What is SPA?
SPA is derived from a Latin phrase “ SANUS PER AQUAM” , “ health by or through water “. Spa is a therapeutic center where people experience a boost in their physical and mental health through body therapy treatments, sauna, steam, jacuzzi and massage therapy. Moreover, skin beautifying treatments such as facials, removal of dead skins and blackheads as well as hair treatments are other services provided in SPA. Overall, SPA enables people to maintain a balance in their physical, mental and spiritual health.
In the modern society, at the midst of hectic and busy working schedule, people lack time and attention to their own physical and mental health. It is found that therapeutic spa services reduce the need of pharmaceutical/ medical treatments and frequent doctor appointments. Researches suggest that about 80 % of recurring issues of muscles, nerves and ligaments in human body are treated by therapeutic SPA. Problems such as stiff muscles, blocked nerves and joint problems are treated with sauna, steam therapy and massage therapy. At the same time, mental distress, anxiety and depression can be treated with meditation/ music therapy.
On contrary, Spa is not well received in our community in Nepal. Along with healthy diet and exercise, SPA activities like body healing for aches and pains through therapeutic massages, sauna and steam are equally important to keep us healthy, fit and younger.
: : History of SPA
To understand the significance of SPA, It is important how it emerged from the past.
In the 13th century, Roman soldiers , after a long tiring day of war arrived in a city called SPA in modern Belgium. They found few ponds with hot spring water riches with minerals. They dived into it. After spending sometime inside the warm and relaxing natural spring water with lots of minerals, they got refreshed and eenergized. Thereafter, the Roman businessmen expanded services like water treatment adding with Sauna and Steam bath parallel with body massage services which became quite popular in European countries. Later on, American copied business adding other facilities like skin care, and hairstyling services in spa.
Spa services not only help to cure physical issues but also body massage treatments increase many hormones such as serotonin and dopamine in the body which assist people in treating mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
In western society, going to SPA has become their everyday life to feel rejuvinated and reactivated. A minute of money spent in SPA for your own body and health is well established to help people in performing better in whatever work that they do.