April Member Special: Chocolate Papaya Mud Wrap

Restore balance, and rid the body of impurities with a Pointe Spa Chocolate Papaya Mud Wrap!

This signature service—which incorporates a fusion of warmed mud, chocolate and papaya—detoxi­es and nourishes the skin and body. Experience complete tranquility with a wrap, shea butter application, and scalp and temple massage. A 50 minute service, for only $65*

*No additional discounts may be applied. Member price is normally $72. O­ffer valid for members only. Service must be performed during the month of April, 2011.

Say Hello to Shellac!

Now you can get your Mani or Pedi before a workout! Unlike traditional polish, CND Shellac leaves nails resilient & protected—no nicks, chips, flaws or depressions, and removal is fast & gentle!

Shellac is the latest advancement in nail color technology. It goes on like a polish, wears like a gel, remains flawless for two weeks and removes in minutes! And what’s more, Shellac is also hypo-allergenic and formaldehyde/toluene/DBP-FREE. Other benefits of the system include:

• 14 day wear
• ZERO dry time!
• Mirror finish

Application is simple: a Pointe Spa nail technician will apply your Shellac in just four easy steps, using CND’s UV Base + Color + Top Coat, and finish by drying with a Shellac UV Lamp.

And once you’re done with your Mani or Pedi, you can immediately workout! Call the Pointe Spa to schedule your Shellac service today:

• RiverPlace: 503.419.6766
• Bethany: 503.922.4216
• Hawthorn: 503.2684504

The Pointe Facial: Perfect for Seasonal Skin Stress

Seasonal weather shifts can be rough on delicate facial and décolletage skin. That’s why The Pointe Spa is offering members the chance to experience their signature Pointe Facial throughout the month of November for only $65!

The service utilizes products from the Dermalogica and Yonka Paris lines to cleanse and rebalance your skin, and also includes: exfoliation, toning, a masque and a relaxing facial massage.

Call the appointment line to book your facial today at the RiverPlace, Bethany or Hawthorn Farm Pointe Spa: 503.726.3444

At-Home Autumn Spa Remedies

Once you’ve seen one of The Pointe Spa’s estheticians, continue your skin pampering at home in between professional services, with one of these fantastic at-home remedies! All of the treatments are easy to make, and require ingredients that most of us already have in the kitchen. Take a few minutes out of your day for some “me time” and let the fall/winter skin healing begin!

Oatmeal

Soothing and anti-inflammatory, oatmeal contains beta glucan, a soluble fiber that creates a thin, moisture-retaining film on the surface of the skin. Place a handful of whole oats in a clean washcloth and use a rubber band to secure it. Next, immerse it in a sinkful of warm water and squeeze the bag four or five times. Once the water is cloudy, splash it on your face and then air-dry. (If you must towel dry, pat as gently as possible.)

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil’s abundant fatty acids help balance skin’s moisture levels, and the antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E protect skin from further damage. Combine equal parts avocado oil and evening-primrose oil (which supports collagen synthesis with its gamma linoleic acid) in a sealable bottle and shake to blend. Massage five or six drops into clean skin, and then cover your face with a warm washcloth for a minute to help the oils sink in.

Walnuts [OAC's October Superfood!]

Rich in oil, walnuts make for extra-gentle sloughing. Blend 1/4 cup shelled walnuts, 1/2 cup olive oil (for extra emollients), and a tablespoon of honey (to seal moisture into your skin) in a food processor set on a slow speed, creating a fine-particle scrub. Standing in the shower (if you’re scrubbing your feet) or over a sink (if it’s for your hands), work the mixture thoroughly over your skin for a couple of minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Oranges

The fruit acid loosens dead skin cells. Cut a fresh orange in half and squeeze the juice of one half into a bowl. Add 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup olive oil and then blend into a moisture-rich scrub. Next, rub the exposed side of the other half of the orange over knees, elbows, heels, and any other dry spots. Last, rub in the sugar mixture to slough off dead skin. Rinse with warm water and pat skin dry.

Seasonal Skin Care

Though you may still be focused on enjoying the final days of Oregon’s superb autumn weather, it isn’t too early to begin thinking about your winter skincare regime. Before you know it, colder temps will be settling into the Northwest. And while the thought of cozy wool sweaters and hot mulled cider might sound enticing, the season’s dry air and harsh Gorge winds are known to wreak havoc on delicate skin—the lack of moisture causing exposed areas to become cracked, chapped, and irritated.

One of the worst skin-drying sources isn’t even found outside. Turning up the thermostat (whether you use oil, wood or electricity), will dry your skin out faster than any natural element could. Fortunately, there are numerous preventative measures you can take, both at home and under the care of a specialist, to ensure limited winter damage.

See a Specialist

Consider making an appointment with an esthetician or dermatologist, especially if you’ve never been to one. A specialist is educated about the many different factors that can affect the skin, and is trained to properly analyze your skin type in order to set you up with an effective skincare regime (including specific products you should use for your skin type/issues).

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!

Lightweight moisturizers, effective during spring, summer and early fall, don’t offer adequate protection for the winter season. As weather conditions change, so should your products and routine. Most find that oil-based moisturizers work more effectively than water-based products to both protect from elemental damage, and restore moisture to already dry skin. Look for products containing oils that won’t clog your pores: avocado, mineral, primrose and almond oils are all wonderful for the skin.

Use Sunscreen

Come fall, most people [mistakenly] pitch their SPF into a dark corner of the bathroom and forget about it until July. Sunscreen isn’t just for summer. The sun’s rays are harmful no matter what time of year—especially in winter if you spend time playing at the mountain where snow glare can burn your skin in minutes. Always apply a broad-spectrum product to your face and hands (don’t forget your ears and back of the neck if they’re exposed!) 30 minutes before heading outside, and reapply throughout the day.

Humidify

Fortunately, Portland-area winters are a lot more humid than other parts of the country, where sub-zero temps are commonplace between December and April. Even so, once the thermostat goes up in the house, the air is apt to become dry, and your skin even drier. Combat central heating damage by strategically placing humidifiers throughout the home—helping to evenly replace and disperse moisture in the environment.

Keep it Lukewarm

Nothing sounds more inviting than a steaming-hot shower or bath when you’re chilled to the bone. But long baths and prolonged hot showers diminish the protective lipid and fat layers of the skin, contributing to dehydration. Keep the faucet set at warm, and include hydrating bath oils or products that contain calming oatmeal. Your skin with thank you!

Make your appointment at The Pointe Spa for a moisturizing body wrap, soak, or facial this fall—our licensed estheticians are trained professionals who take the health of your skin seriously. Visit The Pointe Spa for a full list of skin-pampering services.

Exlusive Member Offers at The Pointe Spa

Swedish Massage, 50 minutes for only $65!

This month, we welcome you to experience The Point Spa’s classic relaxation service, the Swedish Massage, for only $65. The service features a variety of traditional techniques that improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, and improve one’s overall sense of wellbeing. Contact The Pointe Spa for more information, or to book your appointment today!

Purchase price available to members only. No additional discounts may be applied. Service must be performed during the month of September, 2010. Savings of $15.

An Apple a Day: September “Superfood” Packs a Punch!

It’s the perfect time of year to take full advantage of the Pacific NW region’s many orchards! Bursting at the seams with varieties from Red Delicious and Honeycrisp, to Fuji, Pink Lady and Fiesta, the old “Apple-a-day” adage couldn’t be a simpler undertaking.

Apples, while often relegated to “humble” fruit status, are actually unique in the way they combine nutrients, making them an excellent choice for achieving one’s health goals. In fact, apples’ exceptional combination of fiber, flavinoids and antioxidants has been shown to aid in lowing cholesterol and decreasing asthma symptoms, as well as play an important role in cancer, macular degeneration and Alzheimer’s prevention.

Apples are also wonderful for your skin! Their high levels of Vitamin C and free-radical fighting Quercetin, make them an idea fruit for individuals focused on skin health.

Help “…keep the doctor away” by enjoying local, organic apples all autumn! And don’t forget to take advantage this September of The Pointe Spa’s Innovations Pedicure, which harness the natural powers of this super disease-fighting fruit by incorporating pureed apple into a warming masque.

Interested in cooking with apples? Try this low fat version of everyone’s fall favorite: Warm Apple Crisp! Recipe courtesy of: The Get With the Program! Guide to Good Eating, by Bob Greene

• Nonfat cooking spray
• 2 cups peeled, cored and thinly sliced apples, such as Granny Smiths
• 2 tbsp sugar, or to taste
• 1/4 cup apple juice
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• pinch of nutmeg

Oat topping ingredients:

• 1/2 cup walnuts or almonds, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp softened unsalted butter

1. Preheat the oven to 350.  Coat an 8-inch square shallow baking dish with cooking spray.  In a large bowl, toss together the apples, sugar, apple juice, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.  Set aside.
2. Make the oatmeal topping:  In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle, gently combine the walnuts or almonds, oats, brown sugar, flour, and butter at low speed.
3. Place the apple mixture in the dish.  Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the apples are cooked through, the juices are bubbling, and the topping is browned.  Serve, hot, warm, or at room temperature.

BAC Open House Weekend Schedule

Once a quarter we open our doors for a series of fun social and wellness events that show off what our clubs have to offer to member and potential member alike. Bethany’s Wellness Open House is next week!  We hope you RSVP and join us for any or all of the following events by calling 503.690.2100 or dropping by the front desk.

FRIDAY JULY 9th

• Groove & Grill BBQ starts at 5:30pm – a fantastic party poolside (weather permitting, indoors for rain) featuring live music from Gravy.  There is no admittance fee, but RSVP at the front desk is requested.   Grilled culinary delights from the New Leaf Bistro and drinks including beer from local partner Bridgeport Brewery will be available for purchase.  No outside food or drink allowed.
• The Pointe Spa Buy-One-Get-One-Half-Off Service Hours 2-6pm: Make your reservation now at 503.726.3444 or drop by the club to take advantage of this outstanding promotion.  Ask for full details.
• Mature Adult Social 11am – join other members for a cup of coffee and some friendly conversation.

SATURDAY JULY 10th

• Group Fitness Launch Classes – experience the newest routines in your favorite classes.  We’ve got Body Pump at 9am, Body Combat at 10:15am, and Zumba at 11:30am. RSVP at the front desk.  Space is limited!

SUNDAY JULY 11th

• Family Pool Party 1-4pm – It’s family time featuring a visit from Wally the Whale.  Reservations for this event fill up quickly so call now!
• 

Our Weight Management Program Philosophy

One of the most invigorating team projects has been the development of OAC’s Weight Management Program (WMP). The program focuses on healthy behaviors rather than weight loss alone. This includes improved nutrition, increased physical activity, and the ability to manage stress among other topics. In a world of conflicting information, fad diets, and gimmicks, the WMP is based on community support, accountability and the guidance of fitness professionals.

If you are interested in our beta-test promotion or would simply like to find out more information about the program, please check out the WMP blog at
oacweightloss.wordpress.com.

Comments and questions are always welcome!

APRIL OPEN HOUSE – Friday Spa Events

The Pointe Spa is offering two fantastic promotions to celebrate our April Open House. Space fills quickly, make your appointment today!

SKIN REFRESHER

TIME:
11am-3pm, Pointe Day Spa

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Open to members and non-members with appointment reservation. Kid central childcare is available by reservation until 2pm at BAC and HFAC, through the entire event at RAC. Spa services are not available to individuals under the age of 13.

TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT:
Call our central reservation service at 503.726.3444 or visit any location.

EVENT DESCRIPTION:
30-minute appointments use advanced technology to assess the true condition of the skin on your face. Treatment and product recommendations are made and demonstrated. Only $5 reservation fee, no purchase required.

EVENT: FRIDAY POINTE DAY SPA BUY-ONE-GET-ONE-HALF-OFF

TIME & LOCATION:
4pm-8pm, Pointe Day Spa

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Open to members and non-members with appointment reservation. Kid central childcare is available by reservation through 8pm at BAC and HFAC, 7pm at RAC. Limited services may be available to individuals under the age of 18. Please ask for more info.

TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT:
Call our central reservation service at 503.726.3444 or visit any location.

EVENT DESCRIPTION:
The Pointe Day Spa’s full menu of luxurious massage, skin, nail and body treatments are available. Buy one service and get a second service half off. Must be paid for and enjoyed between 4 and 8pm. One person may receive two treatments, or two people may each enjoy their own service. Discount is applied to service of equal or lesser value, may not be combined with any other discounts.