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Hema on South of Hawaii Island has been known as a Healing Island for decades. Historically, Hawaiians used techniques such as lomilomi massage and ho'oponopono spiritual healing, and relied upon remedies from fruits and herbs that grew naturally throughout the island. These techniques and remedies still are in use today, and in fact, are the focus of many spa treatments.
Spa popularity at vacation destinations has skyrocketed in recent years, as visitors look to add a healthy, relaxing facet to their trips. Hawaii Island is no exception. The island boasts more than a dozen spas – some incorporated into world-class resorts, others that are stand-alone facilities. Most of the spas combine modern treatments with traditional Hawaiian practices to provide a truly unique healing experience for residents and visitors alike.
The International Spa Association (ISPA), a professional organization that represents more than 1,800 wellness facilities and providers from 53 countries, confirms that the spa industry has grown rapidly over the past several years. The number of spas in the U.S. has grown at a rate of 19 percent per year over the past five years. Spa visits in the U.S. increased almost 60 percent between 1997 and 1999, and have continued to increase at similar rates over the past few years. 95 million visits are made to U.S. spas annually, generating $5 billion in revenues. Spas nationwide generate more revenue than ski resorts ($3.1 billion) and only slightly less than box office receipts ($7.5 billion).
Hilton Waikoloa Village’s Kohala Sports Club & Spa utilizes orchid oil in beauty and relaxation treatments. Oil of the orchids is one of nature’s most nourishing and gentle face and skin care oils. The orchid oil used at the spa, also created by Warren Botanicals, is derived from the entire flower of fresh Hawaii Island-grown orchids. It has a remarkable group of properties to help with anti-aging, special moisturizing, softening, soothing and balancing affects to the skin.
The Hualalai Sports Club and Spa at Four Seasons Resort has been named the #1 resort spa in the U.S. by Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler and Zagat's. Among its unique offerings is a Hawaiian Essence Facial that utilizes native fruit and plant extracts, such as papaya and ti leaves, to cleanse and soothe.
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel's Hapuna Fitness Center offers a poi body wrap. In ancient times poi was not only the staff of life, but also was used to treat and beautify skin. At the Palms Cliff House on the Hamakua Coast guests can arrange for a yoga class or enjoy a lomi lomi pohaku massage on their private lanai. This thermal Hawaiian-style massage uses smooth, steamed lava stones covered with rich avocado and olive oil to carry warmth deep into the muscle, tissues and joints.
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