Wellness Lexicon

S-Z

Schroth Treatments

The Schroth health treatment was developed 160 years ago by Johann Schroth in Austria. This treatment combines a pack, a change in diet and alternating drink versus “dry” days. By alternating the days when you drink fluids, this treatment detoxifies the body. For the same purpose low-fat, low-protein and low-salt food is eaten to stimulate the circulation.



Serail Bath

After a short warm-up phase in a Hamam, a mud pack is applied to the body. Once the pack is dry, you relax in a steam bath and let the mud pack become moist again before rinsing the mud off with warm water. This treatment will leave your skin feeling soft and supple (see also Rasul Bath).Shi meaning "finger" and atsu meaning "pressure" is a Japanese treatment with roots in traditional Chinese medicine. According to TCM humans are determined by energy, which flows along meridians in the body. If this energy is in balance the human feels good; if the energy flow is blocked the human feels unwell, can begin to show symptoms and eventually fall ill.

Shiatsu

In Shiatsu the energy flow can be felt and stimulated by gentle pressure from the fingers, palms, elbows and knees. The objective is an unobstructed flow of energy. Patients who have tried the treatment say it is refreshing - relaxing and healing - inspiriting, their self healing powers are stimulated and strengthened. Shiatsu is preventive and works against disruptions and sickness and supports the health; in addition to this Shiatsu can be used together with or as a support to other therapies. Shiatsu is practiced in calm, fluid movements on a soft mat on the ground.

Soma Bodywork

The basis of SOMA Neuromuscular Integration is the life work of Dr. Ida Rolf. The founder of SOMA Bodywork is Dr. Bill Williams,   Dr. Ida Rolf’s assistant.  SOMA creates physical changes through manipulation of the fascia (connective tissue around the muscles which give them their shape).  Over time, this fascia—as the result of age, injury or stress—tends to glue together, preventing muscles from moving freely and independently. The treatment  structurally balances the body in gravity and integrates the nervous system to allow more freedom of movement and spontaneity.

    

Spa

It is often suggested that the word is an acronym of various Latin phrases such as "Sanus Per Aquam" meaning "health through water".  Today’s spa resorts, wellness centers, clinics wellness hotels are devoted to enhancing overall well-being through a variety of professional services that encourage the renewal of mind, body and spirit, offering everything from thermal water and Kneipp treatments  to fun water parks.

 The term "spa" has become the international symbol for whirlpools, saunas, swimming pools, steam baths, beauty farms and wellness centers. This word is derived from the name of the tiny town of , where, since times, illnesses were treated with spring water.

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a soft style, meditative martial art that has been practiced in Asia for thousands of years for finding harmony between body, mind and soul.
As an introduction to Tai Chi, the “circle of the 5 elements”, which was created by  Al-Huang Chung Liang, is a very simple form that is perfect for beginners. You will undergo new physical experiences with Tai Chi, which in the long-term will bring about a feeling of sensibility and self-awareness that wasn’t there before. The physical and spiritual relaxation positively influences the feeling of general health and well-being.

Tecaldarium

The term Tecaldarium® is a compound word created from Tepidarium and Caldarium. The Tecaldarium® is a warm room with a variety of baths that the user can choose from. You choose whichever climate, temperature and bath you would like.

Tepidarium

Relaxation room with warm benches made of stone, ceramic or marble. The tepidarium was the warm (tepidus) bathroom of the ancient Roman baths which gives you a feeling of health and well-being. Since the room temperature is close to the average body temperature, you can stay in Tepidarium longer. The warmth produces a type of “healthy” fever that strengthens the immune system without affecting the circulation. The Tepidarium is used for prevention and well-being and offers the ideal setting for relaxation and regeneration for the young and old.

Tepidarium:
- Room temperatures between 30 and 40°C
- Room climate: dry
- Ideal for regeneration and strengthening the immune system
- Used for preventing and healing illnesses
- Recommended time of use: 30 min. to unlimited use, 2-3 x weekly

Thalassotherapy

Thalassotherapy (from the Greek word thalassos, meaning "sea") is the medical use of seawater. For more than 2000 years, it has been known that the properties of seawater have beneficial effects on the pores of the skin. Even in ancient times, water was used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and sciatica.Trace elements of magnesium, potassium, calcium sulphates and sodium, found in seawater, are believed to be absorbed through the skin. 

The therapy exists in various forms, as either showers of warmed seawater, application of marine mud or of algae paste, or the inhalation of sea fog. Spas make hot seawater and provide mud and seaweed wrapping services. These are thought to boost the body's blood and lymph circulation, accelerating the metabolism and promoting the elimination of toxins. The jets of water pummel tension from the back and shoulders.

Thalassotherapy is often used purely as a detoxifier. But it is said to be effective in treating all kinds of conditions including eczema, psoriasis, back and muscular pain, arthritis and stress. As the metabolism is improved, this can lead to weigh loss and a reduction in cellulite. Typically, the treatment will involve immersion in a warm sea water bath while being massaged by pressurized jets. The sea water is maintained at body temperature, which is believed to allow mineral ions to pass into the blood and toxins to leave it.  Note: not recommended for people with high blood pressure, thyroid hyperfunction, iodine allergy or circulatory problems.

Thalgo Cosmetics

Famous algae cosmetics, based on Thalasso treatments, which  contain micro-pulverized algae extracts.

Tyrolean Stone Oil

The oil shale in Tyrol is over 180 million years old, from which Tyrolean stone oil is extracted. The shale is made of ancient meditteranean fossils. When the Alps came to being (the Bächen Valley area - Karwendel, Lake Achen, Tyrol), these fossils were transported along with the earth’s movements up to 1800 meters above sea level. The oil extracted from the shale has an active ingredient that stems from ancient sea animals and plants. Ths stone oil is used in oil packs and baths and to treat joint and skin problems.

Tui Na Massage

Tui na, a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM),  is a hands-on-body treatment using acupressure for the purpose of restoring the body’s balance.  The practitioner may brush, knead, roll/press and rub the areas between each of the joints to open the body's defensive (wei) chi and get the energy moving in both the meridians and the muscles. The practitioner can then use range of motion, traction and massage with the stimulation of acupressure points and to treat both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as many non-musculoskeletal conditions.

Tui na can have the following positive effects:
· Releases blockades (relieves pain)
· Activates free flowing Qi energy  and improves circulation
· Mobilizes joints (improves flexibility).
· Regulates Yin and Yang and cold/warmth throughout the body (esp. effective in reducing stress)
· Supports the energy in the liver (strengthens bones and tendons)
· Supports the spleen (improved feeling of well-being)
· Ideal skin care (cosmetics)
· Harmonizes overall health

Vapozon

Vapozone is a steam device for facial skincare. Warm steam is blown on the face to open the pores – it’s like a steam bath, but only for the face. By targeting the facial area, the steam deeply cleanses the skin and opens pores easily. Impurities disappear much more quickly and easily. Vapozone is almost always included in facial beauty treatments.  The latest development is the addition of herbal sachets, which have a relaxing effect on the body and soul. 

Vinotherapy

Originating in France, this treatment has positive effects on the circulation, blood flow, immune system and metabolism. Baths, grape marc packs, massages with grape seed oil and cosmetic treatments will bring your body into shape. Cold-drawn grape seed oil has been used in health-oriented diets for many centuries. It has about 90% non-saturated fatty acids, 70% essential linoleic acid and biological active agents with Procyanidin. Grape seeds are about 10,000 times more effective against free radicals like vitamin E.  The free radicals are what cause the skin to become wrinkled and  are up to 80% responsible for the ageing of the skin.  

Whole Foods Diet

The term whole foods refers to foods that have not been processed or refined, including whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Whole foods contain compounds known as phytochemicals that may reduce the risk of many diseases. In addition, whole grains, such as brown rice and whole wheat, include the whole kernel of the germ, which includes elements such as fiber that make them more nutritious than refined grains. The typical Western diet, however, is high in processed foods like white bread, potato chips, and desserts made with white flour and white sugar. In these foods, the fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals normally found in whole foods are missing, at least in part. While processed foods used in moderation can be part of a healthful diet, a whole-foods diet provides nutrients and health benefits that the typical Western diet does not provide.

Wellness

Wellness is a lifestyle concept which relates to well being, enjoyment and a balanced body constitution. Wellness is about understanding methods and uses which increase physical and mental well-being. Wellness is based upon four foundations: conscious food intake, a comprehensive approach to nutrition; conscious exercise, a regular and suitable exercise program; relaxation and stress management techniques (e.g., autogenous training, meditation, qigong, yoga, sauna, massage, etc); relationship with nature and enjoyment, meaning a connection to nature and natural products. According to the American practitioner Dr. Ardell, physicians and health promoters should spend less energy mongering fitness, nutrition, and stress management, and a lot more effort encouraging people to ponder the meaning and purpose in their lives. Wellness is about discovering and enjoying the meaning and purpose in work and in many other areas of life.

Yoga

Yoga originates in India. Sadastiva introduced the principle about 7000 years ago in order to maintain and improve health and self-fulfillment. Around 200BC, Pastanjali gave yoga its classic style. There are eight yoga paths or types, with these come five simple and five difficult instructions. Different body and breathing exercises, changing attention through the senses, concentration exercises, concentrated absorption and mystical union of the centre of the soul. Today there are many yoga branches which interpret the original principles in different ways.

In medicine yoga poses (asanas), breathing control and direction (Pranayamas) and cleansing exercises play a significant roll, this is known as Yoga Chikitsa. Asanas are muscle tension and relaxing exercises which are carried out with a corresponding breathing rhythm. They strengthen the tissues and balance the patient’s disposition. Pranayama, breathing exercises serve to stimulate self-cleansing and metabolism. The cleansing exercises include the eyes, sinuses, stomach and intestines.

The exercises are based on the deep union of body and soul; they should strengthen body consciousness and internal perception. Intentional yoga poses (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama) and relaxation and concentration exercises (meditation) can strengthen posture, mobility and strength as well as enhancing the soul. 

Zilgrei

Zilgrei is a type of therapy that combines breathing and posture techniques. It was developed by Adriana Zillo and the American chiropractor Dr. Greissing about 20 years ago. Zilgrei is a self-practicing method that is ideal for treating back problems. It’s not about a diagnosis, but rather the examination and discovery of the body and it’s weaknesses.  The combination of respiratory and posture exercises has both physical and psychological effects and relaxes the body, which help decrease pain. By practicing targeted movements, the muscles, joints and tendons can be brought back to their original relaxed position. There is no pain, but rather the movements are carried out against one another. For this reason, it is said that the Zilgrei method is based on the principle of the opposing sides. The individual exercises have been given the names of birds. The primary goal of the Zilgrei method is to have a pain-free back and more range of motion.