Nami Spa Blog

Seasonal Affective Disorder affects 10-20 percent of the US population. It is a mood disorder brought on by seasonal changes and a decrease in sunlight exposure. Sunlight releases our body's endorphins and has an affect on regulating our melatonin, which gives us a sense of energy and good health.

Endorphins are a group of hormones that affect our emotions and are known as "the body's natural painkillers".

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates our sleep cycles.

The Fall and Winter months can bring on the "winter blues". People tend to stay indoors, exercise less, and sleep and eat more. This can trigger feelings of depression and fatigue. The mood changes are brought on by the lack of and quality of sunlight.

So how can massage help?

Massage has been reported to help with such things as; depression, fatigue, circulation, sleep, energy levels and overall well-being. Massage releases the body's natural endorphins, decreases heart rate, improves circulation, and helps to restore and energize the body. Short-term effects can be felt in one session, but it is recommended for long-term effects you make massage a part of your healing process. For some it may mean weekly sessions, while others may just need monthly sessions. Everybody's body is different, thus the reason for Nami Spa's name and philosophy.

Nami is the Japanese word for "wave".

Like waves there are no two bodies the same.
Each responds differently to the energy surrounding it.
It is our goal to treat each client as an individual. Body and
skin care treatments are provided in a calming environment
using only the finest all natural spa products as a provision
for mental, emotional, and spiritual harmony.

Please don't go through the winter months feeling down and depressed, let us try and help you!

Aromatherapy is a great aid in helping Seasonal Affective Disorder.

We'll incorporate fragrances that make you feel happy and relaxed in your next massage.

Check out our website for pricing and massage descriptions http://www.namispa.com.

Christopher Columbus may have not found his way to Asia, but why not celebrate his holiday with some Asian flare. Nami Spa is offering $40 off any 60 Minute or More Couple's Massage. Enjoy a Japanese Mint Massage or a Japanese Hot Stone massage for two!

Book your appointment today!

Nami Spa

262 Beacon Street - 6th Floor

Boston, MA 02116

Ph. 617-267-6264

Web. http://www.namispa.com

The cold winter months can dry out your skin. The cold air is a contributing factor, but so is our heating systems. That is why it is so important to hydrate your skin on a daily basis. Below is a good regime to follow.

The Japanese believe in a dual cleanse. The first cleanse is with an oil to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil. Yes that's right, oil to remove oil! Trust me, it works. Then it is followed by a soap or milk cleanser.

Cleanse - Cream or milk cleansers are good during the winter months. They are less harsh than gel cleansers. Stay away from soaps that contain drying agents such as; glycerin, sulfates, perfumes, and artificial colors. If you skin feels tight and dry after washing it you need a more moisturizing cleanser.

Tone - There is controversy over whether a toner is necessary or not. In my opinion, it is. It helps to rehydrate the skin and close the pores. That is why toners feel cool to the touch. The key is to not rub it into the skin, but to pat or press it in. Apply the toner to a cotton square and gently press it against your skin. Again, avoid drying agents such as alcohol and witch hazel. If you have oily skin you DO NOT want to over dry your skin because then you will produce an excess of sebum (oil). See below for more information.

Moisturize - During the winter months you will want to use a heavier moisturizer than you would in the summer months. Essential oils are good for rehydrating the skin during winter months as well. Try using an olive or jojoba oil. If you skin feels dry and itchy it is because the moisturize in your top skin layer (epidermis) is evaporating too quickly. You need a heavier moisturizer that your skin will absorb. Always remember to moisturize your hands after washing during cold and flu season. And lay off the anti-bacterial soap, some germs are good germs. A gentle soap with warm water and a vigorous rubbing of your hands for 15-20 seconds is all you need. An alcohol-based sanitizer is good when soap and water aren't available, but again alcohol is a drying agent, so don't overuse.  

Exfoliate - It is best to exfoliate at least twice a week. Everybody's skin is different though and some might need it more. Consult with your esthetician. Exfoliating the dead skin cells allows your skin to be truly clean and absorb the moisturizer. One main reason for clogged pores is dead skin cells and sebum getting trapped. Exfoliation allows water to be retained in the lower dermis, which is necessary for healthy clear skin. Cream-based exfoliants combined with essential oils are good for the face. Gentle sugar scrubs combined with essential oils are good for the body.

Important Key Notes:

Taking a shower uses less water than taking a bath. If you take a bath you should always rinse in a cool shower afterwards.

Take warm showers over hot ones. Always cool your skin before leaving the shower to close your pores.

It is best to pat yourself dry with a clean towel or air dry. This will help you retain some of the water moisture from the shower.

Apply a cream lotion or oil right after your shower to rehydrate your skin. Crunched for time? Do it while you are in the shower.

Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.

Vitamin E (found in fish oil) has many properties that are beneficial to healthy skin.

* Over drying your skin can cause you to create more sebum (your skin's natural oil), so be careful when using a lot of anti-acne medications or topicals. Consult with your dermatologist or esthetician for recommendations.

Recommended Products - Available at Nami Spa:

Juice Beauty - Cleansing Milk, Exfoliating Cleanser, Hydrating Mist, and Oil-free Moisturizer

Mango Madness - Microdermabrasion Exfoliating Cream

Cosme Proud - Gold Revitalizer and Cleansing Oils

Recommended Services - Available at Nami Spa:

Green Tea and Crushed Rice Sugar Scrub, followed by a Massage (Relaxation or Aromatherapy)

Moisturizing Body Wrap

Hot Stone Massage

Ultrasonic Facial - helps to penetrate the products deeper into the skin.

Visit http://www.namispa.com for more information.

I get asked this question a lot. It really depends on your lifestyle, but in general getting a massage once a month makes a difference. Its even better if you can afford to get them more often, but I know it doesn't always fit into people's budget.

Think of it this way though. Going to movies and then out to eat at a nice restaurant with drinks, plus parking can easily run you $100+. Sure it may be a relaxing evening, but what are the lasting benefits? Whereas, for the same or less you can get a relaxing massage and have many positive benefits from it. See List Below

I've broken it down for you, just in case you're a visual person like me.

Movie

Movie Ticket - $11.00 (fandango.com)

Small Popcorn - $4.75

Small Soda - $2.75

Tax - $1.16

Total: $21.39

Dinner

Salad - $7

Steak Dinner - $24

Dessert - $7

Two Drinks - $18

Tip - $11.20 (20%)

Tax - $3.50

Total: $70.70

Parking

$22 (Valet or Garage Average)

Approximate Cost of Movie, Dinner and Parking: $112+

At Nami Spa now through the end of August a 60 Minute Relaxation Massage is $80 with the $20 off coupon. Here are some of the lasting benefits you'll gain.

• Decrease stress or anxiety.


• Get a better night's sleep.


• Reduce fatigue.


• Increase energy level.


• Increase circulation.


• Improve overall health.


• And many more... 

Gratuity - $20 (20% of full price)

Parking at the meters in front of our building - $2

Cost of Massage and Parking: $102.

You might be thinking I've seen massage advertised for less. You have. Corporate chains or franchises can offer them for less, but they also pay their therapists a lot less. It is like comparing a chef to a cook. Our therapists, including myself, are highly trained and have been educated at the reknowned Muscular Therapy Institute for two years. The Johnson & Wales of massage. So ask yourself do you want McSsage or a Massage?

Are you stressed?

On Wednesday July 8, 2009 from 7pm to 9pm -

Our massage therapists are going to teach you how to relax.

You will learn different aromatherapy, meditation, diet, and
massage/reflexology techniques that will assist in total relaxation.

Herbal teas and healthy snacks will be served.

You will also go home with some aromatherapy gifts!

$50 pp (non-refundable)

* Space is limited and a reservation is required.

Visit http://www.namispa.com for more information.
   
   Don't delay book today!

Is there any job tougher than being a mother or teacher? Don't get me wrong both are rewarding in many ways, but can also be very stressful at times.

That is why Nami Spa is offering some great spa specials for both mothers and teachers the week of May 5th - May 8th.

Teacher's Special can be found at http://namispa.com/national_teachers_week.html.

Mother's Day Specials can be found at http://namispa.com/mothers_day_spa_package.html.

Mother's Day has many traditions for different nationalities. The Japanese tradition is to give your mother a red carnation. Each mother will be given a red carnation with our Mother and Daughter Spa Package. Ideal for Mother's Day! Check out our Mother's Day Package here http://namispa.com/mothers_day_spa_package.html.

If you would also like to have fun writing your own personalized haiku for your mother here's how -

What To Expect at Your Nami Spa Waxing Visit-

Rebecca will ask you to lie down on the wax paper. She will then use the hot wax to spread over the desired areas. A muslin strip will be placed over the waxed area and then pulled off the hardened wax in a clean, fast movement. Hard wax services do not require the use of a muslin strip. Rebecca is a licensed professional and is extremely skilled with waxing therefore she will not go over the same area, as this prolonges the discomfort and is very dangerous for the skin. Rebecca always wears gloves and makes sure everything is hygienic.

 * We use an aromatherapy wax to help you relax!

 

Some Things to Keep in Mind When Looking for a Professional Waxer

• It is best not to just check out the yellow pages or bargain hunt.


• Aestheticians who do Brazilian waxing see every part of you. A professional will put you at ease and decrease any possible embarrassment.


• A professional will minimize the number of repeat applications over the same spot as too much may tear the skin. Ouch!


• Most importantly make sure the aesthetician is licensed. The license should be displayed.


• Check that the wax paper bed covering is new and that the waxing supplies are sanitized and disposed of in a hygienic way after use. 


• It is best if your appointment is at least one week after a period so the skin is not so sensitive.


• Make sure the hair is trimmed to about 1/8th of an inch. It should be free from oils and lotion to make hair removal easier.  


• The pain can be reduced by using an antiseptic topical in advance and followed up with a soothing lotion to reduce irritaion and discomfort.

Call us with any questions that you may have.

Nami Spa

262 Beacon Street -6th Floor

Boston, MA 02116

Ph. 617-267-6264

Web. www.namispa.com 

Many of our clients are medical professionals; nurses, doctors, dentists, etc. As some of you may already know I used to work in the dental field. Many of the dentists that I worked for recommended massage to their patients who suffered from Temporal Mandibular Joint Disfunction (aka TMJ or TMJD). Most of the time jaw tension is caused from clenching, usually a result of stress. By massaging the jaw, facial, and neck muscles you relieve some of the tension placed on the Temporal Mandibular Joint from clenching. As a TMJD sufferer myself I know how painful jaw tension can be. Sometimes it can be so painful it leads to disabling migraine headaches. If you are suffering from one these you most likely don't want anyone touching you, but I recommend getting a massage if you feel one coming on. Getting massage before the migraine will most likely will prevent it.

The other day one of my clients who is a neuroradiologist told me after her session she believes that consistent massage is a better and safer way to improve postural alignment over chiropractic work. I am a believer of this myself, but was excited to hear it from a medical professional specializing in neurology. Another one of my clients who is a surgeon once told me that he recommends his patients receive a massage before their surgery. He said that he noticed that his patients who received massage before surgery have a better recovery. It makes sense since you would be less stressed and tense. I would love it if more people could receive massage on a regular basis, but I know that it is hard for some. Even if you can get a massage once a month I am sure you would see a difference. I would love to hear more feedback from medical professionals on their thoughts about the benefits of massage.

Nami Spa

262 Beacon Street -6th Floor

Boston, MA 02116

Ph. 617-267-6264

Web. www.namispa.com

I will be the first one to tell anyone how much I love Yelp! Yelp has helped our business tremendously. I do have one complaint though. I really wish that they would allow the business to post a response to reviews. Positive or negative. It would be nice to be able to thank positive reviewers publicly or explain your side of the story in regards to negative reviews. I feel it is very one-sided when an individual posts a negative review.

Usually I would just let this go, but I am very bothered by our last negative review posted on 3/3/09 by SS, especially because she attacks my staff.

Shayna did come in with her boyfriend Chris for a couple's massage. When she booked the appointment with me she never mentioned the discount. When the appointment was confirmed she never mentioned the discount. When she checked in and out for their appointment and signed the credit card receipt she did not mention the discount. Despite all these opportunities she still blames us even though she raved about the massages. Even telling me when she called four days later that she may have forgotten because they were both so relaxed and out of it.

Realizing that we all make mistakes I did the best that I could do and honored them with a discount of $40 towards their next visit. I thought this was quite generous on my behalf.

Please understand that our staff is on commission. Once they are paid for their services I can hardly take back the money. And as a small business owner I cannot afford to take the loss myself. We are all doing the best we can these days. If you mention or present the coupon we have absolutely no problem giving you the discount. Ask the many happy clients we have given it to! Or if we honestly made a mistake we would admit to it and properly correct it.

If you make the mistake though please be respectful and accept it. Do not make threats to call the Better Business Bureau, post a bad Yelp! Review, or as Chris did threaten that because he is an attorney he was going to put something in writing on his firm's letterhead. There is nothing more I cannot stand then when somebody undermines my or my staff's intelligence, honesty or professionalism.

Nami Spa

262 Beacon Street -6th Floor

Boston, MA 02116

Ph. 617-267-6264

Web. www.namispa.com