Pain
Increased Movement & Mobility
Improvement In Posture
Stimulation Of Blood Flow To Various Muscle Groups
Relief Of Stress
A Boost In Focus & Concentration
Prevention Of Future Pain

So what do you think, are you ready to fix up that tired body?

Usually the term body shop refers to a fix it spot for your car, but what about your body? Put yourself (literally) in the hands of Reflexion Spa, we’ve got just the ticket to fix you right up after those endless long days crammed behind your desk.

Whether you’re feeling a full body swedish massage something a little stronger in the deep tissue variety, why not let us entice you with a browse through our very reasonably priced options for a massage? Any of our treatments are guaranteed to leave you finally feeling untangled and unwound!

The Top 5 Qualities That Make A Great Massage Therapist

Tue, 02 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

What’s the first thing you think of when the idea of a massage therapist comes to mind?

All variety of references to masseuses are woven throughout popular culture. Phoebe Buffay’s flaky character on Friends was probably one of the best known portrayals, especially after she gets fired for kissing a client, who later turns out to be married.

And of course, we’ve all been subject to the jokes about the “back room” or “happy ending” massage parlors.

But really, what are some of the traits that make for a great massage therapist? There are some key points you should be paying attention to when you go in for your next rub down to determine if you’re getting the best experience possible.

The Ability to Create a Relaxing Atmosphere

Any good therapist will have the ability to make their clients feel at ease and comfortable in their surroundings. Obviously, if you’re going to be stripping down, relaxing your muscles, and releasing your stress, the environment you’re in better be conductive to that.

A competent massage therapist will be able to accomplish that, not only with the physical surroundings they have, but simply with their manner and personality as well.

The Talent for Making A Connection

Does your massage therapist talk to you before your session? Do they ask about your preferences and what areas are in need of attention?

The lines of communication are vital between client and therapist. And this is a communication that goes in both directions, as it helps set a base for expectations on subjects like pressure, areas that will be worked on, an understanding of restrictions, etc.

A truly great massage therapist will also develop an innate rapport with their client, making it faster and easier for them to find exactly where the problem areas are without always needing specific direction.

A Vast knowledge of Human Physiology

How can a policeman go somewhere to stop a crime if he can’t find the neighborhood?

The idea is the same with a therapist. In the course of their certification they will have learned not only a variety of techniques, but gained a thorough understanding of how the human body is put together.

It should go without saying that a talented therapist will continue to maintain a solid understand of human anatomy. The muscles in our bodies, their locations, and the way they connect to one another all make a big difference in the effectiveness of a massage.

Experienced Using Proper & Varied Techniques

Again, this is a part of the certification process. But the therapistneeds to be putting what they’ve learned to the test in their daily practice, always learning from each individual client and adapting their methods accordingly.

They also should be keeping up their repertoire up to date on the wide variety of techniques available in massage and always remain cognizant of what options will be best for each different person who comes through their doors.

Physical Strength and Manual Dexterity

I think everyone has had the experience of someone, professional or not, trying to be helpful with a massage and you’re thinking, “are you actually doing anything back there?!”

A layperson may not know it, but administering a massage can be a complex and physically challenging process. It’s necessary for a therapist to have a reservoir of physical strength (for working out those really tough knots!) and the dexterity to perform what can be complicated maneuvers to ensure the client is getting the attention he or she needs to problem areas.

Top 4 Male Health Myths

Tue, 12 Aug 2014 00:00:00 GMT

The world is awash with a plethora of health and lifestyle tips floating around gym locker rooms; found in the latest supermarket rag with the hot celebrity couple on the cover that spends half their days in the gym and the other half sponsoring the latest health craze, and of course the blogosphere where anyone with a keyboard can express their ‘expertise’. It should come as no surprise then that while some tips are truly pearls of wisdom so many others are of dubious origin. To boot, new scientific studies are constantly changing the consensus on what they deem “healthy”. For these reasons, it can be a full time job just trying to keep up with what you should and should not be doing...who has time for that?!? In our soundbite smartphone always on society we only have time for bits of information, so perhaps you will find these bits of interest.

1. Restricting calories is enough to lose weight.

We marked this number one because it has been a popular slinky statement since long before Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons were competing for the most stylish leg warmers (ugh). Newsflash in case you haven’t heard, not all calories are created the same, so calorie counting has largely been discredited as a means to getting in shape. Instead, just focus on eating healthy, non-processed foods and your body will thank you. Did you catch the most important piece in that last cliche statement you have heard or read hundreds of times? Non-processed is the key.

2. You should avoid saturated fats.

This myth was popular when the American Heart Association blamed saturated fats for cardiovascular disease. Since then, scientists agree that some saturated fat improves heart health, along with improving brain and immune health. Don’t take our word for it, google TIME: Eat Butter. Oh, and by the way...margarine is NOT butter.

3. You should eat all the protein you can.

Men who work out and want to build muscle are constantly being told they need to up their protein intake, but it is a fact that the body can only process only 1 gram of protein per pound of lean body mass per day. Anything above that is converted into fat. To make it worse, much of the protein powders have more sugar per serving than many sodas, so it is no wonder so many gym rats are walking around with big arms and a beer belly.

4. Eggs are bad for your heart.

Eggs went out of favor around the same time as saturated fats, and the sciences have made a 180 degree turn on this superfood as well. In fact, eggs are one of the most nutrient rich foods on the planet, offering plenty of protein, healthy fats, and over 10 other valuable nutrients.

Remember, before deciding to follow the next men’s health tip you hear, use common sense and do some research on the Internet and maybe even ask a doctor you trust to determine if it has credibility

Herbal Consultation And Treatment

Wed, 18 Jun 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Reflexion Spa has had several inquiries from our customers related to herbal treatment...both around continuing treatments or starting, and sometimes out of frustration with current medications or just curiosity. So with that in mind, maybe you are in a hurry or just dislike the idea of acupuncture needles in your body? Maybe you are tired of spending so much time at the pharmacy and taking pill after pill that produces marginal results. If you are fed up then maybe a regimen of Chinese herbal formulas is for you.

The use of Chinese herbal formulas has a rich history and tradition. Together with acupuncture, herbal formulas are a major pillar of Chinese medicine.

Herbs are prescribed according to your specific needs and the exact nature of the imbalances underlying your issues. It is for this reason that a detailed health assessment is necessary. After a thorough evaluation and consultation, your practitioner would prescribe the herbal formula that is tailored to your condition.

At Reflexion Spa, we use granulated herbs, which are highly concentrated powdered extracts. Practitioners can then mix one or more herbal formula powders together for each patient into a custom formula. The powder is then placed in hot water to recreate the decoction. This eliminates the need to prepare the herbs at home, but still retains much of the original decoction's potency.

Chinese herbal formulas are safe and can be quite effective. Side effects are extremely rare when taken as prescribed. In fact, the most commonly used formulas have been used successfully for thousands of years. We recommend herbs to many of our patients because they can increase the effectiveness of acupuncture and massage treatments in many cases decreasing required treatment time or frequency.

Ultimately the choice is up to you...stick with the synthetic meds from big pharma that fix one thing, break 5 others and have a cautions and disclaimers list so long it wouldn't fit on a roll of paper towels...or exploring a a more natural path of health many have been following for centuries.

Oil Pulling? Really?...Well...Yes...And Other Things As Well...

Fri, 28 Mar 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Here in Chicago there is a lucky group of individuals that know we have the best massage in Chicago, and many of them know either by direct participation or by observation that our acupuncturists are top notch...but then there are the less mainstream things Reflexion offers that are oddly enough considered cutting edge but may have been 'hiding' in plain sight for decades or even centuries. Things like cupping and herbal medicine...If there are any doubts about the validity of this I invite you to research how many of our modern medicines originated from truly ancient practices and concoctions found in Asia and South America (check out aspirin for a good read).

This brings us to things like Oil Pulling. It's been around forever, supposedly from another ancient Indian tribal practice as part of Ayurvedic medicine...whatever the origin you won't find the folks here at Reflexion touting near the list of benefits that some say swishing with coconut or sesame oil bring. However, there are things that do in fact work to some benefit and can't be explained or marketed well by the greater medical community so they end up being the subject of a full court press to discredit...while I am all for reality, the reality is NOT whatever soundbite news brings nor is it fact because it was heavily marketed in a certain way or because the FDA or some group of stuff shirt politicos want to make their opinions fact. Perhaps having a more open mind isn't such a bad thing...who knows, it may just make you a better more healthy person. Besides...everything we read on the internet is true...right (ugh) ;-)

So back to Oil Pulling...everyone has an opinion so here are our thoughts - we have known for years that the bacteria count in a human mouth is typically several times worse than dogs (yes, really), and with all of the alcohol based rinses and other foods that dry out the mouth or get stuck between teeth it isn't surprising most wake up with yuck mouth. Coconut copra and the refined resultant oil product are high in saturated fat while sesame oil is high in nutritional content. Saturated fats have lubrication and absorption qualities and everyone knows (yes, still...really) that naturally occurring vitamin and mineral compounds are more readily absorbed in the body than refined nutritional products (similar to bioidentical versus synthetic hormone replacement...the body is predisposed to more readily utilize naturally occurring products).

Will it cause any harm to chew on coconut oil or swish sesame oil? Probably not unless you have some obscure allergy...and in fact there probably are some minor benefits in our opinion likely due to either practice working to balance pH and normalize flora. As for the teeth whitening claims...your teeth are porous...you fill in and shine them with any kind of oil (even lard) and they will likely appear whiter. Does this practice cure major diseases? The big pharma community would like you to believe nothing but pills work, and they fund billion dollar studies to kill any other ideas. Just because something doesn't overtly cure cancer

Taking that into account, if the eyes are windows to the soul, the mouth is the window to health, and the healthier the mouth (typically) the healthier the individual attached to it. Next to your skin, the mouth is one of the top ways your body takes in both good and bad. There are several scientifically proven correlations between gum disease and overall health so, perhaps having healthier gums leads to a healthier mouth which leads to a healthier you...

As with all things seek balance and it will be to your benefit. Cheers to a healthier, better informed you!

Great Ways To Get Started On Your Path To Better Fitness

Wed, 19 Mar 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you're training for your next obstacle course race or just looking to get into better shape, there are things you can do in your everyday activities. Obstacle races are fun activities but the better conditioned you are the more fun you can have. The following are some great ways to get started on your path to better fitness.

For balance you can tie your shoes while standing on one leg, stand on the bus or train without holding on and riding a bike with no hands. For enhanced upper body strength you can do curls with your groceries, try some chair dips, and jump on the monkey bars the next time you pass a park. You're never too old. For core strength and resistance try to stand up from chairs without your hands, take a break and do a 30 second plank, and wear a pair of heavy boots while you're walking through some snow or mud. For flexibility you can do some dancing or draw the letters of the alphabet with your wrists and ankles. For lower body strength you can do squats or lunges while waiting for the bus, plant a garden, or even play some leap frog with a friend. Cardio can be jogging instead of just walking the dog. Mowing the lawn and racing a baby by crawling on the floor can help overall strength.

Eastern Vs. Western Medicine: Some Facts

Wed, 13 Nov 2013 00:00:00 GMT

If you found your way here, you must be at least a little bit curious about Eastern medicine. In the US, where Western medicine and big pharma are the industry standard, this puts you in the minority.

Some Western medicine proponents try to discredit Eastern medicine by referring to the obscure aspects of the latter: ying yang, Qi energy, etc. The thing is you don’t actually have to commit to believing in all the details of Eastern medicine to give it a try and let it change your life. At its root, Eastern medicine is holistic, mindful way of living that attempts to keep the entire body continuously healthy instead of treating various symptoms of illness as they show up.

For some time, Eastern ideas have started making their way into the subconscious mind of the West. For example, the idea has finally sunk in (for some) that illnesses like heart disease and diabetes are caused primarily by chronically unhealthy lifestyle choices. With rates of lower back pain skyrocketing, offices are paying more attention to ergonomic postures. Yoga and massage studios are helping modern urban professionals de-stress from their increasingly hectic lives.

If you’ve become disappointed with the “quick fixes” of Western medicine, it might be time to give something else a try. To start, begin to think about your health in holistic terms: everything you put into your body, the way you view your life, even the way you treat others can have long lasting effects on your health. Stay conscious of your overall wellness level: the key is not only to not feel sick, but to have an actual, active sense of well-being every day of your life.

How Massage Can Relieve Seasonal Allergies

Mon, 14 Oct 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As the seasons change yet again, one in five Americans suffers from at least moderate allergy symptoms. Most US residents rely on over-the-counter or prescription medications to control their seasonal allergies. These drugs help to alleviate the symptoms, but usually have some unwanted side effects of their own.

What many people fail to consider is that massage can help with many of the symptoms of seasonal allergies, without any of the negative side effects associated with drugs. Reducing stress and increasing circulation are key to making you feel better quickly, and massage does just that.

Stress can worsen allergy symptoms by increasing your body’s production of histamines: the chemicals your body makes in reaction to the allergen, which in turn create the negative symptoms you experience. Lowering stress through massage or other means will decrease your production of histamines, essentially decreasing your body’s reaction to the allergen and lessening your overall allergies, at least for a time.

The increased circulation that massage delivers also helps, by clearing out your sinuses. Other massage techniques, particularly ones that focus on lymphatic draining, can also help. These specialized techniques work to enhance the movement of white blood cells and lymphatic fluid around your body, getting them to the areas where they are needed most.

If you’re not ready for a lifestyle change, continue taking your medicine while you try out the massage method. If you feel noticeably better, you might be able to ditch the medicine, and the nasty side effects, and trust your body to the powers of massage therapy instead.

3 Very Healthy Reasons To Make A Massage Appointment Today

Mon, 14 Oct 2013 00:00:00 GMT

If you’re still on the fence about trying massage as a cure for most of your daily ills, here are three very healthy reasons why you should make the call today:

Beat Anxiety and Stress, Promote Alertness

Studies have actually proven a link between massage and decreased levels of the stress hormone cortisol. After a massage, you will feel better, less stressed, and more alert. If you suffer from seasonal depression (especially during Chicago’s eternal winters), you might find that massage helps those feelings under control. Last but not least, because cortisol has been linked to weight gain, massage might be a valuable tool towards helping you maintain a healthy weight.

Decrease Your Pain Levels

According to Time.com, 80% of Americans will experience intense back pain at some time in their lives. More than 37 million American suffer from migraines. In all, serious chronic pain affects 116 million, or one third of Americans every year.

If you suffer from any chronic pain condition, chances are there is a type of massage out there that can help to reduce your pain and increase your quality of life without having to resort to medications and their side effects.

Improve Your Sleep

Sleep is the body’s way of repairing and rebooting itself. Most people in today’s fast-paced world can use a little more sleep, but few have the time for the recommended full eight hours. Even more people suffer from intermittent or unsound sleep, which leaves them chronically tired and in-alert.

If you’ve ever drifted off on a massage table, you know how easy massage makes it to fall asleep. That is because massage has been linked to an increase in delta brain waves, which promote the kind of deep sleep that the body needs most.