Living in modern society comes with many demands. We may end up feeling exhausted, depleted, and pulled in too many directions at once. When we feel overwhelmed, time to ourselves to replenish our minds and bodies is super important so we can be at our very best for ourselves and our loved ones. One way we can recharge is to get a Vichy table shower treatment.
What Is This Treatment?
Many people have probably not heard of this treatment, so let’s discuss what it is. A vichy table shower is a massage therapy technique that originated in Vichy, France in the 17th Century.
The hot springs in the area were the inspiration for the design of the table shower we know today. This technique uses 5 to 7 overhead showers which wash over the client as they lie in a special bed that is made to allow the water to drain.
Depending on the individual spa that’s chosen, there may also be a hand held wand with water that the massage therapist will use to focus the water in certain areas of the body during the treatment to supplement the effects of the overhead showers. The massage therapist will go over the body with water face down, then face up. They will massage with oil or soap at different times. This treatment is wonderful as a stand-alone, or it can be used as a warm up for another spa treatment, such as a body wrap, or a massage.
What Are The Benefits Of This Treatment?
There are numerous physical and mental benefits to this treatment that have been well known since it’s inception. When it was created in France, it was used on patients with liver issues, bile duct issues, metabolism fluctuations, and more.
In modern times, we’ve moved this table shower treatment to a more therapeutic and less medical setting, of course. That does not negate all of the positive effects it can have. Some reasons to choose this treatment include:
- Increased circulation
- Lymphatic drainage
- Stress reduction
- Increased energy levels
- Potential pain reduction
- Exfoliation
The warm, flowing water can also get your blood flowing. Increased circulation in your body can allow your lymphatic system to drain more easily. This will allow your body to more readily dispose of toxins,waste, and various other unwanted materials carried by the blood.
The increased blood flow also can allow a feeling of increased energy and alertness. When we have energy and are revitalized, we can tackle our day and responsibilities with increased productivity and focus.
It’s been shown that thermal water treatments for post-surgical patients seemed to facilitate pain relief. The gentle massage of the water can be very soothing and the blood circulation to the effected area can promote healing as well.
Depending on the individual massage therapist or place you book with, the table shower treatments have an exfoliating body scrub as part of them. The exfoliation will make the skin look refreshed, vibrant, and radiant.
Another benefit that can’t be overlooked is simply the opportunity to relax. To let the water flow down, let the mind wander, and just be peaceful. When we need a mental break, sometimes a massage therapy session is exactly the right option.
Since this treatment is a little different than other options,let’s discuss what to expect on the day of the table shower treatment so there are no surprises.
What To Know Before The Appointment
In this section, we’ll go over some questions people may have. Feeling prepared can lessen awkwardness and make the experience more enjoyable.
What should you pack for the appointment?
The table shower treatment will get the blood flowing. Therefore, it’s advisable to pack an outfit to change into that’s loose. This way the circulation won’t be hindered and will allowed to be optimized. The extra blood flow and scrubbing may make you feel warm, so lightweight clothing is also advisable, weather permitting. You may also wish to pack a pair of disposable underwear for the treatment.
What not to bring to the appointment
For safety and peace of mind, it is not advisable to bring jewelry or valuables,even though some places provide lockers. Also, don’t bring laptops or tablets. Bring phones only if they are a necessity.
What’s dress code?
There are different options of dress for the treatment, depending upon state laws, personal preference, and each salon’s rules. Your options should be confirmed with the salon beforehand.
How long is a session?
Generally speaking, a table shower session will be between 45-60 minutes.
In Closing
Vichy table showers can be a wonderful, restorative treatment with numerous wellness benefits. They’re something that most people would enjoy. If you are local to Winston-Salem, NC, or planning a trip to the area soon, you might want to book a table shower and body scrub session at Qi Massage & Natural Healing Spa. You won’t regret it.
