SCIENTIFIC PROOF
visualise some of these currently inexplicable phenomena happening. We are now working to utilise new technologies at the cutting edge of biophysics, such as diff erent forms of laser frequency specifi c micro-current systems and other electrical, electromagnetic and bioreso- nance frequencies for diagnosis and treatment as well as monitoring purposes. One might also question why the spa indus-
try would want, or need, the approval of the scientifi c community. T e true scientist must take heed that something has to be working, since the spa industry is very profi table and people do not spend their money unless they feel it is worth it. Dr Jobst is a physician dedicated to healing
and integrated healthcare. He is qualifi ed in medicine and homeopathy, and trained in traditional Chinese acupuncture.
DR GERALDINE MITTON
Medical doctor and wellness consultant
D
espite regular spa-goers under- standing the short- and long-term health benefi ts, some regard spas as
expensive havens for the pampered elite. Some health professionals, especially medical doc- tors, regard spa therapies with mistrust and consider practices to have a placebo eff ect. Some areas of spa practice do give me cause
for concern. Promises of weight loss, anti-age- ing and rejuvenation are oſt en associated with products and treatments promoted to attract clients paying for a quick-fi x solution. Colon hydrotherapy is controversial and may cause serious problems if not administered correctly,
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and some therapists give clients unscientifi c advice and incorrect recommendations. All staff must have recognised professional
qualifi cations and understand the benefi ts, contraindications and complications of thera- pies to make the industry more credible. Each therapist needs to have a holistic knowledge of all the ingredients of products and the spa manager needs to have approved the products and services, making sure they adhere to eth- ical and professional principles. T e High Rustenburg Health Hydro destina-
tion spa in South Africa, where I was medical director, catered for up to 100 guests (with 120 staff ) staying for a minimum of seven days on healthcare programmes. Each guest was monitored for weight and blood pressure, and tested for urine, blood sugar and body composition. Problems ranged from minor to chronic health and within a week there was a marked improvement, including a dramatic sense of wellbeing. We were able to document
a reduction in blood pressure, improved diges- tion, normalised blood sugar, and, for those who stayed longer, improved blood lipids and liver functions. Results over a 14-year period were always positive, but I did not publish these fi ndings in scientifi c journals due to the stringent criteria required for research arti- cles. At Santé Winelands Hotel and Wellness Centre, South Africa, where I was spa director, we conducted corporate wellness programmes on stress reduction for female executives. T e results were uniformly positive. I’ve seen the benefi ts of spa therapies over 20 years, but scientifi c proof with double-blind, placebo- controlled studies wasn’t possible in our spa environment as guests came to rest and relax, not to take part in clinical trials! Following the Global Spa Summit, a number of us are col- laborating on a journal to present evidence validating the benefi ts of spa therapies. Dr Mitton has more than 20 years’ experience as a medical, wellness and spa director.
spa business handbook 2011 87
For the spa industry to gain the support of scientists, it will need to begin monitoring outcomes and demon- strate that results are being followed up
PHOTO:
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