SPA: The Wellness Sector

The concept that spa is meant only for women who need to beautify themselves is no longer valid. It has become redundant. The increasing hectic lifestyle has increased the need for body and mind wellness irrespective of gender. Wellness has become a new segment of the hospitality industry. Wellness tourism is growing at 50 per cent faster rate than the global conventional tourism. A report by Global Wellness Institute reveals that the global wellness tourism economy generated $ 4.4 trillion during 2020. The wellness tourism sector accounted for $ 436 billion. No wonder the spa segment in the hotel industry is on the rise. In fact almost all hotels, irrespective of size are now having a spa. Ashok Malkani takes a look at the various aspects of spas in the hospitality sector.

Feeling tired after heavy work schedule over the past several weeks? One way of tackling this is by stepping into a spa for aroma therapy, soothing massages, easy yoga or maybe even some fat reduction. Wellness spas have become popular not only with Indians but also with international tourists. In India the ancient holistic system of Ayurveda goes back 5,000 years. However, its unique blend of science and philosophy that balances the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well being have made this relevant even today and one finds several Ayurvedic spas in India which continue to attract clients from across the globe. But it is not just Ayurveda which has made spas popular healing centers.

According to Fortune Business Insights the global spa services market size was valued at $ 105.18 Bn in 2019 and is 

projected to reach $133.28 Bn by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period. Spa, which is derived from the Latin, 'Solus Per Aqua', literally meaning 'treatment through the use of water', is still considered as a luxury. But it is gradually expanding its roots towards the middle class.

Spa service originated in ancient Europe with a belief that water could curate any disease. In olden times the treatment used to be offered by taking a bath in thermal springs. In the present times the willingness to experience the convergence of thee body, mind and spirit has led to availing various therapies from the proven aromatherapy to the novel cryotherapy, LED therapy, hydrotherapy and sound therapy, etc. The change in the consumer mindset is likely to bolster the demand further.