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Retreats have really gained momentum and have increasingly become a way for resorts to strengthen wellness offerings and promote the brand as a ‘go to’ for well-being. Guests are seeking new ways to combine fun getaways with healthy lifestyle choices. A growing number of travelers are looking into retreats to deepen their commitment to well-being, learn new practices and expand their horizons.
As a seasoned wellness retreat designer and facilitator, I recommend these tips to ensure your retreat’s success:
1) SET YOUR INTENTIONS
Decide which style of retreats you want to offer and their themes; stay focused on the intention, the experience of your guests and the outcome and benefits they will take away. Try creating a retreat mandala so you can see visually what aspects of wellness it includes. For example, physical, mental, emotional and energetic aspects, and through which activities.
2) BALANCE STRUCTURE WITH SPACE
The length of your retreat should allow time to impact but not be too demanding. Shorter retreats are easier to fill, longer retreats allow for deeper immersion. Determine the length based on your market and create engaging activities and experiences. Remember to allow breathing room for reflection, time to enjoy the surroundings, and just to ‘be’; don’t overschedule!
3) IDENTIFY YOUR TALENT
Uncover the hidden gems within your team! Tap into local resources and consider guest presenters. You don’t need celebrity leaders; you need credentialed, talented, charismatic and experienced presenters.
4) EVERY STEP COUNTS
The retreat should be experienced at every step. Integrate different facets of the resort experience such as food and beverage, activities unique to your destination, in room gifts that complement the program. The details tie the retreat theme together and make it a cohesive and transformative experience.
5) BRING IT HOME
The most successful retreats are ones that don’t end. Provide tools and self-care rituals that guests can use to extend the experience and recreate some of the magic! Integrate bathing rituals, meditations, self-care practices with aromatherapy and plant-based products. Guests will embrace these daily practices as a vital part of their well-being.
By Tara Grodjesk
Founder Tara Spa Therapy, VP Earthlite Spa and Wellness
www.taralivingwellness.com / www.earthlite.com
