Can Spas Save Our Health Care System?
As many as 80% of Americans are stressed out about their personal finances and the economy, according to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association (www.apa.org). Given the well-documented effect that stress has on people and the increasing rise in hospitalization rates, it’s clear that these levels will significantly impact the use of the health care system and further drive up costs.
Enter an unlikely hero: the pedicure (or the hot stone massage, facial or hatha yoga class). In 2008, a Global Consumer Study by the International Spa Association (www.experienceispa.com) identified stress relief as the No. 1 reason people visit spas worldwide. This fact coupled with the current societal anxiety levels, positions the spa industry as a legitimate part of the solution to today’s health care challenges.
Spas reduce stress, which fosters wellbeing and reduces health problems. While spa services are not the magic spell to save our health care system, they do represent a tangible way to tackle the “stress crisis” and mitigate some of the strain on our health care resources.
Creative spas that recognize this reality—and tailor services and pricing to continue to encourage regular visits—will thrive in this economy. They’ll also help save the health care system, one pedicure at a time.
Tamarra Hay, co-owner
OASIS Spa and Lounge
(www.oasisspaandlounge.com)
Ancaster, Ontario, Canada