This morning has been an adventure. As we look forward to another week of 40degree weather and rain...the electricity went out for about an hour. During that hour the power went on...went off...went on..and so on. When the power finally decided to stay, we realized that the office Salt Water Aquarium suffered the brunt of the power surges. The Filter and Heater must have burnt out due to the surges...and now the little tropical fish and wondering what's happening...(Besides their confusion to the "disco light" action earlier)
So....this afternoon looks like I'll be either getting new filtering and heating systems for the aquarium or figuring out something.
More to come....
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Removal of Fragrance
My Tip of the Day:
To remove odors from hands, scrub with a little coffee grounds/coffee scrub with some Lemon Juice. I accidently got some strong floral fragrance oil all over my hands yesterday...and no matter how many times I washed with soap, the smell just didn't go away. This is perfect if the fragrance is part of your favorite Body Systems' Lotion...but not if you want to enjoy a sandwich and all you can smell is strong flowers.
I grabbed some of our great Coffee Scrub which contains pure coffee grounds, and added a little Lemon juice. Scrubbed and then rinsed, and voila flower smells gone.
I could enjoy my sandwich without the flower bouquet!
This works great if you handle some fish, or use some garlic to make supper. Another option? Use our fabulous Lemon Shea Scrub with a little coffee...same thing.
Monday, June 8, 2009
It's Raining...Peanuts!!
Yes it is! Our wonderful UPS delivery guy was kind enough to bring us excess packaging peanuts from our local Herberger's Store. They were going to throw them all out! Can you believe that?
Body Systems' is proud to reuse, and recycle whatever and whenever we can. You will notice that we often will reuse boxes for shipping and you will find a variety of packing materials and that's because we reuse everything we can.
Remember..."An ugly box saves trees"..
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Thunderbirds' Performance This Last Weekend
Besides being able to live in the beautiful Black Hills, with Mount Rushmore about 40minutes away, and the historic town of Deadwood, we are fortunate enough to have a large Air Force Base a few miles away. On a summer day last year, my niece called me and asked, "What does AirForce One look like?" I replied that it's very large and is an aqua teal and white. She pauses and continues, "..yup it's flying over my car right now." WHAT?! I run to the deck to see AirForce One landing at the base. Wow..that plane IS huge. Well last Friday afternoon I could hear some aircraft activity and looked out to see the Thunderbirds practicing above our house. They performed at the airshow all weekend and this is a small clip.
Friday, May 29, 2009
10 Reasons To Spa
Reasons To Go To A Spa
By Anitra Brown, About.com
Looking for a reason to go on a spa vacation? You can jumpstart a healthy lifestyle, reconnect with people you love, or just get away from it all and lay on the beach. Here are some of the best reasons to go to a spa - and suggestions on where to get the spa experience you're looking for.
1. Get Healthy!
Destination spas are the best choice if you're looking to make a major some healthy changes and need some support. This small group of all-inclusive "health spas" offer good nutrition and exercise balanced with relaxing spa treatment. They range from small rustic spas like New Age Health Spa to the legendary Canyon Ranch, with its unparalleled programming and medical staff. Destination spas are great for solo travelers.
2. Relax!
If you just want to get a few spa treatments, hang out by the pool, and eat cheeseburgers for lunch, try a [link url=http://spas.about.com]resort spa. [/link] There's a huge range in terms of price, facilities and amenities. Ask if they offer exercise classes, how often, and if there's an extra charge. These are often the best choices for families because of kids club. Many also have golfing and lavish dining. California, Florida, and Arizona are the top three resort spa destinations, but you can find one in every state.
3. Lose Weight.
The old "fat farm" days of 800 calories and all-day exercise for rapid weight loss are (mostly) over. Now most destination spas teach your how to eat for long-term health. Generally you can eat as much -- or as little -- as you want. A few still have controlled calorie counts, including The Oaks at Ojai. Super-exclusive Cal-A-Vie customizes the calorie counts for each guest. Duke University Diet & Fitness Center is another great choice for weight management, though you stay off-campus.
4. Detox.
Our environment has all kinds of harmful toxins -- physical and mental. A few select spas specialize in detox. Some of the options include juice fasting and colonics at We Care or Ayurvedic panchakarma at Elemental Embrace or The Raj. Yoga classes and treatments like lymphatic drainage also help with detox.
5. Take A Hike.
Great hiking programs are the backbone of many destination spas, including Red Mountain Spa and Green Valley Spa in Utah. They both roam over gorgeous federal lands, with different groups aimed at different fitness levels. But think about the temperatures and time of year when you book. Long hikes and low-season rates don't necessarily go together. 6. Conquer Your Fear!
Miraval is the place to go if you want to push through some old fears and habits. Working with a horse during "The Equine Experience" gives you insight into how you communicate (and regularly brings executives to tears). Or find new freedom and you climb onto a tiny platform and jump -- rope attached!
7. Do Yoga.
You can find yoga classes at just about every destination spa (and many resort spas). But some do it better than others. Rancho La Puerta has one of the best yoga programs, with top teachers, a huge yoga studio, and classes aimed at different levels of expertise. Kripalu is also famous for its yoga and reasonable prices due to campus-style and vegetarian food. At the luxury end, Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya in Mexico has a Wellness Yoga Retreat with a yogi from India.
8. Eat Well.
The food is so good at some destination spas that you might pack on pounds if you're not careful. Spas known for their excellent spa cuisine and cooking classes include Rancho La Puerta, Lake Austin Spa Resort, and Red Mountain Spa. Most resort spas also have fine dining with spa cuisine options -- though I've been told no one ever orders them.
9. Reconnect With People You Love.
Spas are a great place to spend quality time with the people you love. Destination spas are especially fun for girlfriend getaways and quality time with your mom, daughter or sister. But destination spas can be social, so if you want to rekindle a romance, you might choose a small resort spa like Royal Palms in Phoenix. If you only have a weekend, look for on something in your own state.
10. Get Inspired.
Feeling uninspired? Many spas have programs that help you get in touch with your creativity. One of the very best is Ojai Valley Inn & Spa in California, where you learn from local artists how to work with oils, pastels, watercolor, make jewelry and paint silk scarves.
By Anitra Brown, About.com
Looking for a reason to go on a spa vacation? You can jumpstart a healthy lifestyle, reconnect with people you love, or just get away from it all and lay on the beach. Here are some of the best reasons to go to a spa - and suggestions on where to get the spa experience you're looking for.
1. Get Healthy!
Destination spas are the best choice if you're looking to make a major some healthy changes and need some support. This small group of all-inclusive "health spas" offer good nutrition and exercise balanced with relaxing spa treatment. They range from small rustic spas like New Age Health Spa to the legendary Canyon Ranch, with its unparalleled programming and medical staff. Destination spas are great for solo travelers.
2. Relax!
If you just want to get a few spa treatments, hang out by the pool, and eat cheeseburgers for lunch, try a [link url=http://spas.about.com]resort spa. [/link] There's a huge range in terms of price, facilities and amenities. Ask if they offer exercise classes, how often, and if there's an extra charge. These are often the best choices for families because of kids club. Many also have golfing and lavish dining. California, Florida, and Arizona are the top three resort spa destinations, but you can find one in every state.
3. Lose Weight.
The old "fat farm" days of 800 calories and all-day exercise for rapid weight loss are (mostly) over. Now most destination spas teach your how to eat for long-term health. Generally you can eat as much -- or as little -- as you want. A few still have controlled calorie counts, including The Oaks at Ojai. Super-exclusive Cal-A-Vie customizes the calorie counts for each guest. Duke University Diet & Fitness Center is another great choice for weight management, though you stay off-campus.
4. Detox.
Our environment has all kinds of harmful toxins -- physical and mental. A few select spas specialize in detox. Some of the options include juice fasting and colonics at We Care or Ayurvedic panchakarma at Elemental Embrace or The Raj. Yoga classes and treatments like lymphatic drainage also help with detox.
5. Take A Hike.
Great hiking programs are the backbone of many destination spas, including Red Mountain Spa and Green Valley Spa in Utah. They both roam over gorgeous federal lands, with different groups aimed at different fitness levels. But think about the temperatures and time of year when you book. Long hikes and low-season rates don't necessarily go together. 6. Conquer Your Fear!
Miraval is the place to go if you want to push through some old fears and habits. Working with a horse during "The Equine Experience" gives you insight into how you communicate (and regularly brings executives to tears). Or find new freedom and you climb onto a tiny platform and jump -- rope attached!
7. Do Yoga.
You can find yoga classes at just about every destination spa (and many resort spas). But some do it better than others. Rancho La Puerta has one of the best yoga programs, with top teachers, a huge yoga studio, and classes aimed at different levels of expertise. Kripalu is also famous for its yoga and reasonable prices due to campus-style and vegetarian food. At the luxury end, Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya in Mexico has a Wellness Yoga Retreat with a yogi from India.
8. Eat Well.
The food is so good at some destination spas that you might pack on pounds if you're not careful. Spas known for their excellent spa cuisine and cooking classes include Rancho La Puerta, Lake Austin Spa Resort, and Red Mountain Spa. Most resort spas also have fine dining with spa cuisine options -- though I've been told no one ever orders them.
9. Reconnect With People You Love.
Spas are a great place to spend quality time with the people you love. Destination spas are especially fun for girlfriend getaways and quality time with your mom, daughter or sister. But destination spas can be social, so if you want to rekindle a romance, you might choose a small resort spa like Royal Palms in Phoenix. If you only have a weekend, look for on something in your own state.
10. Get Inspired.
Feeling uninspired? Many spas have programs that help you get in touch with your creativity. One of the very best is Ojai Valley Inn & Spa in California, where you learn from local artists how to work with oils, pastels, watercolor, make jewelry and paint silk scarves.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
BUTTER UP With Body Systems' Natural Body Butters
Rapid City, SD – May 2009 – Slip into something silky like rich, luxurious body butters that smooth, renew and do double duty by moisturizing the body, face and hair with natural vitamins, minerals & emollient properties. Glow naturally from head to toe with a little help from Body Systems...
OLIVE NUT BODY BUTTER: Cold pressed from olives, this creamy butter has excellent emollient and antioxidant properties that replenish the skin with a protective layer of moisture. Contains natural essential fatty acids and unsaponifiables to promote youthful skin. (SRP $20, www.body-systems.net)
AVOCADO BODY BUTTER: Made from the crushed fresh flesh of the avocado fruit, our Avocado Butter is creamy and has excellent moisturizing properties along with some natural sunscreen ability. Noted for its easy spreadability and penetration into the skin, it is non-pore clogging and contains high amounts of Vitamins A, B, G and E. (SRP $20, www.body-systems.net)
COFFEE BODY BUTTER: Cold pressed from roasted coffee beans our Coffee Body Butter has a smooth, elegant and silky feel with slight coffee aroma. Added Coffee Extract increases circulation due to the natural caffeine content that helps deminish cellulite, and also has been found to be a powerful antioxidant.
Phytosterols promote moisture retention, quick penetration and good adherence for the skin. (SRP $25, www.body-systems.net)
SHEA NUT BODY BUTTER: Used for thousands of years as an ideal treatment for dry or aging skin, Shea butter also helps to protect against the damaging effects of the sun. We've whipped the shea butter together with sweet almond oil and Vitamin E to produce a thick fluffy cream that melts into the skin on contact.(SRP $20, www.body-systems.net)
What makes Body Systems' Body Butters unique? Our Butters are free of any chemicals including Parabens, Phthalates, or Petro-Chemicals, are never tested on animals, contain no fillers and are perfect for doing Double, Triple or even Quadruple Duty. Add sugar for a healthy exfoliation, or apply direct to lips for perfect sun protection or slather on the body and hair, and then slip into a warm bath for a deeper moisturizing bath treatment.
To view the entire Body Systems' collection or to make a purchase, please visit
www.body-systems.net
Created by Teri Lang Patterson, Body Systems offers a comprehensive collection of natural,handmade soaps, toiletries, and other aromatherapy bath and body products. The Company’s “Skincare in Balance” philosophy means that all of Body Systems' products are designed to help you create your own well-balanced personal home spa experience and enhance your body care regimen.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Handling the Flu in Your Spa
From the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov)
Posted: April 29, 2009,
The outbreak of disease in people caused by a new influenza virus of swine origin continues to grow in the United States and internationally. Today, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports additional confirmed human infections, hospitalizations and the nation’s first fatality from this outbreak. The more recent illnesses and the reported death suggest that a pattern of more severe illness associated with this virus may be emerging in the United States. Most people will not have immunity to this new virus and, as it continues to spread, more cases, more hospitalizations and more deaths are expected in the coming days and weeks.
CDC has implemented its emergency response. The agency’s goals are to reduce transmission and illness severity, and provide information to help health care providers, public health officials and the public address the challenges posed by the new virus. Yesterday, CDC issued new interim guidance for clinicians on how to care for children and pregnant women who may be infected with this virus. Young children and pregnant women are two groups of people who are at high risk of serious complications from seasonal influenza. In addition, CDC’s Division of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) continues to send antiviral drugs, personal protective equipment, and respiratory protection devices to all 50 states and U.S. territories to help them respond to the outbreak. The swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and CDC will provide updated guidance and new information as it becomes available.
How your spa should handle the situation
According to industry experts Rebecca James Gadberry, chairman and co-CEO of YG Laboratories, and Terri Wojak, director of True University, the following steps should be taken by your spa to help make it as safe and sanitary as possible for clients and employees alike.
Hand sanitizer. Place hand sanitizer in key areas throughout the spa, especially in the reception area, bathrooms and locker rooms. Provide all employees with pocket-sized hand sanitizers and encourage them to carry the sanitizer when they're off-premises, too.
Protective gear. Make sure all estheticians wear gloves and a medical-grade protective face mask throughout services. For the esthetician to see, the mask should lay flat over the mouth and nose rather than in a bubble shape. Do not touch anything else while wearing gloves, such as your face, nose and other surfaces. If it’s unavoidable, change gloves before continuing the service and properly disinfect any areas that were touched.
Wipes. Wipe down frequently used doors, phones and communal key boards with sanitation wipes once an hour.
Keep rooms clean. Thoroughly wash bowls, brushes and other implements with antibacterial soap and use a medical-grade disinfectant. Always change sheets, towels and bedding after each client.
Keep products sanitary. Products need to be kept sanitized, as well. Dispense products into separate bowls before touching the client, or if you need to grab something else, again make sure you have on a fresh pair of gloves. Every product should also be wiped down with a disinfectant after every service.
Cancellation policy. Suspend your cancellation policy until the pandemic has passed. Clients who feel ill may decide to come in rather than lose money because they cancelled an appointment.
Do not treat ill clients. If a client shows signs of being ill, do not treat proceed with the treatment. It is better to be safe than sorry, and it is not fair to put providers, employees or other clients at risk for illness.
Send employees home. Make your staff aware of the main symptoms of the H1N1 virus. These can be found further down in this article. If an employee feels ill at work or before she comes to work, allow her to stay home. This illness comes on suddenly, so make sure you have backup plans to replace employees who may call in sick or be sent home during their shift.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Web site. Not only can you keep up with the latest news about the virus, you can also download a variety of posters to help build awareness about how to protect against passing along the disease and being exposed to it.
The swine flu and you
The following information was provided by the CDC Web site.
What is swine flu?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.
Is this swine flu virus contagious?
CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.
What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
How does swine flu spread?
Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
How can someone with the flu infect someone else?
Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.
What should I do to keep from getting the flu?
First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Are there medicines to treat swine flu?
Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within two days of symptoms).
How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?
People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to seven days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.
What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his eyes, nose or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface such as a desk and then touches his own eyes, mouth or nose before washing his hands.
How long can viruses live outside the body?
We know that some viruses and bacteria can live two hours or longer on surfaces such as cafeteria tables, doorknobs and desks. Frequent handwashing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school, and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?
If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water. or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner. The CDC recommends that when you wash your hands—with soap and warm water—that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
What should I do if I get sick?
If you live in areas where swine influenza cases have been identified and become ill with influenzalike symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact your health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed. If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others. If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.
In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
Fast breathing or trouble breathing
Bluish skin color
Not drinking enough fluids
Not waking up or not interacting
Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
Flulike symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
Fever with a rash
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Sudden dizziness
Confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting
How serious is swine flu infection?
Like seasonal flu, swine flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe. Between 2005 until January 2009, 12 human cases of swine flu were detected in the United States with no deaths occurring. However, swine flu infection can be serious. In September 1988, a previously healthy 32-year-old pregnant woman in Wisconsin was hospitalized for pneumonia after being infected with swine flu and died eight days later. A swine flu outbreak in Fort Dix, New Jersey, occurred in 1976 that caused more than 200 cases with serious illness in several people and one death.
Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork?
No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
From the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov). Accessed April 30, 2009
Posted: April 29, 2009,
The outbreak of disease in people caused by a new influenza virus of swine origin continues to grow in the United States and internationally. Today, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports additional confirmed human infections, hospitalizations and the nation’s first fatality from this outbreak. The more recent illnesses and the reported death suggest that a pattern of more severe illness associated with this virus may be emerging in the United States. Most people will not have immunity to this new virus and, as it continues to spread, more cases, more hospitalizations and more deaths are expected in the coming days and weeks.
CDC has implemented its emergency response. The agency’s goals are to reduce transmission and illness severity, and provide information to help health care providers, public health officials and the public address the challenges posed by the new virus. Yesterday, CDC issued new interim guidance for clinicians on how to care for children and pregnant women who may be infected with this virus. Young children and pregnant women are two groups of people who are at high risk of serious complications from seasonal influenza. In addition, CDC’s Division of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) continues to send antiviral drugs, personal protective equipment, and respiratory protection devices to all 50 states and U.S. territories to help them respond to the outbreak. The swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and CDC will provide updated guidance and new information as it becomes available.
How your spa should handle the situation
According to industry experts Rebecca James Gadberry, chairman and co-CEO of YG Laboratories, and Terri Wojak, director of True University, the following steps should be taken by your spa to help make it as safe and sanitary as possible for clients and employees alike.
Hand sanitizer. Place hand sanitizer in key areas throughout the spa, especially in the reception area, bathrooms and locker rooms. Provide all employees with pocket-sized hand sanitizers and encourage them to carry the sanitizer when they're off-premises, too.
Protective gear. Make sure all estheticians wear gloves and a medical-grade protective face mask throughout services. For the esthetician to see, the mask should lay flat over the mouth and nose rather than in a bubble shape. Do not touch anything else while wearing gloves, such as your face, nose and other surfaces. If it’s unavoidable, change gloves before continuing the service and properly disinfect any areas that were touched.
Wipes. Wipe down frequently used doors, phones and communal key boards with sanitation wipes once an hour.
Keep rooms clean. Thoroughly wash bowls, brushes and other implements with antibacterial soap and use a medical-grade disinfectant. Always change sheets, towels and bedding after each client.
Keep products sanitary. Products need to be kept sanitized, as well. Dispense products into separate bowls before touching the client, or if you need to grab something else, again make sure you have on a fresh pair of gloves. Every product should also be wiped down with a disinfectant after every service.
Cancellation policy. Suspend your cancellation policy until the pandemic has passed. Clients who feel ill may decide to come in rather than lose money because they cancelled an appointment.
Do not treat ill clients. If a client shows signs of being ill, do not treat proceed with the treatment. It is better to be safe than sorry, and it is not fair to put providers, employees or other clients at risk for illness.
Send employees home. Make your staff aware of the main symptoms of the H1N1 virus. These can be found further down in this article. If an employee feels ill at work or before she comes to work, allow her to stay home. This illness comes on suddenly, so make sure you have backup plans to replace employees who may call in sick or be sent home during their shift.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Web site. Not only can you keep up with the latest news about the virus, you can also download a variety of posters to help build awareness about how to protect against passing along the disease and being exposed to it.
The swine flu and you
The following information was provided by the CDC Web site.
What is swine flu?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.
Is this swine flu virus contagious?
CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.
What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
How does swine flu spread?
Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
How can someone with the flu infect someone else?
Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.
What should I do to keep from getting the flu?
First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Are there medicines to treat swine flu?
Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within two days of symptoms).
How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?
People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to seven days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.
What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his eyes, nose or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface such as a desk and then touches his own eyes, mouth or nose before washing his hands.
How long can viruses live outside the body?
We know that some viruses and bacteria can live two hours or longer on surfaces such as cafeteria tables, doorknobs and desks. Frequent handwashing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school, and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?
If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water. or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner. The CDC recommends that when you wash your hands—with soap and warm water—that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
What should I do if I get sick?
If you live in areas where swine influenza cases have been identified and become ill with influenzalike symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact your health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed. If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others. If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.
In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
Fast breathing or trouble breathing
Bluish skin color
Not drinking enough fluids
Not waking up or not interacting
Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
Flulike symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
Fever with a rash
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Sudden dizziness
Confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting
How serious is swine flu infection?
Like seasonal flu, swine flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe. Between 2005 until January 2009, 12 human cases of swine flu were detected in the United States with no deaths occurring. However, swine flu infection can be serious. In September 1988, a previously healthy 32-year-old pregnant woman in Wisconsin was hospitalized for pneumonia after being infected with swine flu and died eight days later. A swine flu outbreak in Fort Dix, New Jersey, occurred in 1976 that caused more than 200 cases with serious illness in several people and one death.
Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork?
No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
From the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov). Accessed April 30, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Offices Closed Due to another Blizzard
Automated Announcement posted MARCH 30 2009
BODY SYSTEMS is closed "again" today due to a blizzard. This is yet another system and about the same that hit our area last week and closed down offices and UPS for 2 days last week delaying orders and shipments. We apologize for the problems this causes but UPS is closed, USPS is closed and our staff will be logging into our operating system remotely and if we can answer your questions or concerns we will contact you via email as soon as possible.
Teri Patterson
CEO/Founder
Body Systems
P: 605-484-6742
F:605-718-9989
www.body-systems.net
___________________________
Interstate Web Cam
Snowstorm starts week off with a thud
Vehicles navigated the thick snow on West Main Street at about 6:30 a.m. Monday. The work week began with another winter storm. Photo by Tom Lawrence
For second Monday in a row, winter weather coats Black Hills with white
By Tom Lawrence
The Weekly News
Once more, without good feeling.
For the second Monday in a row, a winter storm has settled over the Black Hills. Thick, wet snow began to fall in the middle of the night and picked up in intensity as dawn broke. Blizzard conditions were predicted for the Northern Hills.
The storm closed local schools and colleges, forced city offices to close and clogged streets. There was a fair amount of traffic in Rapid City at 6:30 a.m. but that seemed likely to lessen as the storm increased in ferocity and streets became more and more clogged.
The Rapid City Police Department and the Pennington County Sheriff's Office issued a no-travel advisory within the city and county due to dangerous road and weather conditions.
The only good news was that the wind shouldn't be as severe, which would mean fewer problems with drifting. The storm was predicted to abate by Monday night -- but more snow is expected Wednesday and again later in the week.
Spring? That's the season, according to the calendar. But look outside and tell yourself that.
BODY SYSTEMS is closed "again" today due to a blizzard. This is yet another system and about the same that hit our area last week and closed down offices and UPS for 2 days last week delaying orders and shipments. We apologize for the problems this causes but UPS is closed, USPS is closed and our staff will be logging into our operating system remotely and if we can answer your questions or concerns we will contact you via email as soon as possible.
Teri Patterson
CEO/Founder
Body Systems
P: 605-484-6742
F:605-718-9989
www.body-systems.net
___________________________
Interstate Web Cam
Snowstorm starts week off with a thud
Vehicles navigated the thick snow on West Main Street at about 6:30 a.m. Monday. The work week began with another winter storm. Photo by Tom Lawrence
For second Monday in a row, winter weather coats Black Hills with white
By Tom Lawrence
The Weekly News
Once more, without good feeling.
For the second Monday in a row, a winter storm has settled over the Black Hills. Thick, wet snow began to fall in the middle of the night and picked up in intensity as dawn broke. Blizzard conditions were predicted for the Northern Hills.
The storm closed local schools and colleges, forced city offices to close and clogged streets. There was a fair amount of traffic in Rapid City at 6:30 a.m. but that seemed likely to lessen as the storm increased in ferocity and streets became more and more clogged.
The Rapid City Police Department and the Pennington County Sheriff's Office issued a no-travel advisory within the city and county due to dangerous road and weather conditions.
The only good news was that the wind shouldn't be as severe, which would mean fewer problems with drifting. The storm was predicted to abate by Monday night -- but more snow is expected Wednesday and again later in the week.
Spring? That's the season, according to the calendar. But look outside and tell yourself that.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Hotel Spas Try to Lure Locals
Hotel Spas Try to Lure Locals
Published: March 23, 2009
New York Times
Hotel spas have long been a haven of calm for business travelers seeking to get the kinks out of their backs after a long flight or to unwind before a big meeting. But as the economic downturn hurts the hotel business, the spas are dealing with their own stresses.
Sisters-in-law Rosemary, left, and Judy Blumberg at Westin’s Spa Anjali in Avon, Colo. They took advantage of a special price for local residents.
According to PKF Consulting, spa revenue rose 5 percent from 2006 to 2007, largely because of higher charges for treatments. But since last fall, hotel spas have been dealing with both reduced occupancy and guests who have sharply curbed their discretionary spending.
PKF’s report on the outlook for hotel spas projected decreased attendance for 2009. To counteract this, hotel spa operators are trying several approaches to increase business and cut costs.
The spas are looking outside their hotels to cultivate a local and regional clientele. “Resort spas in particular are trying to attract more drive-in traffic,” said Lynne McNees, president of the International Spa Association. “We’ve seen a lot of resort and destination spas opening up their doors for day guests.”
Hotels like the Ginn Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Fla., the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn in Sonoma, Calif., have all begun to offer incentives to local residents like reduced admission fees or discounts on treatments.
While this strategy may help spas circumvent the challenge of reduced hotel occupancy, it can have undesired effects for business travelers who may find the spa overcrowded or unable to accommodate them. Hotels say they have been trying to avoid spa logjams by being more proactive, contacting guests ahead of time if they anticipate a large volume of local visitors and asking them to book spa treatments in advance.
The hotel spas are also shifting toward shorter, less expensive treatments. Ms. McNees, of the spa association, said that many spas offered quicker or cheaper treatments in the past, but now they are marketing them more aggressively.
“Right now, I think where the spas are focused is trying to maintain the customer visits,” said Jeremy McCarthy, director of spa operations for Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “The spas are trying to see if they can touch as many people as they normally would.” Even if hotel guests spend less per visit, more visitors would help make up the difference.
“What our members have been reporting is there are more people walking in the spa door,” said Ms. McNees of the spa association. “We’re capturing more guests, but when they’re there, they’re spending less.”
Hotels also are trying to increase spa revenue by offering packages in which several services are bundled at a discount, throwing in bonuses like a complimentary manicure when a more expensive service is booked, and issuing credits that guests can use for treatments during their stay.
“We’re seeing a lot of instances of spa packages being used as a way to incentivize guests,” said Bruce Baltin, senior vice president at PKF Consulting, a company that focuses on the hospitality and tourism industries. Mr. Baltin said these kinds of promotions served two purposes. They bring revenue into the spa and they increase bookings of guest rooms without forcing the hotel to lower room rates substantially.
Jane Angelich, an entrepreneur in Marin County, Calif., says she recently received spa vouchers as rewards when booking rooms for business trips, both domestically and overseas. But at one hotel, the credit went unused when she could not find an appealing treatment for an amount close to the voucher’s $100 price tag.
“You really can’t get much of anything in the way of treatments for $100,” she said. “It gets you in the door and using some service where you pay the difference. Of course, the hope is that you will buy products or go back for additional services.”
Spa packages appear to be catching on, though. At the St. Regis Resort, Monarch Beach, in Dana Point, Calif., a discounted massage and facial that was heavily promoted via the social networking site Facebook has been extended twice due to demand.
“Business travelers are traveling more economically but at the same time you also have, I think, because of the fact that they’re feeling more stress, a lot more people recognizing the importance of taking care of yourself,” said Mr. McCarthy of Starwood.
Still, if hotel spas are having difficulty attracting business, travelers may notice more equipment sidelined or out of order for extended periods as properties buy lower-end items that break down more easily and cut back on maintenance to save money, said Kurt Broadhag, president of K Allan Consulting. Mr. Broadhag’s firm focuses on fitness facilities, which are often combined with spas at hotels.
Joe Sokohl says he thinks he has already experienced the down side. As a software designer for PracticeWorks, a company that manufactures dental technology, Mr. Sokohl goes to hotel spas when traveling. In recent weeks, Mr. Sokohl said, he visited two hotels with broken whirlpools that remained out of service for the duration of his stay.
“The problem is from an experience standpoint, it makes a negative experience,” he said. He said he even stopped booking a hotel he previously had used frequently in the past when the whirlpool was down for six weeks. He switched to a competing property nearby. “The new hotel was the same rate. The fact that they had an indoor pool and a whirlpool that worked made enough of a difference.”
Published: March 23, 2009
New York Times
Hotel spas have long been a haven of calm for business travelers seeking to get the kinks out of their backs after a long flight or to unwind before a big meeting. But as the economic downturn hurts the hotel business, the spas are dealing with their own stresses.
Sisters-in-law Rosemary, left, and Judy Blumberg at Westin’s Spa Anjali in Avon, Colo. They took advantage of a special price for local residents.
According to PKF Consulting, spa revenue rose 5 percent from 2006 to 2007, largely because of higher charges for treatments. But since last fall, hotel spas have been dealing with both reduced occupancy and guests who have sharply curbed their discretionary spending.
PKF’s report on the outlook for hotel spas projected decreased attendance for 2009. To counteract this, hotel spa operators are trying several approaches to increase business and cut costs.
The spas are looking outside their hotels to cultivate a local and regional clientele. “Resort spas in particular are trying to attract more drive-in traffic,” said Lynne McNees, president of the International Spa Association. “We’ve seen a lot of resort and destination spas opening up their doors for day guests.”
Hotels like the Ginn Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Fla., the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn in Sonoma, Calif., have all begun to offer incentives to local residents like reduced admission fees or discounts on treatments.
While this strategy may help spas circumvent the challenge of reduced hotel occupancy, it can have undesired effects for business travelers who may find the spa overcrowded or unable to accommodate them. Hotels say they have been trying to avoid spa logjams by being more proactive, contacting guests ahead of time if they anticipate a large volume of local visitors and asking them to book spa treatments in advance.
The hotel spas are also shifting toward shorter, less expensive treatments. Ms. McNees, of the spa association, said that many spas offered quicker or cheaper treatments in the past, but now they are marketing them more aggressively.
“Right now, I think where the spas are focused is trying to maintain the customer visits,” said Jeremy McCarthy, director of spa operations for Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “The spas are trying to see if they can touch as many people as they normally would.” Even if hotel guests spend less per visit, more visitors would help make up the difference.
“What our members have been reporting is there are more people walking in the spa door,” said Ms. McNees of the spa association. “We’re capturing more guests, but when they’re there, they’re spending less.”
Hotels also are trying to increase spa revenue by offering packages in which several services are bundled at a discount, throwing in bonuses like a complimentary manicure when a more expensive service is booked, and issuing credits that guests can use for treatments during their stay.
“We’re seeing a lot of instances of spa packages being used as a way to incentivize guests,” said Bruce Baltin, senior vice president at PKF Consulting, a company that focuses on the hospitality and tourism industries. Mr. Baltin said these kinds of promotions served two purposes. They bring revenue into the spa and they increase bookings of guest rooms without forcing the hotel to lower room rates substantially.
Jane Angelich, an entrepreneur in Marin County, Calif., says she recently received spa vouchers as rewards when booking rooms for business trips, both domestically and overseas. But at one hotel, the credit went unused when she could not find an appealing treatment for an amount close to the voucher’s $100 price tag.
“You really can’t get much of anything in the way of treatments for $100,” she said. “It gets you in the door and using some service where you pay the difference. Of course, the hope is that you will buy products or go back for additional services.”
Spa packages appear to be catching on, though. At the St. Regis Resort, Monarch Beach, in Dana Point, Calif., a discounted massage and facial that was heavily promoted via the social networking site Facebook has been extended twice due to demand.
“Business travelers are traveling more economically but at the same time you also have, I think, because of the fact that they’re feeling more stress, a lot more people recognizing the importance of taking care of yourself,” said Mr. McCarthy of Starwood.
Still, if hotel spas are having difficulty attracting business, travelers may notice more equipment sidelined or out of order for extended periods as properties buy lower-end items that break down more easily and cut back on maintenance to save money, said Kurt Broadhag, president of K Allan Consulting. Mr. Broadhag’s firm focuses on fitness facilities, which are often combined with spas at hotels.
Joe Sokohl says he thinks he has already experienced the down side. As a software designer for PracticeWorks, a company that manufactures dental technology, Mr. Sokohl goes to hotel spas when traveling. In recent weeks, Mr. Sokohl said, he visited two hotels with broken whirlpools that remained out of service for the duration of his stay.
“The problem is from an experience standpoint, it makes a negative experience,” he said. He said he even stopped booking a hotel he previously had used frequently in the past when the whirlpool was down for six weeks. He switched to a competing property nearby. “The new hotel was the same rate. The fact that they had an indoor pool and a whirlpool that worked made enough of a difference.”
Friday, March 20, 2009
Get Fab Abs without Crunches
Start by working three or four of these moves into your regimen no more than three times a week to avoid overuse. In two weeks, try the entire routine at once. You won't feel a burn as you do with crunches, so complete only 10 reps per set to prevent injury. Rest for one minute between sets. You'll need a 3- to 10-pound weight.
From the October 2006 Issue SELF MAGAZINE
From the October 2006 Issue SELF MAGAZINE
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
11 Mar 2009, 0411 hrs IST, Meenakshi Verma Ambwani, ET Bureau
NEW DELHI: Wellness is doing particularly well these days, as spas emerge as more cost-effective and less time-consuming alternative to vacations.
So, even as the tourism industry in general braces for a summer chill, city hotels and standalone spa outlets are warming up to reports of a 15-20% jump in business in the past 3-4 months. Experts say while people may have cut down on car purchases and foreign holidays, beauty treatments and personal care remain priority sectors.
Though the Indian spa market, at an estimated $384 million, is a fraction of the $60-billion worldwide wellness industry ($250 billion if spa-related spheres like hospitality, tourism and real estate are added, according to figures released at the 2008 Global Spa Summit in New York), marketers are limbering up to tempt customers. Hotels are hardselling day spa packages at their city properties and weekend spa packages at weekend destinations, while standalone spas are also offering budget options to beat stress.
“Spas are emerging an important revenue earning component,” says a senior official at ITC hotels. “With people getting more health conscious, domestic drive-in spa holiday destinations are becoming the new mantra.”
Adds Jaypee Hotels director Manju Sharmas, “Our day spa segment has seen an increase by nearly 20% in business in the past few months.” Even Delhi-based beauty expert Shahnaz Husain says her day spas have “seen a surge in business by as much as 30% in the last few months.”
While 5-star hotels are gearing up to offer a range of spa packages, starting from Rs 2,000 and going up to Rs 9,000, standalone spa centres are offering packages in the range of Rs 1,000-1,500. Neighbourhood health clubs have also jumped on the health bandwagon with spa packages for as low as Rs 500.
Beauty experts believe spas are seen as healing systems rather than a luxury. Blossom Kochhar, who runs her own chain of day spas says, “There has been a marked increase in footfalls in the last few months, specially from the corporate sector. This is a clear indication that stress levels are rising, and so people need to do more than just take vacations to relax.”
Friday, March 13, 2009
Win a Wellness Retreat to La Puerta!
Enter Here for your chance to win a Wellness Retreat at La Puerta. We’ve always wanted to spend a week at a spa tuning up our mind-body connection. Haven’t you? That’s why Yoga Journal & Lucy teamed up to offer up the chance to win a week for two at Rancho La Puerta! One lucky winner and a guest will escape to this award-winning health and wellness resort for one week, including spa treatments, access to over 50 fitness classes and complimentary meals and beverages.
Good Luck!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Anti-Aging Products' Sales on Rise
Sales of Anti-Aging Products on the Rise, According to Mintel Study
From SPATRADE - Feb 23, 2009
Anti-aging skin care products are becoming the most purchased skin care items, according to a new study by Mintel. Sales of anti-aging skin care products rose to more than $1.6 billion in 2008. According to Mintel’s Global New Products Database, over one third of U.S. facial skin care product launches tracked in 2008 boasted anti-aging claims. Globally, one in four (26%) included such claims.
“Manufacturers see the growing demand for anti-aging benefits and they’re responding accordingly with a constant flow of new products. The latest launches are more detailed and scientific in their claims, ingredients and projected benefits,” states Kat Fay, senior beauty and personal care product analyst at Mintel.
Sales of anti-aging products surpassed sales of facial cleansers, which garnered nearly $570 million in 2008. Sales of anti-aging skin care in the U.S rose 13% from 2006 to 2008, outpacing general facial skin care sales, which grew less than 11%. Mintel expects the market to grow approximately 20% within the next five years.
“Anti-aging won’t fall to the recession,” predicts Fay. “Looking young is extremely important to many women, especially baby boomers, and it’s not an issue they’re willing to compromise on because of tightened budgets. Many women see anti-aging skin care as a reasonably priced investment in their appearance and well-being.”
From SPATRADE - Feb 23, 2009
Anti-aging skin care products are becoming the most purchased skin care items, according to a new study by Mintel. Sales of anti-aging skin care products rose to more than $1.6 billion in 2008. According to Mintel’s Global New Products Database, over one third of U.S. facial skin care product launches tracked in 2008 boasted anti-aging claims. Globally, one in four (26%) included such claims.
“Manufacturers see the growing demand for anti-aging benefits and they’re responding accordingly with a constant flow of new products. The latest launches are more detailed and scientific in their claims, ingredients and projected benefits,” states Kat Fay, senior beauty and personal care product analyst at Mintel.
Sales of anti-aging products surpassed sales of facial cleansers, which garnered nearly $570 million in 2008. Sales of anti-aging skin care in the U.S rose 13% from 2006 to 2008, outpacing general facial skin care sales, which grew less than 11%. Mintel expects the market to grow approximately 20% within the next five years.
“Anti-aging won’t fall to the recession,” predicts Fay. “Looking young is extremely important to many women, especially baby boomers, and it’s not an issue they’re willing to compromise on because of tightened budgets. Many women see anti-aging skin care as a reasonably priced investment in their appearance and well-being.”
Thursday, March 5, 2009
ISPA Global Study Trends
New ISPA Global Study Compares Consumer Trends in 15 Countries
From SPATRADE - Feb 18, 2009
The International SPA Assocation (ISPA) recently released its 2008 Global Consumer Study, which compares consumer trends in 15 countries. ISPA, working with Research International, surveyed people in Australia, Austria, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United States, and has compiled information about why people spa. And hands down, in every single country, the No. 1 reason people go to a spa is to relax, and relieve or reduce stress.
"We've known stress-relief was the primary reason why Americans visited spas. Now, we know stress is the No. 1 reason people visit spas worldwide," says ISPA president Lynne McNees. "Stress affects more than just our lives at work and at home, it affects our health. So take time to destress, by getting a massage; it could end up saving your health down the road."
Other key findings from the study include:
Massage is the most popular treatment worldwide.
In North America and Europe, roughly 50% of spa-goers used a gift card.
The top motivators for visiting a spa are recommendations from family, friends or health care practitioners, and price incentives.
From SPATRADE - Feb 18, 2009
The International SPA Assocation (ISPA) recently released its 2008 Global Consumer Study, which compares consumer trends in 15 countries. ISPA, working with Research International, surveyed people in Australia, Austria, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United States, and has compiled information about why people spa. And hands down, in every single country, the No. 1 reason people go to a spa is to relax, and relieve or reduce stress.
"We've known stress-relief was the primary reason why Americans visited spas. Now, we know stress is the No. 1 reason people visit spas worldwide," says ISPA president Lynne McNees. "Stress affects more than just our lives at work and at home, it affects our health. So take time to destress, by getting a massage; it could end up saving your health down the road."
Other key findings from the study include:
Massage is the most popular treatment worldwide.
In North America and Europe, roughly 50% of spa-goers used a gift card.
The top motivators for visiting a spa are recommendations from family, friends or health care practitioners, and price incentives.
Monday, March 2, 2009
CTC Promotes Spa Industry
The Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) Promotes Spa Industry
From SPATRADE - Feb 16, 2009
The Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) and 58 leading spas across the country have compiled a list of unique Canadian spa experiences. CTC’s brand experiences department spent much of 2008 working with provincial and destination marketing organizations, provincial and national spa groups like Leading Spas of Canada and top Canadian spa writers worked on the project. Spas in eight of Canada’s 10 provinces are on the list.
Frank Verschuren, CTC product specialist, says "the Spas Initiative was undertaken to identify spa experiences across the country that tie in well with the "Canada. Keep exploring" brand in order to develop awareness of Canada as an international spa destination.” Later this year, the CTC will incorporate on-brand profiles and imagery to highlight the Canadian spa experience in its nine key markets.
From SPATRADE - Feb 16, 2009
The Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) and 58 leading spas across the country have compiled a list of unique Canadian spa experiences. CTC’s brand experiences department spent much of 2008 working with provincial and destination marketing organizations, provincial and national spa groups like Leading Spas of Canada and top Canadian spa writers worked on the project. Spas in eight of Canada’s 10 provinces are on the list.
Frank Verschuren, CTC product specialist, says "the Spas Initiative was undertaken to identify spa experiences across the country that tie in well with the "Canada. Keep exploring" brand in order to develop awareness of Canada as an international spa destination.” Later this year, the CTC will incorporate on-brand profiles and imagery to highlight the Canadian spa experience in its nine key markets.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Fish Pedicures Get the Ban
Fish Pedicures "Shot in the Foot"
From SPATRADE - Feb 26, 2009
Florida is the latest state to ban the practice of "fish pedicures". The treatment, which utilizes small fish placed in a tank to feed on a customer's dead sking, gained some momentum accross the county last year.
Florida Board of Cosmetology, consider fish pedicures unhygienic. The Board announced a ban on the practice early this week, placing Florida on a growing list of states that have rejected the spa procedure, including Washington, Texas, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
According to Alexis Antonacci, spokeswoman for the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, the board found that fish pedicures violate two laws, The Orlando Sentinel reports.
One rule prohibits animals in salons, save assistance or service pets. The imported fish -- commonly garra rufas, which originally come from Turkey -- could also not ensure a required level of sanitation.
"From our view, under state law, it says that all tools used in pedicures must be sanitized, disinfected or disposed of after each use between customers to prevent the spread of disease and infections," said Christine Anthony, the spokeswoman for Washington's Department of Licensing.
"We felt the fish were being used as tools and there was no way to sanitize them. You can change the water in an aquarium, but you can't clean the fish."
Texas banned the practice that same month, even before it had documented any salons offering the treatment. Nevertheless, it still felt the need to take preemptive action.
"There was a question about cleaning of the tanks and concern with the chemicals that were being used," said public information officer Susan Stanford, of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. "Plus, fish shouldn't be living in hot, chlorinated water. There was a concern for patrons, too, and a risk of infection or bacteria."
From SPATRADE - Feb 26, 2009
Florida is the latest state to ban the practice of "fish pedicures". The treatment, which utilizes small fish placed in a tank to feed on a customer's dead sking, gained some momentum accross the county last year.
Florida Board of Cosmetology, consider fish pedicures unhygienic. The Board announced a ban on the practice early this week, placing Florida on a growing list of states that have rejected the spa procedure, including Washington, Texas, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
According to Alexis Antonacci, spokeswoman for the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, the board found that fish pedicures violate two laws, The Orlando Sentinel reports.
One rule prohibits animals in salons, save assistance or service pets. The imported fish -- commonly garra rufas, which originally come from Turkey -- could also not ensure a required level of sanitation.
"From our view, under state law, it says that all tools used in pedicures must be sanitized, disinfected or disposed of after each use between customers to prevent the spread of disease and infections," said Christine Anthony, the spokeswoman for Washington's Department of Licensing.
"We felt the fish were being used as tools and there was no way to sanitize them. You can change the water in an aquarium, but you can't clean the fish."
Texas banned the practice that same month, even before it had documented any salons offering the treatment. Nevertheless, it still felt the need to take preemptive action.
"There was a question about cleaning of the tanks and concern with the chemicals that were being used," said public information officer Susan Stanford, of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. "Plus, fish shouldn't be living in hot, chlorinated water. There was a concern for patrons, too, and a risk of infection or bacteria."
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Ease Winter Blahs with Savings!
Ease those late Winter Blahs with a little savings. Try out some great natural body/spa products that do double duty and moisturize thirsty skin like our new Body Butters like Avocado, Olive Nut, Coffee and Cocoa Butter or how about a Coffee Butter Scrub that moisturizes, stimulates and exfoliates the skin to get ready for those bikinis and new shorts.
Enter coupon code: blogsav25 during checkout to
Shop Now at Body Systems
Coupon expires on Saturday 2/28/09 and not valid on Wholesale orders.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
10 Steps to Help the Environment
10 Steps to Help the Environment
Posted: January 30, 2009
In an effort to help spas create a greener tomorrow, the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) is providing 10 small, yet realistic steps to help the environment. Making a small effort is all it takes to make a major impact, one spa and one beauty professional at a time.
Talk to your coworkers. Respect that everyone is not going to be interested in going green to the same degree. Find at least one person who is passionate, but not militant, about the green effort to help the spa alter the way it does business. Others will generally follow suit once the culture has changed.
Go green contest for your customers. Sponsor a contest aimed at your customers to find the best green idea they can come up with. Not only will a great idea possibly be discovered for your business, but it also helps build goodwill among your customers and the community.
Change the outside light bulbs. The most common suggestion everyone has heard is to use more energy efficient florescent bulbs, however the light given off is not always the most flattering. Take a small step by just changing the exterior bulbs at your office and home.
Fix the leak already. Whether it's your toilet bowl or shampoo bowl, take 15 minutes to call a plumber and finally get it fixed. This act alone can save more than 2,600 gallons of water a year.
Reduce the water pressure. When the plumber is done fixing the leak, have him reduce the water pressure in the sinks and toilets. This will also help cut down on the amount of water used.
Use new green appliances. People would be surprised by how much power a hair dryer uses or the energy lost by a curling iron left on. Major beauty companies are launching new appliances designed to use less power and go into hibernation mode quickly, then regain full heat immediately. It's small, but consider how much electricity is used in American salons each day.
Unplug, unplug, unplug. By taking an extra minute to unplug appliances, from the radio to the hot wax machine, you will save energy since power is still being used even when the machine is not.
Ban water bottles. Even with recycling, all those 12-ounce water bottles add up in landfills and many get into waterways. Take a step by requiring team members to bring their own reusable cup or bottle. Purchase a small water filter for the spa so water tastes better.
Insist on green cleaning supplies. While cleaning with eco-friendly vinegar is great, let's face it, the smell still stinks. Work with your cleaning company or change the cleaning products you buy to those that are gentler on the environment and do not use harmful toxic substances. (If you do want to use vinegar, grab an old spray bottle and mix 50% water and 50% vinegar. It works wonders.)
Support less packaging. Reward companies that use less packaging and use recycled materials (that information is usually on the packaging.) Although consumers love pretty packaging, everyone must stop and understand that less is more.
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