The Vichy baths date to the times of the Roman conquest of the part of Europe which is now France. As the story goes, it was Julius Caesar himself who discovered the warm “Vichy” mineral springs (literal translation: “hot cross”). After drinking from the Vichy springs, Caesar’s horses, depleted of minerals during their long journey, became stronger and were immediately rejuvenated.
The Romans then established a spa around the thermal springs which exists to this day in the French town of Vichy, about three hours south of Paris. Bathers claim the Vichy springs have healing effects and offer relief from a host of ailments, such as stomach acidity, rheumatism, arthritis, burns, cuts, sunburn and even poison oak.
Many spas have begun offering services that recreate the therapeutic and refreshing Vichy spa experience. There are two different types of the Vichy experience: a Vichy unit and a Vichy shower room.
A Vichy unit looks like a tanning bed. Water sprays from the walls of the capsule to mimic a waterfall. This style of a Vichy shower is not recommended for individuals who are claustrophobic.
A full-size Vichy room is ideal for a true Vichy shower. Expect an invigorating experience as you lie on a waterproof massage table in a fully tiled room. The completely waterproof room is designed specifically for the shower with a drain in the floor and seven shower heads mounted on a swinging arm. A spa specialist aligns the shower heads over the tense areas of your body and adjusts the water pressure to release the stress trapped in your muscles. More than 100 gallons of water pour over you in a ten-minute session!
Disposable undergarments are provided, and the guest is draped with towels to ensure maximum comfort. A staff member accompanies the guest for the duration of the service.
A Vichy session usually lasts for ten minutes and is the perfect addition to a massage or body exfoliation service. Either way, the warm water dilates the body’s pores, improves circulation and gives the bather a feeling of warmth and tranquility.
After a massage, the cascade of water further loosens up the muscles worked on by the massage therapist. The rejuvenating benefits can help maximize the circulatory and therapeutic effects of a massage. The Vichy shower has helped many people with circulatory problems.
Another great way to experience a Vichy shower is during an exfoliation service that incorporates the hydrotherapy system. The combination of exfoliation, warm water and moisturizing product leave your skin feeling baby smooth and intensely rehydrated. Exfoliation services remove old skin cells and nurture new growth, leaving you with a natural glow. They are ideal for individuals with dry skin. TPW
Paola Hinton is the owner of Five Senses Spa and Salon, Peoria’s first full-service spa and salon for men and women. Their staff is trained by Aveda specialists in the latest hair, nails and spa trends. Five Senses is located in Jones Bros. Plaza at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie and online at www.FiveSensesSpaAndSalon.com.