As experts predicted toward the end of 2006, spa trends for this year seem to be directly connected to medical discoveries, social responsibility and the concept of building "community."

Spas have responded to the National Sleep Foundation recent findings that 58% of U.S. adults suffer from insomnia, have focused on creating ideal sleep environments for clients. Other sleep medicine studies have also revealed that a lack of sleep could have a profound negative impact on work performance, appearance, weight, and the ability to get along with others. Spas now use minimal light and sound, aromatherapy, spa treatments that focus on deep relaxation, and the expertise of sleep specialists to assist customers with sleep disorders and general fatigue.

Spas that haven't started incorporating major treatments to address sleep challenges have begun to address the need for sleep in other small ways. For example, customers can take advantage of a post-treatment nap or stay spa customers may notice that activities are scheduled later in the morning to allow for more sleep.

Sleep specialists aren't the only practitioners of modern medicine who are connecting their services to spas. Cracks in traditional health care and a rise in cosmetic surgery procedures (11 million in 2006) have forged a new niche: Medical tourism.

Consumers looking for specialized treatment beyond traditional medicine as well as those searching for plastic surgery options will likely travel to other cities. The kinds of treatments many seek include DNA analysis, anti-aging medicine, pre- or post-operation stays and preventive medical procedures. Spa patrons aren't limiting their travel to the U.S. either. They travel to places like Bangkok, India and South Africa and pay a fraction of the procedural cost.

Since the arrival of social networking media like MySpace.com and a general commitment to social responsibility, two trends have started to emerge: "Social spa-ing" and eco-friendly spas.

Social interaction is currently considered an important element of good health. In the past, many American adults have craved solitude at the spa - especially if they work in a stressful environment. Social spa-ing has become a way to connect with like-minded souls and relax through conversation.

Spa parties or spa luncheons for holidays, birthdays, corporate meetings, proms and wedding parties have become a regular offering on spa menus. A May 6 article in the LA Times reported that group

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Spa trends of 2007?
We want to hear your view. Write now!