Global Spa Trends

 
Dear readers,

During my recent visit to Sydney, presenting a paper on Global Spa Trends, I realized that while we are implementing these Trends, that as Consumers we may be unaware of the evolution occurring. Trends shape, influence, and guide our global Wellness community by not only enhancing our own unique business profile but also your unique desire for wellbeing. Conscious choices and increased options may open new paths for you to explore and widen your perspective on your unique journey. Spa and Wellness are being redefined to include Beauty, Complementary & Alternative Therapies, Fitness, Food & Weight, Mind/ Body experiences which combined with technology, consumer trends, and other niche trends will create new & vibrant options of more than just another massage or workout session or diet or iridology reading.

Traditional Treatments, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine are being modernized and simplified while being adapted into many Spa treatments. We offer consultations with local specialists experienced with indigenous plants and healing methods, such as turmeric or red rice that combined with more familiar methods make a integrated approach for you. Sea water is long known for its curative powers so soaking and walking through a seawater pool for (2) hours does wonders for the mind as well as your cellulite. A sense of place that also combines with increased mind body connection occurs when enjoying a massage influenced by Esalen ~ plus you receive a wee workout while walking through a rain forest jungle to arrive at your treatment room.

Marketing materials & experiences designed for all ages, genders, as well as groups who wish to share a relaxing and therapeutic experience are also now more commonly found at locations around the world ~ father and son packages, bridal showers, and anniversary events are all a product of 'social' spa'ing. A bathing experience may no longer be limited to a floral bath for a honeymooning couple.

Food and beverage options outside of the Spa are occurring more often as well ~ where the nutritional information provided at breakfast buffets, consultations with the Executive Chef, Certified organic offerings in Mini Bars & in flight snack options. Be aware that eating certified organic food does not give us permission to overeat – be aware of portion sizes and recommendations. Keep yourself hydrated by refilling water bottles, while using non BPA plastic bottles at the fitness center may create an incentive to use the fitness offerings while traveling. More Spas are offering Happy Hour alternatives with treatment and product samplings to not only hotel guests but the local community as well.

Technology is being used in many different ways, look for offers, new research, or events at your local Spa by reading their Tweets or Facebook postings. Spas that offer an MP3 or IPOD docking station may be doing your heart a favor ~ according to findings from the University of Maryland Medical Center in the US, led by cardiologist Dr Mike Miller found:

'that listening to your favorite music may be good for the heart. When study participants listed to tunes that they knew made them feel good or joyful, the inner lining of their blood vessels expanded to increase blood flow. On the other hand, when they listened to songs they perceived as stressful, their blood vessels narrowed. Most participants selected country music as their favorite and heavy metal as the opposite. However, Miller says you "can't read too much into this" as it's down to personal choice. (Details: www.umm.edu)

Are you looking beyond your own nearby horizons? At BaliWellnessJourneys we created Journeys to explore the endless possibilities and take home a lifestyle changing experience, not just another holiday massage !