The term wellness is quite general and means something different to everyone. What always belongs to it is the promise of relaxation and a time out from everyday life — something very agreeable, then. No wonder that alongside the classic spa hotels ever more so-called wellness studios advertise this time out. This article makes the differences between the two clear and offers a few recommendations.
Because the word wellness is legally entirely unprotected, basically anyone who wants to may adorn themselves with it. The result is a growing number of “wellness professionals”, “wellness coaches” and, indeed, wellness studios. Only the recognised occupation of “beautician” is protected; a wellness massage, by contrast, may — as long as no healing treatment takes place — be offered as a free trade without proof of qualification. That is precisely why a second look at the provider pays off.
Since stress and the mania for optimisation fuel the need for balance, the supply of purchasable “wellness” is growing — with all its advantages and disadvantages. Let us set the two ways side by side.
The wellness studio
Wellness studios are found increasingly in the cities and offer individual treatments such as massages or cosmetic care. Before the first booking it is worth asking specifically which treatments are carried out and how — and whether the staff are qualified accordingly.
Advantages
- quickly reachable with no journey
- appointments available at short notice
- comparatively low cost
Disadvantages
- frequently cramped premises
- staff qualification not always sufficient
- atmosphere often not up to the wellness promise
Conclusion: a good studio is a fine opportunity for a short time out when staff and premises are right — entirely without multi-day planning. On price, though, you should look at what is offered: nothing is saved if you end up with skin irritation or tension afterwards.
The spa hotel
Spa hotels as a rule offer a holistic concept that goes beyond the pure feel-good factor and takes health aspects into account. Besides the classic treatments there is often a balanced, at times outstanding cuisine, comfortable rooms and an idyllic location in the green — together that makes for a complete time out.
Advantages
- generous, varied premises
- as a rule highly qualified staff
- extensive range of treatments
Disadvantages
- possibly a long journey
- advance planning and booking take time
- comparatively high cost
Conclusion: whoever is serious about wellness is in the best hands in a spa hotel — but has to dig deeper into their pocket for it. Thanks to the many online reviews the level is decent almost everywhere today.
There is no such thing as quick wellness
Ideally the two ways complement one another: the studio for a quick time out in between, the hotel for genuine regeneration. It is not quite that simple, because relaxation cannot be switched on at the press of a button. But where providers really pay attention to the needs of their guests, the studio too is an attractive, quickly available change from everyday life — and the hotel is the place where you breathe deeply.