ACCUPRESSURE - Similar to Shiatsu, the goal of this massage tachnique is to promote healing by applying pressure to the body's "energy points" or "meridians" (these are the same as in acupuncture) thereby improving the flow of energy throughout the body.

ACUPUNCTURE - A healing technique developed over 3,000 years ago in China. Fine needles are inserted into the body at critical points that correspond to different organs in order to help balance the energy "meridians" in the body. Acupuncture is used to relieve muscular and neurological problems.

AFFIRMATION - The repetition of a positive statement with the goal of overcoming a physical or emotional problem ("my feet do not hurt - I will succeed in this new venture"). Often combined with visualizing the desired outcome.

ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE - A massage therapy developed by Australian actor F. M. Alexander to correct physical habits that cause bodily stress. There is emphaisis on posture, how to sit comfortably, the best ways to lift objects, etc.

ALGOTHERAPY - A seaweed bath. See Thalassothereapy.

AQUACISE/AQUAFIT/AQUA AEROBICS - Aerobic exercise in a pool that takes advantage of water resistance to maximize the exercise's effects.

AROMATHERAPY - The use of fragrant oils in such treatments as massage, facials and body wraps for their healing effects, both emotional and physical.

ALSAN THERAPY - The use of regenerative drugs developed by Dr. Ana Aslan to counter the effects of aging.

ASTON-PATTERNING - A regime of set exercises utilized to help weak or paralyzed nerves and muscles eventually work on their own.

ATHLETIC MASSAGE - A deep-penetration massage that focuses on the muscles utilized in the particular sport played by the client.

AYURVEDA - A system of treatments derived from Indian folk traditions the goal of which is to restore the body to perfect balance. Ayurveda incorporates massage, meditation, aromatherapy and nutrition.

BALNEOTHERAPY - A general term applied to mineral water treatments that include hot springs, mineral or sea water.

BIA - A measurement of body water taken by running a mild electrical current through the body, usually by means of electrodes attached to the wrist and ankle.

BINDI - Body work that includes exfoliation, herbal treatment and massage.

BIOENERGETICS - Pyschotherapeutic bodywork that employs the exchange of energy between the person reciving a massage and the person giving it.

BIOFEEDBACK - The technique of monitoring and controlling physical responses. This is usually done by placing electric sensors on the skin that track changes in temperature and skin chemistry reflective of internal changes. By concentrating on these changes, one can learn to regulate pulse, blood pressure and muscle tension.

BIOMETEOROLOGY - The study of the effect of weather on living organisms.

BODY ALIGNMENT - A program of structural analysis of the body combined with appropriate strengthening and flexibility exercises.

BODY COMPOSITION TEST - Measures the ratio of fat to lean muscle. This is usually done using a skin-fold caliper to pinch the skin below the underarm.

BODY CONTOUR - Exercises used to shape, tone and condition specific parts of the body.

BODY MASS INDEX - A measure of body weight adjusted for weight.

BODY SUGARING - Ancient hair removal process.

BOICIL FORTE - Drug used to treat rheumatic diseases.

BREEMA BODYWORK - Breema techniques, whihc originated in Kurdistan, are based on the premise that the body is a self-healing organism. Like accupuncture, it sees the body as anenergy system delineted by meridians (different from those described by the Chinese). Breema's goal is to bring mental, physical and spiritual energies into balance.

BROSSAGE-A fine body polish achieved with several brushes and salicylic salt.

BRUSH AND TONE - An exfoliation technique that entails dry brushing of the skin to remove dead cells and improve circulation. The brushing is done in vigorous, circular motions. When finished, a moisturizing lotion is applied to the skin.

CARDIOVASCULAR ENDURANCE TEST - Used to measure the ability of the heart and blood vessels to respond to the demands of physical exertion.

CATHArTIC - A laxative, usually one made from a natural substance.

CATHIODERMIE - Use of a low-voltage electric current to rejuvenate the skin.

CELLUAR THERAPY - The injection of concentrated live tissue sultivated from fetal lambs to counter aging. Not sanctioned by the FDA and not available in the United States.

CHAKRA - A term from Sanskrit that refers to the seven energy centers of the body.

CHELATION THERAPY - The injection of a synthetic amino acid EDTA along with vitamins and other substances to fight arteriosclerosis.

CHIROPRACTIC - The realignment of the spine to relieve back pain and posture problems.

CHRONOBIOLOGY - The study of biological rhythms.

CIRCUIT TRAINING - The combination of aerobics with weight-resistance equipment such as Nautilus or Cybex. On the circuit, you workout at selected machines, leaving no more time between each than is necessary to keep your heart rate within a target range throughout the workout.

CLEANSING - Detoxifying the body of accumulated poisons.

COGNITIVE TRAINING - Substituting positive attitudes for negative ones in weight contriol programs.

COLD PLUNGE - Immersion in cold water to contract the capillaries thereby stimulating circulation after a sauna.

COLONIC IRRIGATION - An intense irrigation of the colon to remove trapped impurities, thereby preventing them from introducing toxins into the system.

COLOR HEALING - Based on the notion that each color gives off different vibrations that will resonate with like vibrations in the human body.

COMPLETE SERUM THEREAPY - A general treatment whose goal is the regeneration of the whole body.

CRANIO-SCARAL THERAPY - Gentle massage of the head and upper neck.

CREATIVE VISULAIZATION - A relaxation technique usually undertaken in a dark room with a group of people who, under the direction of an instructor, imagine themselves in a restful envroment.

CRENOTHERAPY (CROUNOTHERAPY) - Refers to treatments involving mineral water, mud and vapor.

CROSS TRAINING-Alternating high- and low-stress exercise to enhance conditioning.

CRYOTHERAPY - The use of frozen ÚwandsÆ placed on the skin to create a vasoconstriction in the area to be treated.

CRYSTAL HEALING - Based on the belief that when a natural quartz crystal is brough into contact with the body's ether, it can draw out imbalanced energy.

DEEP-CLEANSING FACIAL - Use of machines or hands to open pores, remove blackheads, revitalize the skin.

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE - A deep, sometimes painful kneading of the muscles to realign the body and improve freedom of movement.

DETOXIFICATION-Cleansing the body of accumulated poisons.

DRINKING CURE - Medically prescribed regimen of mineral water consumption.

DULSE SCRUBBING - The use of a mix of powdered dulse seaweed and oil and/or water to remove dead skin while providing minerals and vitamins at the same time.

ELECTRO-ACCUPUNCTURE - The use of a pencillike electric device that is placed at that same points as acupuncture needles without penetrating the skin to adminster a current to achieve the same effect as conventional acupuncture.

ELECTROTHERAPY - Generic term for all treatments utilizing low-voltage electric current.

ERGOMETRIC TRAINING - Use of exercise machines equipped with timer and workload indicator that enable you to calibrate and measure your performance in a given time.

ERIKSONIAN HYPNOSIS - Technique that avoids imposing suggestions to change the subject and instead reinforces subject's inherent ability to change.

ESALEN MASSAGE - Developed at the Esalen Institue in Calilfornia this technique employs long, full hand strokes.

ESSENTIAL OILS-Aromatics extracted from a variety of plants. They are believed to help with blood circulation.

EXFOLIATION - The removal of the upper layer of dead skin cells.

FANGO TREATMENT - From the Italian word for mud. This entails the use of mineralized mud that is applied to help detoxify, stimulate circulation and ease some muscular aches. Parafango is similar, but it uses a combination of mud and paraffin with the added benefit of softening the skin. (Women should make sure that the mud contains no radioactive traces that may cause birth defects.)

FARADISM - The electrical stimulation of muscles for the purposes of toning them. Sometimes referred to as Úpassive exercise.Æ The low-level electrical current is applied via contact pads attached to the body where the muscles to be treated are located.

FELDENKRAIS METHOD - Developed by Moshe Feldenkrais, this is a system that utilizes specific movements combined with pressure and manipulation to reprogram the nervous system.

FINNISH SAUNA - A traditional way of cleansing the body through perspiration. A pile of rocks is heated in an enclosed space and water is thrown on them realeasing steam. Often, birch fronds are used to beat the body to stimulate circulation.

FLOATATION TANK - An enclosed tank filled with warm water and Epsom salts in which you float in a dark quiet environment, an experience that is meant to reduce stress.

GASTEIN CURE - Admininstered in the Gastein Valley in Austria. The body is exposed to radon, an inert radioactive gas, for the purpose of stimulating bodily functions and glandular secretions without radiation damage.

GESTALT THERAPY - Seeks to resolve inner conflicts within a person to achieve a fully functioning whole that is more fully aware.

GLYCO-PEELING - Use of a fruit acid-based alpho-hydroxyl acid as a peel to reduce age spots, soften wrinkles and revitalilze the skin in general.

GOLDEN NEEDLES - Acupuncture specifically applied to the face to reduce wrinkles and sagging. used as an alternative to plastic surgery.

GUIDED IMAGERY - Listening to music or a person's voice to achieve a relaxed state in which images and symbols arise from deep in the subconscious. Can be used to stimulate the immune system.

HAKOMI THERAPY - A method of using the physical body as a mirror into the subconscious mind.

HAYSACK WRAP - A wrap with steamed hay used to detoxify the body.

HELLERWORK - Named for its inventor, Jopseph Heller, this is a series of eleven 90-minute deep-tissue massages. The purpose is to relieve chronic strain and stress.

HERBAL WRAP-Wraping the body in natural-fiber sheets that are soaked in a brew of araomatic herbs and then further adding a second wrap of blankets or plastic to keep in the moist heat. The intention is to relax muscles, soothe soreness and soften the skin.

HERBOLOGY/HERBALISM - The study and use of herbs for healing.

HOLISTIC HEALTH - A non-medical system of health care that treats the whole organism, physical and mental and seeks to create a balanced life by taking into account its environmental, physical, mental and spiritual aspects.

HOLISTIC MEDICINE - An umbrella term for alternative forms of medicine such as homepathy, acupuncture, nutritional therapy, etc.

HOLISTIC NUTRITION - A plan for nutrition based on the belief that food is a nautral medicine and that the body needs whole food for good health.

HOMEOPATHY - A form of medicine based on the philosophy that Úlike cures like.Æ To treat a disease or condition, patients ingest minute quanities of substances that cause symptoms similar to those created by the disease thereby stimulating the body's vital force to bring about a cure.

HOT PLUNGE - Immersion in a pool of hot water to dilate the capillaries.

HYDROPATHY - The use of water, internally and externally, to treat disease.

HYDROTHERAPY - Catchall term for water treatments using mineral baths, underwater massage, jets, etc.

HYDROTUB - A deep tub equipped with undewter jets for massage.

IMMUNOTHERAPY - Treatments designed to improve the immune system.

INFRARED TREATMENT-Heat treatment using infrared lamps to relax muscles and increase circulation.

INHALATION THERAPY - Breathing in hot vapors or steam ehnhanced with aromatic oils, either in a room designed for the purpose or with inahalation equipment to relieve respiratory congestion.

INTERVAL TRAINING - Alternating high- and low-energy exercises.

IODINE-BRINE BATH THERAPY - Use of mineral baths rich in salt and iodine for recuperative effects.

IRIDOLOGY - Examining the iris to ÚreadÆ the condition internal organs.

IYENGAR YOGAR - Developed in India by B. K. S. Iyengar

JACUZZI - A whirlpool bath with a patented jet design.

JAPANESE ENZYME BATH - Submersion in a tub (preferably wooden) filled with bits of cedar and Japanese plant enzymes. This is preceded with a drink of enzyme tea.

JIN SHIN DO - A type of massage for energy balancing.

JINN SHIN JYUTSU - Another form of energy balancing massage.

KINESIOLOGY - Diagnosis and treatment of a disease by reading of telltale signs manifested in weak muscle patters.

KINESITHERAPY - The active or passive movement of parts of the body.

KNIEPP KUR - Created in Germany by Sebastian Kniepp, this is a mixture of hydrotherapy, herbology and a natural food diet.

KUR - Pronounced ÚkoorÆ this means ÚcureÆ in English and refers to any planned course of spa treatments, usually in Europe.

LIQUID BALANCING - Floating in a tank of body-temperature saltwater either alone or with the assistance of a therapist.

LIQUID SOUND - Light and music in and out of water programmed to promote visualization and relaxation.

LOMI-LOMI - Rhythmic Hawaiian massage.

LOOFAH - A plant that when dried, resembles sponge. It is used to exfoliate dead skin.

LOOFAH BODY SCRUB - Full-body massage with a loofah and salt water and warm oil, usually almond or avacado.

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE - A massage that utilizes a gentle pumping action to facilitate the draining of the lymphatic system. This requires special knowledge on the part of the massage therapist because they have to know the locations of the lymph nodes.

MACROBIOTICS - A highly restrictive vegetarian diet that is keyed to the cycles of nature around us. Generally, this calls for eating only that produce which is in season and which is indigenous to your part of the world. It is low in fat and high in antioxidants.

MAGNETOTHERAPY - The placement of a magnet at the site of acupuncture treatment to increase its effectivelness. Usually taped into place for a week,

MASQUE - A preparation applied to the face and neck for toning, cleansing and the removal of dead skin.

MARIEL - Form of energy-balancing massage.

MASSERCISE - The combination of a lower-body mask with massage to break up cellulite.

MEDICAL HYDROLOGY - A type of energy-balancing massage.

MINERAL SPAINGS SPA - A spa that offers on-site natural mineral, thermal or seawater treatments.

MINERAL WATER BATH - Soaking in water from thermal springs infused with mineral salts.

MINERAL WATERS - Water from springs and wells containing a minimum of 1,000 milligrams of solid components per liter.

MOOR/PEAT BATHS - A bath prepared with organically rich peat. Can also be applied as a pack with a wet cloth.

MOVEMENT THERAPY - A typed of dance therapy.

NAPRAPATHY - A treatment focusing on the connective structures of the body like ligaments, muscles and joints that combines manipulation of these structures and a dietary regime.

NATUROPATHY - A form of medicine predicated on the belilef that healing is possible through natural means such as diet, massage, acupuncture, use of herbs, minor reliance on surgery, etc.

NUAT THAI - A form of energy-balancing massage.

ONSEN - Japanese for a hot mineral spring.

ORTHION - A mechanical massage table that is used to align the spine and neck by pulling, stretching and massaging select areas.

OZONIZED BATHS - A thermal bath with jets that shoot in streams of ozonized air. Meant to promote relaxation and ease minor aches.

PANCHAKARMA - Cleansing and purifying treatments combining massage, nutrition and meditation; part of the Ayurveda system.

PANTHERMAL - A cellulite treatment that requires you to lie in a metal tube through which hot dry air circulates, causing you to sweat. You are then doused with warm water.

PARAFFIN TREATMENT - Cleansing treatment using hot paraffin wax, which is brushed all over the body. As it cools, it creates a vacuum that lifts out dirt and removes dead skin.

PAST-LIFE THERAPY - Use of past-life experiences and images to examine the conscious and unconscious self.

PHYSIOCHINEITHERAPY - The sue of light, heat, electricity, movement in treatments.

PHYTOTHERAPY - Any treatment that involves using plant-derived products-aromatic oils, herbs, seaweed, etc.

PILATES METHOD - Developed by Dr. joseph Pilates this is a system of strength - training movements in combination with breathing techniques.

POLARITY MASSAGE - A program derived from Ayurveda that is meant to balance the body's electromagnetic energy through stretching, diet, touch and mental-emotional attitude exercises.

PPOWER YOGA - A form of yaga with an accelerated series of positions.

PRIMORDAL SOUND - An Ayurveda meditation technique that uses sound to help achieve balance.

RADU - Advanced low-impact serobics that employs bars, hand weights and low benches.

RE-BIRTHING - Combination of yoga breathing techniques and guided meditation to achieve total relalxation and clearing the mind of distractions. Sometimes includes reliving the birth experience.

REFLEXOLOGY - Chinese pressure-point massage designed to restore the flow of energy thoughout the body. The key points are usually the feet but can also include the hands and ears.

REIKI - Techniques used to activate and balance the life force.

REPAICHAGE - A massage and/or facial that involves herbal, mud or seaweed masks. Used for deep cleaning and moisturizing,

ROLFING - Deep massage and manipulation designed to relieve rigid muscles and joints and to also relieve stress. Developed by Ida Rolf.

ROMAN BATH - Today usually used in reference to a whirlpool or Jacuzzi with benches for several people to sit on.

RUBBER-BAND WORKOUT - Calisthenics utilizing the resistance of large rubber bands.

SALT RUB (GLOW) - A vigorous abrasive scrub using a mixture of coarse salt mixed with aromatic oils and water to clean the skin. Followed by a gentle shower and apllication of a moisturizer.

SAUNA - Dry heat trteatment in a wood-lined room where the temperature ranges between 160 to 210 degrees. Followed by a cold shower to close the pores.

SCOTCH HOSE/SWISS SHOWER - A high-power shower adminstered by a therapist during which the temperature is varied from hot to cold. Meant to aid circualtion and relieve arthritis pain.

SEAWEED WRAP - Similar to herbal wraps except that the body is wrapped with seaweed products moistened with seawater.

SHIATSU - Cross between accupuncture and massage developed in Japan. Relies and finger and thumb pressure at critical points to stimulate the body.

SILICEOUS THERMAL BATH/HOT-SAND BATH - Any treatment that uses silica or sand in the therapy.

SITZ BATH - Immersion in a chair-shaped tub in which the water is alternatively hot and cold.

SKIN GLOW RUB - A mineral-water rub, following a sauna in which the skin is softened (salt is sometimes also used).

SPORTS MASSAGE - Deep tissue massage applied specically to the muscles involved in a particular sport.

STEAM ROOM - A tiled room where wet heat - 110 to 130 degrees - is applied to the body.

SWEDISH MASSAGE - The best-know massage technique, devised in 1812 by Henry Peter Long. It employs five movements - long strokes; kneading of specifc muscles; tapping; rolling of the fingers; and vibrration - in combination with aromatic oils.

TAI CHI - Chinese martial art that embodies the concept of meditation in movement. This is achieved through a series of slow movements combined with deep breathing.

THALASSOTHERAPY - Treatments that utilize sea water and products from the sea. Among the most common are: sea water baths with massage jets and body wraps using seaweed or sea algae.

THERMAL WRAP - A body treatment in which you are wrapped in hot, wet sheets infused with herbal essences then wrapped again in a blanket or plastic sheet so that the heat is retained. The goal is to eliminate toxins through perspiration and to relax muscles.

THERMOTHERAPY - The use of heat for therapeutic purposes.

TRAEGER MASSAGE-A technique developed by Dr. Milton Traeger, this type of massage rellies on a gentle rhythmic shaking of the client without rubbing or oils for the relief of stress.

ULTRASOUND - The use of high-frequency sound waves to ease pains.

VEGAN - A vegetarian who does not consume any animal products.

VIBRATORY MASSAGE - A massage that relies on vibrations to achieve its goals.

VICHY SHOWER - A treatment applied with several water jets set at various forces and delivering water at different temperatures to a subject who is lying on a cushioned mat.

VISUALIZATION-A technique used to create soothing images for relaxing.

WATSU - A rhythmic and pressure point massage that takes place in a pool of warm water.

YOGA - Hindu system of stretching and toning the body through movements and postures (asanas) and deep breathing. It helps improve muscles tone and movement, and imparts a sense of well being.

ZODIAC - An imaginary belt of the heavens.