<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Best &#38; Affordable Spa</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in</link>
	<description>Spas in mumbai, pune, goa, manali, bhopal, aurangabad</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Tue, 27 Sep 2011 11:06:04 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0</generator>
		<item>
		<title>Spa Prices</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/2077</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/2077#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Sep 2011 09:11:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ffs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Spa Prices]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=2077</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As our prices may vary by location, please click on a spa below to view its prices. Mumbai: , , Bangalore: , Pune: , , , Aurangabad: Bhopal: Goa: Manali:]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">As our prices may vary by location, please click on a spa below to view its prices.</p>
<p><strong>Mumbai:</strong> <a href="#">Powai</a>,  <a href="#">Bandra</a>, <a href="#">Malad</a></p>
<p><strong>Bangalore:</strong> <a href="#">Koramangala</a>, <a href="#">Jayanagar</a></p>
<p><strong>Pune:</strong> <a href="#">Aundh</a>,  <a href="#">Bhandarkar Road</a>, <a href="#">Koregaon Park</a>, <a href="#">Magarpatta City</a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Aurangabad:</strong> <a href="#">Hotel VITS</a></p>
<p><strong>Bhopal:</strong> <a href="#">Arera Hills</a></p>
<p><strong>Goa: </strong><a href="#">Best Western Peace Valley</a></p>
<p><strong>Manali: </strong><a href="#">Quality Inn River Country Resort</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/2077/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Become a Franchisee</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/franchisees/</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/franchisees/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jun 2011 04:43:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ffs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[TFFS Franchisee]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=1747</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Four Fountains Spa presents entrepreneurial opportunities for professionals who would like to be part of this growth story and run their own show... <a href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/franchisees/"></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Due to rapid urbanization and changes in lifestyle, stress levels in modern society are increasing day by day. As a result, a growing number of consumers are availing spa services to keep themselves stress-free. This presents an exciting opportunity in the world of spas which is growing by 35-40% every year. The Four Fountains Spa presents entrepreneurial opportunities for professionals who would like to be part of this growth story and run their own show! Conceptualized as India&#8217;s first chain of affordable day spas, we currently operate 11 branches across 6 cities and are the fastest growing spa chain in the country.</p>
<p>With a unique business model and investment that is a fraction of other spas it offers great returns. We offer the following great benefits to our franchisee partners -</p>
<p>1. Professional management with founders from IIM Ahmedabad and SP Jain<br />
 2. 360 degree marketing with a dedicated team to support<br />
 3. Dedicated training academy to ensure quality manpower<br />
 4. Comprehensive SOPs and audits for ensuring quality and service levels<br />
 5. HR policies for employee motivation and retention</p>
<p>The expansion plans are pan India with an immediate focus on Bangalore, Mumbai and Pune. Basic details of setting up a spa are given below -</p>
<p><strong>Investment </strong>- Rs 35 lakhs (may vary by location)</p>
<p><strong>ROI </strong>- 40 to 50% / Year</p>
<p><strong>Area Requirement </strong>- 1000 sq ft carpet area, need not own a location</p>
<p><strong>Time Commitment</strong> &#8211; 8 hours/ day in the first year, 4 to 6 hours/ day after the first year</p>
<p><strong>Locations Available</strong> &#8211; Bangalore, Mumbai &amp; Pune (Immediate),  rest of India (after 6 months)</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Contact</strong> &#8211; Anurag Kedia, Head of Franchising, </span><a href="mailto:anurag@thefourfountains.in"><span style="font-size: small;">anurag@thefourfountains.in</span></a><span style="font-size: small;">, Mobile &#8211; 9967553215</span></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/franchisees/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Testimonial</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1553</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1553#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 May 2011 05:28:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ffs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Testimonial]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=1553</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#8220;I love the Swedish Massage at The Four Fountains Spa because of the extra pressure at the right point.&#8221;]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&#8220;I love the Swedish Massage at The Four Fountains Spa because of the extra pressure at the right point.&#8221;</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1553/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Your 1st Visit to a Spa</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1537</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1537#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 May 2011 04:35:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ffs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[1st visit to spa]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=1537</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Congratulations on taking the first step towards a stress-free life! Going to a spa should be an anxiety-free experience. Here are answers to some of the questions.... <a href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1537"></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Congratulations on taking the first step towards a stress-free life! Going to a spa should be an anxiety-free experience. Here are answers to some of the questions that you as a first-time spa-goer might have on your first visit.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>1. Who can go to a spa?</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Almost anyone can go to a spa. However, the following are advised not to take a spa therapy</p>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li>Pregnant women (as a precautionary measure)</li>
<li>Menstruating women (for hygiene reasons)</li>
<li>People who have recently suffered a fracture or undergone a surgery (as a precautionary measure)</li>
<li>People with skin diseases or fever (to prevent it from worsening)</li>
<li>Children below the age of 16 (as they may feel restless during a spa therapy)</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>2. How frequently can I go to a spa?</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The suggested frequency varies from once a week to once a month depending on the spa therapy you choose. Refer to The Four Fountains Spa menu to know the suggested frequency for the therapy that meets your need.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>3. Do I need to book in advance?</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Book as much in advance as possible and arrive at least 10 minutes before your appointment. Appointments on weekdays are more easily available than those on weekends. They are also more attractively priced at The Four Fountains Spa with weekday discounts ranging from Rs. 100 to Rs. 300 depending on the therapy you choose. <strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>4. Can I cancel my appointment? </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If you must cancel your appointment, give the spa as much advance notice as possible. Guests who repeatedly cancel their appointments risk being accorded lower priority the next time they make an appointment.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>5. What clothes should I wear to a spa? </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Wear light clothing that&#8217;s easy to change out of and into. The Four Fountains Spa offers guests disposable underclothes for any therapy which requires undressing.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>6. Can I eat or drink before my therapy? </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Don&#8217;t eat or drink for at least an hour before a therapy to avoid discomfort during the therapy. Drink enough water after your therapy, especially if you have used the steam facility.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>7. Can I choose a lady or gentleman therapist as per my preference? </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The Four Fountains Spa offers only same-gender therapists (gentlemen for gentlemen and ladies for ladies) as a matter of policy. Check with your spa about their policy if you have a specific preference.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>8. Can I speak with my therapist during my therapy?</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">You may choose to have a conversation with your therapist or enjoy the therapy in silence. Let the therapist know if you want him or her to modify the pressure applied, increase the room temperature or if you want to know something about the therapy.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>9. What should I do if I have a known medical condition? </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Certain therapies may not be advisable for you if you have any type of medical condition. Be sure to mention your medical condition to the person booking your appointment so that he or she can suggest a therapy best suited for you.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>10. Can I tip my therapist?</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Tipping at The Four Fountains Spa is entirely your prerogative. there is no obligation to tip. However, ten to fifteen percent is customary at most spas around the world. You may choose to leave more or less depending on the quality of the service.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1537/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Welcome to the World of Massages</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1531</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1531#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 May 2011 10:41:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ffs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[welcome]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=1531</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Spa therapies that cost upwards of Rs. 4,000/- at five-star spas are available at The Four Fountains Spa at surprisingly affordable prices. We offer our guests a choice of more than 20 therapies for de-stressing, de-toxification.... <a href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1531"></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Spa therapies that cost upwards of Rs. 4,000/- at five-star spas are available at The Four Fountains Spa at surprisingly affordable prices. We offer our guests a choice of more than 20 therapies for de-stressing, de-toxification, immunity and beauty. Our selection of massages, body polishes, body wraps and facials have been chosen from around the world.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Conveniently located in neighbourhoods, our spas have been carefully designed to satisfy the curiosity of the first-time spa-goer as well as exceed the expectations of the well-travelled spa connoisseur.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Our therapists are professionally trained to give you a friendly and outstanding spa experience. While our spas are unisex, our policy is to offer same-gender therapists only. Individual shower enclosures in each room and provision of disposable underclothes further ensure we maintain only the highest standards of hygiene and privacy.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Discover all this and more at prices that make staying healthy through spa therapies truly affordable. Click on <a href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/spa-therapies/">Find Your Therapy</a> to know more about our therapies and prices.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1531/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>5 Myths About Spas</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1524</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1524#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 May 2011 08:56:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ffs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Myths about spas]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=1524</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are several myths which have become popular about spas due to either lack of information or due to wrong information. We present to you the 5... <a href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1524"></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">There are several myths which have become popular about spas due to either lack of information or due to wrong information. We present to you the 5 most popular myths and the reality behind them.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>1. All</strong><strong> Spas are expensive</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Spas used to be expensive. Not anymore. Therapies at The Four Fountains Spa are available at surprisingly affordable prices with additional discounts on weekdays and for members. Check out our <a href="#">prices for a spa</a> which is closest to you</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>2. Spas are just for pampering oneself</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">For years on end, the myth that spas are an indulgence with no health benefits to offer prevented many of us from experiencing our first spa therapy. However, spas provide scientifically proven health benefits: de-stressing, de-toxification, immunity and beauty. Visit our <a href="#">Benefits of Spa Therapies</a> section to know more.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>3. Spas are not for common men</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A lot of people think that spas are just for the celebrities and the elite. However they are actually for anyone who is looking for health benefits such as de-stressing, de-toxification, immunity and beauty. Going to a spa need not be an intimidating experience either. Information on various topics of interest such as what are the types of spa therapies, how to choose the right spa therapy, what happens during a massage etc. is now freely available at our website and other medium at our spas.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>4. Spas are meant for women</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">This would be the same as saying stress or body pain happens occurs only to women! Our impression of spas has been influenced by the imagery and media reports we have seen in the past. Most spas are unisex i.e. they cater to both men and women.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>5. Spas are the same as salons</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Salons offer services for hair (like hair cuts, blow dry, hair coloring etc) and skin (manicures, pedicures, facials etc). While spa therapies aim to reduce stress through massages. Spas also offer some beauty therapies like facials, body polishes and body wraps.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1524/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Benefits of Spa Therapies</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1521</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1521#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 May 2011 08:55:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ffs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Spa Therapies Benefits]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=1521</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Spa therapies offer different kinds of benefits. They not only help reduce stress but also offer some other great benefits. Here are the different benefits... <a href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1521"></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Spa therapies offer different kinds of benefits. They not only help reduce stress but also offer some other great benefits. Given below are the different benefits of spa therapies.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="#Spa Therapies help De-stress">Spa Therapies help De-stress</a></strong></li>
<li><strong><a href="#Spa Therapies help De-toxify">Spa Therapies help De-toxify</a></strong></li>
<li><strong><a href="#Spa Therapies Increase Immunity">Spa Therapies Increase Immunity</a></strong></li>
<li><strong><a href="#Spa Therapies Enhance Beauty">Spa Therapies Enhance Beauty</a></strong></li>
</ul>
<p><br class="spacer_" /></p>
<p><a name="Spa Therapies help De-stress"></a></p>
<h3><strong>Spa Therapies help De-stress</strong></h3>
<p><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 24px;"><strong>1. Reduce stress that shows up in the form of body aches and muscular pains</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Manipulations and pressures of massage therapy break down subcutaneous adhesions and prevent fibrosis. In other words, massage therapy ensures that the tissues of your muscles that are normally separate, stay separate. If they were to start growing together, they could cause complications. Massage also helps reduce pain by promoting circulation of blood and helping in lymphatic drainage. Lymphatic drainage is a process by which pain-inducing toxins that accumulate in the body due to an injury or strenuous exercise are eliminated from the body.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>2. Reduce      stress that shows up in the form of mental tension and anxiety</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Almost everyone experiences mental and emotional stress at some point of time or another during the day. Hours of analysing a report or writing code for software may leave you mentally exhausted. An upcoming presentation or examination can make you feel restless. At other times the Monday-morning syndrome may take over and you may not feel like going to work or participating in any activity for no particular reason. Massage therapy has been shown to reduce mental stress and relax the mind by increasing alertness, lower Depression, lower blood pressure &amp; heartbeat and promoting better sleep.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>3. Stress that shows up in the form of physical tiredness and mental fatigue</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Research shows that people who received massage therapy showed lower levels of fatigue. Traditional Chinese Medicine explains this phenomenon through the theory of meridians. According to this theory, the body is made up of meridians &#8211; invisible pathways or channels through which Qi (or energy) flows within the body. Massage therapies remove fatigue by eliminating blockages in the body&#8217;s meridians or invisible energy lines. Therapies are of course no substitute for a good night rest, a hearty laugh or the company of friends to help lower stress. However, when adequate rest and entertainment are coupled with a regular visit to the spa the body relaxes faster, far more easily and stays relaxed for longer periods of time.</p>
<p><br class="spacer_" /></p>
<p><a name="Spa Therapies help De-toxify"></a></p>
<h3><strong>Spa Therapies help De-toxify</strong></h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Exposure to pollution, erratic eating habits and frequent consumption of alcohol lead to accumulation of toxins in our body. Accumulated toxins interfere with the body&#8217;s metabolism and lead to hormonal imbalance and indigestion. It is therefore important to regularly de-toxify one&#8217;s body.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">One of the ways in which our body de-toxifies itself is through the skin. Our skin is the largest organ of our body. By promoting sweating through the skin the body de-toxifies itself. Spa therapies like body wraps promote sweating which flushes out toxins that accumulate within the body.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></p>
<p><br class="spacer_" /></p>
<p><a name="Spa Therapies Increase Immunity"></a></p>
<h3><strong>Spa Therapies Increase Immunity</strong></h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As our body ages, its immunity &#8211; the ability to combat diseases and illnesses effectively &#8211; reduces. We see this in the fact that an increasing number of people around us become susceptible to common colds, flu etc. as they grow in age.</p>
<p><br class="spacer_" /></p>
<p><a name="Spa Therapies Enhance Beauty"></a></p>
<h3><strong>Spa Therapies Enhance Beauty</strong></h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Enhancement of beauty is the fourth major reason why you should visit a spa. Book yourself at a spa if you are looking for either of the following benefits:-</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>1. Glowing Skin</strong>: Spa therapies like facials and body polishes use gentle exfoliation techniques to remove dead skin cells and stimulate new cell growth which gives you healthy, glowing skin.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>2. Age-Reversal:</strong> Body wraps and anti-ageing facials firm up loose skin and treat the unsightly appearance of cellulite, revealing younger-looking skin.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1521/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Massages reduce stress that shows up in the form of physical tiredness and mental fatigue</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1260</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1260#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Apr 2011 10:33:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Research about spa massages]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[research message1]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=1260</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Researchers concluded that patients who received massage therapy showed lower levels of fatigue... <a href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1260"></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Researchers Sunshine and others concluded in their research that patients who received massage therapy showed lower levels of fatigue.<sup>1</sup></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img class="ngg-singlepic ngg-left alignleft" src="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/wp-content/gallery/album-2/relaxing-after-massage.jpg" alt="Relaxing After Massage" width="288" height="191" />Traditional Chinese Medicine explains this phenomenon through the theory of meridians. According to this theory, the body is made up of meridians &#8211; invisible pathways or channels through which Qi (or energy) flows within the body. Massage therapies remove fatigue by eliminating blockages in the body&#8217;s meridians or invisible energy lines.</p>
<p><br class="spacer_" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Therapies are of course no substitute for a good night rest, a hearty laugh or the company of friends to help lower stress. However, when adequate rest and entertainment are coupled with a regular visit to the spa the body relaxes faster, far more easily and stays relaxed for longer periods of time.</p>
<hr style="text-align: justify;" size="1" />
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>1</sup> Sunshine, W., Field, T., Schanberg, S., Quintino, O., Kilmer, T., Fierro, K., Burman, I., Hashimoto, M., McBride, C., &amp; Henteleff, T. (1997).</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Massage therapy and transcutaneous electrical stimulation effects on fibromyalgia. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, 2, 18-22.</em></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1260/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Massages reduce stress that shows up as mental tension and anxiety</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1250</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1250#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Apr 2011 10:22:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Research about spa massages]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[research message2]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=1250</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Almost everyone experiences mental and emotional stress at one point of time... <a href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1250"></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;"><img class="ngg-singlepic ngg-left alignleft" src="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/wp-content/gallery/album-2/shirodhara.jpg" alt="Shirodhara" width="326" height="261" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Almost everyone experiences mental and emotional stress at one point of time or another during the day. Hours of analysing a report or writing code for software may leave you mentally exhausted. An upcoming presentation or examination can make you feel restless. At other times the Monday-morning syndrome may take over and you may not feel like going to work or participating in any activity for no particular reason.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">However, massage therapy has been shown to to reduce mental stress and relax the mind in the following ways</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Massages Increase Alertness</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In 1996, Field, Ironson and other researchers observed that head-neck-shoulder massage therapy enhances alertness in a job stress situation which was measured by alpha wave activity reducing significantly after a massage, suggesting a pattern of heightened alterness<sup>1</sup><em>. </em>They also found that massage therapy improved functioning during a test of mental performance.<sup>2</sup></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Massages Lower Depression</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Findings of a research by Field, Sunshine and others published in 1997 showed that those who received massages experienced fewer symptoms of depression. Even Moyer and others found in their 2004 study that an average participant who received massage therapy experienced a reduction in depression that was greater than 73% of those who did not receive massage therapy. Massage therapy&#8217;s effects on depression may come about as it is linked to increased levels of serotonin which may inhibit the transmission of painful nerve signals to the brain.<sup>3,<em>4</em></sup> Manipulation involved in massage in the form of rubbing or applying pressure may stimulate a release of feel-good hormones known as endorphins into the blood stream.<sup>5,<em>6</em></sup></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Massages Lower Blood Pressure &amp; Heart Rate</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">According to 2 groups of researchers (Cady &amp; Jones and Hernandez-Reif &amp; others) massage therapy lowers blood pressure.<sup>7,<em>8</em></sup>. Researchers Aourell and others found in 2005 that a single 30 min massage reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 4-8%.<sup><em>9</em></sup>According to researcher Ejindu, even a 20 min facial massage reduced blood pressure<sup><em>10</em></sup>. In 2008, Kaye and others found that a full body deep tissue massage resulted in lower systolic blood pressure and heart rate.<em><sup><em>11</em></sup></em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to research by Rooij and others as well as Armario in 2006 it is now known that massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system of the body which facilitates the body and minds return to normalcy after an emergency by reversing some of the physiological systems activated by stress. Reduced heart rate and slow respiration, which induce relaxation, are a resut of this.<sup>12,<em>13</em></sup></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Massage Lowers Anxiety</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Even a single session of massage therapy reduces anxiety as per a study conducted by Moyer and others in 2004<sup>14</sup>In that study it was found that the average massage therapy participant experienced a reduction in anxiety that was greater than 77% of comparison group participants<sup>15</sup>. MT&#8217;s effects on state anxiety and trait anxiety may come about as a result of MT&#8217;s influence on body chemistry.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Massage Promotes Better Sleep</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In 1996 researchers Sunshine and others arrived at the conclusion that massages promote deeper, less disturbed sleep.<sup><em>16</em></sup></p>
<p style="font-style: italic;"><em> </em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8211;</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>1</sup>Field, T, Ironson, G., Pickens, J., Nawrocki, T, Fox, N., Scafidi, E, Burman, I., &amp; Schanberg, S. (1996). Massage therapy reduces anxiety and enhances EEG pattern of alertness and math computations. International Journal of Neuroscience, 86, 197-205.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>2</sup>Field, T., Ironson, G., Scafidi, F., &amp; Nawrocki, T., Gonclaves, A., &amp; Burman, I. (1996). Massage therapy reduces anxiety and enhances EEG pattern of alertness and math computations. International Journal of Neuroscience, 86, 197â€“206.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>3</sup>Field, T., Grizzle, N., Scafidi, F., &amp; Schanberg, S. (1996). Massage and relaxation therapiesâ€™ effects on depressed adolescent mothers. Adolescence, 31, 903â€“911.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>4</sup>Ironson, G., Field, T., Scafidi, F., Kumar, M., Patarca, R., Price, A., et al. (1996). Massage therapy is associated with enhancement of the immune systemâ€™s cytotoxic capacity. International Journal of Neuroscience, 84, 205â€“218.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>5</sup>Andersson, S., &amp; Lundeberg, T. (1995). Acupunctureâ€”From empiricism to science: Functional background to acupuncture effects in pain and disease. Medical Hypotheses, 45, 271â€“281.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>6</sup>Oumeish, O. Y. (1998). The philosophical, cultural, and historical aspects of complementary, alternative, unconventional, and integrative medicine in the Old World. Archives of Dermatology, 134, 1373â€“1386.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><sup>7</sup>Cady, S. H., &amp; Jones, C.E. (1997). Massage therapy as a workplace intervention for reduction of stress. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 84, 157-158.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>8</sup> Hernandez-Reif, M., Field, T, Krasnegor, J., Hossain, Z., Schanberg, S., Kuhn, C., &amp; Burman, I. (in press). Hypertension symptoms are reduced by massage therapy. Pain.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>9</sup>Aourell M, Skoog M, Carleson J. Effects of Swedish massage on blood pressure. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2005;11:242â€“6.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>10</sup> Ejindu, A. (2007). The effects of foot and facial massage on sleep induction, blood pressure, pulse and respiratory rate: Crossover pilot study. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 13, 266-275</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>11</sup> Kaye, A.D., Kaye, A.J., Swinford, J., Baluch, A., Bawcom, B.A., Lambert, T.J., et al. (2008). The effect of deep-tissue massage therapy on blood pressure and heart rate. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(2), 125-128.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>12</sup>de Rooij SR, Painter RC, Phillips DI, Osmond C, Tanck MW, Bossuyt PM, et al. Cortisol responses to psychological stress in adults after prenatal exposure to the Dutch famine. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2006;31:1257â€“65.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>13</sup>Armario A. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: what can it tell us about stressors? CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets 2006;5:485â€“501.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>14</sup>Moyer,  C.A., Rounds, J., &amp; Hannum, J.W.. (2004). A Meta-Analysis of Massage Therapy Research. Psychological Bulletin, 130(1), 3-18</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>15</sup>Moyer,  C.A., Rounds, J., &amp; Hannum, J.W.. (2004). A Meta-Analysis of Massage Therapy Research. Psychological Bulletin, 130(1), 3-18</em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup>16</sup>Sunshine, W., Field, T. M., Quintino, O., Fierro, K., Kuhn, C., Burman, I., et al. (1996). Fibromyalgia benefits from massage therapy and transcutaneous electrical stimulation. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, 2, 18â€“22.</em></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1250/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Massages help in reducing stress that shows up as aches and pains</title>
		<link>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1242</link>
		<comments>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1242#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Apr 2011 09:46:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Research about spa massages]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[research message3]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/?p=1242</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Massage is a great way to reduce the physical signs of stress and to address back-pain... <a href="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1242"></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><img class="ngg-singlepic ngg-left alignleft" src="http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/wp-content/gallery/album-2/swedish-massage.jpg" alt="swedish-massage" width="360" height="240" />Massage is a great way to reduce the physical signs of stress. </strong>Taking a massage after strenuous exercise, extensive travelling or a day full of chores at home is a great way to relax your body. It is also a great way to address back-pain or stiff shoulders that working professionals experience due to improper posture and long hours at their desk.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In a study conducted in 1998 by researchers <em>Hernandez-Reif, Field, Krasnegor and others, m</em>assage therapy was found effective in treatment for chronic lower back pain.<em><sup>1</sup></em>In another study conducted in 2000 by Preyde Michele, 63% of subjects who received comprehensive massage therapy reported no back pain.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Scientific research suggests that massage therapy is effective in reducing physical pain by closing the brains gate to the reception of pain before it can be processed<em><sup>2,3,4</sup></em><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><em>.</em></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><em><br />
 </em></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Manipulations and pressures of massage therapy break down subcutaneous adhesions and prevent fibrosis. In other words, massage therapy ensures that the tissues of your muscles that are normally separate, stay separate. If they were to start growing together, they could cause complications.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Massage also helps reduce pain by promoting circulation of blood and helping in lymphatic drainage. Lymphatic drainage is a process by which pain-inducing toxins that accumulate in the body due to an injury or strenuous exercise are eliminated from the body.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Massage also helps reduce pain indirectly by promoting deep sleep. Deep sleep in turn reduces levels of substance P: a chemical compound that is associated with inflammation and pain; and increases somatostatin: a hormone that prevents the release of stress-hormones.<em><sup>5</sup></em></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><sup><br />
 </sup></em></p>
<hr style="text-align: justify;" size="1" />
<p><em><sup>1</sup><strong>Hernandez-Reif, </strong>M., Field, T, Krasnegor, J., Theakston, H., &amp; Burman, I. (1998). Chronic lower back pain is reduced and range of motionÂ improved with massage therapy. Manuscript submitted for publication. </em></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.thefourfountainsspa.in/archives/1242/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>

