The Spa Spectrum

There are as many methods that make for a memorable spa experience as there are types of grape that make fine wines.  Some spa treatments rely on specific mediums -- soothing seaweed, say, or hot stones.  Thermal clay or oxygen, water, crystals, essential oils and even peat can all bring to you a glow of well-being.  What's your perfect match?  A weight loss, anti-aging or medical spa?  Do you want to pair your spa experience with another favorite activity, such as skiing, golf or unwinding on the beach?  What's more, your spa experience can be as brief -- an hour of bliss -- or as languorous as you wish, with pampering that lasts for days.  And while relaxation and a rejuvenated  appearance are often the aim, spas can also be medicinal, health-giving and profoundly therapeutic.  The words that describe them make a music of their own:  Thalassotherapy (treatments using sea water and seaweed wraps); Ayurveda (an Eastern Indian medicinal philosophy incorporating herbs and oils, meditation and aromatherapy); Reiki (a Japanese form of energy enhancing massage to name but a few.  All evoke images of escape and vitality.