HONG KONG
Mandarin Oriental announced it will launch a Digital Detox initiative at all of its spas worldwide beginning Sept. 5, 2016. The program is designed to help guests find new ways to manage their relationship with technology and the stress that can come with a constantly connected lifestyle.
"Technology has brought us many great advances," said Jeremy McCarthy, group director of spa and wellness, "But the expectations for instant communication can have a negative impact on wellbeing."
Now, by booking any treatment at a Mandarin Oriental spa, guests can also access a range of wellness advice and activities designed to help them disconnect from technology. The company enlisted the renowned Mayo Clinic on the creation of a range of tips and guidelines that can help establish personal boundaries on the use of technology, clear mental chatter and establish a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
The Digital Detox initiative encourages guests to surrender their phones on arrival at the spa, thus removing any online distractions. In the spa relaxation rooms, guests can access a full range of mindfulness activities such as journaling, notecard writing, coloring, meditation or simply relaxing and enjoying the silence. There will also be a selection of curated spa retail offerings, ranging from crystals and eye masks to meditation pillows.
For those who wish to immerse themselves more fully, a Digital Detox Retreat can be booked. This one hour 20 minute experience focuses on grounding both body and mind through the power of human touch, and is designed to provide a calming and peaceful respite from the outside world and the stress of repetitive movements. The treatment includes relaxation in an aromatic bath, followed by a massage that concentrates on the head, eyes, neck, shoulders, hands and feet.
"The spa is one of the few places left in modern society where it is acceptable and even encouraged to disconnect from technology," said McCarthy. "The Spas at Mandarin Oriental provide a perfect haven for people to escape from technology, even if only briefly, to rest their minds and [recharge].”
On departure, inspired by tips on how to achieve a more digitally balanced life, guests can reclaim their cleaned device from the spa, repackaged in its own protective digital shielding.
To further support this new Digital Detox initiative, The Spas at Mandarin Oriental will again offer an annual Silent Night event for the holiday season. On Dec. 14, 2016 each spa will have a special silent retreat to remind guests about the importance of taking personal time for reflection, introspection and silence.
