Acupressure
A massage technique which releases muscular tension by applying pressure to the acupuncture points, releasing blockages and allowing the energy to flow freely.

Acupuncture
A 5,000 year old Chinese treatment - part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Needles are applied to specific points along the meridians to balance the energy flow (qi). Suitable for pain relief and for reducing psycho-somatic imbalances.

AHA Fruit Acids
Alpha-hydroxy-acids. Natural acids which are mainly present in fruit, used in beauty treatments for skin peeling.

Alexander Technique
A method that develops and maintains the alignment of the head, neck and spine in order to reduce unnecessary strain on the body and release tension in the muscles.

Algae
Marine plants rich in vitamins, minerals and trace elements which supply the skin with valuable nutrients. Applications include bubble baths, crèmes and beauty packs.

Api Therapy
The use of products of the common honeybee (apis) for well being purposes. Honeybee venom, pollen, beeswax, royal jelly, and propolis are the products generally thought to possess beneficial effects for the human body. Considered particularly effective in conjunction with reflexotherapy.

Aquabalancing
Trust in the therapist is required in order to carry out passive and active movements while floating in 35°C warm water.

Aqua Musica
Therapeutic bathing accompanied by sound, colours and aromas for relaxation and well-being.

Aquagolf
A fun way of playing golf aimed at overcoming the water's resistance and neutralising the body weight.

Aquagym
Water gymnastics with and without fitness equipment (e.g. Aqua Walker, Aqua Bike) aimed at boosting the metabolism and burning fat. Has a toning effect on muscles and connective tissue.

Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses essential oils (volatile oils that have been distilled from plants) to help with emotional disorders such as stress and anxiety as well as a wide range of other ailments. Oils are inhaled, massaged into the skin in diluted form or placed in baths.

Audio Bath
Baths which are individually prepared with herb mixtures and essences that are massaged into the skin using the frequencies of sound.

Audio Pillow
Stereo loudspeakers built into a normal looking pillow so that only the pillow's user can hear the sound. Audio pillows can be connected to many different sources so that a choice of pre-programmed or radio music can be heard.

Ayurveda
Ayur (life) veda (teaching) is an old Indian medicine combining physical treatment with meditative and spiritual methods. Water, oil treatments, exercise and special nutrition help to cleanse toxins from the body, circulate energy, stimulate the internal healing processes and effect a change in perception.

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The encyclopaedia information has been taken from the Busche Verlag publication and does not refer to Palmolive Thermal Spa products.