Ice therapy
Ice therapy has been hotly tipped as a spa trend of 2012 by Spa Finder. Cold and ice therapies are proven to reduce pain and inflammation in muscles and joints, hence why ice baths and treatments are so popular with athletes. Now spa-goers can feel the benefits too! Ice and cold release endorphins which in turn create a positive mood, eliminating pain. Hot/cold contrast treatments are also seeing more prominent marketing. It is well known that heat, say a sauna or steam room, opens pores to rid the skin of impurities. Hot treatments should therefore be followed by cold/ice rooms or treatments such as a plunge pool or ice bucket. The cold closes the pores so your skin is left clean and fresh and free of impurities.
The calorie-burning benefits of ice therapy are widely discussed too. When compared to a normal temperature treatment, some suggest that ice therapy forces the body to burn a larger number of calories as you work harder to keep your body warm. So we’ve heard about the benefits and the unusually mild weather at the moment is making ice treatments even more appealing, here’s some to consider:
The Glacial Shell Detox Massage, £55 for 55 mins, available in a selection of leading spas and salons across the UK including The Sanctuary. sharedbeautysecrets.com.
This is the ultimate development in ice therapy that targets two problem areas: the stomach and the legs. It tackles congestion problem areas and stimulates the lymphatic system to encourage the body’s own natural purification. The therapeutic combination of hot Lava Shells and cold Glacial Shells creates the ultimate contrast, promoting wellness and balance. The combination of hot and cold pressure on sensory points, aids the breakdown of fatty tissues, stimulates a sluggish circulation, and moves uncomfortable build up in the digestive system. Water retention is banished leaving customers feeling less bloated and with a flatter stomach almost instantly.
This massage also acts as a natural colonic and is ideal for weight loss programmes in conjunction with a healthy eating plan and exercise, as well as easing emotional stress, IBS and menstrual cramps.
The Ice Cube Facial at Blythswood Square, blythswoodsquare.com.
The Anne Sémonin Age Defying Cryotherapy Facial incorporates a firming eye treatment and promises to leave your skin feeling youthful and radiant. This hour-and-a-half facial focuses on lymph drainage massage in a bid to remove toxins. You will then be treated to a head massage and then it’s time for the grand finale – cryotherapy. Express Radiance Ice Cubes, made with spring water, evening primrose oil and red algae, are gently massaged onto the skin. The cold temperature feels strangely soothing, and it helps wake you up after feeling so sleepy throughout the treatment. Cryotherapy is billed as a natural alternative to Botox and it is great for clearing toxins.