I’m sure many spas, especially in the UK, were frustrated by the recent revelation of “spas treating people with cancer as lepers”. This was the headline in the UK’s Daily Mail and the subject of several articles and testimonials against spas – including one my team trained.

Great strides have been made in the past few years, with spas in over 40 countries investing in proper education in many modalities. But the fear that surrounds cancer and spa is due to lack of understanding.

The truth is that cancer itself cannot be spread by moving the lymphatic system with something as basic as a massage. If that was the case, doctors would tell patients to stay in bed as any movement can move the lymphatic system. Yet doctors actually encourage physical activity and movement and massage. In fact, the medical world has collected evidence-based research on how safe many spa and integrative modalities are including massage, facials, yoga, meditation and breathwork.

I’m filled with optimism that the industry will gradually turn as more skincare brands, hoteliers and spas realise the opportunities and invest in the changing needs of clients with cancer.

We need to educate skincare brands that cancer is not a skin type, for example. Many skin conditions are the same in others who are nutritionally deficient, dehydrated, stressed, have insomnia or are facing the menopause. What other entity, besides a results-orientated skincare brand, is best equipped to assist clients during this time? If they could do a little testing, they could help so many who want to keep their relationship with their favourite brand during a time when they need them most.

We need to see cancer as an opportunity for change. If we all take a step, we can all create a solution that not only shifts our industry but one that serves our clients with compassion.

www.wellnessforcancer.com

The issue of gender equality affects all industries and spa is no exception. However, as sector with so many inspiring and accomplished female leaders, it’s the perfect environment to propagate gender equality and parity.

Having faced the challenges of being a female professional and entrepreneur, my vision is to ensure that current and future female leaders have a framework of support and motivation. The Global Wellness Institute’s Initiative for Women in Leadership is encouraging and promoting ‘Lean In Circles’ throughout the spa and wellness industry to provide this support network and ensure companies observe equal opportunity practices.

LeanIn.org was founded by Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg to empower all women to achieve their ambitions. Lean In Circles are peer groups of eight to 15 women who meet regularly to share, learn and grow together. Meeting plans are provided, along with discussion points and valuable content for motivation, innovation, leadership and goal setting.

The GWI has already joined the 900-plus Lean In partner companies which span over 20 industries – so what’s stopping you? After all, it’s undeniable that individuals, companies and communities all benefit from gender diversity and equality in the workplace.

[email protected]
www.globalwellnessinstitute.org/women-in-leadership-initiative