Body Mechanics pampers Soldiers, Families

By Sara E. Martin, Army Flier Staff WriterJuly 18, 2013

Body Mechanics pampers Soldiers, Families
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT RUCKER, Ala. (July 18, 2013) -- Being in and working for the Army can be a vigorous and stressful life, but Fort Rucker wants all of its workers, and Family members, to know that they deserve a chance to be pampered and indulged.

Body Mechanics Day Spa located in the Andrews Avenue Physical Fitness Facility, offers a little relaxation and luxury for a reasonable price, said Barbara Leger, licensed massage therapist with Body Mechanics.

"We have extremely competitive prices and we have a service available for every income level," she said. "Everyone can be treated to a special occasion and be pampered."

Anyone who is an authorized patron of Directorate of Family Morale Welfare and Recreation services is allowed to make an appointment with Body Mechanics.

The spa offers seven different services, which are a 30-minute massage for $25, a 60-minute massage for $45, a 90-minute massage for $70, facials for $30, a retreat for the feet for $30, a body polish for $30 and chair massages that are $1 per minute.

"The benefits of massage go hand-in-hand with fitness," said Leger. "Massage, historically, has been used to help circulation, muscle soreness and tenderness, and chronic pain to include fibromyalgia and arthritis.

"Blood pressure is usually lowered after a massage, and massages increase the chemicals that induce feelings of happiness as well," she continued. "The sleep cycle can also improve."

The European-style facial is a cleansing facial that includes a massage, which creates a healthier look.

"Our retreat for the feet is a 30-minute treatment just for the feet," she said. "It includes massage, hot towels and a wrap. It helps with the health of the skin and tissue, as well as with stress."

The body polish is a 30-minute exfoliation service. The skin on the arms, legs and back is exfoliated with a citrus scrub, and is followed by hot towels and moisturizer.

"It is great for people who are getting ready for a special occasion or if they have dry skin. It gives the skin a bright, healthy glow," said the massage therapist.

There are several different styles of massage people can choose from, including pregnancy, Swedish, deep tissue, neuromuscular and hot stone.

It is no secret that Fort Rucker is dominated by flight students, and Leger said that flight students in particular seem to enjoy the relaxation massage.

"I think that they are aware of how much physical stress they are under, but when they come in they are surprised at the amount of mental stress that can be relieved through a little pampering," she said.

The act of getting a massage for the first time may seem embarrassing for some and even nerve wracking, but Leger said that the client is in charge and if there is an uncertainty about something the BM therapists will answer any questions.

"When getting a massage, we first talk to the client about how they are feeling," she said. "If they have any concerns or complaints about a particular body part, such as lower back problems or pain in a knee, we can tailor the massage to fit the person for that day."

When clients undress for their massage, they are in the room alone. Leger said that people can undress to their level of comfort.

"It would be better for clients to have their shirts, and for women bras, removed," she said. "Most people receive a massage in just underwear."

Clients stay covered the entire time, she affirmed.

"While I am working on your back, that is the only thing visible. While I am working on your left leg, that is the only thing visible. And while lying on your back you are covered up to your underarm," she said.

"We are here for people, whether getting a massage or facial for the first time or for people where this is their way of life," she said. "The No. 1 thing people need to do is talk to us."

The spa is open for appointments Mondays through Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"We are able to accept tips. It is not expected but always appreciated," said Leger. "If you would like to leave a tip just leave it in the room where we will find it."

For more information or to set up an appointment, call 255-2296.

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Fort Rucker, Ala.

U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence