ISPA releases 2010 Spa Trends – news to use

Thursday, December 10th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments

Many of us have different reasons for getting involved in the spa industry and for me it’s always
been about prevention and living a healthy lifestyle – a spa lifestyle. Years ago we were pioneers
in the world of spa and today we continue to walk on this path showing our belief in an industry
that has become stronger and more relevant with each passing year. The International SPA
Association (ISPA) has a lot to do with this path that we’re on and regardless of the role we
play in the industry we are united and excited about the future and the path to wellness for all.

ISPA has recently released their 2010 Spa Trends and I’ve included them below. Whether you’re
a consumer reading this or a colleague in the industry, take note because there’s a lot of positive
information here and hopefully you’ll consider visiting your local spa more often and taking that
destination spa trip sooner vs. later so you can invest in you! To your health, always!

“Since the economic downturn, the consumer is more educated than ever before when it comes
to value and investing in themselves,” said ISPA President Lynne McNees. “They expect a return
on their investment, and they aren’t falling for any tricks or gimmicks. They want tangible results
and information that will improve their quality of life.”

Through industry research ISPA has pinpointed the following spa trends for 2010:

Social Media – Perhaps you’ve heard of a little Web site called Twitter? It’s
helped to bust open the doors on a marketing revolution, and spas are leading the way. Now,
it’s easier than ever for spas to offer up-to-the-minute deals by tweeting or posting a Facebook message. Cancellations are no longer a problem when you can re-book an appointment instantly.
In fact, Ad-Ology research shows that 57 percent of 18 to 24 year olds and 48.5 percent of 25
to 34 year olds say social media influenced their choice of a hair salon or day spa. Check out
which innovative spas are tweeting.

Customer Service – Consumers are more aware of every penny spent, and with
that comes higher expectations on the level of service they receive. Spas are responding by
providing exceptional service and making each visit a customized experience for the guest. In
fact, 87 percent of ISPA member spas are utilizing customer feedback mechanisms to ensure
they’re exceeding consumers’ needs. And, 48 percent of ISPA member spas have implemented customer loyalty programs, allowing them to offer discounts or rewards while incentivizing frequent visits to the spa.

Spa Sampling Menu – Just like ordering tapas at a Spanish restaurant, now
you can order up a sampling of spa treatments to try out. These mini services at lower price
points are popular ways to get a taste of treatments offered at many spas. With 46 percent
of ISPA member spas seeing an increase in shorter (30 minutes or less) treatment bookings,
and 86 percent offering shorter treatments, it’s the perfect recipe for consumers seeking small
treats to help lift their spirits.

Preventive Care – Wouldn’t you rather go to a spa now to learn how to
manage stress then end up in a doctor’s office a few years down the road? According to
the World Health Organization, by 2020 the top five diseases will all have the underlying
contributing factor of stress. Spa treatments like massage, acupuncture and meditation have
been proven to aid in stress reduction and recovery time for pre and post-op patients.

Spa Partnerships – Spas are becoming more accessible through partnerships with established franchises, hotels and local businesses. Recent pairings like Murad Inc. and Massage Envy will allow consumers to enjoy the benefits of a total spa experience for an affordable price. Forty-six percent of ISPA day spa members partner with local businesses to incorporate spa into their workplace. Popular partnerships include: developing wellness programs at local hospitals, accommodating guests at local hotels without spa facilities and service discount trades between spas and local business employees.

Cell Phone Applications - There’s definitely an app for that! Spa-ing is easier than ever with the convenience of doing it from your cell phone. The Four Seasons’ app allows you to browse spa services and check room availability for your next stay. The Hot Springs and Spa Finder – California app will guide you to road-side soaks, spiritual retreats and commercial spas. Plan a spa vacation from anywhere with Tripology’s app. The Find a Spa app detects your location and displays search results for spas in your proximity.

Giving Back – Spas are offering promotions and free services to people who serve the community such as teachers, hospice workers and military personnel. Some spas are teaming up with local hospitals and providing wellness education to help educate consumers on the spa lifestyle. Community outreach is a great way to generate business and show how easy it is to incorporate spa into your life.

The Millennials Take Over – This group now outnumbers the baby boomers, and they are flocking to the spa. They grew up in a culture where taking care of themselves, learning proper grooming techniques and leading a healthy lifestyle were not options, but the norm. Born during the exercise craze of the 1980s, they were the first generation to watch as their parents began turning to spas through the 1990s, when spas experienced significant growth. Spas are reaching Millennials through social media outlets and they are reaping the benefits.

Simplified Spa Menus – Everyone is cutting back and spa menus are no exception. You’ll notice fewer treatment options because spas are focusing on the core of their business – results-oriented treatments. No-frills treatments that offer a return on investment are what the consumer is demanding. The No. 1 spa treatment that people seek out world wide is massage because of its healing and stress-reducing benefits. And, the No. 1 reason people go to the spa is to relieve/reduce stress and relax.

Beauty Rest – Catching some zzz’s has never been harder in our sleep-deprived society. The spa makes rest a priority by offering treatments targeted to get you some shut eye. You can actually book time to sleep at the spa or stay after a treatment to nap when you’re feeling relaxed.

About the International SPA Association
ISPA is recognized worldwide as the leading professional organization and voice of the spa industry. Founded in 1991, ISPA advances the spa industry by providing invaluable educational and networking opportunities, promoting the value of the spa experience and speaking as the authoritative voice to foster professionalism and growth. More details on ISPA are available on http://www.experienceispa.com/.

Source: ISPA, International SPA Assocation

Tags: 2010, consumers, giving back, healthy living, international spa association, lifestyle, prevention, spa, trends

Canyon Ranch Life Enhancement Program

Thursday, October 29th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments

I just returned from a week at Canyon Ranch in Tucson and participated in the Life Enhancement Program. For anyone that is looking at being their best physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually I highly recommend this program and a stay at the Ranch. I’m working on a more detailed post and an article that covers my stay so please check here again in the next few days for an update.

In the meantime, if anyone has been considering a stay at Canyon Ranch (Tucson) I am putting something together for early January (approx. Jan. 2) so that you too can start the year off with the tools you need to be the best you that you can be. When armed with healthy living tools and ideas, and the opportunity to take action in a nurturing environment, it’s amazing how much better you feel and how much more you’re capable of attaining for yourself……all of your senses are heightened, you live more joyfully and fully and are ready to move forward in your life.

One of the reasons I chose the Life Enhancement Program was due to an injury I sustained, which had been taking longer than I hoped to heal. The staff is incredible and Doug, my exercise physiologist, was able to review a program that best suited my needs and more important than that was the encouragement he offered and the feeling of being hopeful when we were done vs that hopeless feeling I came in with. That’s just the start of the amazing week I had. More to come…….

And, again, if you’re interested in realizing your own aha! moments and tools for a healthier life, drop me a note about Jan. 2 and I’ll get you the details.

Have a joyful day!
donna@mindfuladventures.com

Road Trip Update – Continuing eastward

Sunday, October 11th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments

Today is day 33 of this adventure and I’m taking a few moments to enjoy being in the Nashville area. I’m actually at a Border’s in Franklin (thank you for the wi-fi).

Just a few more notes about Hot Springs, AR. The Arlington Hotel is nearly 100 years old and in a desired area of town since it’s within walking distance to other bath houses, shops and restaurants.
There are a number of other more contemporary hotels in Hot Springs, however if you’re in this area of ’spa city’ this is an option, with the knowledge that it is a historic property. It certainly is like going back in time and I can only imagine what it was like in the early days of this resort. I certainly love the appeal of newer hotels with comfy beds, up to date bathrooms and wi-fi, but I also enjoyed experiencing this pre-war grand dame. They have a great staff, and the lobby area was appealing with high ceilings and light coming in through the stained glass windows. If you go, certainly inquire about lower rate options.

I enjoyed driving the country road out of Hot Springs as I continued on to Tennessee with an early evening arrival in the Nashville area. I enjoyed a fun Saturday night and a relaxing Sunday to catch up on some writing and exploring.

I’d love to stay in Nashville longer, like indefinitely. I do feel a connection to this area….the weather, the scenery, the vibe of being in music country, the people and so much more. It’s an exciting area, yet a place that could easily become home. There are several places that I feel connected to and that’s the continuing saga of my road trip; where is ‘home’ and when will that defining moment of knowing the answer occur? Seriously, so many choices and amazing places in this country and at the end of the day it’s an overwhelming feeling to have and unless you’re going through it, it’s hard to understand. Fortunately I can work from the road, so that has been great, and I have family and friends from east to west and north to south, which is a blessing as well.

All I can be certain of is uncertainty and that I’m currently living an unconventional life and letting it unfold. That’s pretty amazing as well and I’ll continue to have faith in the outcome!

If you have a vote for my new hometown, feel free to comment on this entry.

Until next time………enjoy your adventure.

RoadTrip Update from Hot Springs, AR

Friday, October 9th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments

So, here I am at Day 31 of my 2009 Adventure…….a lot of material for articles, my blog and of course, my book, And, I have to say though that I’m looking forward to getting ‘home’ – although I’m not quite sure where home is these days since I sold my house and decided to take to the road as a free spirit ready for an adventure (more on that later). I certainly have had an adventure…….travel and healthy living are everything to me…….the places I planned for were fabulous (more later on those, too) and the unplanned stops have worked out as well, although I have to say that at first I may have been a little apprehensive about what to do. It’s such a metaphor for life…….when we plan for something, we can usually glide through it since we’re prepared and expecting the task/event, etc., however when ‘change’ occurs, those life events that come up that we’re not expecting or anticipating, we tend to be a little more apprehensive and taken aback in our feelings. That is what some of these days have been like. They’ve stirred emotions, including some fear and excitement, and some have revealed the thrill of anticipation of what lies ahead and those are the feelings I like to experience.

For instance, this morning I left Texarkana, TX heading toward Nashville, TN (I love Nashville!) and I remembered that in 2007 I thought about stopping in Hot Springs, AR. I didn’t stop that year as I was heading back to Virginia for a retreat I was facilitating, however this morning I thought what the heck…..I may not come this way again and it’s an opportunity for rejuvenation. Be spontaneous! Afterall, it’s ‘Spa City’ and since I’m in the ’spa’ and healthy living/wellness business, how could I not make a stop here!

To get to Hot Springs I took 7-North and just as I went around the bend I was welcomed by the most beautiful site of Lake DeGray…….I can still remember the feeling I had as I turned that corner and went from gray skies to a plethora of early fall colors and the abundance of this magnificant lake. It was truly beautiful. In fact, most of the drive into Hot Springs was breathtaking. Since I left the east coast I have been enjoying very warm temperatures and today I welcomed the fall season.

Back to Hot Springs……one interesting fact (as there are so many) is that in 1832 President Andrew Jackson signed legislation that made Hot Springs a Federal Reservation becoming the first “national park” in the nation – pre-dating Yellowstone by 40 years. Just think…..it went from a frontier town to a reknowned ’spa’ haven. Bath houses are available offering the rejuvenating waters from this well-known location, however I opted to utilize the bath house in the historical Arlington Hotel.

This afternoon I thoroughly enjoyed my Thermal Mineral Wraps ($26 per person) and it included a double wrap (half way through I sat in the Dry Sauna). The staff was great and every need was taken care of (ask for Annette….thanks Annette!). They also provide a choice of sitz baths, dry sauna, wet steam or aroma therapy steam, pressurized shower and hot and cold packs. There are a lot of other services offered at the spa and bath house, however today I was mostly interested in the Thermal Mineral Wraps.

Tomorrow I head to Nashville!

RoadTrip 2 – Notes from the Road

Friday, September 11th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments

Go west, young girl, go west!

Yes, nowadays it’s young girl as well as young man and what a thrill it is to be on this road trip. It’s been two days since I left the east coast and most of the drive has given way to insight and a renewed sense of freedom. I can now check a few more states off of my list and goal to visit all 50…and thankfully I’m nearly there. What a great country we have. Going through Indiana, Illinois and Missouri was relaxing and it was great to see the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the most eventful attraction of the day. And, of course the many signs for Branson…….if I didn’t have a committment for another city, I certainly would have ventured down to Branson!

I’ll sign off for now, however in honor of those lost on September 11, 2001 and to our armed forces both here at home and away, I leave you with…….

America, The Beautiful
by Katharine Lee Bates – 1913

O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for pilgrim feet,
Whose stern impassion’d stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America! God mend thine ev’ry flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control,
Thy liberty in law!

O beautiful for heroes proved In liberating strife,
Who more than self their country loved,
And mercy more than life!
America! America! May God thy gold refine
Till all success be nobleness,
And ev’ry gain divine!

O Beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam,
Undimmed by human tears!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

Coming soon to Red Mountain Resort & Spa

Friday, September 4th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments

For those of you reading my blogs and articles, you may have noticed that some of them focus on change, life do overs, living in the present, etc. and in some cases it’s a reflection of my life over these last few years and also based on what is currently happening on our planet….it’s all about change and nothing stays the same. Afterall, how dull would that be? However, currently, there are changes we’re going through that may be more stressful, and yet some of these changes may be what spurs us into action to live a healthier and more joyful life. It’s hard to see that sometimes when you’re going through whatever ‘it’ is for you, a friend, or loved one. It just is and that’s when we have to trust that it will lend itself to the best outcome.

I’ve also written about Red Mountain Resort & Spa before as they’ve been offering affordable programs that are timely and effective, which brings me to the one coming up in October. Joan Lunden has written several books focused on health and healthy living and she is the keynote speaker at the upcoming “Power of Change” event (organized by SpaFinder) from Oct. 18 – 21. It is a 4-day/3-night event with rates starting at $229 per person, per night. In addition to healthy meals and scheduled classes, this event will also include: One 50-Minute Swedish Massage ($100 Value), SpaFinder Kick-Off Event Life Is A Do-over with Cindy Clemens (Life Coach), and the SpaFinder Keynote Presentation Changes with Joan Lunden, Attendance at SpaFinder Book Signing Event with Joan Lunden and more.

In addition to what is offered at this event, this resort offers inspiring views of red rock cliffs and canyons and is at the base of Snow Cnayon State Park, great for hiking and exploring. I’ve also enjoyed spending time at Sagestone, their full service spa, as many of the services are unique to the area and sleep is so much better after one of their signature massages, like the Lavender Marine Bolus Massage.

There are many other programs currently being offered at Red Mountain Resort & Spa, in addition to their signature package including Zen to Zion in celebration of Zion National Park’s 100th anniversary.
An area rich in natural beauty with many opportunities for adventure!

Take a step to connect with your inner spirit and discover more about yourself. A destination spa offers an opportunity to uncover and unleash your inner spirit and be more equipped to handle life’s changes, no matter how big or small.

Note: If you do go, you can fly into St. George airport, however Las Vegas generally offers lower airfares and is about 90-minutes from the resort. There is a shuttle for $70 roundtrip per person (booked separately). Airfare and transfers are not included in the starting rate above.

To your health!

Spa-tacular Savings at Canyon Ranch Tucson, AZ

Friday, June 26th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments

Kids are getting ready for camp, families are planning summer vacations and there are some adults that are looking for a stress-free getaway…..and more than ever nowadays. Well, for those of you who have thought about Canyon Ranch (Tucson, AZ), now may be the time to plan your adult getaway and for good reasons.

First, Canyon Ranch was just named the #1 Destination Spa by Conde Nast Traveler Readers and if you’re flexible with your travel plans you can save up to 50% (see below for more details).

With the constant flow of information, the speed at which we now go through our day, cell phones, e-mail, and tending to others it seems that perhaps a getaway to a place like Canyon Ranch can give us the time to slow down, find clarity within ourselves and allow joy to flow through our day. Canyon Ranch offers us a chance to focus on our physical as well as our mental and emotional selves while enjoying three healthy gourmet meals, comfortable accommodations and an abundance of activities both indoors and out. And, yes, a spa to relax our body and soothe our soul!

Okay, back to the note above about saving up to 50%. If you can travel between August 22 – 29 for either 4- or 7-nights, send an e-mail to donna@mindfuladventures.com and I’ll give you the details. Space at this rate is limited though. And, if you’d like to get a jumpstart on 2010, consider traveling between January 1 – 8 (for either 4- or 7-nights) and again save up to 50% during this peak travel time. Both opportunities are for the Tucson, AZ resort. I’ll be posting more details about Lenox in the days ahead.

To your health!
- Donna

Swedish Massage for $1 at Red Mountain Spa

Monday, June 15th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments

Wow, talk about stress release! I just got word that Red Mountain Spa is offering a 50-minute Swedish Massage+ during the summer for only $1.00. Yes, that is correct……..and this is for stays of three nights (or longer) on the Signature Package, which is the best value so anyone interested has everything to gain and only stress to lose!

Note: +One 50-minute Sagestone Swedish massage per person per stay at special rate. Subject to availability. Valid through 8/31/09.

More info: Red Mountain Spa

And here’s some more info about what is going on at Red Mountain Spa this summer.

7/9-7/12
Dr. Brad Crump Stepping Stones…Transitions through Menopause

7/10-7/13
and 8/7-8/10
Life Coach Cindy Clemens Passages: What’s NEXT! Note: If you signed up for my e-newsletter you saw more info about this. There’s still time to get the current e-newsletter…just go to the home page at www.mindfuladventures.com and sign up. Thanks.

7/11 Red Mountain Spa Event Climb to Conquer Cancer

7/12-7/19 Dr. Brad Crump Re-Energizing through Weight Loss

7/19-7/26 Fitness Manager Kim Watters Fitness Boot Camp

8/9-8/14 Chef Dale Van Sky Eat Well, Feel Well Culinary School

Mindful Moments of Rancho la Puerta

Monday, June 1st, 2009 | Uncategorized | 1 Comment

Remember when you were a kid and you missed the ball or something else and yelled, do over! For many of us, me included, it’s time for a do-over…a new way of thinking, making a change, looking at something from a different perspective and taking that leap of faith!

There’s a place, a vibrant oasis where the whisper of a breeze brings an opportunity to focus on your body, mind and spirit. With each new breath you inhale an energy that can move you forward and open your mind to the possibilities of healing and joy and propel you to create more with your life by tapping into your innate wisdom.

This place I’m reminiscing about is Rancho la Puerta in Tecate, Mexico (about 2 hours south of San Diego, CA) and they’re offering amazing specials through the summer. If you’ve ever wanted to visit this destination spa that started it all, now is the time. They’ve extended their Bring a Friend promotion, which is currently the best option and it’s a short two hours from San Diego airport (ground transfers included for the weeklong stay).

One day you may choose to focus on your physical and explore hiking, Pilates and dance. Another day you may opt to tap into your creative spirit and explore art or journaling and yet another day you may take in the beauty of the land at the base of Mt. Kuchumaa, or meander the cobblestone path or meditate at the labrynth.

There’s much to do with your life and sometimes it takes a week away at a destination spa to rediscover yourself and engage in activities that bring you back to your authentic self or perhaps it’s time to discover your authentic self. Challenges may appear and doubts may surface taking us off course and when this happens perhaps it’s time to stop and get a new perspective so you can move beyond self imposed limits.

Step by step by step is the way to ge from where you are to where you want to be. Take the first step and start anew. Each tomorrow becomes today and once we learn how to live in the present, each tomorrow will be better.

For more information on this getaway, visit: http://www.rancholapuerta.com/reservations/special-promotions.html

Rally for Travel!

Monday, May 11th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments

Ah, the freedom to travel!

The opportunity to visit new places, enjoy new experiences and perhaps discover something new about yourself. I’ve been traveling since the early 60’s from the age of 5 and always knew that I would be involved in this industry in one way or another. We’re living in a 24/7 world and nowadays we’re feeling the stress of everyday living. Stress from work or lack of work, stress of family matters or perhaps being alone and of course the stress of the economy. The industry has changed quite a bit, especially with the amount of news that is now available (i.e. the recent overcomplication of news related to the Mexico issue) and it has impacted the travel industry, however travel and tourism is one of our nations greatest industries employing millions and yes, even the wine industry is included in this group.

Traveling gives us the opportunity to step away from life’s daily pressures and an opportunity to increase overall well-being, reduce stress and have fun. Fun, you remember that three letter word. Traveling gives us the opportunity to do something different, try a new sport, enjoy new foods and great wines, a time of inspiration and relaxation and perhaps an opportunity to find clarity and return refreshed and more apt to handle whatever comes our way.

This is National Travel and Tourism week (May 9 – 17). Tomorrow, May 12, there will be activities held across the nation including Travel Rally Day in which over 35 communities around the country have organized rallies and events to promote the value of travel and why it matters.

If you’re interested in more information about traveling around America, you may want to look at these sites:
www.DiscoverAmerica.com

http://travel.aol.com/travel-ideas/domestic/national-tourism-week?ncid=AOLCOMMtravcrssextl0003

A little history:
President Ronald Reagan signed the first Proclamation for National Tourism Week during a White House ceremony 26 years ago, he said, “I think the importance of travel and tourism goes far beyond economics. Experiencing America firsthand provides outstanding educational opportunities and is terrific for personal growth. And where in the world is there a more beautiful place to travel, have fun, and relax than in America?”

I agree and think you will as well.

Get out there and enjoy your journey!