Pamper Me Beautiful: The International Spa Association Media Event NYC
This past week, the ISPA Media Event invited top journalists and spa, wellness, travel, and beauty insiders to experience the newest trends in the spa industry and network with ISPA member spas. This amazing event held at the iconic Gotham Hall in NYC was the perfect break from a hectic week, and I had the pleasure of experiencing innovative treatments and informative demonstrations from each spa while learning about the uniqueness and offerings of each destination. From Nicaragua to Arizona, I was thrilled to hear about the exciting new treatments and integration of renowned beauty brands like Deborah Lippmann, Sothys, and Eminence Organic Skincare, among many. Here are some highlights and trends as well as some of the treatments that were showcased:
PAMPERING & WELL-BEING:
The Lodge at Woodloch partnered with Dogfish Head Brewery to create beer-inspired spa treatments that pamper your feet or hands and completely relax all your senses. Just a short drive from NYC, this is a great weekend getaway to escape everyday stress and enjoy a few days of well-being and luxurious spa treatments.
www.thelodgeatwoodloch.com/
The Spa at the Hotel Hershey incorporated their signature ingredients into their Chocolate Spa Eye Refresh Treatment using the ultra rich and advanced skincare line from Sothys. The cooling spoon and soothing massage around the eyes was heaven on earth! The Spa has an extensive menu with innovative services and packages sure to please any spa-goer.
www.chocolatespa.com/
The Essex Resort and Spa in Vermont brings to you the best of New England. They mixed up a refreshing summer treat for the media with their Watermelon Vodka-tini Hand Treatment, and offer guests a wide array of cooking classes in their Cook Academy, as well as a comprehensive spa menu with unique culinary-infused treatments and fitness classes for a truly amazing getaway weekend.
www.essexresortspa.com/
Omni Hotels and Resorts demonstrated their Grove Stone Healing Hand Treatment and introduced us to their collection of unique and memorable spas in a myriad of locations particularly across the US and also abroad.
http://www.omnihotels.com/
SPIRITUAL AWAKENING & NATIVE TRADITIONS
Another theme present at many spas was a means of tying a native tradition to a classic treatment and the idea of reconnecting to nature and your true self for the ultimate sense of relaxation and inner peace.
Mii Amo, a destination spa set in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona, invited us to participate in Hozhooji, the Mii amo Blessing, which uses a turquoise clay in massage therapy to reduce stress and awaken positive energies within the body, mind, soul and spirit while connecting yourself spiritually and taking in the majestic surroundings.
www.miiamo.com/
Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa shared the healing power of Nicaraguan volcanic clay by utilizing this traditional ingredient as a body mask in their six spa sanctuaries treatment. Mayan for “secret,” this beach resort is a gem in Central America with a gorgeous white-sand beach and one of the most beautiful spas in the world.
www.mukulresort.com/
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group called upon practices of their ancestors by offering Chinese medicine inspired Calm Mind category_ided Meditation, which helped us tune out the outside world for a few minutes of zen, tapping into our mind to become more aware of the present moment and our breath. With locations all over the globe the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group successfully channels the best of Asia into their spa menu and overall feel of all their properties.
www.mandarinoriental.com/
Miraval Resort & Spa pampered our hands with mini manicures featuring Deborah Lippmann polishes in every imaginable shade as well as her luxurious lotion and nail care line. We also had the opportunity to learn about their new cookbook, Miraval’s Sweet & Savory Cooking.
www.miravalresorts.com/
Aspira Spa showcased their Sacred Waters Massage and discussed how indigenous traditions can inspire spa experiences.
www.aspiraspa.com/
Hilton Head Health demonstrated how one can perform MyoFascial Release Techniques on ourselves to release tension and stress.
www.hhhealth.com
Other exciting products include:
Matrix Fitness showcased their 7xi Console, equipment that allows you to be connected while exercising.
www.matrixfitness.com/
Tiger Tail USA demonstrated their signature Tiger Tail, a hand held rolling device designed to roll over muscles, relieving soreness and tension, the perfect accessory for those new to exercise as well as for the marathon runner.
www.tigertailusa.com/
About ISPA: Founded in 1991, ISPA is recognized worldwide as the leading professional organization and voice of the spa industry. They continue to advance the spa industry by providing invaluable educational and networking opportunities, promoting the value of the spa experience. For more information please visit www.experienceispa.com/