Indigenous-inspired wellness treatments are becoming increasingly popular—discover the reasons behind this trend.
What began as simple practices borrowed from various cultures, such as the use of sage burning in waiting rooms, has evolved into comprehensive treatment menus featuring elements from Native American, Mayan, and other diverse cultures. “We are starting to appreciate cultures that are tied to natural medicine,” states Patrick Huey, chairman of the board for the International SPA Association and host of the podcast At the Podium with Patrick Huey.
“Incorporate Authentic Shamanistic Treatments for Genuine Spa Experiences”
—Patrick Huey, Chairman of the Board for the International SPA Association
“In many ways, these treatments reflect our grandmothers’ home remedies that have proven therapeutic benefits,” he explains. “I believe that indigenous treatments are part of a larger movement towards holistic wellness. It’s fascinating how these trends align with practices such as yoga, energy healing, and breathwork.”
Despite the booming popularity of these wellness treatments, Huey emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity. “The million-dollar question is, ‘how do you avoid cultural appropriation?’” he posits. “Conduct thorough research and understand the outcomes you aim to achieve, as well as the reasons behind your choices. Educate your staff if you intend to explore someone else’s cultural legacy. If you’re implementing a shamanistic treatment in Mexico, you must engage a qualified shaman in your spa.”
Revitalizing Wellness: Exploring New Modalities with Deep Cultural Roots
Marie Watkinson, CEO and founder of Spa Chicks On The Go, a mobile spa event company based in New York City, asserts that while indigenous treatments may seem like a fresh trend in the spa industry, the foundation of modern spa services has always been inspired by Native American wellness practices. These treatments have consistently served as the backbone of spa offerings.
Watkinson shares, “Throughout my extensive experience in the spa industry since 1991, I have observed the ebb and flow of numerous trends, yet Native-inspired services remain a constant. Indigenous shamans have nurtured the body, mind, and spirit for millennia, so it’s natural for us to integrate these ancient practices into our modern wellness offerings.”
With her husband having White Mountain Apache ancestry, Watkinson notes that spa enthusiasts are increasingly “seeking profound connections, especially in the wake of COVID-19. These treatments narrate a story and draw us into that narrative.” She stresses the importance of honoring the real cultures and peoples behind these healing practices.
“Wherever possible, we should give back and include Native American tribes—whether local or from across the nation. This involves sourcing products and materials directly from them. For example, while sage smudges can be purchased on platforms like Amazon, why not reach out directly to tribal communities?” Furthermore, she emphasizes that when incorporating indigenous experiences in a spa, “intention is paramount. If you merely follow the trend without proper research, you risk being perceived as an imposter.”
“Auntie Jase,” a Two-Spirited Northern Cheyenne healer, performs daily online smudge rituals, requesting that “people respect our sacred shells, feathers, and the way we utilize this medicine as a closed practice.” He hopes that individuals interested in indigenous healing modalities will not merely “cherry-pick elements from various cultures” but instead embrace the living traditions and peoples within those cultures “in the present moment.”
Transforming Potential into Authentic Wellness Practices
Elsa Hernández, spa manager at Vista Encantada Spa Resort & Residences in Los Cabos, notes, “There has certainly been a surge in indigenous treatments within spas, driven by travelers’ desires for culturally rich experiences. Many visitors are exploring destinations where history and tradition are integral to daily life. Our Milagro Wellness spa embodies this essence, featuring traditional wellness offerings such as the Temazcal, a classic Mayan sweat lodge. This experience is designed to provide guests with a deeper appreciation of indigenous practices while cleansing both physical and spiritual aspects, relieving stress, alleviating muscle tension, and dispelling negative energy.”
“The Demand for Indigenous Treatments is Growing as Travelers Seek Culturally Rich Experiences”
—Elsa Hernández, Spa Manager of Vista Encantada Spa Resort & Residences in Los Cabos
The global hospitality group Habitas, which creates “homes” for vacationers, offers spa and wellness menus heavily influenced by local traditions. Oliver Ripley, CEO and co-founder, highlights the Janzu treatment at Habitas Bacalar, which is deeply rooted in local indigenous practices.
The practice of janzu, which translates to “peaceful river” in Chinese, originated in the 1990s in India but was further developed as a holistic medical treatment by healer Juan Pathik Villatoro. He combined elements from shamanistic rituals of Mexico, martial arts, meditation, and dance to create this unique water therapy. Participants typically engage in a series of fluid movements with a practitioner, simulating an aquatic dance that often leads to reports of improved sleep, reduced stress, and an enhanced sense of well-being in the days following the treatment.
“These experiences are thoughtfully designed to honor traditional practices and promote cultural authenticity while showing deep respect for their inherent wisdom,” Ripley explains.
Exploring Authentic Native American Healing Practices
Miraval Arizona provides treatments that are deeply rooted in Native American culture and healing techniques. One such offering is the Cara Vida Facial, inspired by the Native peoples’ profound connection to the mesquite tree, often referred to as the “tree of life.” This facial utilizes cold-pressed, organic, vitamin C-rich chia seeds for exfoliation, followed by a soothing mask of locally sourced organic Arizona honey to complete the massage.
Patrick Huey points out that while spas utilizing locally sourced components, like Miraval’s Arizona honey, are “almost expected now,” treatments inspired by indigenous practices may sometimes draw from cultures that are not geographically specific to the area.
“Why shouldn’t someone in Connecticut experience a Mayan ritual?” he questions. “Our goal is to create a welcoming space where all of our intentions can coexist harmoniously.”