AromaSteam Steam Sauna good for Allergies?

I have always been curious as to the actual effect that steam has upon allergies. Over the years we have had certainly had a number of users that have mentioned in past the effect the great impact that AromaSteam has made on their lives. Predicatably it becomes really difficult to obtain a testimonial to that effect. That is, until this morning. This is the testimonial in full:

First and foremost, since the age of five I suffered from a chronic condition of bronchitis, asthma and also allergic rhinitis.

I spent a great deal of time in hospital and what didn't help was a mis-diagnosis from my GP which led to me being prescribed the 'wrong' prescriptions to treat my ailments. For years I had been searching for a solution to my problem and ten years ago I found it -THE AROMA STEAM UNIT. I already had a relatively good knowledge of how aromatherapy oils worked but discovered that that the steam acted as a 'catalyst' (speeding up the reaction on how fast the oils would enter the skin, bloodstream and internal organs), this was evident after using the Aroma Steam for the first time. I used the machine regularly i.e. three times a week over a period of six months and discovered that it was virtually eliminating my problems associated with the asthma and bronchitis. I then continued the treatments every week and was pleased and relieved that these ailments did not return.

The other interesting fact is that having been an out-patient at St. Bartholomew's Hospital (London) for several years, they informed me that I had twenty-seven 'known' allergies. I am now delighted to say that thanks to the Aroma Steam technology I now only have three allergies at the present time and to me that has been a fantastic achievement which means that I can now lead a 'normal' life and don't need to attend the allergy clinic anymore.

I know that using aromatherapy oils in a steam environment is effective in eliminating or reducing the effects of the majority of ailments that we can encounter in our everyday lives and if used regularly can save us the time and effort in consulting our G.P. most of the time. The Aroma Steam is the answer and the way forward in achieving these goals.

Finally, all I can say is that I am utterly 'addicted' to using the Aroma Steam and would highly recommend it to anybody and I am constantly singing the praises of its 'Inventor' - keep up the good work!


Karen from Cornwall, UK (edited for anonynimity)

We appreciate that the AromaSteam is relatively expensive for most folks ($2375 in th US, £1500 in the UK) but with effects like this we believe that it can make a real difference to everyday lives.

CAM EXPO digest

Many thanks to all of you who dropped by the Therapy Essentials stand at CAM Expo, Earls court, London last weekend. I have always found this to be an excellent show with a lot of knowledgeable speakers.

What are my observations about people who were looking at buying massage couches, tables and other equipment?

Generally there was a 50/50 split of people who wanted something mobile to people wanting a massage couch that was typically used in one position. The main areas of enquiry were:

1. Price of the couch/table

It is really interesting to see people’s reaction to the pricing on the Affinity equipment (prices between £200 and £400 on portables)

About 20% thought it was too expensive (their budget was £ 100 -£150) as I have gone into in previous articles massage tables are a broad church with pricing from £80-£800. I love couches like Oakworks at the higher end, they are beautiful, light and strong, whereas cheap unknown brands I have found are a gamble not worth taking.

60% were un-surprised on the pricing i.e. they thought for the features, weight and finish the pricing was about right

The final 20% thought the pricing was cheap. These visitors tended to be established therapists that paid £400 plus for their couch 10 years ago, for what would now be considered basic specifications.

2. Weight

Always a concern for therapists that are on the move, it was good to discuss how a lifting back section always adds to the weight by 2-3 kgs. We try and keep the weight down, but not at the detriment of the strength and stability. With two or three minutes of explanation the therapists clearly understood all of the parameters concerning weight

3. Padding

As a therapist doing holistic massage will require different ratings of padding to those performing sports massage, it was another area that having lots of couches to demonstrate demonstrated these points perfectly.

It was quite interesting that a vast number of established therapists hadn’t lain on their existing couch for years!

4. Breathe Hole or Face Cradle

I am still surprised how many established therapists don’t understand the infinite practicality of a face cradle compared to a breathe hole. Again a quick demo of the two methods and a quick explanation about body positioning for the therapist, improved comfort for the client and improved access to the scapula and rotator cuff muscles soon had them convinced

Thank you to all the therapists that talked to us, we often get caught up with the day to day deliveries, ordering and general running of the business whereas shows such as CAM expo allow us to chat to therapists and realise that we do have some really useful equipment!

How lightweight should a portable massage table be?

This equally applies to a beauty couch, beauty table or plinth, fundamentally they are the same things, carried by people so for the purposes of this article should be treated as one.

To create a massage table that is lightweight, strong, and comfortable and at a cheap price is the Holy Grail for us designers and specifiers. You simply cannot get all four, so compromises have to be made and much more so for budget tables. It is simply impossible to by a £99 or $130 table that gives you all four. Too much compromise will either hurt you physically because the table is too heavy, or in the wallet because it is not suitable for your business and will discourage new clients as the table is not comfortable or sturdy enough.

First, to get some definitions straight, I will quote all weights in Kilos, to get to lbs merely multiply Kilos by 2.2. The UK is a confusing place so widths are quoted in inches! To convert from inches to Centimetres divide by 2.54. Right lets get started!

How manufacturers define the weight of a massage table or beauty couch.

The weight that is always quoted is the table only, so does not include face cradles, armrests, bolsters, side armrests and carry cases.

That means that you will in fact be carrying much more than just the weight of the massage table. Therefore if you want to look after your body as well as your clients, you might have to prioritise what you carry i.e. those side armrests that you got free with the table, might end up at the back of the garage quite quickly.

Economical with the truth as well as the table

They say there are lies, damn lies and statistics, and the quoted weight of the advertised massage table can often be a matter of hope rather than accuracy! The biggest culprits are the cheaper table suppliers that are either just accepting their supplier’s word on the weight of a massage table or are trying to make their item seem more attractive.

There is also a highly respected seller in the UK that sells their own brand massage table saying it is 14Kgs, it is actually nearer to 17kgs! If you are suspicious on receipt of your table, get it out and weigh it on your bathroom scales.

How lightweight should a lightweight massage table be?

Realistically a portable massage table that is used for actual portable treatments more than 4 or 5 times a week should be less than 15kgs. I would define a lightweight massage table as 12.5kgs or lighter. Our Affinity 8 is lightweight and the affinity aluminium and sienna are “proper” portables.

Tables that are 16-19kgs are semi-static. This term I would define as a therapist that needs to do 3-4 outcalls a week. For our Affinity range, I try and team a carry case on wheels to help here, but this still does not help with lifting up stairs or out of the car. Our Affinity deluxe, portable flexible and comfortflex tables are in this category.

19Kgs plus – these are static and cannot be realistically moved around. I have seen advertised “super lightweight 21kgs” it just isn’t!

Lightweight and Cheap

Usually means either extremely uncomfortable or flimsy. I’m afraid the white aluminium beauty couches sold by beauty wholesalers always fall into this category. I went to a well known wholesaler in North London last Friday, we had some of our new couches on display, and they had a rack of these ones and they were all broken! Pretty bad considering they were only on display and had never been used. If you don’t believe me that purchasing these tables will hurt your business, lie face down and get one of your friends to do a little massage on you. Is it comfortable? Did you feel safe? Would you recommend a friend to a therapist whose equipment made you feel this way? That’s why it will kill your business stone dead.


Does the width of the portable massage table make a difference?

Yes In two ways! First on wider tables there is just more of a table to carry around, so that in reality means a heavier table. Second for shorter therapists the width of the table can make the table seem heavier. The inside leg measurement of a 5’5” therapist will be about the same as a 27” couch when folded like a suitcase. This will mean that therapist will have to lever the table further when going up stairs which will make it seems heavier.

What about the ballistic nylon instead of wood base tables ?

I am referring to tables such as the Masterlite and the Supalite tables. Under the vinyl they have a stretched trampoline material strung across an aluminium frame instead of a wooden ply wood base. This cuts down the weight considerably. The problem with these are that the nylon sags a little which means that in the middle of the table the metal frame and hinges dig into your hips. It is for this reason that I have never been a big fan on this technology.

Hope this helps everybody – happy hunting!

CAM Expo - Display Items Selected & Speaking Slot confirmed

The most influential complimentary health show in the UK CAM Expo takes place at Earls Court 24-25th October 2009.

Taster Session Tables

Therapy Essentials have been associated with this exhibition for 5 years, our Affinity massage tables are used in all the taster session workshops, we also take a booth there each year to exhibit new and influential products.

Speaking Spot

I will be speaking again Sunday 25th October at 12.30 on how to choose the best portable massage table for the therapist's business.

Booth

AromaSteam - we will be demonstrating the world's only full body portable steam sauna on our booth.

In terms of massage tables, we will be showing the following massage tables:

Affinity Helena - This is our luxury stationary massage table, with all the usual refinements of an Affnity table, but with gas lift back and knee rest

Affinity 8 - our premium flat sports massage table, with an hour glass shape. A trully lightweight massage table coming in at 12.5Kgs

Affinity Aluminium - our lightest liftign back portable massage table, 14.5 Kgs which can be used for sports and remedial massage, or equally used as a beauty couch for mobile therapists. This product can also be upgraded to the Power Therapist with the addition of a face cradle and armrest pack

Affinity Deluxe - designed for semi static use, although there is a carry case with wheels supplied free. this is a luxury table designed for holistics treatments

Affinity Portable Flexible - The Uk's market leading massage couch for over 5 years, lifting back rest, comfortable and excellent value for money

Affinity Comfortflex - The Rolls Royce of portables, uncontested for luxury features, comfort and strength at an attractive price point

Massage Accessories- As you might expect, we have a full range of couch covers, saddle stools, massage bolsters and other stuff available to purchase on the stand!

We hope to see you at this show!

AromaSteam Vs Infrared Sauna the facts

AromaSteam is more Sanitary than an Infrared Sauna

If the Infrared Sauna is to be used regularly in a public place or by the whole family, the overall cleanliness needs to be taken into account. It is recommended by nearly every manufacturer of Infrared Saunas, that the user sits on towels. It is more comfortable, but also reduces absorption of perspiration containing the body's waste products into the wood - for re-emergence later on. AromaSteam creates a much more sanitary environment than an Infrared sauna. The tough plastics can be easily and quickly washed down with cleaning products purchased from any supermarket or alternatively with a natural cleaning solution made from tea tree oil.

Time on your hands?

All heat stress related treatments broadly work in the same way. One of the body's natural defense mechanisms is to create a fever. This acts by stimulating the immune system and stunts the growth of infection. Saunas replicate this natural body defense mechanism by creating an artificial fever (also known as Hyperthermia) which raises the body's core temperature. The body tries to cool its self down by perspiring which subsequently evaporates and has a cooling effect. This perspiration is important as it contains toxins that are being purged from the body.

Infrared Saunas

Infrared Saunas work in a low humidity and relatively low temperature (around 120F) compared to a classic Finish Sauna (180F). When the user perspires as the body's core temperature rises, the low humidity of the Infrared sauna allows the perspiration to evaporate thus cooling the user down. In this situation, the release of toxins is quite slow and therefore an Infrared sauna session must be quite long to get the required amount of detoxification done!

Steam Saunas

A Steam Sauna and in this case AromaSteam is different. It operates around the same temperature as an infrared sauna (120F) but with 100% humidity. The elevated humidity does not allow the perspiration to evaporate and cool the body down. This causes the body's core temperature to rise faster, resulting in more sweating and thus faster and more efficient release of toxins.

The contrast is that Infrared sauna session times vary from 30-50 minutes compared to similar benefits being achieved in 12-15 minutes in an AromaSteam.

A nurturing environment

Keen Finish Sauna users are quick to distance themselves from Infrared Saunas in terms of overall benefits. They claim that the Finnish Sauna offers a "spiritual experience" that is poles apart from the Infrared. Whilst we at AromaSteam aren't quite so vociferous in dismissing Infrared - as they do offer the user a good number of benefits. In our experience we do think that the Infrared sauna can somewhat of a banal and sterile experience compared to an AromaSteam session. Compare a rich steam experience with scented moist heat enveloping you with sitting in a wooden box next to a red light bulb!

Radiant Heat much more effective ?

The issue of penetrating, radiant heat is often trumpeted as a miracle and far superior to "heating the air" method of Classic Finnish Saunas or Steam Baths. There is no doubt that Infrared heat works as it have been long used in lamp form by health professionals for joint pain or arthritis. The important point here is that to get this penetration, the user must be within 12" of the heat source. In the case of heat lamps, the lamp is positioned at the point where the problem is. In the case of an Infrared sauna and in particular cheap ones when there are not so many heat sources, this requires the user to either manoeuvre themself or remain the same position for long periods whilst the "penetration" takes place. If the body part is not directly near a heat source, we go back to just heating the air again which in an low humidity, low heat environment can be frustratingly slow.

It is worth remarking that AromaSteam in its 15 year history has had its fair share of arthritis, fibromyalgia and pain management successes itself, using just water without the need for unusual heat sources.

Infrared Saunas and cheap to buy and even cheaper to run.

If you have been shopping around from an Infrared Sauna you will have seen an enormous spectrum of prices of available on the open market. Like a hot tub it is hard to differentiate one product from another. There are established manufacturers such as Healthmate, Sunlight, Polar and Cedrus with a long track record of sales and up-to-date designs and better wood selection and technology. Cheaper "no-name" versions tend to be much cheaper and importer by traders/entrepreneurs eager to catch on to an existing market.

In any market I am always wary of no-name brands, as the expertise and experience in terms of knowing what to ask when specifying products can be extremely variable resulting in a final products that can compromise the performance and longevity of the products produced. This could be heat up time, the placement and quality of the heat sources as well as woods that are not suitable for use in the sauna.

AromaSteam is a quality branded product with over 15 years track record in the market and sold all over the world, but still offering exceptional value for money for a steam sauna. Sunlight Saunas 1-2 person unit select II in Cedar is $3799, Cedrus FSII 1-2 person unit is $5495 and Polar's Infrared 1-2 person saunas is $4018. Compared to the price of the AromaSteam of $2375, it compares extremely favourably.

Running costs per minute for AromaSteam and Infrared Saunas are approximately the same, about as much as a hair drier. However as AromaSteam's heat up time is 8-10 minutes, and then a 12-15 minute session time compared to an Infrared Sauna's heat up time of 10-20minutes and then a 30-50 minute session length, AromaSteam costs half as much to run as and Infrared Sauna.

Detoxification and joint pain the only benefit?

Where AromaSteam really comes into its own compared to Infrared Saunas is in the additional benefits that can be gained from using a steam sauna. AromaSteam will do all that an Infrared Sauna will do as well as relieving a whole host of other conditions. Steam saunas have long been used for their respiratory benefits, breaking down catarrh, blowing away colds and relieving conditions such as sinusitis by rehydrating all the air passages. This can be done with or without the need for Aromatherapy oils. Steam has long been used as relief of Asthma and there is considerable anecdotal evidence that AromaSteam really helps with allergies, skin conditions and multiple chemical sensitivity. Infrared as it is a "dry environment" cannot offer any of the above benefits.

No Specialist Installation

One of the major benefits of an Infrared Sauna, particularly with the smaller versions that only require a standard electricity socket is that they can be placed anywhere in the home as there is no plumbing and the product snaps together in about an hour without the need for specialist help. Whilst most classic Finnish saunas or steam baths require specialist installation, AromaSteam follows the same installation principals as an infrared sauna. It requires no specialist installation, plumbing, ventilation and only requires a standard electricity outlet. Assembly of the AromaSteam steambath takes less than 15 minutes!

Maintenance of your Massage Table

Looking after and servicing your massage table, is an important part of any therapist’s work routine. Like all business assets, care and maintenance goes a long way to prolonging the life of your equipment and will ultimately cost your business less in the long run.


Upholstery

This is an area where most therapists are pretty sharp, largely because health and hygiene forms part of the syllabus of most training. It goes without saying that regular, thorough cleaning of the top your massage table is important to project the right impression and keep your upholstery from being degraded by oils and spills.

The table's upholstery should be cleaned with mild soap and water or non-abrasive cleaners such as Flash clean and care, and ideally should be performed after each treatment.

Face Cradle

These have become increasingly popular as the price of massage tables packages and accessories has diminished over the past few years. There are generally two types: one is the fixed type that cannot be adjusted, the second has either a single or double adjustment – typically locked in place with a lever. This article concerns the second type.

The face cradle adjustment works off a cam with a lever. Within the frame there are little gears that lock into place when you push the lever down. If the lever can be pushed down too easily then the gear’s teeth might not be completely interlocking. This might make them slip which results in the client’s face falling abruptly – possibly causing injury. If the cam is too tight, when the therapist tries to lock it in position, it may cause the mechanism to break – which would result in the cradle needing to be replaced.

The tension of the cradle cam and thus the locking mechanism can be adjusted by winding the lever. Ideally the pressure required to lock the lever in position should be equivalent to using a hole-punch.

Armrest or Armsling

The main think to look out for apart from general cleaning is looking after the Velcro. Whilst transporting or storing the table; try to ensure that the Velcro male and female part are together to lengthen the useful life of this accessory.

Understructure

Cables

Inspect the cables under the table as these play a vital role in the structural integrity, should you see any nicks to the metal wires (not the protective plastic) cease using the table immediately and contact your supplier to arrange a repair or service.

Hinges and Screws

Ensure that all hinges and screws used are free of rust and are tightened at least every three months. This only takes a moment but will significantly increase the lifespan of your table. I recently went to a college where I had supplied 10 alumininium massage tables about 2 years ago.
Unfortunately tables are never cared for in the same way as if they are owned by the therapist. The lifting backrest had come away, the clips fallen off and a few noises were coming from the tables when used. Five minutes with a screwdriver sorted all of these problems!

If using a wooden table, ensure the height adjustment knobs are well tightened as this contributes greatly to the stability of the table.


Base Inspection

Most massage tables have a ply-wood base underneath the upholstery and foam. A cursory inspection for cracks in the wood should be made every three months.

Some massage tables have a “ballistic- Nylon” base such some Master massage tables. In this case check that the eyelets that hold the nylon in position are in good condition and there is no damage to the nylon base itself.

Carry Case

For storage and transportation, I would absolutely recommend that the carry case be used at all times. Tears and rips to the upholstery can ruin your table and many manufacturers cannot service them. For example the latch of your boot catching the table or an over anxious cat getting in the cupboard and sharpening its claws down your table. The list goes on!

The carry case also stops water and moisture attacking the metallic parts of the table.

Face Cradle or Breathe Hole which is best?

This is the area where the client’s head is positioned. It should be comfortable, supportive and not claustrophobic.

Breathe hole
A breathe hole is a hole cut directly into the middle of the top of one half of a table for the face. It is the traditional method of construction, works well and is still a popular choice for many therapists.

However, having spoken to hundreds of therapists, I believe that the reason this style continues to sell well is more down to the fact that students often train on them and have little or no experience of the benefits of an adjustable face cradle.

A key reason for selecting this style is weight. If you are planning to be mobile, using a massage table with a breathe hole instead of a face cradle means that you will have the additional weight to carry. However, breathe holes can be quite uncomfortable and many clients find them claustrophobic.

Face cradle
The adjustable face cradle is the horseshoe shaped cushion and matching stand that slots into the end of a table. There are three types of face cradle available: non-adjusting, single adjusting and double adjusting. (Non-articulating face cradles do not adjust and are not recommended).

A single adjusting face cradle moves up and down and is more than adequate. The double adjusting face cradle has a similar mechanism, but also has a diagonal movement component as well. This provides additional movement but can be a little bit fiddly.

Up until two or three years ago, face cradles were seen as an expensive optional extra, certainly beyond the means of most therapists who were just starting out. Recently, prices have come down considerably with many manufacturers offering pack prices for under £200, which include cradles as standard.

There are several types of adjustable face cradle, but all styles are better for nearly all therapies than breathe holes.

With the addition of an armrest or sling, face cradles offer a number of inherent benefits for the client and the therapist alike:

The length of the table is extended by up to 12 inches (30cm) This is much more pleasant for taller clients as their feet do not extend over the end of the table

The shoulder muscles are presented at the end of the table rather than 12 inches (30cms) down the table, allowing better access

With the addition of a sling or armrest, the rotary cuff muscles are turned and presented in the optimum position for massage

The armrest or sling also facilitates the opening of the scapula which makes for a better treatment.

To view the Affinity range of portable massage equipment go to www.therapyessentials.co.uk