Need to de-stress and authenticity driving spa trends

Stress, less time, community and a need for authenticity is fuelling demand for trends in the spa market this year, a new report has found.

The latest trend report from SpaFinder Wellness 365 revealed by president Susie Ellis repeatedly cited the stress of day-to-day life and demand for a more balanced lifestyle as the drivers behind several new trends in the market moving into 2015.

Forest bathing, which is particularly popular in Japan, was cited as one trend where people are looking to get back to nature and de-stress, while new developments such as Euro Disney and Pierre & Vacances’ ‘Villages Nature’ and Six Senses’ hotel developments are showing how people want more towards their well-being.

“Economic concerns and stress levels are on the rise and people want access to wellness 365 days,” said Ellis. “I would not be surprised if in the future we will see more certified bodies introduced and standards that will help to educate consumers.”

Spa trendsTravellers are also looking for more spa treatments while they travel or as soon as they arrive, driven by shortened holiday lengths and a demand for wellness anytime. Several airports already have spa treatments available while resorts like Oberoi have round the clock services.

Cannabis-infused products and treatments are also expected to become more popular as the drug is decriminalised more often around the world.

“When legal markets open up there will be new intersections, [and with spas] it’s a cross section of wanting to feel better,” said Ellis. “Demand has been driven by the decriminalisation wave but also the need the de-stress and I think we will see spa owners much more easily embracing superfoods and hemp products.”

Traditions from the Middle East and Northern Africa are also expected to become more common this year, moving past hammam and argan oil to treatments and products that use elements such as sand, mud and camel milk.

sourced:traveldailymedia.com