The article below presents combinations of therapies, ingredients and/or special techniques used by North American spas in this segment.
Massages in general can be beneficial for sleep as they induce a general state of relaxation. "The pressure and soothing techniques used in massage can help relieve muscle tension, calm the nervous system and create a state of tranquility. This state can facilitate relaxation and comfort, preparing people for deep rest"says Jacqueline Berry, spa and wellness director at Miraval Resorts & Spas.
A popular massage at CIVANA Wellness Resort and Spa of Carefree, Arizona, is Unwind-Aromatherapy Massage. This massage uses a blend of lavender, green mandarin and chamomile to relax the nervous system and calm the mind, combined with slow, rhythmic movements. The treatment is designed to engage the parasympathetic nervous system, relaxing it and restoring homeostasis, thus allowing better sleep.
Following feedback from guests, the location Miraval Berkshires in Lenox, Massachusetts, has developed Sweet Slumber Massage, which combines aromatherapy, acupressure and tapping techniques. "This includes a neck and shoulder massage, rhythmic rocking movements and the use of relaxing lavender oil. Warm towels soaked in magnesium are also used. This treatment differs from a traditional massage by integrating these specialized techniques and soothing elements, specifically designed to support a deeply restful experience"Berry added.
The Sagestone Spa at the Red Mountain Resort in St. George, Utah, offers a unique massage called Sleep Tonic Massage, which includes, at the end, Tibetan bowls to calm the mind and induce a meditative state. Tibetan bowls, originating in the Himalayas, are used for various purposes, including spirituality and relaxation. "Sound is a pressure wave; this wave penetrates the body, helping to release tension and emotional blockages, quickly inducing a deep state of relaxation"explained Howard-May, noting that the treatment can be combined with acupuncture.
Another option offered by Miraval Berkshires is Hara Soother, which combines massage with a focus on the abdominal area, scalp and reflex points, along with guided breathing techniques and dry lymphatic lymphatic brushing. "This treatment helps balance the body, stimulates digestion and supports mental clarity, promoting deep relaxation and a stronger connection with the inner self."
The Ethos Day Spa, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, treatment Herbal Sleep Cocoon lasts 90 minutes and includes sound therapy, organic body exfoliation and massage. The client is wrapped in a body butter cocoon, a unique relaxing and healing experience. Jeka Henderson, spa coordinator, explained that the treatment is one of the few of its kind in the US, based on a protocol developed by Voya, an Irish organic skincare company.
"This treatment combines wellness and massage techniques, both designed to decompress and relax the mind and body, promoting a state of calm and inner peace. The client's senses are stimulated in different ways, each inducing a state of deep relaxation and releasing tense muscles"Henderson said. The treatment includes deep breaths to stimulate the sense of smell, followed by the application of a body butter, scalp massage and exposure to the sounds of Tibetan singing bowls.
In the future, the spa plans to introduce a CBD facial oil for sleep. "I think it will become very popular. We are moving towards more wellness-oriented treatments and sleep is essential for health and well-being"Henderson added.
Given the prevalence insomnia in the working population and the proven benefits of targeted spa treatments, it is in everyone's interest for spas to develop more complex services to improve sleep.
Source: wellspa360.com
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