Revista SPA & Wellness Romania nr. 7

WELCOME

EDITORIAL

Hidden treasures of Romania

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his issue has a very important mission. Spreading the word about Romania’s hidden spa treasures. This country has such an enormous potential of becoming an important wellness destination! It’s not just the thermal springs (though Romania is home to 1/3 of Europe’s thermal springs), but the local resources few of us are aware of. That’s why we have gathered a collection of the best Romanian spa therapies. Get ready to indulge in honey massages, sapropelic mud wraps or healing baths with sage, basil or walnut leaves. Bonus: breathtaking landscapes!

However, Romania’s passion for wellness is not new. The evidence and confessions collected throughout the years show that medicine – even if in a primitive form – is amongst the “specialties” of our forefathers. They were preoccupied not only by physical health, but also showed interest in spiritual wellbeing. In other words, the body-mind-spirit philosophy was instinctively adopted by our Dacian ancestors.

Another important topic - the natural cure factors in our country. The therapeutic lakes, the mofettes, natural salt mines or the areas with ionized air are just a few examples of natural factors that make Romania an exceptional health & spa destination. There’s so much talk about the health benefits of all these natural treasures, as referenced on page 28.

Romania’s wellness tourism is definitely interesting from a business point of view, too. We explore this idea further in our Spa Business section starting on page 64.

We hope this issue will inspire discussion (and action!) on how we can make our country more attractive to foreign tourists, so please get in touch with the despreSpa.ro team if you would like to add to the „Romania’s spa treasures” debate.

C yndia Mihet, CYNDIA MIHEȚ || Editor-in-Chief SPA & Wellness Romania office@despreSpa.ro

Cover: Ursu Lake, Danubius Health Spa Resort

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

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WELCOME

OUR TEAM

OUR TEAM

IOANA MARIAN Publisher & Founder www.despreSpa.ro

IULIA DINCĂ SIMONA IONEL Wellness Consultant Wellness Consultant Corporate Market Retail Market

ioana.marian@despreSpa.ro

iulia.dinca@despreSpa.ro

office@despreSpa.ro

ANDA SOBARU Office Manager

ALEXANDRA ILIUȚĂ Wellness Advisor

anda.sobaru@despreSpa.ro

alexandra.iliuta@despreSpa.ro

OUR COLLABORATORS

DR. CRISTINA HANGANU

perfectmedch@gmail.com

LARISA MARINICĂ larisa.marinica@fairmont.com

DR. GABRIELA DOGARU

dogarugabrielaumfcj@yahoo.ro

ANDREEA MIHALCEA

andreea@totuldespreraw.ro

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GEORGE BAKOPANOS george@cmc.fitness

FLORIN ARJOCU florin@drumliber.ro

MARIA RENDES maria.rendes@yahoo.com

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CONTENT

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tratamente semnătură

spa arena

tratamente semnătură

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The Dacians, The Ancestors of the Body-Mind-Soul Health Concept “The part can never be well unless the whole is well.”

How right Plato was when – in ancient times – he set up the foundation for a life philosophy which was also instinctively adopted by our Dacian ancestors, for – as long as there is life on Earth – one of the challenges of everyman will be the preservation of health.

by Cyndia Miheț

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part from each person’s using adequate instruments. They even the issue, but the spiritual side of it as family, their carrier and had rules of hygiene – their towns were well. Many discoveries in this sense were other worldly ventures, supplied with drinking water and they made instinctively – for instance, the each one of us has a bat- had special holes dug for waste. Our Romans observed that two sticks placed tle – be it conscious or ancestors practiced balneotherapy as at a 90 degrees’ angle one upon the other not – with their self. With nature. With well, diving into the thermal springs fortune. With Divinity. With the cells in as a treatment for diseases. Usually, their body. In the end, health is a state any therapeutic method would be of balance that needs to be preserved accompanied by religious rituals, spells throughout an entire lifetime. and chants. No wonder that the doctors The world of the Dacians bares a were also priests and the hospitals were special interest for the health of the temples. body-mind-soul triad. The evidence An essential role was played by light. and confessions collected throughout By then already, the Dacians had tried the years show that medicine – even hard to build mirrors for directing the if in a primitive form – is amongst the light towards people – it was the most “specialties “of our forefathers. They were elaborate form of healing from their also characterized by an extraordinary point of view. The fact that in modernity force, unequalled by people of our times we started to isolate ourselves in between give out energy. Soon, the Dacian people – it seems that they could cut through four walls attracted the decentring on our took this revelation further and ended stone with their bare hand (proof of inner harmony and, implicitly, the onset up wearing crosses around their necks this was found at Sarmisegetuza) and of various diseases. We were made to live hundreds of years before the Crucifixion that they were experts of extremely in and with nature and the Dacian people of Christ. It was a form of fighting against powerful treatments. Plato himself was perfectly aware of this. They payed the evil spirits, which were regarded considered Zamolxis, the supreme deity attention to all the signals coming from as carriers of diseases. Fire was of great of the Dacians, to be “superior to the the natural part of the world and had the importance, a form of sky and earth Greeks and Greek medicine”. Take that capacity of listening to stones and talking meeting. Fire purifies and acts as a for irrefutable proof of the high level to animals. They were good friends channel. Fumigations were accompanied of medical knowledge that the Getae- with bees, whose venom was used as a by chants, which had the role of cleansing Dacians had in their possession in the era medicine against the most intense pain. man on an energetic level. For instance, B.C. The limitations that modern medicine the hemp fumigations had the purpose of It was Plato – in his work Charmides brings on makes us redirect our attention soothing pain and inducing sleep.

– to show us that Socrates, while in the towards ancient methods which All this considered, plants were still army, had met a young considered not only the physical side of Thracian doctor, an apprentice of Zamolxis.

This doctor had told him one of the teachings of the Dacian god: “do not think of treating the eyes without first treating the head or treating the body without treating the soul in the same time”. We are thus confronted with a primary form of holistic (integralist) medicine, adopted by the Dacian priestdoctors. No wonder that even the great Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was initiated in his youth by a doctor of Thracian origin – Herodicus of Selymbria. The An essential role was played by light. By then already, The Dacians had tried hard Dacians were renowned for their to build mirrors for directing the light towards people – it was the most elaborate vast pool of knowledge but they form of healing from their point of view. were skilled surgeons as well, 10

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possibly the natural element best known enforces their immune system. infusions from fir tree bark or walnut by the Dacians. The Dacian people Leaves would be applied even shells – these represented a very good believed that plants had supernatural throughout the night in the case of more cure for coughs and for cleansing the powers.

In “Naturalis Historia”, serious diseases or as compresses or lungs. Water boiled on dense-flowered Dioscorides describes how, on the wraps. Plants were spread out in pieces mullein represented another adequate territory of Dacia, numerous plant species of cloth and then applied as cataplasms. treatment for coughs and a hoarse throat, were used on a large scale. Some of them are amply described, whilst in the case of others there is only vague information available. What is certain is that some medicinal plants that are extremely powerful „The limitations that modern medicine brings on makes either exclusively grow in the area between the Carpathian us redirect our attention towards ancient methods which Mountains, the Danube and the Black Sea, or that this specific considered not only the physical side of the issue, but the area is the only place where such intense curative properties spiritual side of it as well. Many discoveries in this sense were can be found in these plants.

For instance, geranium is said made instinctively by our ancestors.” to have a great healing power only in our country, so that it is indicated for treating diseases of the kidneys, for stimulating the immune system and optimizing digestion.

Baths with plants (comfrey and horsetail) and hot leaf and flower tarts were placed The calcination of plants (smashing proved to be efficient. Roman soldiers on the chest to ail pains. The astringent them against rocks) for preparing a fine took sitting baths with birthwort to root was used in teas, being efficient in powder out of hemp and sage leaves insure a faster healing of battle injuries. treating stomach pains. was very popular. This procedure was The bitter and tonic oil of yarrow was Wild bryony, a poisonous plant, indicated for treating and disinfecting used for problems of the digestive system. had healing capacities if it was used in wounds. Through internal use, a stronger Dioscorides noted that the Dacians used the right way. The chopped-up leaves therapeutic effect was obtained than boiled yarrow water for stomach aches and stems, mixed with salt, stopped the one offered by administering teas: it and cataplasms for skin inflictions, ulcerations of the skin and healed was an ancient method of what we now inflammations and ulcerations. To this infections. Crushed root was the best call disinfestation. Not even the well- day, the essential oil of the plant is used cure against headaches and joint pains. known “detox” process was unknown with very good results in treating skin Present studies confirm the intuition of to the Dacians – they used to abstain diseases, and the decoction from the the Dacians that intensively made use from eating for days, a few times a year, flowers has specific gastric and laxative of this plant, even for stopping internal experiencing this process first-hand benefits. bleeding. and noticing that it does them well and The Dacians used to prepare certain The Dacian healers soon found out

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about the nettle as well, a plant which was believed to tone the body, to fight against rheumatism and bone diseases and – which applied on the skin – would get the blood flowing.

The great Greek historian Herodotus was also amazed by the great number of beehives that the Dacians had, while Xenophon highlighted the fact that honey was a primary food in the diet of the Getae. The “gold” from the hives was essential in upkeeping health and curing diseases. Honey massages were often being carried out. They would either keep plants to macerate in honey or applied the resulting lotion onto the skin to obtain a strong anti-rheumatic effect or practiced honey massage through tearing. The latter was recommended for the general cleansing of the body. Honey was applied on cuts so that the skin would regenerate much faster. The honey and egg white masks were used for maintaining the beauty and health of the skin long before 1 A.D. Dacians made use of all sorts of unusual therapies. For instance, fire massage was applied in case of serious injuries. It was believed that the energies accumulated after the trauma of a hit were thus eliminated. Contrary to appearances, the procedure was hardly painful – while the body was covered in a special substance, oxygen was blocked by the hands of the masseuse so that fire did not come in direct contact with the skin.

Many a times, cups made of animal horns were applied and the areas that turned the darkest shade of blue revealed where exactly there were problems in the body of the patient. Leech therapy was also very strongly appreciated by our ancestors. It is said that the leeches of our country are the most efficient in the world, because of the appropriate pH of Romanian soil. This therapy is used as a last resort in case of very serious diseases, but also as a rejuvenation technique.

Leeches have the great merit of cleansing blood and extracting toxins from it.

In the USA, 5 ml of hirudin (the insect extract) can reach up to 400 $.

The Getae-Dacian medicine is said to be based on very advanced therapeutic principles, but maybe the most important of them referring to treating the body and the soul simultaneously. Besides the plants to which we luckily still have access today, let us remember that the state of mind is an extremely powerful drug, which we must “take in” on a daily basis.

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Romania “in pure form” The reactions of people hearing about Romania are very different. Some think of Dracula and mysterious legends that have been around for centuries. Others don’t even know exactly where our country is located, but have heard some vague things about it. There are others – let’s just admit it – that think of us as a country that has had its share of less fortunate events or phenomena, with serious repercussions for our national brand. But who truly knows Romania in its pure form? With its asymmetric, but charming hills. Vast plains, flooded with poppy flowers. Fairy tale meadows. Whirling rivers. And possibly the most fascinating feature of all: the fact that these beautiful landscapes make out the home for the most precious local treasures – the natural resources of which our ancestors used to say “if we knew them better, there would be no incurable diseases anymore.” From waters rich in valuable properties to plants that have their home at the foot of the mountains, the spa resorts of present times make use of these gifts of nature in signature therapies. We have the honour of presenting them to you in this special article.

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Grand Santerra Spa (Bálványos resort)

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here are several treatments at the Grand Santerra Spa resort which make use of unique ingredients of 100% Romanian origin: Pure & Fresh Exfoliation represents the first step and is essential to all spa treatments. The profound cleansing of the skin augments cell oxygenation. We use salt from the Praid salt mine, a miraculous natural medicine. This spa experience can ideally complement the Thermal Circuit treatment, before or after.

We recommend the exfoliation of the body with salt as a spa treatment that should be tried out by everyone!

Blu “R” The exfoliation of the body with Praid salt is followed up by a heat wrap in blue Transylvania clay, with a touch of essential juniper oils, savory and lavender. It’s a mix that efficiently acts against pain and not only sooths the muscles, but also the mind.

Blu “Cel” The skin is exfoliated with Praid salt, after which the entire body is wrapped

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in with blue Transylvania clay, juniper extract and essential sage and juniper oils. The formula is highly draining and the skin remains visibly smoother and softer after.

“Youth without age” An exceptional treatment for your skin, which – after a cleansing with Praid salt and mountain flower honey – is wrapped in a mixture of mountain fruit.

Your skin has never been so pampered and will become more luminous, firmer, softer and visibly rejuvenated.

Grand Santerra Body exfoliation with blue clay paste.

King Mountain, body massage with salt pouches and mountain plants.

Energy and balance supplements The massage combines the manual techniques of the East and West with the use of pouches containing Praid salt and hay flowers, enriched with different mountain flowers or essential oils, for an all-round and highly energizing spa treatment.Mint, melissa and sage. This mixture stimulates the metabolism and sustains intense intellectual activity and memory.

Common hawthorn, melissa and opium poppy. It’s a mix for the heart, a good vasodilator, tonic and an excellent fighter against palpitations, offering calm and balance.

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Ana Aslan Health Spa (Eforie Nord)

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herapies based on saprogenic mud and salty water from Lake Techirghiol have become an important vector of the international fame of Ana Aslan Health Spa. The Techirghiol mud from Eforie Nord is a very precious natural resource of the Romanian seaside, quite unique in Europe through its genesis and recognized by all international thermal forums.

Therapeutic recommendations for the Techirghiol mud The main therapeutic recommendations of the mud are in the area of muscular, rheumatic, orthopedic and post traumatic ailments. Joint pain, muscle and neurological disorders may be successfully treated with the help of salty water and various types of mud therapies, under the guidance of the experienced medical staff here.

Besides, inflammatory gynecological diseases and even fertility problems can be treated or significantly improved with these natural, highly effective therapies.

When applied to the problem areas, the Techirghiol mud has anesthetic, antiinflammatory and absorbable properties, helping to boost the regenerative processes, feeding the tissues and stimulating the metabolism of hormones and vitamins. The therapeutic effect 16

depends largely on the temperature of the mud. Thus, at a temperature of 35-37 degrees C, the mud has calming effects for the neuro-vegetative system. The duration of a mud application is 15-20 minutes.

Lasting effects Amongst the mud-specific therapies that guests can enjoy at the Ana Aslan Health Spa, we mention: the mud baths, the mud massage and the mud cataplasms. In a complex balneal treatment plan, they are alternated with a multitude of other treatments, whether hydrotherapy (baths with herbs, cyclonic showers, Vichy showermassage or underwater massage) or dry treatments (relaxing massages or rituals, of European or Oriental inspiration).

The effect of each new therapy adds to the effect of the core ones.

When following a 7 or even 14-day treatment plan, the changes in the state of health and the general wellbeing of the patient can be truly spectacular.

Treatment plans are designed after medical assessments carried out by doctors and by physio-therapists at the Ana Aslan Health Spa.

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Therme Bucharest

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typical Romanian spa therapy is done in the wet saunas, where customers can choose a peeling & face mask procedur. It implies a salt or sugar scrub with essential oils all over the body and - after leaving the sauna - a face and neck clay mask made entirely form Blue Clay Powder extracted from Mures county. All dead cells are removed and the benefits of the natural clay mask are huge. They can even be seen after the first treatment: it cleans, restores and renews the epidermis; refreshes the skin - making it smooth and supple; minimizing the appearance of wrinkles; stimulates blood circulation and enhances the metabolism of the skin cells; through its regenerating properties has a potent anti-aging action.

The Therme Bucharest clay masks are made of Blue Clay Powder, water and sometimes essential oils that add some benefits. Only three simple but perfect natural ingredients for a long lasting result. (For the handle of the Clay, the staff only uses wood or ceramic accessories).

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O3Zone Hotel (Tușnad Băi Resort)

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n the heart of Transylvania, at the foot of the mountains, in the resort of Băile Tușnad, lies the O3zone Spa, the small four-star jewel of the O3zone Hotel, of which every guest should take advantage. Guests are welcomed and pampered with different therapies for body and soul. A special kind of spoiling is contained in the Gerovital therapy of Professor Ana Aslan, one of the oldest anti-aging brands in the world.

There are two Gerovital facial treatment types offered at the O3zone Spa. The therapist will make a recommendation based on the needs of the guest and of their skin.

Equilibrum Hydration The Gerovital Equilibrium Hydration, based on hyaluronic acid, regenerates the tissue, hydrates in depth and rejuvenates the skin, making it lighter and healthier.

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The anti-age complex has a geriatric effect upon the skin, preventing and amending the signs of aging on mature and dry skin types. A perfect improver for mature skin with a restructuring result and an instant lift effect.

The Gerovital therapy starts with a delicate removal of the make-up, meant to cleanse the skin of impurities, as the skin is being prepared to receive the treatment. The toning effect completes the cleaning phase, balancing out the slightly acid PH of the skin.

Subsequently, an enzymatic exfoliant cream is applied to remove the dead cells from the surface of the skin and make it healthier by stimulating the blood flow and elimination of toxins.

The next step is applying the hydrating serum, the anti-wrinkle cream or the Perfect Anti-Age cream combined with a massage cream. A relaxing facial massage will be applied to warm up the

skin and facilitate the penetration of the active ingredients (collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid). The massage will stimulate the collagen and elastin fibres; it will enhance muscle tone and oxygenate the skin cells. A mask is also applied to help rebalance the skin. The final phase of the treatment is applying a face cream adapted to the needs of the skin being treated.

Following the treatment, the look of the skin will be visibly enhanced, the skin being soft and smooth. The beauty of your skin is your responsibility and it deserves an adequate care. Your skin needn’t show its age.

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Riserva Wine Spa (Oradea)

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ater is the source of all Spa treatments: the mind escapes, the body relaxes. The Milky Way ritual begins with a delicate milk foam bath, followed by a relaxing full-body massage, with milk and lavender.

The milk powder for this bath is an innovation in the luxury bathing experience. It is an ultrafine powder, sensually aromatized, which instantaneously dissolves in water, creating a milk emulsion. The water becomes opaque and a delicate foam forms while the active ingredients are released to nourish and hydrate the skin. Cleopatra was famous for one of her beauty secrets: bathing in milk. The powder which we now use encapsulates the essence of the ancient bathing ritual of Cleopatra. The 30 minutes of bathing in milk foam are followed by an hour of relaxing full-body massage, with honey and lavender. This honey is especially created for massage purposes, without giving the skin a sensation of being covered in a fat surface: when water is spilt on it, this charming texture turns into milk.

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Romania’s flora comprises of a variety of species of meliferous plants which are remarkable for their high production of honey: phacelia, Moldavian dragonhead, melissa, catnip, starflower, blueweed, yellow sweet clover, lavender and mint. Lavender is well known for its relaxing and balancing qualities.

Essential lavender oil stimulates a state of well-being, has soothing properties and releases stress. It is also astringent and antiseptic, purifying and it balances out the skin. Enriched with vitamin E, lavender honey leaves the skin hydrated and protected.

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La Bibliothèque (Bucharest)

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he (acacia) honey massage is a strong detoxifying massage – toning, strong and refreshing for your entire body. The therapy is based on the skin interacting with the biologically active substances in honey (carbohydrates, minerals, sugars).

Its action is manifested on the entire body, although it is mainly applied on the back area, arms and shoulders.

This massage implies the placing of the miracle-working natural product on the skin and on the activation of certain 20

nervous centres corresponding to vital organs, by the controlled action of specific massage movements pertaining to this massage type.

Benefits of the treatment: ◊ Deblocks and stimulates the lymphatic system; ◊ Contributes to the thermoregulation of the skin; ◊ Has a positive influence on the entire nervous system; ◊ Has an anti-inflammatory effect, reduces musculoskeletal and articular pains;

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Relaxes the body, insuring physical and emotional comfort; Stimulates the blood flow; Cleanses the skin, has a strong exfoliating effect. The skin becomes smoother and more elastic after the massage, and the orange peel aspect of it is considerably reduced.

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Iaki Spa (Constanța)

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earn how to trick nature and maintain your skin healthy and beautiful. Trust modern, non-invasive treatments for correcting the skin’s imperfections. It’s important to carry out cosmetic treatments that are specific to the needs of your skin type, using the help of expert aestheticians. The Gerovital Equilibrium treatment is suitable for everyone, as the facial rituals are tailored to each skin type.

Removing the make-up, toning, peeling/scrubbing, extractions, oxygenation/ionization, massage, nutrition – all these are well-defined stages that lead to a considerably visible result.

The products contain active ingredients such as Zanthalene, Lactic acid, Vitamins A, E, C, Panthenol, Alantoin, Boswelia Serrata extract, goji extract, collagen, elastin and Ferulan complex.

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The Felix Baths

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he Băile Felix resort has a unique bioclimate, with a perfectly balanced humidity, which induces a state of relaxation and revitalization.

Unique on a worldwide scale, the thermal waters of Băile Felix are the most appreciated curative waters of the region.

The thermal water is so pure that it can be used as drinking water. The temperature of the springs, varying between 40-49˚Celsius, and the salt concentrate of little over 1 g per litre gives these waters miraculous properties with effects upon most of the conditions of the locomotor system, as they are included in the category of oligo-mineral waters.

The Nelumbo Med-Spa Centre within the Lotus Therm Spa & Luxury Resort, Băile Felix Take advantage of the Nelumbo Med-Spa treatments. They act in synergy to give you inner balance and physical health. With a long-lasting experience in balneology and SPA, our personnel take care of the optimal execution of the procedures.

The balneary treatment and SPA centre has the most varied services and therapies to offer: hydrotherapy, mud wraps and baths, paraffin wraps, electrotherapy, hydro-kinesiotherapy, kinesiotherapy, massages, cosmetic treatments, fitness studio, wet sauna, dry sauna and an ice fountain for the braver ones of you, wanting to cool off. The thermal waters of Băile Felix are the most curative and appreciated of the region, as they have miraculous properties for most of the disorders of the locomotor system.

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Wellness & SPA ◊ Signature NELUMBO’S SURPRISE ritual, AQUA GOLD ritual, MAGIC SPLASH bath, aromatic oil bath ◊ MOZART Bath, cyclonic shower, Vichy shower, Caracalla bath, vacuum therapy (anti-cellulite therapy); ◊ LUXURY GOLD Massage, partial HIPPOCRATES massage (classic), total HIPPOCRATES massage (classic), head massage, NIAGARA massage (lymphatic drain), TANZANIAN massage (anti-cellulite), JAMAICA’S JOURNEY massage (with bamboo sticks), YING & YANG massage (reflex), partial massage with honey and cinnamon, total massage with honey and cinnamon, anti-cellulite electrostimulation, body treatment with weight-loss effect, vitaminizing and detoxification (hips and abdomen); ◊ Cosmetics: cosmetic treatment with BABOR and Gerovital.

Treatment with Gerovital H3 The benefits of these treatments are impressive: prevention of premature aging; decelerating of the aging process; strengthening of the body’s immunity; enhancement of physical and intellectual capacities, especially the enhancement of memory, of the senses, of the skin’s general aspect; reduction of depressive states and anxieties; prevention of Alzheimer’s and senility; enhancement of muscle tone and

articular mobility; prevention and treatment of systemic atherosclerosis with hypercholesterolemia.

For a maximum effect, the Gerovital treatment is to be combined with physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, massage and kinesiotherapy.

The Spa and Balneary Treatment Centre of the International Hotel It is the only centre in Romania which was granted the EUROPESPAmed seal, attesting to the fulfilment of the standards set forth by the European Association of Balneary Stations (ESPA), referring to the general infrastructure of therapies, hygiene and tourist security. Renowned for its therapy programmes, the Wellness and Spa and balneary treatment centre ideally makes use of the curative properties of its waters, consequently carrying forth the millennial tradition of the thermal water baths.

Balneary treatments Balneary therapies address the following conditions: degenerative rheumatic conditions, inflammatory rheumatic conditions, abarticular rheumatic conditions, posttraumatic conditions, neurological conditions.

Medical procedures: hydrotherapy, electrotherapy, thermotherapy (mud wraps and baths, paraffin), hydrokinesiotherapy, kinesiotherapy.

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TISA Spa Resort

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(Băile Olănești Resort)

ISA Spa Resort’s signature therapies are based on Romanian traditions. They harness elements of indigenous healthcare, which are associated with beautiful local fairy tales and myths.

Youth Without Age This anti-aging ritual takes its name from a local fairy tale, which can be translated into: “Youth without Age”.

It tells of the journey of a young Prince Charming (in original Romanian: Făt-Frumos), who leaves his parents’ kingdom and goes on a quest for immortality, which he finally finds in faraway lands. However, strong regrets of the past make him leave this wonderland, bringing him to his end.

In its essence, the story is about man’s greatest desire, that of eternal youth and immortality. TISA Spa Resort might not be close to Prince Charming’s mystic location, but it does bear magic of its own.

Tinerețe fără bătrânețe is a complete ritual that gently takes care of your entire body. It begins with a complete exfoliation, followed by a mud wrap. A facial treatment further rejuvenates your complexion. The experience is completed by a soothing full body massage.

The “magic” element of the therapy is the sapropelic mud from Balta Albă (Eng.: White Pond). Due to its high mineral quality and purity, it offers numerous therapeutic and beauty benefits including: skin rejuvenation, wrinkle reduction, rheumatism and fatigue treatment, thus disentangling the mystery of youth without age. This

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indeed represents wonderful news: no more need to travel as far as Prince Charming; you now know where to find TISA Spa Resort.

The Majestic Bird Pasărea Măiastră (The Majestic Bird) is another signature ritual, inspired by Romanian tradition.

In Romanian mythology, Pasărea Măiastră is a supernatural bird, of exquisite beauty, with a strong sense for light and justice. She reveals herself to a select few of privileged people. One of her magical powers, her song rejuvenates its fortunate listeners.

Constantin Brâncuși, the renowned Romanian sculptor, has been inspired by this beautiful creature: one of his most famous works of art bears the name and symbolism of the majestic bird.

Pasărea Măiastră – the therapy – consists of a full body volcanic hot stone massage and of a deeply moisturizing ritual for the hands and feet. After the session, you will feel that you have recovered your vitality and have gained the necessary strength to fly over all your perceived obstacles, just as a majestic bird would.

Healing Herbs and Flowers The healing herbs and flowers massage is an interpretation of the Luk-Pra-Kob Thai massage. The central element of this therapy is a special massage with small herbal pouches.

Romanian medical wisdom gives healing herbs and flowers its distinctive style. At TISA Spa Resort, the herbal pouches are filled with local, carefully selected plants and flowers, recognized

by Romanian medical culture for their

healing properties. Clients can choose from three plant mixes, with numerous health benefits: Calming: valerian, yellow sweet clover, lime tree flowers Anti-stress: yellow sweet clover, walnut leaves, sweet flag, oregano Detox: tetterwort, sage, basil, three faces in a hood, lime tree flowers The Queen Mary Ritual Queen Mary is one of the most beloved characters in Romanian history.

As the niece of Queen Victoria, she was married to Ferdinand I of Hohenzollern, heir to the throne of Romania.

She was a powerful woman, influencing the political course of her country. She is known as the “The Mother of the Wounded” or “The Warrior Queen”, as during the First World War, she worked on the battlefield, taking care of the wounded and coordinating the activity of the campaign hospitals. She is renowned for her exquisite beauty and elegance.

Queen Mary’s ritual is a highly rewarding beauty experience. It starts with a full body exfoliation. It is then followed by a rhassoul clay and rose water wrap. Lastly, your skin will benefit from a shea oil hydration, enriched with a few drops of violet flowers’ essence, which was Queen Mary’s favourite fragrance.

This TISA Spa Resort royal treatment will make you feel like a true queen.

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SPA TRADITIONS

ROMANIAN THERAPIES

The Sanconfind Medical Centre (Poiana Câmpina)

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he Sanconfind medical centre in Poiana Câmpina has a treatment and recovery base that uses 2 main natural resources, i.e. salt spring water of a very high concentration, 321 g/l – a value near to that of the Dead Sea (400 g/l) – and Techirghiol mud. Hydro-physiotherapy sessions can be carried out in the 3 basins that are filled up with salt spring water. It is a specific Romanian therapy that is 100% natural. Water is collected through pipes directly from the source and warmed up to 33 degrees.

The Benefits of Salt Water: The cardiovascular effort is smaller in salt water pools and the beneficial 24

effects on the body are felt immediately.

Salt water is recommended in treating most of the disorders of the locomotor system (degenerative and post-traumatic conditions, vertebral position disorders, vertebral discopathy, etc.), but also for treating some neurological, respiratory, dermatological and fertility conditions.

Moreover, relaxation programmes are also available.

The Benefits of Sapropelic Mud: Mud is brought in from Techirghiol and kept in special conditions to prevent it from losing its properties. The mud baths, wraps and massage act upon the metabolism and activate local circulation.

Rich in minerals and organic colloids –

through the action of microorganisms, mud can heal many bone-muscle diseases.

Muscular contractions, articular pain and fatigue disappear when the body is wrapped in this “black velvet”. Furthermore, we can also offer the plant bath that contains teas made of hay flowers and basil oils, both specific to Romanian plains. The flower bath relaxes and loosens up the senses, sooths pain and facilitates venous circulation.

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Belle Maison Spa (Bucharest)

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ven if oriental or Western therapies are very tempting, a 100% pure Romanian spa ritual, created with a focus on honey will work wonders for the skin, as well as for your mood, as it is a true delight for the entire body.

The signature Romanian Dream ritual starts with the pampering of the feet, which is constructed on bathing the soles in water, followed by honey and sugar exfoliation and a massage with essential mint oil, focusing on the pressure points.

The ritual continues with a fullbody honey massage, which is carefully prepared, based on homemade recipes of natural ingredients. The honey in combination with cinnamon, the aromatic herbs and the sesame seeds have a strong exfoliating, nourishing and toning character. Beyond the in-depth hydration of the skin, the massage can also constitute a support tool in anticellulite treatments.

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SPA TRADITIONS

ROMANIAN THERAPIES

Country Spa (Snagov)

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octor Ştefan Ionescu Călineşti is known as the parent of the Pell-Amar products, which are based on a pure therapeutic mud extract from the Balta Albă (En.: White Pond) Lake. The healing power of this original product stands out for its benefits in rheumatic diseases, diseases of the peripheric nervous system, in neuralgias, in chronic gynaecologic illnesses, skin diseases (allergic eczemas, psoriasis), burns, keloid scars, aging phenomena of the skin, in the recovery process after orthopaedic traumatisms and surgical interventions. There have also been excellent results obtained in the recovery after poliomyelitis, as the sedative action of the Pell-Amar extract offers relief in states of nervous instability and stress.

The invention of Dr Ştefan IonescuCălineşti – preparing the mud extract through strictly physical methods, by concentrating all its properties and atomizing the extract – has led to a true explosion of health tourism in Romania.

The Pell-Amar extract is a natural active principle that has a complex 26

mineral, organic and enzymatic composition, which exerts a series of scientifically demonstrated actions such as anti-inflammatory, antalgic, sedative, de-contracting, biotrophic-stimulator, vasodilator and cellular regenerative actions.

The use of mud in facial and body cosmetics is based on its physical and chemical properties, on its profound penetrability at skin level, on the skin’s capacity of cleaning itself via osmosis, on the hydration and the contribution of stimulatory mineral and regenerative elements offered.

The Pell-Amar ANTI-AGING Treatment This elixir of youth without age, a treatment that revitalizes the mature skin, giving it a firm and smooth look once again! The mud and algae in the Pell-Amar formula stimulate the in-depth regeneration of the skin, maintaining the collagen balance at a cellular level. Moreover, having an antioxidant role, the mud prevents and fights against the effects of free radicals on the skin. With aging, the metabolic

processes are slowed down, and skin, the largest organ of the human body, is affected by the decrease of the collagen level, so that wrinkles appear and portions of the skin may exfoliate and dehydrate. Revitalize your skin by using mineral salts, nutrients and amino acids from the mud extract of Pell-Amar!

The Pell Amar Treatment – YOUNG AGAIN This package revitalizes mature skins, giving them that look of firmness and smoothness once again. The mud and natural algae of the Balta Albă Lake stimulate in-depth skin regeneration, maintaining the collagen balance at a cellular level. The antioxidant character of mud also fights against the effects of free radicals on the surfaces that are exposed to environmental factors on a day-to-day basis.

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SPA TRADITIONS

ROMANIAN THERAPIES

Danubius Health Spa (Sovata)

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resh air, medicinal water, peace and quiet in a beautiful setting – Sovata’s four-star hotel has everything you need for a course of medical spa treatments or a relaxing wellness weekend break in Transylvania.

The hotel’s medicinal spa pool is filled with water from Bear Lake, which is only 200 metres away. Bear Lake is not only famous for resembling a stretched-out bear hide: the extremely salty water of the only heliothermic lake in Europe has numerous medicinal properties, and for this reason, it has always been popular amongst those with musculoskeletal, dermatological or gynaecological conditions.

If you’re here for health reasons, you’ll have access to specialist doctors and traditional medical spa treatments, and if you just want a wellness break, a spacious wellness facility that offers a large range of procedures (relaxing baths, relaxing massages, Thai massages, etc.) and numerous beauty treatments will be expecting you in the hotel. In our Emporium Wellness and Beauty Salon you can choose between several cosmetic treatments with Babor and Aslavital products (Babor facial with

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ultrasound and rock crystals, Babor express relaxation, Aslavital regeneration treatment, etc.).

If you want to try out a therapy with a Romanian touch, we recommend Aslavital – a regenerative treatment for your face, based on organic products from the brand with the same name.

The unique complex of natural clay and organic goji extract highly energizes the cells, regenerates, hydrates and refreshes the skin. The phases of the treatment are: cleansing, exfoliation, relaxation of the skin with steam, electrostimulation with collagen extract, massaging the face, the neck and the décolletage, nutritious mask, day care for the skin. There is also a treatment variant offered that is exclusively dedicated to the skin around the eyes.

In the spa centre you will find: a swimming pool, salt-water pools, an adventure bath, Jacuzzi, Kneipp Bath, a swimming pool for children, a Finnish sauna, a steam bath, an infrared sauna, an aroma sauna, a relaxation room, a fitness room.

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Natural Cure Factors in Romania When it comes to natural cure factors, we can easily say that our country is blessed by nature.

The diversity of both thermal and mineral springs, the therapeutic lakes, the mofettas, natural salt mines, herbal remedies or the areas with ionized air are just a few examples of natural factors that make Romania an exceptional health & spa destination.

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NATURAL CURE FACTORS

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alneotherapy is a constantly changing force, directing the evolution and development of spas from the shadows. Together, the two concepts could take Romanian tourism to the next level if things are adequately managed at a micro-, as well as a macro-economic level.

There are already several signs that we are “on the right track” and by going through the section Investments in Work, you will see this for yourself – one of the evidences is the fact that many hotels in balneary resorts have been or are currently undergoing rehabilitation works and that the modernization process in resorts is on-going and constant. Moreover, an obvious trend can be noticed in endowing curative spaces with spa centres that are meant to complement the treatments per se. Regarded as a whole, the BalneoSPA represents a complete solution within which the medical foundation and the alternative therapies materialize into an attractive final product, with a high sales potential.

Comparing the state of things in 1980 to the present one makes out an interesting exercise: if approximately 30 years ago, there were around 130 resorts with specific climate conditions, therapeutic factors and the necessary facilities for using them, today we have around 160, of which only 100 are registered with the Ministry of Tourism. In what regards the owners of the balneary patrimony, we can well say that 80% of the respective patrimony is in the property of private entities, whereas approximately 20% represents public space and belongs to the Ministry of Health.

In what follows, we will present the properties and benefits of the main therapeutic factors in Romania, alongside with the administration methods and the places in which they can be found.

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are very rare as they have a great capacity for dissolving the mineral salts they meet on their way to the surface. Therefore, in our country one can usually find carbonated alkaline waters, ferruginous carbonated waters, chloride carbonated, sodium carbonated etc.

Administration: internal treatment; Thus, one can cure digestive disease, hepatobiliary, urinary diseases; carbonated water cures have the effect of increasing the activity of the pancreas, bile and gastric juice.

OLIGO-MINERAL WATERS This category includes waters of which total mineralization is below 1 g / l. These weakly mineralized waters, circulate through rocks that contain minerals soluble in the water infiltration.

Administration: external or internal cures; In external cures (when water is used in pools in which the patient makes some exercises/ elongation), this factor has been proved to be therapeutically effective in treating: inflammation of joints, muscle atrophy, rheumatism, osteoporosis, peripheral nerve diseases, dermatological diseases (through silicon) or gynecological disorders. Water is used at a temperature over 20 degrees Celsius.

In internal cures, the water may have analgesic, antispasmodic effect and reduces inflammation in the body.

ALKALINE WATERS They contain at least 1g salt per liter, predominantly sodium bicarbonate and

potassium.

Administration: external or internal cures; External cure occurs under the form of aerosols and inhalations and can treat diseases such as chronic rhinopharyngitis, laryngitis or chronic tracheo-bronchitis.

Internal cures help to promote detoxification. Consumed before meals or together with food, these waters stimulate gastric secretion and gastric emptying and stimulate the gall bladder).

Administered after meals, they neutralize gastric acidity.

FERRUGINOUS WATERS They are characterized by their content of ferrous ions under the form of hydrogen chloride or sulphate of iron.

Administration: internal treatment; Water is consumed directly from the source, to prevent oxidation.

Ferruginous waters are indicated in hypochromic anemia, physical debility and convalescence.

Contraindications: during the cure the consumption of dairy products, soda or fruit containing citric acid are not recommended, because all these foods reduce the absorption of iron.

CHLOROSODIC WATERS Predominantly contain chlorine and sodium.

Administration: internal and external cures; The concentration of up to 15g / l (seawater concentration) are used in

MINERAL AND THERMAL SPRINGS - NATURE’S PHARMACY

Mineral water springs are popular since ancient times for their curative virtues and Romania proudly owns about a third (35%) of the thermal and mineral springs of Europe. Here are the types of mineral water that can be found in our country: CARBONATED WATERS The mineral carbonated waters contain at least 1 g carbon dioxide / liter, formed by dissolving carbon dioxide, which is a volcanic gas, into the waters inside the earth. Pure carbonated water SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

Mineral water springs are popular since ancient times for their curative virtues and Romania proudly owns about a third (35%) of the thermal and mineral springs of Europe.

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STAȚIUNI BALNEARE

SPA ARENA

As you can see, in Romania we have mineral and thermal waters all over the country. It is difficult to select the main “water destinations”, but the ones with the most types of waters are: Băile Herculane (Afrodita Resort & SPA, Băile Tușnad (O3Zone Hotel & SPA), Băile Balvanyos (Grand Hotel Balvanyos with Grand Santerra Spa), Băile Felix ( Lotus Therm Resort), Băile Govora (Palace Hotel & SPA), Băile Sărate Sângeorgiu de Mureș – (Apollo Hotel & SPA), Sovata Băi (Danubius Health SPA Resort), Eforie Nord (Ana Aslan Health SPA Resort, Mirage Med SPA- Hotel & SPA).

internal treatment (crenotherapy and inhalations), and those with higher concentrations are used in external cures (baths, irrigations).

The internal treatment helps to increase the gastric secretion and the motility of the bowel. Administered as inhalations, they lower viscosity .Vaginal irrigations with chlorosodic waters have an anti-inflammatory effect.

SULPHUROUS WATERS Contain at least 1 gr. H2S, HS or S per liter or complex colloidal sulfur.

Administration: internal and external cures; Because of the high concentration of sulfur, which gives a bad taste, sulphurous water can be used just as medicinal water.

Sulphurous waters are infdicated in crenotherapy as well as in external cures in the form of baths, inhalations and vaginal irrigation due to the effects of H2S, which is being reabsorbed through the skin and through the mucous membranes.

In terms of the diseases that can be treated, the sulfur improves digestion, 30

has an antitoxic and choleretic effect in the liver, reduces blood sugar and increase diuresis. Therefore, internal treatment is indicated in: colitis, hepatitis, diabetes cures detoxification, peripheral edema, etc. In external cures, they reduce blood pressure, improve the work of the heart and stimulate the metabolism.

IODINE WATERS Waters containing iodine concentration of 1-5 mg. / liter. They are usually mixed chlorosodic waters. Iodine in water comes from the sedimentary rocks or arises from the once great flora and fauna Administration: cure internal and external; The internal treatment acts mainly in the thyroid gland and is indicated in the treatment of Basedow disease, crop nodular or gout. In external cures, it has an anti-inflammatory effect on articular rheumatism, peripheral arterial disease or dermatological (eczema, psoriasis).

RADIOACTIVE WATERS These mineral water contain radioactive elements such as uranium and

thorium. Although the concentrations of water in Romania are under international limits required to be classified as radioactive, our waters can as well treat certain ailments.

Administration: external cure; They are recommended to treat neuralgia, neuritis or hyperthyroidism.

Contraindications: acute diseases, tuberculosis, tumors, pregnancy, epilepsy, psychiatric disorders, hemorrhagic syndrome.

ARSENICAL WATERS Contain arsenic ions, that come from the washing of igneous rocks.

Administration: internal treatment; Are used to restoring blood cells, in convalescence periods, physical debility, anemia, thyroid dysfunction, chronic eczema, psoriasis (since arsenic is eliminated through the skin) or to reduce oxidative metabolic processes in the body.

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NATURAL CURE FACTORS MUD - THE BLACK HEALING BALM

Mud therapies are among the most popular in our country, with benefits on the beauty side (eliminates water retention, cellulite, improves skin aspect, prevents wrinkles) as well as on the health side (eczema, psoriasis, rheumatic, respiratory, etc.)

If you go to the seaside, you can benefit from the Techirghiol mud healing properties in spa centers such as: Imperia Spa Marina Regia from Năvodari, Mirage Med SPA from Eforie Nord, Ana Aslan Health SPA Eforie Nord or Apollo Wellness Club, near Târgu Mureș.

– such as the chronic degenerative articular rheumatism. The mofette is also recommended as prophylaxis for people with cardiovascular risk, for those suffering from hypertension, high cholesterol level and is also suitable for smokers and for people who have problems with circulation and those working in the cold. It is also known that mofetarian gas has beneficial effects on

SALT MINES - NATURAL REMEDY FOR RESPIRATORY DISEASES

Throughout the years, salt mines were considered to be a strong cure factor for respiratory ailments, having holistic benefits on the body: strengthens the immunity system, improves digestion, skin regeneration, diminishing the effects of stress. despreSpa.ro recommends Salina Turda, an impressive museum of the history of salt mining, ranking 22nd among the most spectacular destinations in the world. Dating from the early 17th century, the salt mine benefits from a curative area and mineral water lakes located at Durga Salt Valley, used to treat rheumatic diseases, peripheral circulation and gynecological diseases.

For tourist’s comfort, seats were arranged on the sandy beach together with wooden decks, showers and a bar with terrace.

Situated at around a 40 minutes’ distance from Salina Turda, you can stay at Sun Garden Golf & SPA Resort.

Other salt mines in Romania are: Slanic Prahova salt mine – a hotel nearby (around 40 minutes by car) is Sky Blue Hotel & SPA; Ocnele Mari Salt Mine, where we recommend staying at Hotel Palace Govora; and if you would like to indulge in some Romanian spa therapies after visiting Ocnele Mari, we recommend you stop by Tisa SPA.

THE MOFETTES - A UNIQUE PHENOMENON IN OUR COUNTRY One of the natural wonders our country is pride of is the mofette.

Through the gas baths, one can treat cardiovascular diseases, skin diseases, gynecological and endocrine disorders, and some musculoskeletal disorders

potency, being recognized as a good natural aphrodisiac.

Mofettes are gathered around Covasna area, thus we recommend Grand Hotel Balvanyos (Grand Santerra SPA), one of the most beautiful hotels in Covasna, so that you can enjoy not only the healing power of mofettes, but also the intense ionized air from the area and an elegant spa, in which spa therapies are combined with wellness treatments, pools, saunas and whirlpools.

For moffetes you can also choose Septimia Resort or O3Zone Hotel, both situated in Harghita area.

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THERAPEUTIC LAKES

Romania is a blessed country when we think about the natural cure factors that co-exist in here and when it comes to therapeutic lakes, it has an impressive number of 3500 lakes – 63% are natural and the rest of 27% are anthropogenic.

A large number of these lakes have special therapeutic effects, due to pharmacological and pharmacodynamic properties.

But first let’s take a look on how these lakes can be classified, depending on their genesis as following.

SHORE LAKES These were created by filling the mouth of a flowing river with a fluvial grind or marine cord.

The most famous shore lake used for therapeutic purposes is Techirghiol, which has three branches, Techirghiol, Tuzla, Urlichioi, with water rich in magnesium, used in external cures.

Techirghiol lake is close to: Imperia Spa Marina Regia from Năvodari, Iaki SPA from Mamaia, Mirage Med SPA from Eforie Nord or Ana Aslan Health SPA Eforie Nord.

PLAIN LAKES The famous lakes of Amara, Slobozia, Strachina, Jirlau, Balta Amara, Câmpeni, Movila Miresii, Ianca, Sarat-Braila all belong to the category of plain lakes, with a complex chemical composition, rich in sodium salts of magnesium and calcium sulfates. The waters of these lakes are also useful in external cures.

SALT LAKES Sovata, Târgu Ocna, Slănic, Ocnele Mari, Cojocna, Ocna Mureș were all formed by salt massifts. The heterogeneous mineralizing of salt lakes and their temperature explains the heliothermic phenomenon that takes place and has a therapeutic effect on pacients. All these lakes have deposits of mud on the bottom, which enhances the quality of the therapeutic effect as well as the range of spa treatments that can be applied (mud baths, mud wraps and massages).

When visiting Lacul Ursu (Sovata), we recommend staying at Danubius Health Spa Resort. Should you visit the lakes near Ocnele Mari, stop by Hotel Palace Govora as well!

PHYTOTHERAPY

Phytotherapy is a branch of natural medicine using plants and plant products for treating diseases. The plants are used either internally (juices, teas, decoctions, tinctures, powders), as well as externally (baths, cataplasms, enemas).

In Romania, there are clinics offering phytotherapy as means for treating a series of patient conditions and offering customized therapies.

CLIMATIC THERAPEUTIC FACTORS / AEROIONISATION In certain regions of the country,

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climatic factors make the healing of certain conditions possible.

ALPINE CLIMATE Through the alpine climate, where

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NATURAL CURE FACTORS

the air has an appropriate structure (Arieșeni - Alba; Stâna de Vale - Bihor; Sângeorgiu de Mureș - Mureș; Păltiniș – Sibiu), disorders such as hyperthyroid and Basedow disease, secondary anaemias, chronic influences of the superior respiratory tracts, bronchial asthma, pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis with evolution towards healing, rickets and chronic infections in children, neurovegetative dystonia in teen years and at menopause, asthenia, pulmonary traumas, benign hyperthyroid and exhaustion can be treated.

Administration: physical exercise or “location cure” (durably influences the body through changes in the composition of the blood, in the metabolism of gases and minerals, by expansion of the respiratory volume, frequency of the pulse and arterial tension).

Contraindications: elevated arterial SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

hypertension, cardiac, pulmonary or renal uncompensated insufficiency, infectious diseases, even common malnutrition cases.

SUBALPINE CLIMATE The subalpine climate (Băile Tușnad - Harghita, Borșa - Maramureș; Durău - Neamț; Cheia - Prahova; Vâlcea - Voineasa; Balvanyos Covasna; Câmpulung Moldovenesc - Suceava) is recommended in the ulterior convalescence of pulmonary tuberculosis, respectively for pleurisies, chronic broncho-pulmonary inflammations, pulmonary emphysema, compensated cardiovascular disorders or neurasthenic mental cases.

Administration: exposure to climatic factors, physical exercise in open air.

AEROIONISATION Walks and physical exercise in the strongly ionized air (over 2000 ions per cubic centimetre; in Băile Herculane - Caraș-Severin; Geoagiu

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Băi - Hunedoara; Oglinzi – Neamț) helps us enhance the general state of the body. Aeroions can act upon the body in two ways: either they enter the lungs alongside the inhaled air, either through direct action upon the skin.

Aeroionisation has proven to also be useful in the case of people suffering from endocrine dysfunctions, migraines or insomnias.

THE MARINE CLIMATE The marine climate treats and prevents chronic inflammations of the ENT domain, pulmonary diseases, chronic rheumatic conditions, chronic gynaecological diseases, rickets and debility in children, as well as depressive states.

Contraindications: cardiac and renal insufficiencies, latent infectious diseases, psychological-affective unrest, debility or chronic fatigue.

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Balneary treatment facilities in Romania

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ccording to a study conducted by an Institute of the Ministry of Tourism, presented at the National Balneology Congress (organized by the Romanian Association of Balneology), the following results have been obtained: there are 130 balneary treatment facilities in Romania, which are situated both in 45 tourist, spa, balneoclimateric resorts and places with their own natural, therapeutic resources.

The 130 balneary treatment facilities belong to accommodation units that build up 7,5% of the entire authorized accommodation capacity of Romania. 10% are

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four and five star hotels, 44% are 3 star hotels, 44% are 2 star hotels and 2% are 1 star hotels.

Societies with Restricted Liabilities possess 38% of the total number of treatment facilities, whereas joint companies own 20% of them. SIF Transilvania is shareholder in 11% of balneary treatment facilities in Romania, trade-union related societies (with Restricted Liability) own 11%, and the other shareholders are: TBRCM, The Ministry of Health, The Romanian Patriarchate and RAPPS. The resorts with more than 10 balneary treatment facilities are: Băile

Felix (11), Băile Olănești (11), Băile Herculane (10), Eforie Nord (7), Vatra Dornei (6), Băile Tușnad (5), Covasna (5), Moneasa (5) and Techirghiol (5).

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Top 10 in Transylvania In Latin language, Transylvania means “the land beyond the forests�. It makes sense, as once upon a time, vast forests covered most of Transylvania, too.

Nowadays it is the Central-West and North part of Romania, mostly surrounded by the spectacular and wild Carpathian Mountains. In this land of myths I shall tell you ten of my favorite places. As I could not decide which I like best, they are presented in random order.

by Florin Arjocu

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MUST-SEE

TRANSYLVANIA

BRAČ˜OV AND SIBIU Two beautiful large towns of Transylvania are a must-see when going to Transylvania. Built by the Saxon population that came starting with year 1050 in these lands, they are truly amazing.

Large pedestrian squares with impressive medieval or Renaissance architecture, defensive towers and huge many centuryold churches with lots of secrets are to be discovered here.

SZEKELY (SZEKLER) AREA The Hungarian part of Transylvania. A small part of our country is populated with Hungarian speaking population.

It is the land of nicely carved wooden gates with Szekely symbols (the tulip is the mostly used one), mineral waters, beautiful mansions, good food and interesting traditions.

PREJMER FORTIFIED CHURCH Something you haven’t seen anywhere else. Once a simple village Catholic church belonging the Saxon population, it was fortified when the invaders got a bad habit to come, kill, steal and destroy everything would meet their eyesight. Huge walls were built around it, a barbican, massive gates, an attic used by the guards, even a huge moat surrounding it was there. Later it was transformed into an Evangelic Lutheran church, about 500 years ago, so the paintings were covered with plaster and white paint.

Prejmer Fortified Church is incredibly interesting!

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MUST-SEE

TRANSYLVANIA

SASCHIZ

CISNĂDIOARA AND CISNĂDIE FORTIFIED CHURCHES Both are very close to Sibiu. The first is on top a tree-covered hill and keeps some of the last original Romanic architecture in Romania. The latter is downtown the nearby town and I do find it fascinating. You will see an old bur recently uncovered painting, a well built inside the church, a secret room for the treasures belonging the church, the very first lighting rod from Transylvania and the great museum called “10 centuries of Saxon history in Transylvania”. I’m not saying more, you should discover the rest on your own!

Enjoy a local food tasting session!

A UNESCO church, a fortress on top of the nearby hill, a forrest where thieves were hanged and much more are to be seen in Saschiz.

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APUSENI MOUNTAINS

A very nice citadel-town in the middle of Transylvania. About 300 years ago, on top of a Roman fortress the Austrians built a Vauban style fortress. It is the largest in this part of Europe, really impressive and a must-see.

They are part of our Carpathians and they are truly amazing. The most beautiful touristic cave in Romania, Bears Cave, is there. The largest icier cave, Scărișoara Cave is there. The very original Roman gold mines are there; we even have a special Gold Museum. And so many more things you will like in the Apuseni Mountains.

SIGHISOARA FORTRESS Part of UNESCO World Heritage. In the medieval citadel you’ll find houses, schools, restaurants, churches and nice squares.

It is the town where Vlad the Impaler (remember Dracula?) was born in.

How many of the above have you seen? If you answered less than 10, don’t waste time, they are surely worth seeing!

SARMIZEGETUSA REGIA

VISCRI VILLAGE

A fabulous Dacian Fortress, listed as UNESCO World Heritage. 2000 years ago, our country was named Dacia, just like the very famous car we produce here, in Romania. The capital city of Dacia was Sarmizegetusa Regia, a high positioned fortress in the mountains near the town called Orăștie. You will find 2 millenniums old walls, roads, even a spectacular Sacred Area.

Another fascinating UNESCO World Heritage small village. Over there you can learn more about Saxon traditions and culture. Also, you have the chance to see the house belonging to HRH Charles, Prince of Wales.

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BALNEO-SPA

NATURE & HISTORY

The Balvanyos Files.

Mystery and relaxation in the land of volcanoes About ten thousand years ago, the last volcanic eruption in the South Eastern part of Europe was in the Szekely Area of Romania, very close to Balvanyos Resort. Incredible forces changed the face of Earth here and created a spectacular natural inheritance.

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olcanoes have left us a few very precious elements.

We can enjoy or benefit in Romania from the presence of sulfur – a natural disinfectant and also an all-goodie for old-timer explosives and bombs, thermal springs – surely you like bathing in hot waters, mineral waters – sparkling or still, both for drinking or treatment, and last, but not least, mofettes – let’s just call them dry gas baths.

Almost all of the above can be found in the splendid area of Balvanyos, in the Eastern Carpathian Mountains of Romania; we shall tell you more about them later, stay with us.

And that is not all. History also had something to say. On the next-by hill, an old fortress guards the surroundings, remembering the knights that used to walk the mountain paths. It is named exactly like the resort, Balvanyos Fortress.

At least two legends are connected to this hill-top citadel, I am going to tell you the one I like best. It all starts with the name of the fortress, that in Hungarian language could be translated as “The 42

Citadel of the Pagans”. Our story takes place in the times when people in the area prayed to many different gods. The leader of the fortress, also pagan, was in love with a noble Christian girl. Her father was against their wedding and

planned to attack the idolater leader of Balvanyos Fortress. When armies were about to start fighting, the pagan smartly converted to Christianity. In the end, instead of starting a war, both armies joined the freshly approved wedding.

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BALNEO-SPA What a lovely story, isn’t it?

I promised to tell you about the wonders of nature you can find here; there truly is a series of interesting attractions that can be visited in the very proximity.

The oldest part of the resort was created in the late 19th century. Where that old resort functioned there is an impressive Spa-Wellness facility, but that is not part of our story. Instead, it is the start of our journey.

300 meters lower, following the the main road, one can find the so-called Apor Baths (Băile Apor). A series of nicely landscaped mineral springs are to be discovered. The very strange thing is that in meters-away springs, there are almost completely different minerals and substances, making them suitable for very different physical conditions. Some can help ill-feet, some can treat eyeinfections while others do clean our teeth with the very acid composition. At some of them one can see bubbles, different gases getting out of the ground together with the mineral water. Also, a dressing area and playing ground is to be found over there, in this curious spot of nature.

This is truly the land of mineral spring waters.

Going up the mountain for 25 minutes, a different kind of attraction can be… smelled. The largest post volcanic sulfur emanations in Europe is there.

Through a man-made cave named the Sulphurous Cave (Peștera Sulfuroasă), gas gets of the ground. And it’s a lot, 3000 cubic meters a day.

Although during the communist regime it was industrially used, today it is a natural mofette.

What is that, you might think? Let’s imagine the air; yes, the beloved gas that life cannot be imagined without.

Air actually consists in a combination of gases, oxygen being the most useful one for us. In a mofette, different gases, CO2 and sulfur in our case, naturally come out of the ground.

These gases are heavier than oxygen and they “stay” lower; the lower we go, the lesser oxygen and the more sulfur SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

NATURE & HISTORY & CO2 there is. But what happens when humans stay in such an environment? A simple process takes place: our body feels the lack of oxygen and tries to increase the blood circulation in order to deliver the same amount of oxygen to our cells.

This makes mofettes good for blood flow. The process is also used by high performance athletes for improving their performance. Smart nature, right?

The last two attractions are a bit further, let’s say, over the nearby hill.

12-13 kilometers away, there is actually the youngest volcano in Romania.

Nowadays it’s inactive, but who knows what the future will be? In the past ten millenniums, the crater of tha volcano became a green-colored water lake, St. Anne Lake (Lacul Sfânta Ana). Just imagine a natural huge pot-hole in the very place where once erupted lava, with lots of thick forests all around and water in the lower part. And all that water only comes from rain and snow melting, there is no spring to fuel the lake.

Same volcano that became St. Anne Lake had another effect. Just imagine how a volcano eruption looks like: a huge cloud of smoke goes out of the cone, up in the sky. That is beside the ashes, lava and other things that are thrown out of the volcano. Well, some of the ashes of our volcano deposited on a nearby lake, creating a special swamp, a peat bog (Tinovul Mohoș). Because the water is very acid, not much can really live there, so it is very poor in nutrients. This makes

it an unique land, mostly covered with a thick layer of moss with small lakes around. And of course, just bellow the moss there is also water. In this nutrientsless area only a few plants can grow; and they grow slower, much slower. A coldweather pine, Pinus sylvestris, can easily prove this; cut one and count the circular “rings” that tell the age of the tree; you will discover that one could be 3-5 times older that the same sized tree from a regular forest. But the wonders of nature don’t stop there. Some plants learned to survive in this harsh environment; if food is scarce in the ground, they are getting it from the air. How? They catch small insects. Yes, carnivore plants grow in the peat bog, too.

These are some of the reasons I like going to Balvanyos. Maybe they will inspire some of you, too.

AUTHOR:

Florin Arjocu

Tourist Guide florin@drumliber.ro www.drumliber.ro

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BALNEO-SPA

MEDICAL ADVICE

The precious waters of Balvanyos

B

alyanyos is a spa area of local interest, characterized by the presence of many mineral water springs, mofetta discharges of carbon dioxide and the beauty of the landscape.

Of all the local balneary factors, mineral waters play the most important role. The springs of Băile Várpad (in Poiana Transilvaniei) are used for internal therapy (the Vasas spring or the ferruginous spring), as well as in external therapy: the Vasas spring, with its bicarbonate mineral water – a chlorinated, sodic, calcic, ferruginous, carbonated, brominated and sulphurous water, and Ibolya, with the most pleasant taste of all the spa resort’s springs, with its bicarbonate, magnesian, sodic, brominated and ferruginous water.

The Seyke spring, with its brominated, sodic, chlorinated, carbonated, hypotonic water, is used for internal therapy.

There are some springs with mineral waters that are carbonated, sodic and calcic and are recommended for external therapy as well.

Mineral waters are recommended for external therapies for the following cardiovascular diseases: arterial hypertension in stages I and II, under therapeutic control; peripheric vascular 44

diseases: Raynaud’s disease, acrocyanosis, livedo reticularis; mitral and aortic insufficiency; associated chronic venous insufficiency, occlusive atherosclerosis of the inferior limbs.

They are also recommended for the treatment of diseases of the locomotor system: rheumatic, degenerative, abarticular diseases; professional diseases; neurasthenia.

There are other springs recommended for internal therapy of the following diseases: ◊ Digestive inflictions: ulcerous disease/gastritis (Imola, Ibolya, Mogyóros) and other hepatobiliary diseases (Imola, Jordan); ◊ For the stimulation of the renal function (Vasas); ◊ Anaemia (Vasas, Mogyóros).

There are three mofetta sources, the Puturoasa (En.: Stinky) grotto, the mofettas which are located in the centre of the resort and the one in Băile Csiszár, The Major Indication of Mofettas: Secondary Prophylaxis and Recovery from Cardiovascular Diseases Mineral waters have a role in prophylaxis for persons with risk forms or cardiovascular diseases 1. Dyslipidaemia; 2. Obesity;

3. Stressful life and work conditions ; 4. Arterial tension with oscillating values; 5. Smoking; 6. Heredo-collateral antecedents.

The efficacity of the balneary therapy largely depends on establishing the optimal moment of applying it and on the most appropriate choice of the resort based on the clinical profile of each patient.

AUTHOR: dr.

Gabriela Dogaru

General Practitioner Medical Rehabilitation Doctor in Medical Sciences Vicepresident of the „Romanian Association of Balneology”

Rehabilitation Hospital Cluj-Napoca U.M.F. „Iuliu Hațieganu” Cluj-Napoca

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SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

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WELLNESS TOURISM

BUSINESS VIEW

Development Opportunities for Wellness Tourism in Romania

by Ioana Marian International wellness tourism has been growing rapidly. Faster than any other form of tourism (according to Global Wellness Institute). In 2013, it was a US$439-billion market. By 2015 it had reached US$568 and is set to grow to US$808 by 2020 (which is almost equal to the value of cultural tourism in 2013). In Europe, almost 250 million wellness trips took place in 2015 (this is the biggest number from all the continents).

There are two main types of wellness tourists: ◊ Primary wellness tourist: A tourist whose trip or destination is primarily motivated by wellness. ◊ Secondary wellness tourist: A tourist who seeks to maintain wellness while traveling or who participates in wellness experiences while taking any type of trip for leisure or business.

Although Europe is a leader when it comes to the number of wellness trips (primary and secondary), in Romania this segment is still a niche.

But why would we need wellness tourists in Romania?

Because international wellness vacations are 64% more expensive than normal vacations, whereas the prices of local wellness vacations are 164% higher than those of a usual vacation; Because the lack of synchronization with this trend might causes a decrease in “premium” tourists in Romania.

What has Romania to offer in terms of wellness tourism?

A fascinating combination of specific leisure (wellness) activities and authentic Romanian elements: ◊ A balanced and healthy diet.

Alkaline menus based on a mix of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are definitely going to impress wellness tourists. Local blends might be used for the preparation of delicious teas; ◊ Nature walks. We are lucky to number among Europe’s few countries that have forests, mountains, sea etc.

For instance, one of the trendiest therapies nowadays is “forest bathing” (a Japanese technique that consists of walking meditation in nature); ◊ Solutions for movement – according to each destination (mountain, seaside, cities etc.), there are lots of innovative solutions for getting in 46

shape: bicycle renting (including mountain biking), horsemanship, mountain routes, fitness clubs etc.)

Hotels and pension hotels should have locally crafted soaps, douche gels, body lotions, made of specific local ingredients; ◊ Spa therapies – in spa centers where clients can unwind both physically and mentally with the help of ingredients, breathing exercises and the maneuvres of the therapist;Access to cultural circuits and visiting mofettes, mineral and thermal springs, salt mines, therapeutic likes and other natural cure factors from our country (more on this topic on page 28).

The correct choice of a spa center is essential for obtaining the state of wellbeing everyone longs for. Certain criteria should be respected in order to create a flawless experience. Two of the most crucial aspects are the personnel and the atmosphere, which should relax all senses. Should you have any questions regarding the choice of a spa center, the despreSpa.ro team can answer any request in this sense!)

There are spa centers that offer authentic Romanian spa therapies (some of them are described on pages 14-28).

What can be done in order to develop wellness tourism in Romania?

1. E n h a n c e communication (in all possible ways: international fairs, online, travel agencies etc.) and spread the idea that Romania is a wellness destination that can offer innovative elements and unique experiences.

2. Develop the spa market. First of all, we need the support of Tourism and Works Ministries in order to obtain job nomenclatures. This aspect is vital for the future foundation of spa schools, which is key to the continuous development of spa therapists. This is also an essential step for the synchronization of Romania with international trends in spa & wellness.

The Romanian Spa Association and despreSpa.ro are already endeavoring to make progress in this sense. We are very happy to have facilitated the access of Romanian spa centers’ representatives to the Global Mentorship Program. You can read more about this on page 66.

3. Special training of personnel in travel agencies to be able to attract wellness tourists (upon request, the despreSpa.ro team can help disseminate wellness-related notions and train the personnel to promote balneary treatment facilities and differentiate correctly between spa, balneary and therapeutic rehabilitation centers.

4. Introduction of wellness & spa tourism courses in the academic curriculum of Tourism Faculties.

Source: https:/globalwellnessinstitute.org/

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ROMANIAN BRANDS

NATURAL RESOURCES

MALNAȘ AQUA TELLURIS Malnaş Aqua Telluris is a clear example that each glass of water has its own story. A long story, a historical one in which all the natural elements of the Earth are present. The locals called it Maria Spring and spread its fame so that anybody could enjoy the healing water from the Malnaş hills. That is how the Austro-Hungarian Emperor, Franz-Joseph himself sought relief for his sufferings through treatments with Malnaş water, recommended by his doctor.

T

oday, the story is continued.

The spring flows uninterrupted in order to restore the body equilibrium of those who are drinking it.

1460 B.C. The history of the small settlement called Malnaş-Băi begins.

1694 The noble family Kalnoky built the first bottle manufacturing factory near Malnaş. The glass recipients to bottle the water Maria spring were produced here.

1759 The name of Malnaş-Băi resort has been mentioned for the first time during a census: the locals have established cold baths and mofettas here.

1873 Malnaş-Băi received the official status of resort and the growing number of patients who visited the resort lead to the diversification of the treatments.

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1888 80.000 Bottles of therapeutic water from Maria spring were sold annually.

1903 The Ministry of Internal Affairs issued a decree attesting the healing properties of Maria Spring.

The cold water from Maria Spring arises with high pressure from the depths of the aquifer layers having a volcanic origin, fact which prevents its contact with any contaminants from the soil or the surface water.

The beneficial effects of the Malnaş Aqua Telluris water have been officially certified by the Ministry of Health and were confirmed for centuries by the testimonies of the people who used it.

Several studies prove that the water from Maria Spring has the following effects, just to mention few of it: ◊ digestive comfort and

improvement of acid reflux; an alkaline effect (sodium bicarbonate, potassium, calcium, magnesium and carbon dioxide) and a significant impact on adjusting the acid-base level in the human body; ◊ helps lowering blood pressure and cholesterol; ◊ excellent source of antioxidants and cleans out toxins; ◊ improves intercellular communication and increases the level of nerve interconnections.

Last but not least, Aqua Telluris is bottled in ceramic recipients in order to ensure and preserve its freshness and curative effects.

Enjoy Health, Enjoy Life, Enjoy Aqua Telluris! ◊

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spa arena

SUPERFOODS

EXPERT OPINION

Romanian Superfoods at Work and a Special Challenge Superfoods are a special category of foods found in nature, they say. Calorie sparse and nutrient dense, these special ingredients are packed a lot of punch for their weight as far as goodness goes. They are superior sources of anti-oxidants and essential nutrients nutrients we need but cannot make ourselves.

W

e all may be adding more salads and vegetables to our diets, but concern over the quality of foods grown on mineral depleted soils makes superfoods an intelligent choice.

Not all superfoods need to be imported though. Mother nature has been kind to Romanian soil and we have the option of enjoying their benefits as soon as they are harvested.

I used to be a huge fan of ginseng.

And then, I discovered the Romanian ginseng, sea buckthorn, containing 4 times the quantity of a crucial healing enzymes (SOD) compared to ginseng.

This little orange berry also provides 10 times more vitamin C than oranges and it is the 3rd highest source of Vitamin E in the plant world. Hosting protein building amino acids, vitamins

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B1, B2, K, C, A, E, and folic acid, over 60 antioxidants, at least 20 minerals, and healthy fatty acids (Omega 3, 6, 9 and the rare Omega 7, it is easy to rank high in the superfoods list.

It has been used to heal psoriasis and make skin glow, boost immunity, slow aging, and lower cholesterol, but it also has numerous other qualities that make it a superior source of vitamins and minerals we all need. In other words, a superfood. And medicine for our grandparents, who used not only its fruits but also its leaves and roots. It is very well known for its anti-inflammatory and antibiotic effects, even for being a great aphrodisiac.

Starting with the end of August until late November you’ll find in the local Romanian market, freshly harvested sea buckthorn. On your way to the mountains you may see them for sale on

the side of the road. Buy as much as you can and freeze it as is or make juice, syrup, jam, or blend it in a 1:1 combination with honey. Cleaning may be a pain but the effects are worth it. Challenge yourself to start your day with a glass of warm water, lemon and 30 ml of local sea buckthorn juice for 90 days.

See the effects for yourself. Expect high energy levels, an easier digestion, a super immunity and an amazingly glowing skin.

AUTHOR: Andreea

Mihalcea

Founder of “Totul despre Raw” www.totuldespreraw.ro

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HI-TECH

ANTI-AGING

Dr. Lestyan’s Anti-aging Program

Getting old is a normal and inevitable psychological process. However, our lifestyle deeply influences the aging process, making it dependent on how much we value our body and especially our skin. We recommend Dr. Lestyan’s anti-aging program, which is a very complex process that works both internally and externally and which, through its immediate effects, develops a beautiful, healthy and smooth skin.

T

he program is recommended to both men and women above 35 years old, and is mandatory at least two times per year. The internal treatment is based on the administration of a natural and ecological extract of beer yeast that promotes cellular oxygenation having an antioxidant and regenerative effect. The whole internal administration process lasts 14 days and interferes with the detoxification process incorporating a plethora of rejuvenation effects.

The external treatment is made with 100% organic and dermato cosmetic products from Pevonia Botanica, being based on a total body exfoliation. The SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

exfoliation is produced with a product made of pineapple, papaya and Creme Fraiche natural butter and it will remove dead cells and stimulate skin regeneration from the germ layer of the epidermis. The process is followed by a French lavender and safflower seeds oil body massage which will help your skin become smooth.

The facial lifting treatment is done through quadripolar radiofrequency, which on the one hand will stimulate the fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin and on the other hand will help the products made of Phyto Elite stem cells extracted from argan and tartar to penetrate all your body tissues and to act

as a skin repair kit.

The program lasts 14 days being a complete solution against the unwanted aging signs.

CONTACT Address: Parc I.C.Brătianu Street, No. 26, Oradea, Bihor county Phone: +40 359 401 033 www.hotelelite.ro 51

ROMANIAN HERBS

TRADITIONS

The power of herbs The first known study on plants was penned almost 5,000 years ago during the reign of the Chinese emperor Chi’en Nung. It was called “Pen Tsao” and contained descriptions of the medicinal use of more than 300 plants. Around 2000 BC, ancient Egyptians were using plants for medicinal purposes, as cosmetics and for embalming.

The Greeks and Romans perfected some of these techniques and developed entirely new ones of their own. Their studies were discovered through Hippocrates’ writings from the 5th century BC and from Dioscorides’ books “De Materia Medica” and the 37 volumes written by Pliny the Elder, “Naturalis Historia” (both works pertaining to the 1st century AD).

by Dr. Cristina Hanganu

52

ZEN CONCEPT. ZEN DESIGN. ZEN CONTENT.

ROMANIAN HERBS

TRADITIONS

T

here were two traditions in the field of phytotherapy (or herbalism) in Western Europe. One was of superstitious character: certain plants were used as popular remedies because they were believed to resemble various parts of the human body. For instance, horseheal has leaves shaped like lungs, so it was used for treating coughs: this application method was known as the “doctrine of signatures”. The other herbal tradition is based on scientific experiments which were at first carried out by monks in the gardens of monasteries.

A series of documents testify to the use of plants in traditional medicine in Romania as well.

“Herbarium” is the first book of medicinal plants, printed in Cluj -Napoca in 1578, in which it is mentioned that the witch doctor / healer has the task of studying herbs to discover the ones having healing properties and antidote effects for certain types of poisons.

Written over a century later, the SlavicRomanian Lexicon of 1694 comprises of recommendations regarding the denomination and usage of some medicinal plants like mint and chamomile.

In the Monography of Transylvania (1778) entitled “Transsylvania sive Magnus Transsylvaniae Principatus, olim Dacia Mediterranea dictus” (En: “Transylvania or the Great Principality of Transylvania, formerly Mediterranean Dacia”), Benko showed that Romanian women especially used several “weeds” neglected by others in the cure of certain

“A series of documents testify to the use of plants in traditional medicine in Romania as well.

“Herbarium” is the first book of medicinal plants, printed in Cluj-Napoca in 1578, in which it is mentioned that the healer has the task of studying herbs to discover the ones having healing properties and antidote effects for certain types of poisons.”

SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

illnesses. The same author mentions: “… the Romanian people knows herbs very well and – putting them to good use use – surpasses other peoples in this area”.

Sigerus P. is credited for having published an almost complete list of medicinal herbs of Transylvania in 1791.

Details about the use of medicinal herbs also appear in the works of the Romanian Piuariu-Molnar (1749-1815), intellectual of the Enlightenment period, and in the paper of Samuel Vulcan written at the beginning of the 19th century.

The research carried out regarding medicinal herbs truly took off in the 19th century because of the remarkable studies

carried out by the French scientist Claude Bernard. In 1900, Pax F. wrote: “… the Romanian people generally knows the plant world better than it is known in Germany”, having been impressed by the knowledge on plants of the many peasants he had met during his scientific trip to the Carpathians and to other regions of our country.

Romania is the meeting place of the Eurasian and Mediterranean floras. Over 3,600 species of superior plants grow in Romania, of which 700 have become medicinal herbs, thanks to the continued experience of Romanians in using them for therapeutic purposes.

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TRADITIONS

ROMANIAN HERBS The parts that can be used from a medicinal plant for producing remedies are: ◊ The aerial part, in its entirety (herba); ◊ The subterranean organs: the root (radix), the rhizome (rhizoma), the tubercle (tubera), the bulb (bulbus); ◊ The leaf (folium); ◊ The buds (turiones, gemmae); ◊ The flower (flores); ◊ The fruit (fructus); ◊ The seed (semen); ◊ The bark off the stem or the root (cortex).

For a better understanding of the versatility of plants and the amazing yield of therapeutic applications, I shall present you three spring-summer flowers: the cornflower, the marigold and the English marigold.

CORNFLOWERS (Centaurea cyanus) Originally found in Southern Europe, these flowers grow in cereal crops (especially those of wheat and rye), on the side of the road, in dry and rocky areas, in plain and hill areas, spread throughout the country. The used part of the plant: its flowers. The marginal flowers (Cyani flores) are harvested in July-August, while they are blue, only during dry weather conditions, after the morning dew has evaporated. The florescence in its entirety (Cyani flores cum receptaculi) is plucked during the blossoming period (July-September).

Chemical composition: anthocyanins and proanthocyanins, glycoside bioflavonoids, flavones, bitter substances: cyanine; tannin; potassium and magnesium salts; mucilage.

Pharmaceutical action: tonic, renal disinfectant, skin disinfectant.

Therapeutic recommendations and usage: cornflowers are used as a natural remedy for the treating and healing of: renal and bladder conditions; kidney and liver diseases, as a diuretic; eye infections; wrinkled eyelids; for toning saggy muscles (applied as compresses); haemorrhoids, bowel diseases and infections; indigestions, anorexia; eczemas, diarrhoea; dark circles, intestinal and stomach cramps in infants; constipation can also be treated with cornflower and aloe tincture.

Other uses: cosmetics – for toning the skin and preventing saggy eyelids.

Contraindications, precautions and/ or side effects: possible sensitivity to Asteraceae.

Product form: 54

◊

◊ ◊

Tea, alongside: plantain, marshmallow, Iceland moss, fir tree; a stronger effect for chest illnesses; bowel diseases; it increases the diuresis process; is indicated against kidney diseases; as an

infusion: renal and bladder diseases, haemorrhoids; Cataplasms (compresses): eye infections, blepharitis, cataract in early stages; Tincture made of fresh or dry flowers: anorexia, muscle atony,

bronchitis, diarrhoea, dysuria (difficult, painful urination), purulent eczemas, haemorrhoids – the tincture must be shaken and applied externally; in case of wounds or internal discomfort, it

◊ ◊

will be drunk instead of water; Powder: muscle atony, bronchitis, dyspepsia, purulent eczemas, haemorrhoids; Decoction: compresses applied for the dark circles around the eyes.

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ROMANIAN HERBS MARIGOLDS (Tagetes patula, Tagetes erecta) A herb that loves sun and light, the marigold is an ornamental garden plant originating in Mexico and Argentina, perfectly acclimatized to the conditions in Romania, blooming throughout summer, between the months of May and October. The vividly coloured yellow, orange or red flowers (Tages flores) are used for therapeutic purposes. They are to be picked on days with clear skies, when the active ingredients and volatile oils of the plant are in an ideal phase.

Chemical composition: they mainly contain carotenoids, flavones, volatile oil.

Carotenoids are represented by helenin, which is present in the highest amount (0,01 – 1.45 %), alpha- and beta-carotene, violaxanthin, rubixanthin-epoxide, phytoene, flavaxanthin, lycopene, rubichrome, cis and trans isomers of zeaxanthin, cis and trans isomers of lutein, lutein esters.

Pharmaceutical action: the marigold extract contains helenin, which intervenes in the function of photosensitive pigments in the retina, increasing their biosynthesis and enhancing the adjustment speed of the eye to light and darkness, bettering the accustoming of the normal eye to night vision and refractive errors; patuletin decreases capillary permeability, has an anti-spastic and hypotensive action, regulates intraocular tension and blood flow to the retina, fights eye fatigue, decreases ocular tension, has a vermicide and purgative effect. The marigold extract has proven to be efficient in the treatment of plantar hyperkeratosis by decelerating the inflammatory process. The alcoholic extract obtained from the marigold root has proven to have hypotensive, anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcerous properties. The volatile oil has an antifungal action in the use against two phytopathogenic fungi, Botrytis cinerea and Penicillium digitatum. This volatile oil also demonstrates anti-spastic, antibiotic, diuretic, vermicide and insecticide properties (in its use against the larvi of Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensisi Culex quinquefaciatus), properties that come from the thiophene derivates.

In popular medicine, marigolds are used as a vermicide and purgative (actions based on tagetone) and for stopping nose bleeds. Marigold oil is anti-infective, antibiotic, antiparasitic, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, insecticide and sedative.

Furthermore, it has antioxidant and antimutagenic effects because of the SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

TRADITIONS xanthophylls and lutein contained and offers protection against UVA radiations.

Therapeutic recommendations and use: External use: helenin – glaucoma, cecity (the lack of the capacity to distinguish objects through eyesight) of a

pigmentosa and myopia; Marigold extract: for plantar hyperkeratosis; extracts/volatile oils: calluses, cutaneous mycoses (Tinea pedis), candidiasis, eczemas, pityriasis (dermatoses), sun burns;

nocturnal type, also known as nyctalopia, and a diurnal type (hemeralopia) or the lack of the capacity to adapt to nocturnal or diurnal light, to the transition from darkness to light and light to darkness. It is recommended to people working long hours on the computer or overusing their eyes in their line of work; it stimulates visual acuity; recommended for retinitis

Internal use: marigold tea – for better eyesight, The extracts obtained from flowers have antioxidant properties because of the lutein content. The infusion is used for intestinal worms, as well as a purgative.

The alcoholic extract from the root of the marigold is hypotensive, antiinflammatory and anti-ulcerous.

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ROMANIAN HERBS Other uses: cosmetics – it is used in the composition of products that prevent photo-aging (anti-aging effect, cremes for mature skin, eye contouring, after-sun lotion) and as an agent for maintaining skin elasticity.

Insecticide: this plant releases odours which mosquitos do not like and that will succeed in keeping them at bay. It contains natural poisons for pests.

The liquid marigold extract not only has insecticide qualities, but also phytocide properties, being an excellent remedy against insects, as well as phytopathogenic fungi, Botrytis cinerea and Penicillium digitatum; Contraindications, precautions, side effects: the oil must be used prudently, as it may produce photosensitivity and contact dermatitis. The extracts and volatile oils of Tagetes are phototoxic.

ENGLISH MARIGOLDS (Calendula officinalis) With its origin in the Mediterranean region, this herb grows spontaneously or is cultivated as a decorative plant in gardens, near the walls of houses, near pathways, roads and in parks. Spread and well-known throughout Europe since as early as the Middle Ages, this herb with yellow-orange flowers has amazing healing powers. In the past, it was called “the rain flower” because when it did not bloom, it would surely rain soon enough.

Its flowers are used with or without their receptacles (Calendulae flores) for therapeutic purposes. The flowers are plucked when it is sunny, when the flower is open and the volatile oils are released.

Chemical composition: flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamin C, etheric oils, bitter substances, saponosides and triterpene alcohols, sterols, derived polyphenolcarboxylic acids, resins, mucilage.

Pharmaceutical action: a strong immunostimulator (due to the presence of homogenous polyholosides), antiinflammatory, decongestive, antiseptic, antimicrobial (inhibits the development of E. colli, Staphyloccocus aureus, Candida albicans, Trichomonas); scar healing effect (saponosides, carotenoids, flavones), accelerates the healing and regeneration of tissue, regulates menstrual cycles, carminative; regulates biliary function through bitter principles; Hypolipidemic action (saponosides), choleretic action (caffeic esters); spermicide (saponosides); oestrogenic (sterols).

Therapeutic recommendations and use: Internal use: in treating gastro56

TRADITIONS intestinal inflammations, hyperacid gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers,

vaginal trichomoniasis, conjunctivitis.

burns,

gallbladder inflammations, atonic and hypotonic dyskinesia, increase of the biliary secretion of the hepatic cells, against haemorrhoids (haemorrhoidal anti-inflammatory, healing action of internal scars); in treating stomach diseases; in treating dysmenorrhea.

External use: treating leucorrhoea (vaginal secretion), acne, eczemas, burns, frostbite, injuries, purulent wounds, ulcerations, abscesses, fistulas, tegumentary diseases, skin cracks, crusts on the scalp.

Other uses: Internal use: for treating gastritis, ulcers, haemorrhagic cystitis, furunculosis (boils); External use: for treating frostbite, eczemas, wounds, purulent sores, papillomatosis (warts, excrescences),

Cosmetics: for treating dry skin; eye hygiene (conjunctivitis, blepharitis), treating wrinkled eyelids.

Contraindications, precautions, side effects: it can cause side effects (Asteraceae) Product form: Infusion – for treating gastrointestinal inflammations, hyperacid gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, gallbladder inflammations, atonic and hypotonic dyskinesia, increase of the biliary secretion of the hepatic cells, against haemorrhoids (haemorrhoidal antiinflammatory, internal wound healer) Tincture – for regulating the menstrual cycle; treating gastro-duodenal ulcer; Decoction – is administered internally, as well as externally, gargle (aphthae, stomatitis, gingivitis, pharyngitis), sit-

ZEN CONCEPT. ZEN DESIGN. ZEN CONTENT.

ROMANIAN HERBS down baths, external compresses (curing ulcers, eschars, abscesses, pustules, fissures, frostbite), douches, enemas; Plant powder – for anti-inflammatory effect, wound healing (it should be stored in tightly sealed containers, for maximum 10 days, because of their swiftly evaporating volatile oils); The English marigold ointment can be successfully used in several dermatological diseases or for general skin care.

A mixture of plants (English marigold, nut shells, Veronica officinalis, yarrow, oak, meadowsweet, greater celandine) is used to treat psoriasis, leukaemia; lung cancer; gastric cancer and colon cancer (English marigold, Shepherd’s purse, yarrow) with anti-arthritic effect (English marigold, comfrey, field horsetail).

Gemmotherapy is the new branch of herbalism that uses the embryonic tissue of plants (from their stage of cell division), also called meristematic tissues or meristems, for cellular detoxification and implicitly, for cellular functionality.

Gemmotherapy is a therapy type derived from herbalism, using mainly the special features of young plant tissues, like buds, tendrils (small twigs), seeds, etc. These parts of the plant are separated in the form of glycerinate macerates, i.e. hydroglycerol-alcoholic solutions, in 1/10 dilution. The fact that the gemmotherapy products are administered in 1/10 dilution places gemmotherapy at the borderline between homeopathy and phytotherapy.

The gemmo-derivates can be used alone or in combination with other alternative therapies or the prescribed medication, in diseases affecting the systems.

There are gemmo-derivates destined for seasonal or chronic respiratory affections, for cardio-vascular illnesses, digestive or endocrine afflictions, for anaemias, skin afflictions, but also for neurasthenia and mild forms of depression.

Just in a small number of medical cases, there are no benefits of this type of therapy. It has no effects in severe organ afflictions, in crucial damages, it is no placeholder for surgical interventions and it cannot help when the body is affected by major tissue alterations or destructions.

In these cases, we shall firmly address the means and methods provided by allopathic medicine. Furthermore, in severe psychic affections, like endogenous psychoses, synthetic therapy will be used in the beginning.

SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

TRADITIONS Here are some therapeutic schemes of gemmo-derivates to exemplify the types of illnesses that benefit from the treatment with gemmo-derivates – from plants found in our region: chronic venous insufficiency and varicose disease, as well as haemorrhoids can be treated with dogwood, edible chestnut and wild chestnut. ◊ Lymphedema and water retention respond to the combination of extracts from chokeberry buds, edible chestnuts, birch sap and beech buds. ◊ Colitis – the recommendation is of extracts from edible chestnut buds, hornbeam, fig, walnut and cranberry twigs. If the condition is complemented by an irritable colon, fig bud extracts and silver linden will be added. ◊ Constipation is ameliorated with extracts of oak tree buds and cranberry twigs. ◊ Biliary dyskinesia can be treated with extracts of maple tree buds, rosemary twigs and black honeysuckle. ◊ Gastritis can be helped with a therapy of extracts out of blackcurrant buds, fig, silver linden and black alder. ◊ Bone-articular afflictions are treated with extracts from tendrils of wild grapevine, grapevine buds, birch, ash, birch sap, buds of downy birch, juniper, tendrils of blackberry or cranberry. ◊ Respiratory afflictions such as bronchitis, nasopharyngitis, rhinitis and sinusitis can be treated with extracts from buds of blackcurrant, grapevine, viburnum, common hornbeam, walnut, fir tree, black alder, poplar, extracts of dog-rose tendrils or apricot tree seeds (the latter are beneficial in combating coughs). ◊ Psychic afflictions can also be helped – under certain circumstances – by the effects of gemmotherapy. In cases of diffuse anxiety, for instance, the administration of silver linden and fig bud extracts can help, and depression in a mild state can be cured with extracts from buds of oak tree, fig tree and tendrils of black honeysuckle. ◊ In sustained intellectual activity, as well as in cases of exhaustion, extracts from buds of birch, rosemary tendrils, birch seeds

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and acorns can be administered.

In feminine genital afflictions, extracts of raspberry and blackberry tendrils, of blackcurrant and grey alder buds are recommended.

Urinary afflictions can be treated with tendrils of common heather, cranberry and blueberry, poplar buds.

Allergies are ameliorated with extracts of blackcurrant buds and rosemary tendrils.

Cellulitis can be fought against – in association with other methods – with the help of extracts from birch sap, beech tree buds, edible chestnut tree and ash tree, tendrils of wild privet.

In case of osteoporosis, the extracts from the tendrils of cranberry, blackberry, blackcurrant, juniper and grapevine can be used in combination.

In diabetes, that does not require anti-diabetes treatment, alongside an appropriate diet, the extracts of buds of walnut, mulberry, maple and those coming out of the tendrils of blueberry and blackberry are indicated for treatment. Dyslipidaemias and hypercholesterolemia can be ameliorated by administering extracts from twigs of olive tree, juniper, birch sap.

In obesity, next to a systematic workout and diet plan, extracts from ash tree, fig tree, silver linden buds, from flowers of downy birch and twigs from juniper and rosemary can be administered.

Whichever the afflictions for which the phytotherapeutic and gemmoderivative treatments are desired, the schemes are strictly individualised and address each person directly. Even if they seem innocent, getting the opinion of a specialist is recommended before a therapeutic strategy is put in place – not only to avoid possible toxicities, but also for increasing the efficiency of the treatment.

AUTHOR: Dr.

Cristina Hanganu

General Practitioner, Family Physician with Specializations in Acupuncture and Homeopathy www.perfectmed.wordpress.com Office: Carol Davila street, no. 33, 1st floor, ap. 2, Sector 5, Bucharest Appointments: + 40 720 445 532

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ROMANIAN BRANDS

LAVENDER

How Romanians Fell in Love with Lavender Lavender is a medicinal and aromatic plant used uninterruptedly for over 2,000 years in different forms, ranging from macerated plants to teas and essential oil. Egyptians used lavender for embalming because of its antiseptic and, thus, antibacterial properties. Moreover, some biblical interpretations state that lavender oil was even used by Mary to cover Jesus’ foot soles after birth (she used nard chrism). The name for lavender in that period is thought to have been “nard” (from the Greek “naardus”).

T

here are many species of lavender (if we also take into consideration the hybrids from present time, the count lies at over 30 species), and the classic variants have their origin in the basin of the Mediterranean Sea – on the European, as well as the African coast. The famous Lavandula angustifolia, the type of lavender giving us that fine essential oil used in medicine, cosmetics and the perfume industry, is 58

strongly linked to the Provence region in France, where it is natively encountered at altitudes of over 1200 m, in an arid and hot climate. The landscapes flushed with lavender, the white-reddish soils and the stone houses are stunning and have inspired many photographers over time.

That is the point from where our story commences, when a trip to Provence has left us charmed for life. As we left parts of our hearts there, we took lavender in their stead and brought it back with us to

Romania, to the arid hills in the Western part of our country.

After a few years of playing around with lavender, after many visits to the old lavender farms throughout Europe and after many tests without any results, we finally succeeded in obtaining something grand in our country. We started a lavender crop from which we produce essential lavender oil of high quality, with the properties of a therapeutic product. Its fine, yet concentrated aromas

ZEN CONCEPT. ZEN DESIGN. ZEN CONTENT.

ROMANIAN BRANDS

LAVENDER

encapsulate the environment from which it stems in a unique and very distinguished manner. From experts of luxury perfumeries to the utmost uninitiated noses, anyone opening a bottle of our essential lavender oil will savour the scent of the reddish soils of the Pișchia hills, the aroma of summer rain showers brought on by warm winds and the love with which we care for each plant of our harvest.

It’s divine.

Although we started off timidly, with just a few lavender plants in a balcony, in time, we came to own a farm in the true sense of the word, a distillery unit and a line of production for natural cosmetic products. We then found out who our customers are and what their needs are. Thus, we came to develop – for and with the help of our clients – an essential lavender oil optimally reaching the height of their expectations.

We discovered that many of our customers want lavender oil for its delicate scent and its calming and regenerative properties. We played with a mix between those types of lavender that exploit these properties at a chemical level. We allotted hundreds of hours to reading scientific research studies on lavender crops located in a multitude of meteorological and pedologic conditions, looking for the perfect recipe to produce a highly soothing, regenerative and beautifully scented lavender oil.

Starting from the essential lavender oil, we started developing and are permanently diversifying our range of products by testing other medicinal and aromatic herbs. We experiment with mint, melissa, several types of basil, savory, rosemary, hamamelis and other very interesting plants.

Our passion for lavender grew in time, and this purple plant with its enticing smell has become our symbol and stands for everything we do.

At this point, we sell to customers in Romania and the European Union, for home use, as well as for professional purposes, in beauty salons. Soon, we will enter the Canadian and Asian markets as well.

CONTACT You can find out more about the brand Mayie by clicking here.

SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

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wellbeing@despreSpa.ro

CORPORATE

The Creation of a New Trend in Corporate Wellness – the Wellness Teambuilding

Why do corporations in Romania fear to include wellness aspects in the teambuilding activities or the events dedicated to mingling and socialising amongst colleagues?

A legitimate question if we consider that the global trend regarding the access to wellness and well-being programs for employees show that the internal boundaries of the company have started to be crossed. More and more companies encourage their employees to participate in national and international sports’ competitions, some companies offer considerable bonuses depending on the results obtained in such challenges and there are renowned companies that have started to introduce a new way of organizing their work schedule in the office – for instance, work starting on Tuesday!

by Iulia Dincă, Corporate Wellness Consultant @ despreSpa.ro

I

n 2001, Harvard Business Review has included in its pages an interesting study dedicated to people that have or wish to have a carrier in the corporate world. This study takes on a very delicate aspect of the way in which people working in an environment that requires performance must rise to the level of expectations imposed by the corporation and must perform without fault to achieve a full list of KPIs. The thesis, very becomingly entitled The Making of a Corporate Athlete, is actually based on a study showing that there is a direct link between the way in which a performance athlete must have the best possible results within competitions and the way in which employees must 60

have results that are comparable to those of athletes with a similar stress level in competitions, only that in their case, this must occur on a daily basis and longterm! And so, the question that arises, in a funny way, is: which of the two is actually the performance athlete?

Back to the study, here is what the authors Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz say: “...if there is one quality that executives seek for themselves and their employees, it is sustained high performance in the face of ever-increasing pressure and rapid change. But the source of such performance is as elusive as the fountain of youth. Management theorists have long sought to identify precisely what makes some people flourish under pressure

and others fold. The problem with most approaches, we believe, is that they deal with people only from the neck up, connecting high performance primarily with cognitive capacity. In recent years there has been a growing focus on the relationship between emotional intelligence and high performance. A few theorists have addressed the spiritual dimension – how deeper values and a sense of purpose influence performance.

Almost no one has paid any attention to the role played by physical capacities. A successful approach to sustained high performance, we have found, must pull together all of these elements and consider the person as a whole. Thus, our integrated theory of performance

ZEN CONCEPT. ZEN DESIGN. ZEN CONTENT.

wellbeing@despreSpa.ro management addresses the body, the Why teambuilding? Why wellness? emotions, the mind, and the spirit.”

Well, the explanation is at hand: because In other words, the conclusion was teambuilding is, by definition, an event reached that the majority of studies dedicated to the employees of a company carried out up to that point had only that includes diverse types of activities considered a part of the performance through which they are meant to come equation of the employees, i.e. it was closer to one another, they learn to know believed that a high level of performance one another better and to communicate is singularly connected to the cognitive with one another and, especially, to work capacity of people. What the authors as a team with one common purpose managed to demonstrate through their – expanding the company. Thus, it study was the fact that the human body represents the first type of event that any mustn’t be ignored in its entirety! Each corporation should focus on! However, physical and meta-physical part of each we all know that there are pros as well person has a unique imprint which can as cons when it comes to going away for be highlighted via a set of simple rules to quite a while with a large group of people follow. These will have as direct benefits with different lifestyles, that do not know the growth of the individual’s capacity one another very well and whom, to to concentrate, to be more efficient in top it off, you place in a series of group time management and to obtain notable activities in the hope that they all go back performances in the long run. home happy and motivated to work, the One of the most interesting discoveries, at least from our point of view, „More than anything, the real problem is the fact that the enemy of is the lack of an intermittent and performance is not at all disciplined recovery program based stress, which is paradoxically a on a surprising element… relaxation!” stimulus for the development and the expanding of abilities. More than anything, the real problem is the lack of an intermittent and disciplined recovery next day. That is why many companies program based on a surprising element… have decided to give up such events, as relaxation! Chronic stress that is not there is no concrete solution to obtain the treated, first and foremost, through desired results. recovery breaks can end up consuming all The risks of failure in a teambuilding the energy reserves that we own and lead are diminished in the precise moment to physical and psychological burnout, in which you propose – to the same which will affect our performance considered group of people – to leave for levels directly. The forming of rituals an unusual adventure in which the main in which stress and recovery are two attractions will be: a spa centre, relaxing characteristics that rhythmically oscillate massages and also energising activities in our entire lifestyle, at the office, as such as time spent in the swimming well as in our private life, is the second pools, saunas and hot tubs! To all of this, great component for achieving our high- you add some interesting ingredients, performance levels. Regularly repeated, maybe even as a first time for many of these rituals that are very precise and the participants: meditation and body developed in a conscious way will turn balance activities, ancient techniques for into routine and will be much easier bettering the quality of sleep etc., as well integrated in a healthy lifestyle. as a healthy diet made up of an alkaline And since we are talking about a menu (at least 70% of it, as coffee will not corporate environment, an interesting be totally forbidden!), which you complete way to introduce basic notions about with smoothies, natural juices prepared healthy principles through which on the spot out of fresh vegetables and employees can reach a higher performance fruit, diverse cereals and spices. All of level is that of teambuilding wellness. these characteristics are the components SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

CORPORATE of wellness, true instruments which can influence a positive change in our current lifestyle. Does it really sound so scary?

Maybe... Is it a totally different approach to “the classic teambuilding”? It most definitely is! Nevertheless, it does not seem so totally inapproachable when – whichever the place you find yourself at in your carrier and your personal life at that particular time – you realize that now is the time in which you could learn how to truly take care of yourself and the ones around you, so that you can afterwards develop the necessary resources to grow in the most harmonious way possible.

Introduce the equilibrium figure Spaventura®, the teambuilding wellness program created by despreSpa. ro, is the only such type of program in Romania that offers a complete experience (body, mind and soul) and which is constructed on a few keyingredients (spa, a menu that is 70% alkaline, wellness activities and wellness treasure hunts), carefully combined with care in an unusual program, that is relaxing and invigorating!

In a corporate environment that is changing at warp speed, performing consistently at high levels is more difficult and more necessary than ever. Narrow interventions simply aren’t sufficient anymore. They appear less advantageous as the desires of the employees in having a work environment to offer them certain benefits grows, an environment in which their work is recognized for its true value. Also, companies have reached the conclusion that they do not afford to address their employees only from the perspective of their hobbies, passions and material things, completely ignoring their wellbeing on all three levels: physical, emotional and mental.

Companies can’t afford to address their employees’ cognitive capacities while ignoring their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. “On the playing field or in the boardroom, high performance depends as much on how people renew and recover energy as on how they expend it, on how they manage their lives as much as on how they manage their work. When people feel strong and resilent – physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually – they perform better, with more passion, for longer. They win, their families win, and the corporations that employ them win.” (Jim Loehr, Tonz Schwartz, The Making of a Corporate Athlete - Harvard Business Review, 2001)

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www.completebeauty.ro

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SPA BUSINESS

ESPA Innovation Awards

he European Spas Association is an umbrella industry organisation representing 20 members from 19 European countries. The European Spa Association’s global objective is to promote spas and balneology in Europe and to take care that the natural remedies based on mineral water, landscape and climate will be available to as great a number of citizens and visitors as possible.

ESPA was founded in 1995 in Brussels as an umbrella association for national spa associations in Europe. It is a non-profit and non-governmental association based on Belgian law (A.I.S.B.L.). It has represented the interests of European spas in Brussels, the continent’s political nerve centre, ever since.

Since the beginning, ESPA has built up a close network of contacts with policymakers as well as leading representatives of science and business.

This goes to benefit above all our members - for only with a strong association the opportunities offered by Europe can be used to the full.

SERVICES BENEFITING ESPA MEMBERS ◊ Network of and for health resort and spa experts; ◊ Certification of health resorts and spa facilities (EuropeSpa); ◊ Consultation on legislation and regulation in the member states; ◊ Contacts by communication and collaboration with members and operators in Europe and worldwide; ◊ Support for research and the provision of information; ◊ Development of health resorts and spas together with experts.

ESPA in Action for the... ◊ Recognition of local natural remedies; ◊ ESPA supports Balneology medical research groups, in which medical doctors with a high scientific level;

SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

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Will play an active role; Set up of the ESPA scientific committee of medical doctors.

The main goal is to achieve “consensus of Balneotherapy” by means of a survey and to run a multi-centre research on a European level.

DON’T MISS...

THE ESPA INNOVATION AWARDS REFLECT THE ESPA AIM “TO STIMULATE EXCHANGE OF EXPERIENCE, BEST PRACTICE AND KNOW-HOW”. IT IS MADE FOR DESTINATIONS, FACILITIES OR INITIATIVES THAT REPRESENT “INNOVATION” IN THE TRUE SENSE OF THE WORD; THAT IS, THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW, MORE CREATIVE OR MORE EFFECTIVE APPROACH TO ANY ASPECT OF SPAS AND HEALTH RESORTS MANAGEMENT, OPERATIONS OR MARKETING.

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INTERVIEW

SPA BUSINESS

Portrait of a Wellness Enthusiast An exclusive interview with Jean-Guy de Gabriac,

Spa and Wellness Consultant, Initiative Chair GWI Global Career Development, Conference Producer

What is your story? Why did you choose the wellness & spa field? Did you want to or was it a matter of circumstances?

Is there really a higher purpose in life than to become the best version of yourself and encourage others around you to enjoy a richer & fuller life?

Some people wake up to an alarm clock, others wake up to a calling ;-) I started in the 90’s in the entertainement industry (cinema at the Paramount Studios, cable & satellite in France) and joined a successful internet start-up in 2000 to produce content on Psychology & wellbeing. My first operational decision, as the Marketing & Sales director, was to declare every Friday a „Shiatsu Day”! We would leave our shoes by the door, work in socks, and each team member would receive a complimentary 15mn chair massage to boost vitality, or enhance serenity whenever needed. It was so avant-garde in 2000 that many journalists & TV reporters came and shared our Wellness culture...

Then I invested all my money in a massage institute near the ChampsElysées, that I managed for 3 years, until I lauched TIP TOUCH International in 2004 as one of the leading consulting & training company in France. So far, with my team of master trainers, we have 66

developed more Signature massages & facials than any other company, most of them becoming best sellers for our clients.

What’s the story of the Global Mentorship Program for Spa Managers and Directors?

In 2012, the Stanford Research Institute published a report about the gaps in the Spa industry (you can download a free copy with this link: https://yw217.infusionsoft.com/app/) form/2012-gwi-report-download-request Anna Bjurstam, then owner Raison d’Etre & Board Member of the Global Wellness Summit, reponded by launching an initiative about the Education of Spa Managers that I joined as volunteer. In 2014, before she was appointed VP of Spa & Wellness for Six Senses, she passed on the baton to me as Chair of the Global Mentorship Program. In 2015, Susie Ellis appointed me Chair of the Global Career Development initiative of the Global Wellness Institute.

In 2015, with a team of international passionate Spa & Wellness experts, we launched the Global Mentorship PILOT Program with 17 Mentors & 32 Mentees, for 2 sessions of 3 months.

In 2016, we scaled up with 50 Mentors, 100 Mentees in 30 countries.

In 2017, we are launching the Global

Mentorship ONLINE Platform, where Spa / Wellness / Hospitality professionals can register online & find matching profiles as Mentors & Mentees across the globe.

If you were to give three reasons to a spa manager to participate at the program, which would those be?

The Global Mentorship Program (GMP) is pro-bono program is supported by several sponsors who want to develop the spirit of leadership in our industry: Biologique Recherche, Gharieni, Altearah, Spa Genie and Tip Touch International.

Hotel General Managers, Owners, Spa Directors, Spa Managers, Assistant Spa Managers, Lead Receptionists, Lead Therapists can also register at no cost.

Those with over 5 years experience in their current position can register as Mentors, those with only 2 years or more should register as Mentees.

So far, the most common benefit self-reported by Mentees was the sense of confidence bolstered by the honest discussions with their Mentor.

‘Increased Effectiveness on the Job’ is the greatest benefit perceived (65%) 77% of Mentors believe their Mentees are better leaders due to their participation and 97% of Mentees believe they are better leaders.

ZEN CONCEPT. ZEN DESIGN. ZEN CONTENT.

INTERVIEW Finally, facing challenges & sharing fresh bold ideas helps both Mentees & Mentors implement innovative solutions in their respective operations, therefore creating value for all involved.

You own TIP TOUCH International, a company specialized in Auditing, Consulting & Training for Hotels Chains, Spas & Wellness centers. Did this entrepreneurial experience determine you to become involved in the Global Mentorship Program?

See answer above!

How do you feel - are Spa Managers ready to learn more? Which parts of the world are most interested in education?

How is Europe at learning?

Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional!

Like in every industry, some executives believe that they already know everything they need? Others understand that their is always another level to reach in management, leadership.

GMP brings the ideal support for those who understand that objectives are not met by one person, but by the team ; and that motivation is a door that only opens from the inside.

That said, the GMP is NOT an educational program, where people can learn new techniques. Global Mentorship Program is a platform where some professionals are aspiring to grow with the guidance of a Mentor (not a teacher, professor or consultant).

Mentor serves as a stable, experienced and trusted advisor who makes a Mentee’s professional journey easier.

A Mentor does NOT do the homework, consult for, or make decisions for a Mentee, but rather suggests and guides.

The GMP „Code of Conduct” states that, instead of answering all the operational questions that a Mentee would have (HR, Finance, Marketing, Administrative, ect.), Mentors should rather help the Mentee assess the different options at hand and question by himself/ herself the best possible solution given the circumstances and environment.

Mentors should NOT be considered as free consultants, or «on-going educators».

This method helps Mentees grow a LOT in better managing time, objectives, & stress.

You said that „spa management is a very challenging career”. Which are the most important skills of a modern Spa Manager - please refer to both „hard” and „soft” skills.

Indeed, Spa Management is NOT a JOB, it has been be considered as a career to grow from learning the SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

SPA BUSINESS craft of operations management & people’s leadership patiently, steadily, constistently & tirelessly.

The first expectaction from the owner or the GM to a Spa Manager is Revenue Management („hard skill”), to be able to boost profitability per square meter, increase average ticket spend per client and monitor Key Performance Indicators to fine tune the profitability per therapist, per treatment room...

The second skill to be perfected over time is creating an atmosphere where the staff does not feel obliged to got to work every day with butterflies in the stomach, but where people want to join, give their best to the guests & make a positive difference in their lives.

People management and leadership is considered a „soft”, but it is much easier to manage stock, than people.

The third skill, that is actually the most important for people who want to grown in the Spa / Wellness / Hospitality industry is „energy management”: coping efficiently with expectations, disappointments, frustrations, anger... coming from the owner/GM, the staff, the clients, the partners, and from the Spa Manager himself/herself. Dr Daniel Friedland, CEO of SuperSmartHealth, has published a must-read for anyone who has a brain, wants to understand how it works and how to make it work better.

Being able to switch from a „reactive” brain under stress, to a „creative” brain through mindfullness & resiliency is a LIFE SAVER! How would you describe an ideal mentor-mentee communication? It is definitely more than an „Ask the Expert” type of relationship.

You are absolutely right, Mentorship has NOTHING to do with „Ask the expert”.

Mentees actually do the work under the guidance of the Mentors.

On a practical level, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that 1 week BEFORE each call/meeting, the Mentee will send an email to the Mentor with a description of the situation he/she is facing, and possible solutions to review.

It has also proven very efficient that week AFTER each call/meeting, the Mentee follows up with the Mentor to confirm the next connection and to provide a brief summary of the progress made or actions implemented in regards to the situation discussed in the previous connection At the end of the 3 to 6-month mentorship, each Mentee will be required to write a document (2-page

synopsis) with his/her biggest TAKEAWAYS in order to provide useful information to be accessible by other Spa / Wellness / Hospitality professionals in a similar capacity through the Global Wellness Institute. As an example, you can download for free « Mentorship Reflections » with pearls of wisdom from Mentors & Mentees back in 2015: https://yw217.infusionsoft.com/app/form/ mentorship-reflections-manual What reach do you expect for the Global Mentorship Program in 2017?

What started as an „initiative” is now more structured with 8 Regional Directors (Canada, USA, Central-South America, Europe, Africa, Middle-East, India & Austral-Asia).

We now have 32 country Ambassadors (working towards a total of 50 before end of June) spreading the word about GMP. In that respect, Ioana Marian is the GMP Ambassador for Romania.

By reaching out to Spa and Hospitality management schools to encourage the Alumnis to register, and also all the national Spa / Wellness / Hospitality associations around the world, and speaking at as many industryrelated conferences, we hope to reach 500 Mentors & 1,000 Mentees by December 2017.

It is not just wishful-thinking, it is all in the coordination & the extra mile that each country Ambassador will do.

Ultimately, our motto should become „One one, mentor two” so that we all become Mentors in our companies, our families & our communities, and that each year, one person decides to Mentor 2 people, to inspire them into serving others to the best of their abilities, so that they can in turn serve others... ans so on...

The time for the Mentorship evolution has come, and on behalf of the Global Mentorship Program, we sincerely hope to encourage as many as we can to register on http://uduoapp.com/users/sign_up Useful links: ◊ http://www.mentorshipevidence.com/ connect/ ◊ https://www.globalwellnessinstitute. org /career- de velopment-globalmentorship-program-pressrelease-2017 ◊ https://www.tiptouch.com/en/

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WELLNESS TRENDS

SPA BUSINESS

Spa & Adrenaline - a marriage where opposites do attract Motto: “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf!” - Jon Kabat Zinn Paradoxically, in a world with skyrocketing stress levels, people seem to look for more stress and challenges by voluntarily engaging themselves in other risky or challenging situations, as it is the case of extreme sports. More and more tourism providers understood that adventure is the new zen, thus they started to include adrenaline fuelled experiences as part of their holiday packages.

by Alexandra Iliuță

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ZEN CONCEPT. ZEN DESIGN. ZEN CONTENT.

WELLNESS TRENDS

W

hy would anyone pair up wellness with adrenaline?

What do these two, apparently opposite activities have in common? Well, if we look at things by judging at their effects, both surfing and having a massage or doing yoga or a meditation, help the mind relax and detach from everyday worries, but one of them accomplishes this through the rush of adrenaline, while the other one through relaxation. If you do yoga or you meditate, the purpose is to silence the mind or be mindful or present with all your senses in that very moment. If you are into extreme sports, for instance, for sure your mind will be 100% focused on what you are doing, otherwise one moment of distraction might sometimes cost your life.

But there’s more to this. We know that there are two types of stress: stress that’s beneficial and motivating — good stress — and stress that causes anxiety and even health problems — bad stress.

When a person voluntarily chooses to do something like surfing for instance, this can be considered as good stress, as the person experiences an immediate, resolvable stress situation that enhances the senses and pushes him/her into total mindfulness. You do not think about your work when you surf or when you do extreme sports, you have to totally engage with what you are doing, letting your thoughts fade off, something that is very hard to do, even when you have years of practicing meditation.

Now let’s unpack this a bit: when practicing an extreme sport, your blood flow and heart rate speed up, and the blood is sent away from the brain to the muscles, where it is needed, thus brain is quieted.

This triggers the release of endorphin, serotonin, and dopamine (in preparation for an eventual painful experience), so you will automatically enter a euphoric state of mind. Alpha-wave activity is generated in the brain, a state of mind which is commonly associated with relaxation and the clearing of unwanted thoughts (just like a deep state of trance).

This results in a hyperactive metabolic response, to fuel the body for the fightor-flight challenge, including the rapid breakdown of sugars and fats. Some researchers even suggest that these kind of adventurous experiences can boost the immune system. So, as you can see, spa and extreme sports have a lot of things in common, from mental relaxation to breaking down fats, but each one achieves this through different means.

SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

SPA BUSINESS No wonder we witness an increase in the number of marriages between wellness or spa retreats and adrenaline activities.

It is what prof. Jess Ponting (2013) was mentioning in his books: the concept of “cushioned adventure” when referring to the construction of the ideal adventure tourism space, as a recognition to the cushioning effect of the tourism industry.

The adrenaline of conquering the big waves, for instance, can be perfectly matched with spa therapies in order to strengthen muscles tone or to relax muscles after one of surfing.

While this cocktail of adrenaline-wellness trend seems to be booming around the world, this niche seems to begin blossoming in Romania as well. Divertiland Park offers a pool with artificial waves, where beginners can learn to surf. SUP Academy Romania offers stand up paddle courses coupled with yoga classes in order to improve balance. Still under construction, Freelo will be the first indoor skydiving and indoor surf entertainment resort in Romania. This bold project will have a wind tunnel that will enhance people to experiment the sensation of free falling, in order to prepare them for a parachute jump, a pool with artificial waves as well as a spa and a boutique hotel. Arsenal Park in Orastie promotes itself as the biggest adventure themed park in Romania, but also offers relaxing spa experiences to unwind after a day full of adventure.

Balvanyos resort is another great example of combining adventure and wellness under the same roof. Spaventura itself, the program offered by www. desprespa.ro is an attempt to combine adventurous experiences for children such as mountain climbing or survival in wild classes whereas their parents have a well-deserved break at the spa.

We hope other similar projects will arise in the future, as a response to this growing trend and we expect more scientific research on the benefits of extreme sports for health. Coupling high-adrenaline activities with wellness experiences might be the perfect antidote to escape and detach from everyday

worries. It might be that the monkey mind of the modern man, cannot be easily tamed through passive activities, thus the adrenaline-fuelled state of mind might be the actual modern nirvana.

References: Spa Finder (2016) 13th Annual Trends Report, Top 10 Global SPA & Wellness Trends Forecast, available at: https://courseresources.derby. ac.uk/bbcswebdav/pid-2076577-dtcontent-rid-13643443_1/courses/2016AUT-OC-BUX-7BE500/SFW_2016Trends_Final_011116_v2.pdf (Accessed: 17.10.2016).

Ponting, J., McDonald, M. G., (2013), Performance, Agency and Change in Surfing Tourist Space. Annals of Tourism Research , Vol. 43, p. 415-434, ScienceDirect, EBSCOhost, available at: http://www.sciencedirect.com. ezproxy.derby.ac.uk/science/article/ pii/S0160738313000947 (Accessed: 16.12.2016).

AUTHOR: Alexandra

Iliuță

Spa Business Editor Alexandra.Iliuta@despreSpa.ro

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EXPERT OPINION

SPA BUSINESS

Is There a Correlation between Fitness, Wellness & Youth?

Although in an age of technology and abundance of information at our fingertips, it is clear with many subjects and especially such as Health & wellbeing, we will find articles with positive and negative reviews depending on the institution or persons involved. Often we will find amazing studies on breakthrough new creams, lotions & potions which promise to make us look & feel 10 years younger. More often than not, these studies are created by the very companies who produce them and rarely confirmed by independent unbiased testing facilities. It should not be so surprising to most, that there is no “quick fix� and any process takes time, dedication and actually hard work as well as discipline.

by George Bakopanos

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EXPERT OPINION

B

ased on my experience in the Fitness & Wellness domains over the last 10 years, and more importantly on my recent research into studies on this subject while writing this article, the results for me sway more to the side of fitness & wellness, rather than not, to support our bodies in the “fight of anti-ageing”.

I do personally feel common sense will tell us exercise & relaxation is generally good for the body, and its effects will certainly be beneficial rather than negative. You really don’t need me or your doctor to tell you to get some exercise, don’t eat junk food and get enough sleep…

Will following these simple rules bring us youth, well this is a question which can also be interpreted in different ways.

Youth can be described as feeling young or it can also be looking younger, or both.

Our bodies will age naturally, however we do have some control over this, and if we treat our bodies well, it will show.

Many published studies from some of the top medical experts have shown that aerobic type exercise can improve a number of aspects of cognition and performance. So in simple terms we are talking about our brain function, and with good brain function comes better judgment, better memory & more positive thought process. This can also be translated into a ‘’feeling of youth’’, if we feel better mentally, we also feel younger.

Some other published studies I have come across refer to ‘Wellness’ by way of Spa treatments, Yoga & even meditation.

These all being effective ways for us to combat stress & assist our bodies in keeping away those nasty wrinkles, which as we all know we will all face as we age.

The world as we know it has become a “rat race”and we all fight to keep ourselves ahead but in turn we are literally torturing our bodies at times. Stress has become such a common everyday part of our lives, I now feel most of us just don’t even realize the toll it may have taken on our body & minds. We have become accustomed to feeling this pressure and we just brush it off as something that is just part of our daily lives.

Further to the above A very interesting study released through UCLA has shown the link

SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

SPA BUSINESS

“Youthfulness comes at a price & for those of you ready to invest by way of taking care of your body, you can look and feel younger.

For those who are not, well we can still try to grow old gracefully…”

George Bakopanos, Customer Service Expert

between Fitness and diet, the buildup of toxic proteins between nerve cells and the effects on diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

There is no question a disease which was once associated with the elderly, now has come to haunt many at much earlier ages and that is a scary fact.

Monitoring our BMI “body mass index’’, regular physical activity combined with a Mediterranean diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, cereals & fish and less of meat & dairy along with moderate alcohol consumption) has been shown to slow the process of brain shrinkage and onset of dementia and eventually Alzheimer’s. So ‘’get moving’’, consider moderation for your daily diet & make time to also get some sleep to keep your brain strong and young!

Referring to the look of youth, many studies have shown that with regular physical exercise, yes indeed we can look younger. This is based partly on our bodies increasing heart rate for better blood circulation, sweating in order to release toxins which build up. By flushing those toxins out through our pores by way of hydrating and then sweating, our skin will become clearer. Hydrating, meaning drinking enough liquids which should be an integral part of your daily & fitness routine if the case. Combined the general result is less wrinkles, which in effect is the look of youthfulness. By keeping our bodies skin firm with the toning associated with regular fitness & wellness, we also counter act the process of the skin sagging, again helping with the effects of a more youthful appearance.

There are many ways to extend youth, but there is no question in my mind

the safest way to achieve this, would be with Wellness related activities, Natural Spa treatments & physical activity such as Cardio exercise, rather than the alternatives of medications or surgeries.

This is not science fiction, it is clear that depending how one adapts their lifestyle, takes time to relax and generally takes care of their body, we are all able to extend ‘youth’ should we so choose.

Youthfulness comes at a price & for those of you ready to invest by way of taking care of your body, you can look and feel younger.

For those who are not, well we can still try to grow old gracefully…

AUTHOR: George

Bakopanos

Expert Customer Service george@cmc.fitness +40 744 555 220 www.cmc.fitness www.healthclubs.ro

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STUDY CASE

SPA BUSINESS

SPA versus Hotel Revenues Grand Santerra Spa. A Study Case

by Maria Rendes Premise: the hotel has 112 rooms and in situated in an old balneoclimateric resort which has almost reached the stage of a ruin by the time the spa had started to develop. An amazing destination, blessed with the beauty of nature, has become almost inaccessible because of the nearly impracticable roads.

Initially, the hotel had a modest, but decent design. It was almost exclusively dedicated to business groups that were coming here for conferences.

Occasionally, individual guests and even families chose to stay here because of the nearby adventure park that has been open for a few years. The host-hotel has an interesting history and is related to an old sanatorium that also had a small treatment facility inside. Another advantage at the beginning of our project consisted of courage, vision, self-trust, our desire to resuscitate a fascinating zone, our love for beauty and nature and our intention to invest our own resources in a healthy life, far from the problems of everyday life.

Development: from the beginning, we relied on the precious resources of the place, and on the magic of the woods.

The place itself was very attractive. All these advantages were comprised in a comprehensive concept. We expressed our vision clearly, in a simple manner, without any external inspiration. The mountain itself, the king of the nature, was the one that inspired us. The volcano that is still breathing. The whispering thermal springs. The healing air. The creation of the spa was a multidisciplinary effort, being constructed in the same direction as all the other elements of the project. It is not based on the classic formula of the know-it-all investor. Each 72

and every department was coordinated by a specialist in the field.

The spa services dictated the tone of the entire project. The hotel and the other elements were all enhanced thanks to the successful concept of the spa.

The communication about all these services is also based on a very coherent strategy. The central key was the spa menu, a crucial instrument that highlighted very clearly the benefits and the objectives of a healthy lifestyle. Last, but not least, the offers from a spa menu is adapted to the needs and reasons of people who are interested in the spa field: detox, the invigoration of the entire body, profound relaxation, elimination of stress and chronic fatigue, cure for all kind of ailments of the body. Although the spa has not been clearly defined on the market yet, we managed to transform our menu into an efficient instrument that helped us educate the consumers. Creativity and imagination were key ingredients of our strategy. Of course, the resources of the place were also highlighted in a successful mix.

Elegance is a crucial aspect of the place.

Our designers did all their best to ensure an impeccable representation of our concept. Rassoul… Szekely Sauna… the thermal circuit… these were all correctly dimensioned, with a well-thought flow in the spa. A true journey of rediscovery for each client. A journey that does not need any explanation. It reveals itself with each visit and this was possible thanks to the direct implication of each specialist.

The selection of the personnel was made carefully and with a maximum level of professionalism. Dedication is a very important value to us. One year after the opening, the spa team has become

truly efficient and performant, although we hired them as beginners. Their transformation has not been easy – the isolated location made it hard to find the right people. However, our efforts were worth it. The therapies are fantastic. We did not resort to the solution of therapists coming from places all over the world.

Instead, we gave a chance to alumni of Romanian schools and we invested in their professional development.

The journey was not an easy one. The opening was possible only in multiple phases. Gradually, we managed to grow the team. The demand for spa also grew in time, proving that our services were improving. Spa operations were strictly supervised and managed and this could be felt along the way. The spa is visited even by locals. Soon, our efforts to grow the business transformed into the priority of avoiding agglomeration. The demand for spa also generated an increase in our accommodation demand. The concept of high season has disappeared – we are now fully booked all seasons. Therefore, we are doing all our best to adapt our facilities according to the needs of our customers.

The opening of the spa also extended our target group. Besides business groups, we are now also visited by other segments of customers. We are now focusing on increasing the accommodation capacity.

We are also planning to gradually extend our wellness concept. However, we are constantly maintaining our attention to details. Things seem to happen naturally, according to the chaning needs of our clients. But – whatever the future may bring – elegance and hospitality remain two of our core values.

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EXPERT OPINION

SPA BUSINESS

Key Areas of a Spa Ever wondered why so many hotels and properties are constantly improving their existing spas, with sophisticated and modern revamps, hi-tech inclusions or new treatment offerings?

It’s because the world of beauty and hospitality – and most particularly spas and salons – is becoming increasingly competitive, more than ever before. What was seen in the past as luxurious and exclusive now it is only a norm, therefore the spa to remain successful and profitable needs to go through a permanent process of changing– in order to set yourself apart from others…

by Larisa Marinică

A

lthough there is not a unique miraculous recipe to make a spa profitable there are definitely proved ways to improve the guest experience , to smooth the processes and to iron out certain areas which they can clearly drive the most part of your revenue.

In my opinion these are the major areas which should be treated with maximum importance.

Business and financials: If there is already an existing spa it is very important to have a thoughtful re-consideration for Financial Model, Product Choice, Basic Spa Offering and Treatment Prices and to ensure that it in line with the new present challenges. No business can improve their bottom line without a long-term, strategic plan of action.

Concept, Design & Layout: it goes without saying that the concept needs to have a fine tune with the design, layout and space functionality, and if this situation is not happening, than it is absolutely essential still to add up few ‘’touch’’ ups in order at least to give an apparent harmony in between these elements: design, functionality, ambiance etc When a spa is first designed or expanded it can be difficult to determine the exact service mix that will prevail.

Some decisions are made about service areas (i.e. dedicated specialty, hydro or Vichy rooms) that go significantly 74

underutilized (<10% per day) while others are always fully booked. Monitoring utilization and modeling the revenue potential of repurposing the space can produce a quick ROI. Be prepared to bite the bullet and invest quickly to maximize your spa’s revenue potential. Poor design decisions can go unresolved for years at a massive detriment to the performance of your business.

Performance and operation: Also important is in here to be mentioned, the extraordinary role that the manager has it to boost the performance of your existing operation and to find always creative ways top take the business on higher level despite the socio, cultural, political, influences…

The ability to leverage a well structure spa services menu (low, med and high margin services) is best exemplified by revenue management techniques.

In simplest terms, using dynamic availability, reducing the list of services of available (highest margin) during peak times has a tremendous impact on profitability. Even with the same number of services booked (by the same treatment providers) the resulting boost in bottomline performance can exceed 25%. It also tends to push more bookings in to non-peak times that would otherwise go unsold. Managing your inventory closely is imperative in reducing costs and improving revenue. Even if you manage your top 50 and bottom 50 products

very closely, the improvement can be substantial. Too many spas run out of their most popular products too often resulting in lost sales opportunities and reduced guest satisfaction. Some carry too much product, resulting in increased spoilage, theft and money tied up in unsold inventory. Managing inventory on professional products is also key; some systems can forecast shortages based on what services are booked in the future and can automatically deduct from inventory as services as completed.

Closely monitoring your spa’s key performance indicators and making timely business decisions can impact your business performance proactively versus retrospectively at the end of the week or month. For example, knowing that your spa has dropped below your daily threshold for staff utilization can allow you to make good decisions intraday (i.e. shortening shifts) that result in immediate bottom-line improvements.

As in the previous tip, monitoring Retail KPIs (Retail/Service, Retail/Guest, Retail/Ticket and Retail per Treatment Hour) and continuously adjusting your strategy can produce exceptional retail results.

Treatment offering: Your menu concept will help you improve your bottom line. There are different possibilities, either to simplify the menu offerings or diversifying the offers including signature treatments which are truly harnessing the local products, and

ZEN CONCEPT. ZEN DESIGN. ZEN CONTENT.

EXPERT OPINION resonate with local traditions, culture etc.

A well designed and structured spa services menu can provide the essential flexibility to book services, schedule resources and run promotions that maximizes your Spa’s bottom line. For each treatment, understanding the associated range of your labor costs and true profit margin is critical in this planning exercise. Choosing the different therapies, treatments and services of your spa is a complex undertaking Strategizing to maximize the booking of high-end, high-margin specialty services creates more opportunities for therapists to further improve revenue capture via upgrades and retail sales.

To do it successfully, you need to apply the principles of ‘treatment menu engineering’. This involves a careful analysis of your treatment and service offering as well as your customer mix.

To effectively engineer your menu, study your treatments sold on a regular basis. Know which are your best-selling treatments, which ones give you the most margin, and also those that are not doing so well. To give you a greater level of insight, take all the treatments in your menu and divide them into four different sections that will provide you with a clearer idea of the level of sales and the overall impact of the different treatments and services in your bottom line: Stars: The group of treatments that have low cost of sales but are strong sellers; Plow horses: Treatments and services with a high cost of sale but at the same time are strong sellers too; Puzzles: Treatments where the demand is not too strong but where the cost of sale is also low; Dogs: These are your high cost of sale treatments that sell poor.

Updating your equipment: Research and procurement of equipment as well as software program selection. It happens that nowadays more than ever we are living in a fantastic speedy world where every single day new performant technology is up on the market and although it may seems a high investment, a spa without to have the potential to keep the pace with those changes it is surely, a spa with a lost cause Retail side: The retail space arrangement is really a great ‘’visual instrument’’ of attraction for impressing positively the customers thus the way how the spa products are arranged on shelves is crucial, not to mention the knowledge of the staff in general about all the treatments and products in order to advice the guests, at the end of the day it SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

SPA BUSINESS is all about retail sales training. Maintain a Consistent Retail to Service Ratio Maximizing this important ratio can dramatically improve your bottom-line.

In most spas, retail makes up 10-15% of a spa’s total revenue but can represent 2025% of the profit. Therefore, an increase in retail sales has a greater impact on your profit than an equivalent increase in service revenue. There is also a direct correlation from selling higher-end services to incremental retail revenue resulting in a higher retail per service revenue ratio—incent your reservations agents to book these!

SOP’s: If in the past the Spas could ‘’live’’ without any SOP, presently this ‘’lux’’ is virtually impossible… why?

Purely it is related with the fact that the spa visitors become increasingly more spa goers, more sophisticated, more knowledgeable and the spa team in order to be able to tackle all these diverse types of guests, situations, demands scenarios they will definitely need a manual of Procedures for every single spa detail.

Any modern spa needs a Standard Operating Procedure for their staff to follow…

Staff: I believe that one of the most burning issues remain still the staff, the good one, the qualified ones, the really passionate one, since the demand seems larger than the offers it happens that is getting more and more difficult at global level to find specialists when it comes about spa and wellness. However once that the spa has a solid team, the success of it is half achieved Another challenge that the spa is presented with is the sustainable Compensation and training: Related with team happiness and their job longevity is without any doubt their level of compensation and their trainings. It seems that people are either motivated by financial compensation or by nonmaterial things like growth, awards, and developments so in one or another once that you get this balance right in between these two factors than the happiness of the staff is well-contoured.

In most spa locations the labor cost of delivering a service can exceed 50%.

Developing a compensation strategy that rewards the behaviors that produce the best results is essential. It must be a “winwin” relationship to be sustainable, retain your best employees and provide levers for your spa to push and pull during periods of variable demand. Creating a plan that includes fixed and variable compensation elements as well as team-based bonuses creates a teamwork dynamic that ensures

everyone is aligned in purpose and execution.

Marketing. Whether we like it or not, no matter how great is your spa, if you do not have the suitable experienced professionals to market its unique points, that spa will become anonymous.

Maintain a close relationship with your local and loyal spa customers.

Create a “last-minute” club using Email, Text-Messaging, Facebook and/or Twitter to inform your “fans” of sudden opportunities arising from cancellations and unforeseen availability at a “special” discount. It could help fill spots that would otherwise go unsold and create other revenue opportunities in retail and/or additional services. It also creates additional loyalty and retention within your local spa community. Create reasons for your customers to remain loyal and book frequently without giving away revenue. In other words, delight them with added knowledge or specials that enhance their experience above and beyond their treatments.

Choose low or no cost (to you) items to maintain margin. Examples would be 20 minutes of nap time on the table after a treatment (during low demand times only), complimentary product give away (liquidating overstock or working with your product vendor’s promotions), doit-yourself services to upgrade treatment and class value without added labor.

When structured properly, value added experiences may also further incent retail sales resulting in more loyal customers, more revenue and more profit. Plus, when business does improve you won’t have to put your customers through the dreaded price increase just to get back to normal..

Almost universally, the most popular service is massage. Create upgrades to your most popular services and make it easy for the guest to upgrade “intreatment”. An example is having hot stones in every massage treatment room. Provide staff with much higher compensation incentives on service upgrades as the incremental revenue is almost all margin. The therapists also become more engaged in the guest’s total experience and are more apt to recommend a product regimen to compliment the service.

AUTHOR:

Larisa Marinică

Willow Stream Spa Director Key Supporter for GWD larisa.marinica@fairmont.com

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BUSINESS

EXPERT OPINION

The Need for an Employer Brand in the Wellness Sector The power play has shifted and the employees are standing on firmer ground now more than ever. The need for human resources is high and it has become a strategic component for long term business planning.

T

he employer brand has 2 main components: the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation on the work force market and the essential information that people remember about the brand. The role of these two components is to attract, hire, retain and motivate employees. Initially the employer brand was regarded only as a way to attract candidates, now it is considered crucial for the retention and motivation of employees.

For the Wellness Sector, same principles and strategies apply. Many SPA businesses in Romania face problems finding people with the right set of skills and find themselves in a oneway communication streak within the work force. Independent from the cause, the need is the same: the creation of an employer brand. Having a voice on social media will not only help your consumers identify with your products and services, it will also facilitate this process for your employees and future employees.

Digital recruitment has changed the rules of selection for candidates and has given them the power mentioned above.

It has also raised the level of transparency on both sides with all the information being available online for everyone to 76

by Karina Ochis see. Consequently, creating an employer brand in the digital world, where almost everything is happening in real time, can become a challenge for a company that has not established their marketing strategy yet. The employer brand is strictly connected to the marketing strategy, often being viewed as a natural consequence of the image the company is projecting online.

The dimensions of your employer brand will serve as content for your social media interactions. They are consisted of organizational culture, company values, performance assessment, employee reward system, talent management, advancement opportunities, communication styles within the company, corporate social responsibilities project.

Reaching your target audience through the proper channels is essential. Each channel serves a purpose, and will help your brand. This also entails the social media accounts of your employees, and managers.

A candidate will always search on Facebook for online information about the company holding the interview.

Being the most popular social media platform, this is where the employer

can share information such as: posts, photos, check-ins, feedback and reviews.

LinkedIn is deemed as the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;professionalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; network. Active users range from people who have a job to people who are actively or passively looking for one. In either case, browsing for possible candidates on LinkedIn is both efficient and informed.

Instagram is the social media platform with the highest level of personal perception. The more real your posts are, the better are your chances of having a real connection with your audience. This audience in return might hold future employees, and it will at least inspire people to strive for a job at your company.

Snapchat will create the fun and young element that you might be missing.

Pinterest will complete the visual aspect, with photos from your location and style inspiring boards.

Considering that the human resource is an indispensable factor in the wellness sector, we recommend utilizing complex and diverse digital strategies in order to attract and retain employees. Reach them on all the platforms that suit your brand and start creating your employer brand today!

SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

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STUDY CASE

WELLO

Wello, The Wellness Explorer

M

eet Wello, one of the youngest despreSpa. ro team members! It’s true, we are not referring to a real person.

Wello is a character with an extremely important mission: to discover the road to wellness. Therefore, the best job for Wello was that of a Wellness Explorer, eager to find out how we can obtain and maintain health on all levels: body-mind-soul.

We know there isn’t any universal recipe for health. That’s why Wello is going to explore continuously and share everything with you. He is interested in all wellness-related aspects, from a balanced diet to emotional health and the prevention of several illnesses. Because Wello is a virtual agent, he can travel much faster than us to different corners of the world, where he can find out precious information on wellbeing. His promise is that – whenever he discovers something new – he is going to ask for advice from experts in each field. In other words, we are never going to publish an unverified 78

statement. Health-related topics are serious and we treat them accordingly.

Do not expect revolutionary advice – Wello loves small and secure steps.

Wellness isn’t just a tick on a to-dolist, it’s an entire lifestyle! Our friendly explorer wishes to make you realize that small changes lead to a totally different life (in a positive way, of course). Wello can be me, you or us.

Where can you find Wello?

Wello has become part of our communication at despreSpa.ro. It is an excellent icon to represent our mission – to educate people to become healthier both inside and outside. You will find him on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/DespreSpa/) and our website, where he is going to share precious information with you in a series of useful articles on different topics. Everything “signed by Wello” relies on verified information that was previously checked by our specialists in the wellness field.

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SPA & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

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UPCOMING EVENTS

SPALENDAR

SPALENDAR National and international fairs and events 2017 International fairs

SIBEC Europe

LEISURE INDUSTRY WEEK

When: November 8-11, 2017 Where: Marbella, Spain About: It is an event for specialists and industry pro-

When: September 12-13, 2017 Where: Birmingham, UK About: The event is mainly addressed to industry

professionals in spa/wellness, offering the ideal setting for networking, learning new trends in the field through seminars and demonstrative workshops. They will be attented by exhibitors from various industry groups representing wellness: fitness, nutrition, professional spa products, equipment, swimming pools etc.

Web: http://www.liw.co.uk/

HOT TUB LIVING EXPO When: September 12-13, 2017 Where: Birmingham,UK About: The exhibition brings together professionals in

fessionals in Spa & Wellness, which provides an excellent framework for networking.

Web: http://www.sibecevents.com/europe

OLYMPIA BEAUTY When: November 8-11, 2017 Where: London, UK About: It is an event aimed at professionals in the field,

presenting the latest trends in spa / wellness / hair / makeup, bringing together the leading suppliers of professional cosmetics and equipment for industry of beauty. There will be demonstrations, workshops and competitions of beauty & styling.

Web: http://www.olympiabeauty.co.uk/

hotel / spa, local authorities, architects, investors spa, professionals in the construction and landscaping. With the change of name of the event, there were added new areas of interest in the event, such as, for example, a Live Industry Showroom and Hot Tub Living Marketplace for start-ups, so they are able to present their business sites without the

THE LUXURY TRAVEL FAIR

need for a stand.

resorts, spa destinations, cruises or special vacations.

When: November 2-5, 2017 Where: London, UK About: Exclusivist Tourism fair, with offers in luxury

Web: http://www.hottublivingexpo.com/

Web: http://www.luxurytravelfair.com/

SALON ZEN

National fairs

When: September 28 – October 2, 2017 Where: Paris, France About: Exhibition conferences, practical workshops for

BALNEARY TOURISM FORUM

beauty and wellness industry products and therapies for body, mind and spirit.

Web: http://www.salon-zen.fr/

GLOBAL WELLNESS SUMMIT When: October 9-11, 2017 Where: Florida, US About: GWS brings together top-level policy makers

worldwide. All contribute time and resources to finance Summit, and all participants are asked to refrain from self-promotion.

Web: http://www.cvent.com/

ISPA CONFERENCE & EXPO

goal of being a reference for industry professionals, but is also an exhibition open to the general public.

Web: http://www.expocosmetics.ro/

SPA BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENT When: November 9, 2017 Where: Bucharest, Romania About: The only event in Romania dedicated exclusively

to spa & wellness professionals. Spa Business Networking Event means a reunion of investors, managers, consultants and top specialists from the spa industry, from both Romania and foreign countries. The main objective consists of the identification of realistic solutions for the development of the market and its synchronization with international trends.

E-mail: office@despreSpa.ro Web: http://www.desprespa.ro/SPA-Business/ Organizare-evenimente

ROMANIA’S TOURISM FAIR When: November 16-18, 2017 Where: Bucharest, Romania About: The fair brings together travel agencies, hotels,

airlines, etc., bringing public attention to the travel offers in the country and abroad. At its XXXVI edition, it remains as the ideal place for presenting the most interesting offers and attractions both in Romania and abroad, including cultural tourism, rural or business tourism, treatment, exotic destionations, cruises and adventure tourism.

Web: www.targuldeturism.ro

When: September 20-22 2017 Where: O3Zone Hotel, Băile Tușnad About: Latest news in the field, presented by Romanian

and foreign specialists eager to develop their partnerships and initiate new ones.

Organizer: OPTBR Web: http://romanian-spas.ro/index.php/ro/ E-mail: optbr@bluescreen.ro

COSMETICS BEAUTY HAIR When: September 28 - October 1, 2017 Where: Bucharest, Romania About: Leading event in cosmetic industry and body care in Romania. It has grown from year to year, reaching its

When: October 16-18, 2017 Where: Las Vegas, US About: Annual Conference & Expo brings spa industry professionals from all sectors together in one location.

Web: http://attendispa.com

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CONTACT

ADDRESSES

Apa Malnas, http://www.malnas.at office@malnas.at, Fabricii

despreSpa.ro – SPA & Wellness 3600 , http://www.desprespa.ro

O3Zone, www.o3zone.ro/, rezervari@o3zone.ro, Aleea Sfanta

Street, no.80-82, Malnas Bai, +4 0746.115.116

, http://www.aboutspa.ro , office@despreSpa.ro , Emil Racovita

Ana, No. 2, Baile Tusnad, +4 0266.335.397

Asociatia Romana de Balenologie, http://bioclima.ro/Contact.

Street 35-39, cartier Azur 1, AZ 15, Parter, +4 0745.411.111

PerfectMed, https://perfectmed.wordpress.com/, cristina@

php, office@bioclima.ro, Bucharest, Sector 2, Fainari Street

Drum Liber - http://drumliber.ro , florin @drumliber.ro, +4

perfectmed.ro, Carol Davila Street no. 33, ap 2, Bucharest, +4

no. 26, Bloc 50, Sc.D, Ap.101, +4 0723.138.339

0741.559.604

0720.445.532

Ana Aslan Health SPA, www.anahotels.ro/europa/spa/default-

Elite Life Beauty and Wellbeing Spa, http://eliteliferesort.com,

Riserva Wine Spa, http://riserva.ro/ro/, spa@ramadaoradea.ro,

ro.html, anaaslan-spa@anahotels.ro, Republicii Street 13,

info@eliteliferesort.com, IC Bratianu Street, no. 26, Oradea,

Calea Aradului 9, Oradea, +4 0359.403.335

Eforie Nord, +4 0241.702.814

+4 0733.999.232

Shiseido SPA at Stejarii Country Club, http://www.

Belle Maison Spa, http://www.maisonspa.ro/, relax@

European Spas Association, http://www.europeanspas.eu/,

stejariicountryclub.ro/shiseido-spa, office@stejariispa.

maisonspa.ro, Speranței 20 Street, Sect. 2, București, +4

office@espa-ehv.eu, Rue d’Arlon, B 1000 Bruxelles, 0032 2

ro, Jandarmeriei Street, no. 14 A, Sector 1, Bucharest, +4

0737.079.454

2820558

0744.332.286

BMT Romania - http://bmtromania.com , info@bmtromania.

Fitness Scandinavia, http://www.fitness-scandinavia.ro/,

Therme Bucharest, https://therme.ro/, contact@therme.ro,

com ; +4 0721.988.577

workshop@fitness-scandinavia.ro, Putul lui Zamfir Street, No.

DN1, Otopeni –Balotesti 077015, +4 0311.088.888

Centrul Medical Sanconfind , https://www.sanconfind.

39, Sector 1, Bucharest, +4 0735.559.251

TISA SPA, http://sparesort.tisa.ro, sparesort@tisa.ro, Carol

ro/, office@sanconfind.ro, Strada Uzinei, No. 457, Poiana

Grand Santerra SPA at Balvanyos Resort, http://

Davilla Street, no.4, Baile Olanesti, +4 0754.888.091

Campina, judetul Prahova, +4 0731.999.332

balvanyosresort.ro/ro/, office@balvanyosresort.ro, Baile

Tip Touch International - https://www.tiptouch.com/en/ jean-

CMC Fitness - www.cmc.fitness , office@cmc.fitness, +40 744

Balvanyos, KM23 DN11C, jud. Covasna, +4 0267.360.700, +4

guy@tiptouch.com

555 220, Bucharest, Romania

0786.513.809

Totul despre Raw - https://www.facebook.com/pg/

Country Spa, http://www.countryspa.ro/index.php/, office@

Iaki Spa, http://www.iakispa.ro/spa/, spa@iaki.ro, Bdul.

TotulDespreRaw/about/?ref=page_internal , http://

countryspa.ro, Stefan cel Mare Street no.122, Ciofliceni,

Mamaia, 900001, Constanta, +4 0241.831.192

totuldespreraw.ro/

Comuna Snagov, Jud. Ilfov, +4 0774.037.382, +4 0314.252.913

La Bibliotheque, https://labibliotheque.ro/, bonjour@

Umbra studio +4 0735 154 158, roxanaardelean@gmail.com,

Complete Beauty , https://www.completebeauty.ro/, Bd.

labibliotheque.ro Street Pictor Barbu Iscovescu 30 Sector 1,

https://www.facebook.com/Umbra-Studio-14447635274337/ ,

Natiunile Unite, No.1, Bl. 108A, District 5, 050688, Bucharest

011938 Bucharest, +4 0749.777.777, +4 021.212.5171

http://www.umbrastudio.ro/

,marketing@completebeauty.ro, +4 0736.084.569

Lotus Therm Resort, http://www.lotustherm.ro/ro/, hotel.

Danubius Health Spa Resort Sovata, https://www.

lotustherm@lotusfelix.ro, Victoria Street, no.20, Baile Felix,

danubiushotels.com/ro/destinatii/ , sovatasovatahotel@

Bihor, +4 0359.414.434

szovata.ro, Trandafirilor Street, no. 111, Sovata, 545500, +4

Mayie - https://www.mayie.ro , Janos Hunyadi Street 15,

0265.570.151

Dumbravita 307160, Timis, +4 0726.785.288, office@mayie.ro

83

ZEN CONCEPT. ZEN DESIGN. ZEN CONTENT.