CLAYTON HORTON
Ashtanga Yoga: Reconnecting to the Natural State

Awaken and harmonize the body and mind with the ancient traditional practice of Ashtanga yoga with Clayton Horton.
Benefit: This method of Yoga involves synchronizing the breath with a series of postures that awakens internal energy channels and vitalizes muscles and organs. The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind.
Target Audience: All Levels

VINCENT TAM
Opening Up to Embrace the World: Partner Assisted Yoga

In this fun and invigorating session, we will be working individually and with partners to energetically awaken our body, mind and hearts. This practice involves physical asana, sense of touch, conscious breathing, humour and play. This session is a great way to get better acquainted, not only with yourselves, but also the other participants as well.

It is designed to unleash the power of play and spontaneity among the participants; strengthen self-confidence, trust, communication, focus and connection. A great way to start the day!

RUBEN TORAL

"What is driving the wellness economy?" Ruben Toral, a leading healthcare marketing consultant, will explore the megatrends and microtrends behind the wellness industry and how they are impacting businesses and industries focused around the delivery of 'care'. Areas of focus will include:
• Market dynamics shaping the wellness economy
• Rethinking spa products and positioning
• The emergence of "Lifestyle Medicine"
• New products and services

This is a unique opportunity for the spa industry to look outside the box.

DR. MARIELA DE OLIVEIRA SILVEIRA

There is much 'talk' about Spa treatments around the world. The global spa economy is estimated to be over $250 billion, according to a first-ever study prepared by SRI International, with data collected from more than 210 countries. There are about 1.2 million employees in 71,600 spas around the globe.

According to the International Medical Spa Association, there were 400 medspas in 2004, now there are nearly 2500. But, how many of these have scientific background? In some cases, some medical spas perform services without having a doctor on site and these have sometimes resulted in burns, blisters and other injuries from treatments. American Society for Dermatologic Surgery reported a 41 percent increase in patients seeking help after treatments that went wrong.

Understand the risks of taking non-certified treatments and why is it important to consider the scientific background to develop your spa therapies. What’s the limit for testing needs without losing the art of taking care of people? This panel will also show that it is possible to link Conventional Academic Medicine to Complementary Medicine successfully.

Participants will learn to measure how safe are Spa procedures plus the best way to apply science in their spas without loosing the welcoming art.

JOHN O'SULLIVAN

Today the focus is on profit maximization through product. People are sometimes regarded as mere vehicle to deliver the experience. In the presentation of "Profit Through People" the speaker explores the critical fact that by having a people based culture where people are "invested in" and by having a relevant product offering, profitability becomes a natural positive by-product.

The session also explores techniques in which the people factor can be maximised and a greater level of profitability derived. "Profit Through People" places emphasis on the pivotal nature of the human element whilst identifying ways simultaneously to make sustainable profitability with integrity.

DAY 1 - PLENARY 2

Taking the floor for this topic are the pioneers of what the industry is now about to embrace. These visionaries (or those who will carry out their visions) will share what they saw that others did not. The session will also attempt to share the images these visionaries see as they gaze into the crystal ball for what is in store for the industry.

DR. S. AJIT

The spa industry had strived to deliver an authentic approach to wellness so that clients can experience not just pampering but something that can be a turning point in their life. In the search for the most sustainable approach to well-being, Ayurveda stands above the rest. Many are aware of the profound benefits of Ayurveda in total wellness, but are hesitant to incorporate Ayurvedic treatments in their spas and resorts because of the many challenges it presents. Can this age-old modality with its rigorous & highly specialized treatment regime fit into the luxurious environment of our spas and resorts? Can the authenticity of its treatment be maintained? What if the treatments are compromised?

For centuries Ayurvedic treatments have been offered in such a way that fulfils all the requirements of the present-day spa environment. For example, in ancient times the royalty of India regularly received Ayurvedic treatments for their longevity in an atmosphere of luxury that nurtured both mind and body. Unfortunately the majority of us see Ayurveda as just massage with oil or pouring oil on the head. It is much more than this, and most importantly it recognises that true wellness can only be achieved when there is harmony between mind, body and soul. For centuries Ayurveda has given us a complete, authentic & systematic approach to well-being and will continue to do so provided it is delivered in the correct form. To see the true benefits of this science correct education & training is required to those who want to offer Ayurvedic treatments to their clients. It is very important that when creating wellness packages all component such  – diet lifestyle, environment and mental, emotional and spiritual – are given due onsideration.

YUTAKA HOMMA

Shiatsu is most effective as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular exercise, working toward meaningful goals, and taking the time to find joy in life. Regular shiatsu treatment is invaluable in any wellness programme and promotes the following health benefits:
• Gives vitality to the skin making it supple and resilient and hence reduces signs of ageing.
• Improves muscle tone, facilitates proper joint alignment.
• Stimulates circulation of blood and lymph, increasing nourishment to and removing waste from all of the body’s cells.
• Regulates neural functioning.
• Stimulates somatovisceral reflexes to regulate organ function.
• Regulates hormonal secretions.
• Adjusts the spine and promote correct posture and skeletal alignment.
• Promotes healthy digestion for proper absorption of nutrients and regular elimination.
• Strengthens the immune system.
• Reduces stress and promotes greater mind-body integration.

Shiatsu requires no special equipment and has no side effects. It can be used on anyone from children to the elderly, anyone who has learned the basic techniques from Yutaka Homma can share their skills with family and friends, giving the gift of health while deepening their bonds through touch.

FRANK WECKESSER & SYLVIA LEELA ISANI

From Wellness to Selfness, the new trend

Over 50.000 Google Hits. Guess what?
The new Selfness trend is now hitting the World of Wellness. Or are we in the middle of it already?
After a full schedule of the Summit Day, let this workshop session invigorate your mind and more. We help you to chill out, unwind and refresh while we share exciting cutting-edge information with you.

Guest Retreats
The “blackberry –life” is getting more unfulfilling for many people, and on many levels: emotional, mind, physical, spiritual. Overload, physical exertion, decreased creativity; feeling trapped within are common symptoms. As people are becoming aware of this, Spas are responding by offering refuge and healing in the form of solution-driven retreats. Guest Retreats are also a great tool to attract new customers, or invite them to book longer stays.
This session gives you insights as to why guest retreats are a valuable contribution to your range of services and what topics are hot. You are also invited to experience and feel for yourself the typical exercises used during Guest Retreats.