Massage & Healing Arts Center

Treatments

About Treatments

We have a wide variety of treatments available, from traditional Swedish Massage to Reiki - there is something for everyone at our center. Select a service to the right for more information.

Relax! We know exactly how you feel

Whether you are a massage therapy connoisseur, an aesthetics aficionado, looking for a massage or gift certificate, or even if this will be your first massage experience on South Padre Island, we can assure you that a massage or any other treatment at Massage & Healing Arts Center will not be your run of the mill day spa session, but a truly magical experience. We take a great deal of pride at being a home to the best massage therapists and estheticians; all under one roof.
Whether you are looking to treat yourself, or a friend or loved one to a massage or gift certificate, we know how important your massage, manicure, pedicure, or facial is to you.
We can also take care of your facial, manicure and pedicure at the same place clients have trusted their bodies to for therapeutic massages since 1986.

One Technique Does Not Fit All

At most day spas you'll find a menu of massage services. But at the Center, the only choice you have to make for your massage is how long you want your session to last. That's because we believe that most of the time, a single massage technique doesn't "fit all". We designed each treatment to uniquely provide genuine lasting benefits.
If you know you like Swedish, Deep Tissue, Shiatsu, reflexology, or any other specific technique, you are welcome to request it when you book- at no additional charge. But most people come in with one or more areas they'd like worked on- a sore shoulder, stiff lower back or tight hamstrings- and little idea what technique will be best for them. Don’t worry; we know which treatments will suite you best.
The old saying goes that when all you have is a hammer, every problem looks like a nail. But our therapists are equipped with a whole range of massage techniques they can use as tools to solve your body's needs. So rather than suggesting a simple Swedish or even a more advanced Deep Tissue session, we encourage clients to come in and tell their therapist how they are feeling that day. Armed with that knowledge the therapist can create a session that draws on a range of techniques, each used where it is most appropriate.
The estheticians at The Massage & Healing Arts Center practice a similar philosophy and will customize your session based on your skin's needs on a given day.

MASSAGE: An Art and a Science

Massage is considered by many to be an art, but there's a scientific basis for it as well. Researchers have studied the value of massage to treat everything from back pain to depression. While we offer other award winning services, we started as specialists in massage therapy - but in a healing atmosphere. To ensure that each treatment is customized for you, we take a health profile when you first arrive, and keep a chart noting the details of each of your massage sessions.

About Massages

What Happens During A Typical Massage Therapy Session? A typical massage therapy session lasts from 30 to 90 minutes. Your therapist will begin with a brief consultation and review of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.  The therapist will discuss with you the focus and scope of the session and both of you will agree on what will be addressed during the massage.  You set your own limits and communicate them clearly to the therapist.

  You will be asked to undress to your comfort level (many people keep their underwear on) while the massage therapist is out of the room, and lie face down under a sheet on a padded massage table. The massage therapist will knock on the door to make sure you are ready. The massage therapist re-enters the room and will then adjust the face rest and pillows to ensure that you are comfortable and properly positioned. Tell the massage therapist if you are too warm or cold.

  You will be underneath the sheet at all times.  In North America, only the part of the body being treated at any one time is uncovered. The massage therapist uses a light oil or lotion on the skin and begins the massage. Depending on the agreement reached between you and your therapist, the massage may or may not address the back, legs, feet, shoulders, arms, hands, neck, abdomen and face.

  After the massage, the therapist leaves the room so you can get changed.  Take your time getting up. If you sit or stand too quickly you may feel lightheaded or dizzy.  After you are dressed, the therapist will conduct a brief post-session assessment and discuss plans for future treatment with you if necessary.

Each massage is custom tailored to fit your therapeutic needs and different types of massage may be used in combination.

Couples Massages

Our couples massages comprise of the same level of treatment as our normal therapeutic messages with the added benefit of being with your loved one during your massage. Perfect for romantic dates

A typical massage therapy session lasts from 30 to 90 minutes. Your therapist will begin with a brief consultation and review of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.  The therapist will discuss with you the focus and scope of the session and both of you will agree on what will be addressed during the massage.  You set your own limits and communicate them clearly to the therapist.

  You will be asked to undress to your comfort level (many people keep their underwear on) while the massage therapist is out of the room, and lie face down under a sheet on a padded massage table. The massage therapist will knock on the door to make sure you are ready. The massage therapist re-enters the room and will then adjust the face rest and pillows to ensure that you are comfortable and properly positioned. Tell the massage therapist if you are too warm or cold.

  You will be underneath the sheet at all times.  In North America, only the part of the body being treated at any one time is uncovered. The massage therapist uses a light oil or lotion on the skin and begins the massage. Depending on the agreement reached between you and your therapist, the massage may or may not address the back, legs, feet, shoulders, arms, hands, neck, abdomen and face.

  After the massage, the therapist leaves the room so you can get changed.  Take your time getting up. If you sit or stand too quickly you may feel lightheaded or dizzy.  After you are dressed, the therapist will conduct a brief post-session assessment and discuss plans for future treatment with you if necessary.

Each massage is custom tailored to fit your therapeutic needs and different types of massage may be used in combination.

Hot Stone Massage

Hot Stone Massage: The use of hot stones for healing dates back to ancient times, and hot stone massage is a technique applied to both Swedish and deep tissue massage therapy.  The stones are usually made of basalt, a type of rock that is rich in iron, so they retain heat.  River rocks are normally used because they are so smooth - they have been smoothed over time by the river's current.

  The stones are immersed in water and heated in an electrical heating unit that either provides a temperature reading or has an adjustable thermostat control until they are within a certain temperature range.  Many people find the warmth of the hot stones to be comforting. Hot stone massage is suited to people who tend to feel chilly or who have cold feet. It's also suited for people who have muscle tension but prefer a lighter massage.  The heat warms and relaxes the muscles, which allows the therapist to work the muscles without using deep pressure.  The warmth of the hot stones improves circulation and calms the nervous system.

 

How Will The Stones Feel? The stones are never rough. They are a variety of shapes and sizes. The massage therapist always holds the stones first before touching them to your body, which ensures that the temperature will not be too hot. However, everyone has their own comfort range. Be sure to communicate any uncomfortability due to the temperature of the stones.

Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage: uses a system of long strokes, kneading and friction techniques on the more superficial layers of the muscles, combined with active and passive movements of the joints. Used primarily for a full body session: promotes general relaxation, improves circulation and range of motion, relieves muscle tension.
Experience a relaxing massage while you improve the overall health and well being of your body's systems.  This massage is perfect for those who want to relieve stress and tension.  Swedish massage is the most common form of massage therapy practiced in the United States.  The therapist (using massage oil or lotion) employs long, smooth strokes, kneading and other movements that focus on the superficial layers of muscle.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage - Connective Tissue Massage: as the name implies, releases the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on contracted areas, either following or going across the grain of the muscles, tendons and fascia. And can be used for specific work or full body. This massage works the deeper layers of muscle tissue and is great for relieving tightly contracted muscles and adhered connective tissue.  Newcomers to deep tissue massage are encouraged to start slowly and become acclimated. 
What Is Deep Tissue Massage? Deep tissue massage therapy focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue.  The strokes used are similar to those used in classic massage therapy strokes, but the movement is slower and the pressure is deeper.  The massage therapist may use hot stones, fingertips, thumbs, knuckles, hands, elbows, and forearms during the deep tissue massage.  At certain points, you may be asked to breathe deeply in coordination with the strokes of the massage therapist.

Who Might Be Helped By Deep Tissue Massage? Deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as:
Chronic pain
Limited mobility
Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury)
Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
Postural problems
Fibromyalgia
Muscle tension, tightness, or spasm 

Chronic muscle tension or injury is usually accompanied by adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in muscles, tendons, and ligaments.  Adhesions can block circulation and cause pain, limited movement, and inflammation.  The therapist works to physically break down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement, using direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles.

  Will Deep Tissue Massage Hurt? Many people find there is usually some discomfort and pain.  The massage therapist will ask you to give feedback when things hurt and if any soreness or pain you experience is outside your comfort range.

  After your deep tissue massage, there is usually some stiffness or pain but it should subside within a day or so.  The massage therapist may recommend that you apply ice to the area after the massage.  It is important to drink as much water as you can after the massage to flush metabolic waste from the tissues.

  How Effective Is Deep Tissue Massage? According to the August 2005 issue of Consumer Reports magazine, 34,000 people ranked deep tissue massage more effective in relieving osteoarthritis pain than physical therapy, exercise, prescription medications, chiropractic, acupuncture, diet, glucosamine and over-the-counter drugs. Deep tissue massage also received a top ranking for fibromyalgia pain. People often notice improved range of motion immediately after a deep tissue massage.

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger Point Therapy - Myotherapy - Neuromuscular Therapy: applies concentrated finger pressure to "Trigger Points" - painful irritated areas in muscles - in order to break the cycle of spasm and pain and is often used to deal with pain.

Shiatsu and Acupressure

Shiatsu and Acupressure: are Oriental-based systems of finger pressure massage which treat special points along acupuncture "meridians" - the invisible channels of energy flow in the body. Blocked energy along these meridians can cause physical discomforts, so the aim is to release the blocks and rebalance the energy flow ans may be used for full body or specific work.
One of the traditional Japanese massage techniques, it was developed from the ancient Chinese acupressure which is based on acupuncture. Treatments originating in the Far East are generally always considering the energy pathways of the body referred to as meridians, mainly parted into six passive and six active chief groups relating to particular organs and interactive energy flow. Shiatsu uses hand manipulation to exert gentle to strong, deep pressure on "trigger" points along the meridians to stimulate, calm and/or harmonize the functions of the body and mind, promoting-and resulting in-relaxation and reduction of stress. Shiatsu balances the body's energy flow and eliminates possible exiting energy blockages by manipulation of the pressure points along the meridians.

Prenatal Massage

Prenatal Massage: Massage during pregnancy is quite safe, but ask your doctor before beginning any kind of massage program.  We perform prenatal massages during the second and third trimester only, and we do not massage if your pregnancy is high-risk or complicated.  Please inform us when you make your appointment if you are pregnant, so we may make the necessary preparations.

What Are The Benefits Of Prenatal Massage?
Pregnancy can have significant impact on your body as it alters to accommodate the new life within you.  Finding ways to manage extra stress during this time is essential for your health and that of your partner and your baby.  Prenatal massage can
increase the flow of oxygen and blood to your tissues, accelerating the flow of nutrients to both you and your child
relieve backaches and other pains often experienced during pregnancy
decrease swelling
stimulate the relaxation response within your nervous system
lower levels of stress hormones such as cortisol
relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety
help eliminate waste and toxins stored in your muscles
enhance the immune system

What Happens During A Typical Prenatal Massage Therapy Session?
A typical prenatal massage therapy session lasts from 30 to 60 minutes. Your therapist will begin with a brief consultation and review of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.  The therapist will discuss with you the focus and scope of the session and both of you will agree on what will be addressed during the massage.  You set your own limits and communicate them clearly to the therapist.

  Will Prenatal Massage Therapy Make You Feel Sore?
Prenatal massage therapy shouldn't hurt. You may experience mild aching when the massage therapist applies pressure over "knots" and other areas of muscle tension.  A good therapist will check in with you on the amount of pressure you desire.  If the pressure is too strong for you, let the massage therapist know immediately.

  Precautions
Do not eat a heavy meal before the massage. Based on your pre-session interview, the massage therapist may conclude that it would be prudent to refer you to a physician and reschedule your session.  Massage therapists are neither trained nor legally permitted to diagnose.  However, they are trained to be observant and to be aware of signs that may contraindicate massage.  In keeping with the massage therapist's code of ethics, it is always better to err on the side of caution for your well being.  It is strongly recommended that you follow your therapist's advice if you are referred for consultation.  You should not be charged for the session.

Reflexology

Reflexology works as the pressure techniques applied to the feet or hands interact as a part of the body's nervous system creating: relaxation, improved circulation, exercise of the nervous system and the benefits of touch. Pressure sensors in the feet and hands are a part of the body's reflexive response that makes possible the "fight or flight" reaction to danger. Feet ready to flee and hands ready to fight communicate with the body’s internal organs-think adrenal glands and adrenal... to make possible either eventuality. The sudden adrenal surge that enables a person to lift a car is an example of this coordinated activity. The perception of pressure by the feet and hands taps into the reflex network that makes possible our every move. Reflexology, consistently applied, provides an exercise of these pressure sensors and thus a conditioning of the internal organs to which they are inextricably tied. Kinesiology the science dealing with the interrelationship of physiological processes and body anatomy in respect to movement is used in addition where indicated, to complement the proper energy flow to achieve a feeling of well being and aliveness.

What should I expect from a reflexology session? Reflexology sessions last from 30 minutes to an hour. The client sits in a reclining chair placing the feet conveniently for the reflexologist's work. The reflexologist use pressure, stretch and movement to work through the foot methodically. Technique is applied to the whole foot or hand. Sit back and relax. Or, ask for an on-going assessment of stress cues of the feet; education in the location of reflex areas of the feet or education in how to apply self reflexology techniques. Ask about research relevant to your health concern.

You should feel relaxed at the end of a session. How long that relaxation lasts is a good indicator of the effectiveness of the session. Make note of this and tell your reflexologist your response to the session at the next session. This can be helpful information to the reflexologist.

Expect the reflexologist's application of technique to be within your comfort zone- not too heavy and not too light but at a level within your personal preference. Communicate this preference to the reflexologist. Expect technique application to be "dry," without the use of oil, cream or lotion. Use of these emollients constitutes a foot massage and not a reflexology session. Use of any tool or instrument is outside the professional scope of practice for a reflexologist.

Sports Massage

Sports Massage: alleviates pain and brings relief to tired or aching body parts. It is particularly useful in relieving or reducing the possibility of cramps and muscle spasms in dancers and athletes.

This therapy is a very deep penetrating massage especially for the active person. Whatever activity you may participate in, jogging, tennis, swimming, cycling, golf, riding, etc.; if you use your body demandingly this is the massage for you, The Athletic Massage differs from other massages in that it concentrates on all muscle groups but particularly the muscles primarily used in your sport. This has therapeutic benefits for the athlete who might be suffering from anything from tennis elbow to joggers heel.

Athletic Massage has been traced back to the Roman empire, where the athletes who participated in sports and the gladiators who engaged in physical combat would have a soothing massage after a long day of strenuous activity. To this day, the theory of working the whole body with deep penetrating strokes and concentrated strokes to the muscle groups, stimulating and loosening the muscles and using therapeutic treatment in problem areas, has kept top professional athletes in fine tune.

Chair Massage

On-site Chair Massage:

Chair massages are available almost anytime at the Massage & Healing Arts Center and are perfect for Employee Wellness and Special Events. Sponsor a chair massage for the well-being of your employees or for those participating in a special event.

Chair Massage:
is convenient - we come to you with portable massage equipment involves no tables, sheets or oils - your seated massage takes place directly through your clothing won't disturb your work day - the massage is usually about 15 minutes in duration, about the same as a coffee break is an easy program in which to participate - all you have to do is relax and enjoy!

Meridian Therapy – Acupoints

The meridian system may be thought of as a radio network in which the acupuncture points are transmitters and the vital organs, receivers. The meridians are the invisible, intangible lines along which messages are sent from the acupuncture points to various parts of the body. The message is sent by the insertion of needles, electrical stimulation, or helium neon lazer into the acupuncture points to increase or decrease activity. The Chinese discovered and observed that in some points, the way in which the needle was inserted determined whether it's effect would be sedation or stimulation.

Facials

Experience the nourishing treatments to regenerate new beautiful skin. Beneficial for skin problems like

• Acne
• Rosacea
• Scars
• PH Unbalance
• Pigment
• Fine lines
• Wrinkles

Enjoy a revitalizing cleanse, pore extractions, nourishing mask, and soothing hand massage including gemstone Acupressure
BASIC CLEANING FACIAL - 30 MINUTES
This Facial starts with a refreshing cleansing of the face followed by a soothing PH-Balancing Toner. The cleansing includes Pore Extractions using Nature’s best oils with a rejuvenating Acupressure Massage to Face.

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LUXURIOUS CLEANSING FACIAL - 60 MINUTES
Experience a refreshing and soothing cleaning with Organic products followed by a purifying toner for providing PH – Balancing Toner, including Pore Extractions, using a nourishing Mask and ending with a Face, Hand Acupressure Massage while using Nature’s best oils.
24K GOLD MASK - ADD ON TREATMENT AVAILABLE

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LUXURIOUS CLEANSING FACIAL - 90 MINUTES - Neck and Chest area included
Experience a refreshing and soothing cleaning with Organic products followed by a purifying toner for providing PH – Balancing Toner, including Pore Extractions, using a nourishing Mask and ending with a Face, Hand and Arm Acupressure Massage while using Nature’s best oils.
24K GOLD MASK - ADD ON TREATMENT AVAILABLE

Manicures & Pedicures

Energy Balancing

All life radiates an invisible energy field. The vibrations of a balanced energy field maintain physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well being. The Chinese call this energy Qi (Chee), and the Japanese Ki (Key). A person’s energy can become blocked or imbalanced by stress, anxiety and challenging life events resulting in illnesses.
Energy Balancing Techniques (EBT) applied through light hands-on touch, sound, and vibration restores the balance of energy within the body, mind and spirit. Benefits of Energy Balancing: Clients have reported feeling skin tingling, muscle twitches and heat or cold coming from the practitioner’s hands. With their eyes closed, some clients see different color swirls, experience mini dreams or emotional releases, and random thoughts. Some clients do not experience anything at all except a restful, peaceful hour. However, at the conclusion of a session all clients report feeling a sense of well being, calm, and peace.
Reiki - An Ancient Healing Technique: Reiki is a system of hands-on energy healing.   It originated in Tibet, and is referred to in 2500-year-old Sanskrit writings.  It was rediscovered in the nineteenth century by a Japanese monk named Dr. Mikao Usui, and the Usui System of Natural Healing has been passed down by Reiki Masters since that time.  Today, Usui Reiki is practiced worldwide.

  The word "Reiki" is of Japanese origin.  The first syllable, "rei," is variously translated as "God," "universal," or "cosmic."  The second syllable, "ki," means the fundamental life force flowing and pulsating in all living things.  There are different words for this fundamental force in all the different cultures and religions of the world, but hands-on energy healing is not affiliated with any one religion or religious practice.

  Reiki is classified as an energy therapy.  It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress.  If it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.  Reiki is based on the idea that energy is transmitted through the Reiki practitioner from a universal energy source to the client to raise or improve the flow of the client’s life-force energy, or ki.

  Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone can use. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.

  In the practice of Reiki, the Reiki practitioner serves as a conduit for the natural healing energy.  The laying on of the hands directs the healing energy wherever it is needed most by the receiver.  No personal energy is drawn or drained from the practitioner.  The Reiki practitioner may also remove negative energy from the client, again by acting as a conduit.

  Human beings are a totality of soul, mind, and body.  Therefore the Reiki healing also treats the spiritual and mental causes of an illness, not just the physical symptoms.  Symptoms merely show us that something in the body is not functioning properly.  Reiki has a positive effect on your spiritual and emotional balance.  It brings the receiver directly into contact with the Creative Intelligence and the infinite energy of the universe.

  Reiki Is Not A Religion: While Reiki is spiritual in nature, it is not a religion. It has no dogma, and there is nothing you must believe in order to learn and use Reiki. In fact, Reiki is not dependent on belief at all and will work whether you believe in it or not. Because Reiki comes from God, many people find that using Reiki enables them to go beyond intellectual concepts and directly experience their religion.

  While Reiki is not a religion, it is still important to live and act in a way that promotes harmony with others. Dr. Mikao Usui, the founder of the Reiki system of natural healing, recommended that one practice certain simple ethical ideals to promote peace and harmony, which are nearly universal across all cultures. The Ideals were developed to add spiritual balance to Usui Reiki. Their purpose is to help people realize that healing the spirit by consciously deciding to improve oneself is a necessary part of the Reiki healing experience. In order for the Reiki healing energies to have lasting results, the client must accept responsibility for his or her healing and take an active part in it. Therefore, the Usui system of Reiki is more than the use of the Reiki energy. It must also include an active commitment to improve oneself in order for it to be a complete system. The ideals are both guidelines for living a gracious life and virtues worthy of practice for their inherent value.

  The secret art of inviting happiness
The miraculous medicine of all diseases
Just for today, do not anger
Do not worry and be filled with gratitude
Devote yourself to your work. Be kind to people.
Every morning and evening, join your hands in prayer.
Pray these words to your heart
and chant these words with your mouth
Usui Reiki Treatment for the improvement of body and mind

What Is A Treatment Or Session Like? The client is usually in sitting or lying position, fully clothed.  A standard Reiki treatment includes placing the hands above, or on, the head, shoulders, stomach and feet. The Reiki practitioner may also use hand positions around the body to ensure that no parts of the body are neglected.  Each position is held 2 to 5 minutes and the entire treatment lasts 45 to 90 minutes.  Energy automatically goes to the parts of the body where it's most needed, and intention on the part of the Reiki practitioner is believed to help direct the flow of energy.

  A treatment creates a wonderful radiance that is deeply relaxing and includes many beneficial effects for both client and practitioner.  At the very least, you will feel very relaxed during a session, often to the point of falling asleep.  A Reiki session always seems to impress those who say they find it difficult to relax.

  As in other forms of energy healing, a Reiki practitioner can also "send" a treatment to another person who is not in the same room or location.  This is usually called Distant Reiki.

  How Does REIKI Work? Reiki is an amazing energy that comes from the highest spiritual source. It has its own intelligence and knows exactly where to go and what to do. It is multi-dimensional and will heal the cause of a problem on whatever level it may exist - body, mind, or spirit. It does not have to be directed by the practitioner. Because it is a channeled healing, the Reiki practitioner's energies are never depleted. In fact, when giving a treatment, the Reiki practitioner is healed as well and always experiences an increase in life-force energy. People that already do healing work report their healing energies increase by at least 50% after receiving Reiki training.

  Side Effects And Safety Issues: There are no known safety concerns with Reiki. However, it should not be used to replace necessary standard medical treatment.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy but with highly concentrated plant oils, called essential oils, added to the massage oil or lotion.  There are medical conditions which contraindicate the use of some essential oils, and we evaluate each client prior to an aromatherapy session.

  How Does Aromatherapy Massage Work? The nostrils are attached to a part of the brain called the limbic system. The limbic system controls emotions and influences the nervous system and hormones. When you inhale essential oil molecules, messages are transmitted to the limbic system and affect heart rate, stress level, blood pressure, breathing, memory, digestion, and the immune system.  Essential oils are also absorbed through the skin. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to conditions involving stress or improving emotionally-related conditions.

  Each essential oil has different healing properties.  For example, some calm while others energize. Here are some widely used essential oils and their properties:

calming – chamomile, lavender, geranium
uplifting – ylang ylang, clary sage, rose, neroli
energizing – rosemary
cleansing – rosemary
decongesting – eucalyptus, pine, tea tree

What Can I Expect During An Aromatherapy Massage? After the consultation, one or more essential oils are selected based on what you need and are mixed in with the massage oil or lotion. The subtle aromas of the essential oils fill the air around you during the massage. After the massage, the massage therapist may suggest a blend that you can use at home in between massage treatments.

Colon Therapy

The Colon Hydrotherapy System is a very simple, safe, comfortable, and hygienic way to irrigate the colon for endoscopic, radiological, or other medical purposes. The following sequence of events briefly describes the colon irrigation procedure.

The tank is filled with hot and cold water controlled by a water mixing valve on the basin right topside. The proper temperature of the water falls between 99 -103 degrees Fahrenheit and is monitored by the temperature gauge visible on the front of the tower cabinet. If at any time the water rises above 103 degrees Fahrenheit, the temperature sensor will trigger the flow valve to shut off, stopping water flow to the client.

After the client has comfortably cover themselves with a provided sheet and are positioned on the basin (with the pillow and cushioned backrest in place) and self-inserted the nozzle into their rectum, water flow can be safely activated by turning ON the FLOW switch. Water flow can be stopped at any time by simply turning the FLOW switch OFF. The tank line to the basin nipple has a backflow prevention valve as a permanent plumbing safety feature. It is located underneath the fiberglass basin and is connected directly to the basin nipple through an opening in the basin wall. It prevents water from flowing back into the line once it has passed through the basin nipple into the nozzle and into the client’s rectum.

The System utilizes the controlled pressure created by gravity as water exits the elevated tank in the tower cabinet as activated by the FLOW switch. The procedure can be stopped at any time by simply turning off the FLOW switch to stop the gravity-fed stream of water or by the person simply sliding back off the nozzle and resting on the basin.

A typical colon hydrotherapy session lasts approximately 30-40 minutes and uses approximately 10 gallons of water, which is the total volume capacity of the main tank. Usually, only one tank full of water is needed. At the end of the session, all three switches (U.V., CYCLE, FLOW) are turned OFF and the client slides back off the nozzle so that it naturally drops away from his body. The client can now drain comfortably on the ergonomic basin, sitting up erect or leaning back in a lounge position to fully drain her colon. After this is done, the client can rinse using the personal shower sprayer and its control valve located on the basin left topside. Tempered water is delivered to the sprayer by the same water mixing valve on the right topside of the basin that also sends water to the System tank. The client can then towel themselves dry before dressing and leaving the privacy of the colon irrigation room.

Is colon therapy right for me? Click here for more information in this PDF.

Yoga and Health

5 Surprising Ways Yoga Affects Your Health
Yoga does so much more than lower stress levels.



Greater flexibility is just one of yoga's many benefits.

Regular stretching and use of breathing techniques can go a long way. Yoga is famous for improving flexibility and encouraging relaxation, but more and more research shows that the practice offers benefits that go beyond calming you down. For example, a study in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicinefound that 75-minute yoga sessions, performed three times a week for 10 weeks, eased symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a group of women between 45 and 75. The yoga classes also improved their disability related to RA, improved their balance, and decreased symptoms of depression in the women. Read on for other ways you can use yoga to improve your health.

#1: It helps you fight food cravings. Keeping off unwanted weight can be a little easier with a regular yoga routine. In a study of 15,500 average-weight adults, people gained three fewer pounds annually over the course of four years if they followed a routine of 30 minutes of yoga per week. The weight loss may be a result of creating a closer relationship between mind and body during yoga, allowing participants to fight overeating. Move into a simple yoga pose when food cravings threaten to overwhelm your better judgment; for the best, most relaxing positions that curb cravings, check out the videos and photos at iYogaLife. Cravings generally strike when our bodies are tense. Loosening muscles with yoga movements makes it easier to reflect on whether or not you really need that candy bar.

#2: It helps you have a healthy pregnancy. Honing in on your happy and calm place with yoga meditation may insure your little one arrives just as relaxed. A study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that doing yoga while pregnant increased the odds of a healthy delivery. The 335 women studied added a yoga routine during their second trimester; the result was higher birth weights and lower pregnancy-induced hypertension compared to non-yoga-practicing participants.

#3: It boosts your performance in the bedroom. Spice up your love life with yoga moves that focus on body alignment increase blood flow and sexual desire. Many yoga poses send blood flow directly to the pelvic region, heightening sensitivity and desire. Poses that focus on balance and abdominal contraction will strengthen your core as well as your orgasm because of the focus on pelvic muscles. Overall body awareness, vital to yoga workouts, also boosts confidence—making you more assertive.

#4: It lowers risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Increasing your yoga routine can have be mentally relaxing and benefit your heart as well. Another study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, which looked at 98 adults with varying health concerns, such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and diabetes, found significant improvements in blood sugar and total cholesterol levels with the incorporation of yoga into their routine. The group took part in an eight-day lifestyle-modification program that included common yoga practices like posture awareness, deep breathing, meditation, nutritional changes, and group support.

#5: It helps cancer patients sleep better. The calming meditation practices often used in yoga are great to take your mind off a stressful day, and to help you sleep better. In a study done at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, lymphoma patients improved their sleeping habits by practicing Tibetan yoga. After a taking a 20-minute yoga class once a week for seven weeks, patients fell asleep faster, slept longer, and reduced the amount of sleep medication they needed.

Want to get started?
To find a yoga class or instructor in your area, start by asking friends for referrals, and checking with local gyms. Or try the location search and reviews at iyogalife.com. Once you start looking, you'll find a number of different varieties of yoga. So here's a breakdown of what to expect with some of the most popular forms.

Power Yoga
Think yoga on steroids. A combination of strength training and cardio, you'll get your heart pumping and work up a sweat, all while getting a killer stretch. Best for: Anyone who's up for a challenge

Bikram Yoga
It’s a 90-minute yoga class featuring two sets of 26 poses in 105-degree heat. The heat improves your muscle elasticity, making it easier for you to bend into difficult poses. Best for: People looking to lose weight; you can burn 350 to 600 calories in one class

Hatha Yoga
This is what most people think of when they hear "yoga." You'll go through various poses focusing on breathing and relaxation. Best for: Newbies and anyone looking for a way to relax while still reaping all the physical benefits of yoga.

Accupunture Therapy

For Your Information
6 Science-Based Benefits of Acupuncture Therapy
Research shows acupuncture therapy can be an effective alternative treatment for everything from headaches to obesity.



A few needles could help your chronic pain melt away.

Has your doctor ever prescribed you a round of acupuncture? Probably not. Alternative treatments often get short shrift in standard healthcare because doctors are generally unaware of the science showing that they really are effective alternatives to drugs and medication. But a new study in the Archives of Internal Medicine may (hopefully) change that. The researchers pooled data from nearly 18,000 people who had participated in studies examining the effectiveness of acupuncture and found that, yes, it really is a good treatment for chronic pain and that doctors should start recommending it as treatment for arthritis and other chronic ailments. Chronic pain is certainly one of the most common reasons people seek out acupuncturists, but here are six other scientifically studied ways that acupuncture therapy can alleviate what's bothering you:

#1: Eases your aching back. Using acupuncture therapy to successfully relieve chronic back pain is well documented in scientific literature, and acupuncturists say that it's the leading reason that people visit their clinics. A study published in May's issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine even found that people who were given "simulated acupuncture," where pressure was place on certain acupuncture points but no needles were actually used, saw as much as a 15 percent greater improvement in their symptoms (equal to the improvements seen in people who were receiving true acupuncture) than people who were taking medications and undergoing standard chiropractic care.

#2: Boosts the effectiveness of pharmaceuticals. A study from China, published in the August issue of the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that a low-dose of fluoxetine (Prozac) combined with acupuncture therapy was just as effective at reducing anxiety in patients being treated for depression as full-dose medication. Cutting the dose and adding acupuncture also reduced the drug's side effects, which can include nausea, weight gain, and a decreased sex drive.

#3: Soothes the burning in your stomach. This June, Brazilian researchers published research finding that acupuncture therapy alleviated heartburn and indigestion in pregnant women. One group of pregnant women was given a combination of acupuncture and medications, and another group was counseled on dietary changes and given medications if needed. Over the course of the study, 75 percent of the women in the acupuncture group saw heartburn intensity, and antacid use, decline, while only 44 percent of women in the standard-treatment group saw those same effects.

#4: Counteracts the effects of radiation. Cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment are likely to suffer a variety of side effects, depending on the part of the body being treated. However, acupuncture therapy has been found to have some effect on the perception of how bad those effects can be, particularly for nausea and dry mouth, common in patients receiving radiation to the head and neck. A review of studies published in CA, a journal of the American Cancer Society, found that people undergoing radiation treatment perceived fewer negative side effects of radiation even though the side effects may still be there. For instance, in one study, patients who wore acupressure bands during treatment said they felt less nausea, although they still had the same occurrence of vomiting as they did before wearing the band, and in another study, people said they had less of a problem with dry mouth, even though measures of their saliva showed that levels remained the same. The acupuncture didn't actually alleviate the symptoms, but it did help improve patients' quality of life after treatment.

#5: Dulls persistent headaches. A review of 22 studies involving acupuncture therapy, migraines, and tension headaches found that regular acupuncture therapy was effective at preventing tension headaches and migraines from becoming a problem, and that it was an effective treatment for existing headaches.

#6: Ends obesity? The influence of acupuncture therapy on obesity isn't as well-documented as the other examples we’ve listed, but there's enough evidence to suggest that it could be an effective weight-loss treatment. Researchers from Korea analyzed 31 studies on a total of 3,013 people, and found that acupuncture therapy led to greater decreases in body weight than lifestyle changes or medications. However, they note in their findings, published February in the journal Obesity that flaws in many of the studies made it difficult to see how effective acupuncture therapy would be on obesity in the long run. But for people willing to try it, adding a weekly acupuncture session to daily exercise and a smart diet could lead to healthy gains.