Boutique Travel PR Agency Spotlights Five Key Hot Spring Wellness Trends

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Hot springs, also known as hydrothermal springs or geothermal springs, are natural hot waters heated by energy from the depth of the Earth and it rises to the surface.  The geothermal springs are often created from the volcanic activity near the waters, making the hot springs the Earth’s natural spa.

Research shows the hydrothermal waters are “rich source of sulfur, calcium, magnesium, among other minerals essentially being a multivitamin for skin.”  The heat in hot springs envelopes and helps to soothe aching muscles.  The minerals present in the water get soaked up by the skin and stimulate certain bodily processes.

Allen Marketing Communications, Inc., a boutique travel and lifestyle public relations agency, spotlights key trends as it pertains to the hydrothermal springs.

Connecting with Nature
The Covid-19 pandemic has inspired wellness enthusiasts to escape for the great outdoors for hot springs therapies since there is ample space for social distancing.  

Wellness enthusiasts “are seeking more connections with nature.  Converting an outdoor patio into a spa treatment area proved to be very successful.” In fact, some wellness establishments are “providing more private spaces in individual soaking tubs, tubs, tents, domes and yurts,” according to Hot Springs Connections.

Wellness establishments are operating at reduced capacities providing opportunities for guests to connect with nature in their own space to give a more personal experience.  Some establishments are offering private spaces such as reserved lounge chairs and cabanas. 

Aside from the experiences, wellness enthusiasts are also looking to connect with nature through the services. For example, products or treatments being more natural or the healing and wellness practices incorporating natural practices as well.
 
Immune-Boosting Activities for Mental and Physical Health
There has been a significant shift in the past year focusing on personal wellness and health.  In the wellness sector, hot springs have been no exception.   Thermal waters contain minerals and salts to hydrate and protect your skin from potential damage. 

“Massage, yoga, pilates, hot-cold experiences, forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku), aqua therapy and many more activities are being woven into the hot springs offering, stretching the reach beyond the traditional relaxation and escape market to the proactive, self-help, life-engaging and motivated consumer. This has manifested itself into a one-day vacation where visitors are provided a “business or first-class” hot springs experience with more space and time to enjoy time away from their busy lives,” according to the Global Wellness Institute.

These activities are meant for both physical and mental relaxation and to help guests find their zen, peaceful serenity.

Multi-Generational Wellness Experiences
The Covid-19 pandemic has provided an opportunity for many spas to redesign their locations.  One of the most effective changes has been optimizing their use of onsite natural resources. 

“Hot springs are being designed with infants and seniors in mind to provide environments, activities and accessibility for people at all stages of life.  Experiences range from baby baths and walk-in pools to massaging hydro jets and water slides,” according to the Global Wellness Institute.

Many guests have noted that incorporating high-quality design is imperative when creating extraordinary experiences. It has also helped them prepare for the coming changes in sanitation codes by the CDC so when the time came to welcome back guests.

“Whether it is a high energy fun or low impact and easy entry pools, hot springs facility design is taking heed of the visitor;s age and ability (mobility).  Within the facilities and in different resorts in hot springs regions, facilities are providing separate spaces for high and low energy activities, enabling tranquility and activity to be offered without compromising on the experience of either,” according to the Global Wellness Institute.

Workcations
As a result of working from home, it has created a necessity for people to take a break and get away for a couple hours, even if it’s for some fresh air. 

Hot springs establishments have set up work spaces for wellness enthusiasts to mix business with pleasure.  It provides a space for workers to come relax during the day.  And, for those who still need to work, the wellness spaces offer a change in scenery for those who still have to work during those hours. 

Cleanliness and Hygiene
Although sanitation has always been a core of the geothermal springs industry, the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for wellness establishments to post information about the health and safety protocols.

Hydrothermal establishments have clear markers to ensure ample space for social distancing.  Establishments are operating reduced capacities with smaller groups to give a more personalized experience.

There are more opportunities for personal experience at these spas by providing more space to be on their own and at peace.  Geothermal venues are now offering towels for purchase instead of renting them.  

Our travel and lifestyle public relations professionals are here to help  Give us a call.

​​By Athanasia Gouvatsos at Allen Marketing Communications, Inc.


 

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