“ Technology has brought us many great advances , but the expectations for instant communication and the increasing pace of change in the world can have a negative impact on our wellbeing .”
Why Your Guests Should Unplug The same survey by the APA found that almost two-thirds of Americans ( 65 percent ) somewhat or strongly agree that periodically “ unplugging ” or taking a “ digital detox ” is important for their mental health . Spa customers are already at an advantage because they are aware that the spa helps them unwind from the stress of their daily lives . They are already searching for an oasis , so it ’ s the spa ’ s responsibility to give it to them .
“ You might say that old adage that ‘ silence is golden ’ takes on a special spa meaning here at Sundara ,” says Chris Scheel , general manager at Sundara Inn & Spa in Wisconsin Dells , Wisconsin . “ Guests find that , when the distractions of the real world are set aside , they can focus in earnest on their own wellness and the health of their relationships . Some use it as quality time to heal from a loss , others embrace it as a way to come to a major life decision . Each guest benefits from it in their own unique way .”
Barry Shingle , director of guest relations and programming at Rancho La Puerta in Tecate , Mexico , agrees by adding , “ Happiness is found in the present moment . It is almost impossible to be present when digitally connected . By being quiet and with yourself you can discover who you are , otherwise we are just reacting to distractions and what ’ s on the outside .”
Unplugging Anxieties You know that AMA report ? Interestingly , even though the report found that 65 percent agree that a periodic digital detox will benefit them , only 28 percent of those who say this actually report doing so .
It can be scary to put away our connection to the world . People have become addicted to the buzz of their phones . They ’ re afraid if they miss a text or email or fail to like a post on Facebook , their world will fall apart . Even though we know this to be untrue , our anxieties feel differently , which can make forced unplugging feel like torture .
“ It is difficult for our guests to digitally disconnect ,” notes Shingle . “ In theory , most of them think it is a good idea , but technology addiction is powerful .”
If guests are getting anxious and more stressed from being away from their devices , the relaxing treatments they ’ ve come to the spa for will be ineffective . You don ’ t want your guests to
“ Technology has brought us many great advances , but the expectations for instant communication and the increasing pace of change in the world can have a negative impact on our wellbeing .”
— JEREMY MCCARTHY , Group Director of Spa and Wellness at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
The lounges at Fusion Spa are a place for guests to completely unwind .
June 2017 ■ PULSE 49