The Costa del Sol offers every kind of therapy, treatment and lifestyle courses imaginable. Want to have your chakras read? Maybe you fancy hot stones placed up and down your spine? How about learning better posture with Alexander Technique? What about taking rescue remedy from Bach flowers to feel more centred?
Just in case you are unfamiliar with some of these procedures and treatments, we asked local beauty therapist Katie Lee for a brief introduction to numerous traditional and non-traditional therapies offered along the Coast.
acupuncture originated in China over 2,000 years ago and is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. To clear the flow of energy, solid metallic hair-thin needles are inserted on specific points of the body. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain. Some people are energised while others experience deep relaxation.
Doctors trained in European and traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, Chinese massage and natural medicine. Treatment for specific pains or general well-being.
Located in HoTel: El Paraíso, Ctra. N-340, Km 167
Tel: 952 885 095
www.medichina.com
Dr. Xiu Ying Zhang studied at the China University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, she has been in practice for 30 years and has helped clients in Marbella for the last 14.
Located on the Golden Mile above Grutman Carpets.
Centro Comercial Casa Blanca, Office 3, Ctra. N-340, Km 179
Tel: 952 900 626
alexander technique teaches us how to improve our posture and movement by self-awareness. An instructor helps students to recognize and correct habituated manners of movement. The technique uses hands on contact and verbal instructions. It is taught in one-on-one sessions or in groups, often using short individual lessons in turn as examples to the rest of the class.
aromatherapy is the use of essential oils extracted from plants and flowers to promote emotional and physical wellbeing.
ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine from India that provides guidance regarding food and lifestyle so that healthy people can stay healthy and those with health challenges can find improvement.
Urb. La Reserva de los Monteros, C/ de los Cipreses, Casa el Mirador 1
Tel: 655 400 306
www.shaktiayurveda.com
bach flower remedy is the use of 38 flower essences to treat emotional imbalances. In the 1930's Dr. Edward Bach observed that certain personality types had a propensity to develop certain patterns of illness. The most famous concoction is known as "rescue remedy."
body scrubs feel wonderful and relieve the itching of flaking skin. At summer's end, when your skin may be peeling or uneven in tone, there is no better time to exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells.
body polish is perfect for use before self-tanners. It, provides emollient benefits in addition to exfoliation, nourishes and hydrates body skin.
body wrap was originally a treatment where Ace bandages or plastic wrap was tightly wrapped around the body to cause quick weight loss. These days, a body wrap is more likely to be a +/- 20 minute session covered in a mask made of algae, seaweed, mud, clay, lotion or cream. You are wrapped to keep warm.
botox is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium, which reduces the activity of the muscles that cause frown lines to form. One 10-minute treatment-a few tiny injections-and within days there's a noticeable improvement in moderate to severe frown lines between the brows. Results vary, but can last up to 4 months.
chiropractors use their hands to locate any vertebrae that do not move properly. These vertebrae, called subluxations, can cause inflammation and pain in nerves, joints and muscles. By manipulating the vertebrae through adjustments, misalignments are corrected and integrity restored to the nervous system.
Dr. Tim Errington is an English chiropractor who studied at one of the leading Chiropractic schools in the world in San Francisco.
Urb. Guadalmina Alta, Centro Comercial 4, Local 8
Tel: 952 880 398
www.marbellachiropractic.com
Open: Mon & Thu 09:30 - 19:00; Tue/Wed/Fri 09:30 - 14:00
Centro Comercial los Cipreses
Tel: 952 939 417
collagen injections treat minor imperfections in facial skin, including laugh lines, wrinkles, creases, crow's feet, and acne scars. Collagen is also used to create fuller lips. Often collagen treatment is combined with other procedures such as a face lift or laser skin resurfacing. Although the injections are safe, and quick and easy to administer, it is important to seek treatment from a qualified cosmetic surgeon who can discuss all of the available treatment options with you.
craniosacral therapy is a form of healing which is non-manipulative and can be very beneficial. Through light touch, the trained practitioner's hands detect different tide-like pulsations as they gently release tensions and restrictions from past (or current) illnesses, accidents, emotional trauma, etc.
electrolysis & laser treatment Using state-of-the-art technology, a minute amount of electricity is gently applied to the base of the hair follicle. This process destroys the hair growth tissue and results in permanent hair removal.
C/ Los Jazmines, Edif. Suzana, Puerta 4
Tel: 952 819 129
www.softlightmarbella.com
facials leave you feeling like a newborn. A standard facial includes a simple cleanse, massage and mask. They're the least expensive and the best option for normal skin that isn't prone to acne. Ideally you should have a facial every six weeks or at least four times a year.
alpha hydroxy acids, derived from fruits and flowers, are known for their anti-ageing effects. Used in facials, creams formulated with AHA's, help the skin look smoother and healthier. They are also recommended for people who have pigmented skin, and are prone to wrinkling.
bio-lift facials in addition to cleansing, massage and rejuvenation, techniques include treatment that targets dark circles under the eyes. The characteristic of this facial is the bio-mask, which tones and tightens the skin on the face, making it look younger.
aromatherapy facials use oils, creams and masks containing flower extracts which improve action of the capillaries, skin texture and tighten pores-- inducing relaxation and calming the mind.
paraffin facials involve the application of anti-ageing and rejuvenating creams to the face, over which a special paraffin mask is placed. This mask aids absorption and brings back the radiance of the skin.
anti-oxidant and pollution fighting facials use creams and masks enriched with free-radical fighting agents like vitamin A, beta-carotene and vitamin E.
galvanic facials use a steady, direct galvanic current to introduce water-soluble substances into the skin. It heightens the skin's capacity to absorb and improves the penetration of the products. The treatment benefits dry, dehydrated skins, improving moisture retention.
a gold facial makes use of creams containing 24-Carat pure gold, which penetrates the skin easily. It is a powerful rejuvenating treatment. Gold has a powerful effect on lymphatic drainage, facilitating the removal of toxins and wastes.
indian head massage releases accumulated stress in the tissues, muscles and joints of the head, face, neck and shoulders. You sit fully clothed in a massage chair while the therapist uses a range of different movements including application of deep kneading and compression movements over the neck, shoulder and scalp areas.
longevity Ponce de León fruitlessly searched Florida for the Fountain of Youth, a legendary spring that reputedly restores youth to anyone who drinks its waters. Nowadays, those interested in longevity are knowledgeable about HGH, human growth hormone, purported to have rejuvenating properties. Numerous treatments and lifestyle changes are available in the multitude of Marbella clinics. There are numerous treatments on offer, from dietary to surgical to the centuries old therapies of Ayurvedic Indian medicine.
If you are interested in the polemic properties of human growth hormone, HGH and the AntiAgeing process, this is an ideal web page to visit.
Dr. Belzuzarri, Tel: 952 859 946
www.hghantiaging.com
In a week of treatment with Doctor Jean Garant's method it is alleged that you will be able to "improve the quality of your life and live until 100 or 120 years old"
Tel: 952 663 310 / Mob: 670 645 666
www.longlifecostadelsol.com
lymphatic drainage massage boosts the immune system, helps the body ward off illness and can facilitate general feelings of well being and vitality. It improves the appearance of the skin and reduces puffiness caused by water retention, poor circulation or pregnancy. Recommended for those with a sedentary lifestyle.
manicures began 5000 years ago in India where henna was used. There are many styles of manicures and nail extensions.
paraffin treatments help your skin to absorb lotion. Your hands are massaged with cream and then repeatedly submerged in a warm paraffin dip. This relaxes the skin and makes it better able to absorb lotion. After the hands have been dipped in the wax, they are wrapped in either plastic or tin foil, and then covered with cloth to retain warmth.
hot oil manicures are very popular with men; they cleanse and soften the cuticles with oil.
french manicures are two tone and resemble a natural nail. The tips of the nail are painted white while the rest of the nail is polished in a pink or a suitable nude shade.
Sports injury clinic, massage. Comes to your home, covers the Coast from Calahonda to Sotogrande.
Tel: 667 862 475
re you ready for a superior level of performance and health? Personalised training, massage, physiotherapy, yoga and rehab for sports injuries.
Tel: 663 478 844 / UK Tel: +44 (0) 208 133 7115
www.holisticcoach.eu
microdermabrasion is mechanical exfoliation that removes the uppermost layer of dead skin cells from the face, chest and hands. It leaves skin with a fresher, more glowing look whilst diminishing sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores and coarse textured skin.
micropigmentation has been called permanent make-up for the skin. The treatment is basically a tattooing procedure and is used either as a cosmetic enhancement or as a corrective procedure for uneven skin pigmentation. It can also be used to improve the appearance of scarring to the skin or to reconstruct the nipple area.
non-surgical face lift provides immediate results while being pleasant and relaxing. It restores natural balance and beauty to your skin. This energising treatment is all natural and is more efficient than any aggressive method using chemical or mechanical agents.
osteopathy was devised by an American doctor, Andrew Taylor Still, in 1874 and emphasises the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships between the body's muscles, bones and joints. The focus is on the musculoskeletal system, using hands on manipulations of soft tissue, rhythmic passive joint mobilisation or high velocity thrust techniques.
pedicures are heavenly. Out of all of the parts of the body, the foot is often the first to be neglected. A little pampering on a regular basis will give you beautiful feet and toes.
Estelle Mitchell is a qualified physiotherapist with years of experience in the UK and board certified in Spain. "With more moving parts than any machine, it's not surprising your body occasionally cries out in pain or refuses to do what you tell it to". Physiotherapy is an effective way to treat many of the problems you can experience!
Tel: 952 883 151
www.marbellaphysio.com
pregnancy pampering gets the weight off your feet! Prenatal massage treatment using special products increase elasticity and can help to avoid or reduce stretch marks. Foot and ankle massages can decrease swelling and promote better circulation.
Sports Physiotherapist
Urb. Atalaya Park 28
Tel: 952 885 681
A private medical out-patient clinic offering specialist medical treatment for orthopaedic surgery problems (bones, joints, tendons), injuries and accidents (fractures, sprains, cuts, wounds) as well as physiotherapy.
Tel: 952 577 766
www.clinica-sandalf.com
reflexology is the application of pressure, stretch and movement to the feet and hands to effect corresponding parts of the body. Reflexologists view the feet and hands as a mirror image of the body.
reiki is a form of spiritual practice, proposed for the treatment of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual diseases. Practitioners use a technique similar to the laying on of hands as well as gestures in the air, which they say will channel ki energy from a disembodied spirit or spirits. They say the energy then flows through their palms to bring about healing.
restylane is a cosmetic dermal filler that restores volume and fullness to the skin to correct facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds.
shiatsu is a curative process. A practitioner using their fingers, palms and especially the thumbs to detect irregularities in their patients. They look for stiffness of the surface of the body and promptly correct or heal these problems.
President of the European Shiatsu Federation; Director of the European Shiatsu School. Mr. Carling provides shiatsu treatments for individuals and instructs courses.
Paseo del Nacimiento 30
Tel: 952 881 374
stone therapy uses heat-retaining warm basalt and cool sedimentary massage stones, as well as chakra balancing using semi-precious stones and crystals, and aromatherapy. Thermal conduction in the warm stones brings about local and systemic changes in the body, and influences the energy centres for body and mind balancing. Combined with massage techniques, the stones help to produce energy that assists with and directs vital flow to blocked areas.
t'ai chi is well known as the slow motion routines that groups of people practice every morning in parks across China and other parts of the world. Traditional T'ai Chi training is intended to teach awareness of one's own balance and what affects it, awareness of the same in others, an appreciation of the practical value in one's ability to moderate extremes of behaviour and attitude at both mental and physical levels, and how this applies to effective self-defence principles.
thalassotherapy comes from the Greek word "Thalassa" meaning sea. This treatment uses seawater in a variety of relaxing and invigorating procedures, designed to tone, moisturise and revitalise the body and skin, and in many cases to improve circulation. Marine and ocean derivatives including algae, mud and sand may be employed in the sessions.
traditional chinese medicine (TCM) is a range of traditional medical practices used in Mongolia that developed over several thousand years. These practices include herbal medicine, acupuncture and massage.
yoga originated in India some five thousand years ago. It is a physical and mental discipline that aims to improve both body and mind. Through a series of body postures and breathing exercises, this discipline reinforces strength, stamina and flexibility as well as enhancing mental clarity and calmness. Some branches of yoga also emphasise the benefits of meditation, chanting and visualisation, all of which are intended to reduce stress and anxiety and produce a sense of inner peace and harmony.
To book your beauty treatment with Katie Lee, call 660 444 005
Beauty Specialist • Massage • Manicure • Reflexology • Aromatherapy • Lymph Drainage Massage • Diet & Nutrition
Christine Shaw is a beauty specialist par excellence. She ran the Christine Shaw College in old Bond Street in London for many years prior to relocating in Spain. The Bond Street College was well known for its innovative techniques and prestigious clientele, from rockers to royalty!
In 1985 Christine moved to the Coast to enjoy the better things that life has to offer... balmy weather, beautiful beaches and of course to improve her par. As a top of the line beauty specialist Christine immediately recognised that there simply weren't enough health and beauty professionals trained in contemporary therapies.
The Coast's affluent youth oriented culture seeks out the latest in quality cosmopolitan services. The best hotels have spas; better hair salons offer rejuvenating and replenishing treatments and at home treatments have sky rocketed! So many opportunities exist for qualified Beauty and Complementary therapists. The Christine Shaw College of Health & Beauty is designed to support, encourage and help their students in every way along their path to professional development. Many students return to take new courses to keep them up-to-date with the latest trends in beauty and therapeutic advances.
A myriad of possibilities is open to students wishing to broaden their knowledge and skill base. The College training falls into two areas: Holistic Beauty and Complementary Therapies.
There are so many options to explore, from weekend intensive workshops to year long courses of study, Christine Shaw will help you realise your potential. The structure is that of a tree, first you get a solid base of knowledge; while learning and gaining experience the tree grows; then as you branch out into different skills, expertise comes, as do the fruits of your labours.
A sampling of courses:
A one year course gives an overall grounding in Facials, Manicure, Pedicure, Make Up, Wax Depilation, Nail Extensions, Holistic Body Massage, Spa Body Treatments, Slimming Treatments, Tanning, Facial Electrotherapy and Electrolysis.
This tremendously popular shorter course is a bed rock of essentials: Facials, Manicure, Pedicure, Make Up and Wax Depilation.
Holistic Massage, Aromatherapy, Diet & Nutrition, Indian Head Massage, Lymph Drainage Massage, Reflexology, Reiki, Stone Therapy and Thai Massage.
ITEC, a UK government accredited international proficiency exam, was developed in 1968 to aid in establishing a unified criteria that would guarantee the highest quality standards for professionals workings in salons and clinics. The Christine Shaw College of Health & Beauty holds the examination twice yearly, in February and July when ITEC Examiners travel to the college to administer the theoretical knowledge and practical ability exams.
Centrally located in San Pedro, the College attracts students that want to broaden their horizons both personally and professionally.
Let us help you to realise your potential, give us a ring on +34 952 780 702 or for fuller details on our courses in Beauty, Massage, Reflexology and Aromatherapy, visit our website www.christineshawtherapy.com
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