Pulse November / December 2023 | Page 27

increasing evidence in that field and in neuroscience shows art enhances brain function . It influences brain wave patterns , emotions and the nervous system . It can also raise serotonin levels .
ACRM reported that , in a study conducted at the University College London , when people viewed beautiful art , blood flow increased by as much as 10 percent to the area of the brain associated with pleasure : It triggered an effect like that of looking at a loved one .
What a lovely thought . Wouldn ’ t you like your establishment to have that type of impact on your guests when they arrive for a treatment ?
Imagine this : How do you feel when entering a reception or waiting area where beautiful art graces the space versus stepping into one with bare walls ? Displaying artwork demonstrates that your spa values creativity . Whether it is a painting or even a photograph , a strategically placed piece of art delivers
a welcoming impression and invites your guests into a soothing oasis .
At Post Ranch ( above ), art is part of the guest experience . Miraval Arizona ' s Wall of Crystals and an Alberto Amura obelisk ( below ) celebrate Life in Balance ' s Tucson setting .
“ The artwork inside the Life in Balance Spa supports the connection between our guests and nature . It incorporates the magic and power of natural elements into the space ,” explained Mark Stebbings , general manager at Miraval Arizona .“ Not only do our guests find the artwork thoughtprovoking and inspiring , they find themselves yearning to discover the ways they can continue their connections with the Miraval experience — even after they have left the property .”
In addition to its curated collection of paintings and sculptures , the Life in Balance Spa incorporates a collection of crystals that adorn the walls in celebration of Tucson ’ s connection to gems and minerals . Stebbings also shared that , adjacent to the spa ’ s front door , a decorative obelisk ( created by Alberto Amura ) honors the handshake of the Hopi . It incorporates steel , the masculine metal ; copper , the feminine metal ; and turquoise , known for being a healing stone . A powerful crystal intentionally placed nearby intensifies the positive energy of the obelisk as guests enter and leave the spa .
Art in your spa benefits not only your guests , but your employees as
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023 n PULSE 25