When people go to spas, it’s usually to unplug from technology and life’s stressors for a few relaxing hours. But soon, those looking to unwind might actually find it takes plugging in to unlock next-level relaxation.
A growing number of spas and resorts around the world are beginning to offer “immersive digital wellness treatments,” the latest trend to hit the $6T global wellness scene.
What is it?
These treatments marry tech with traditional spa services to help relax the overstimulated. It’s aimed at people with anxiety or shrinking attention spans as a way to “soothe and engage the senses via video streams, synchronized light, music, vibrations and even scents,” per The Wall Street Journal.
One prominent player in the space is Submersive: the world’s first immersive art bathhouse, which is slated to open in Austin, Texas, next year. The 25k-square-foot, science-backed facility will feature trippy videos, lighting, and audio that change based on a user’s biometric data to inspire a sense of awe, transcendence, and deep relaxation.
Another is Senkiva, whose Vessel — a futuristic-looking pod available at the Four Seasons Oahu and coming to San Francisco next year — is said to have a “tremendous effect on physiology after just five minutes” (according to its CEO, anyway).
Some others:
Do they work?
Depends on your goals. If you’re looking for a nice, relaxing time, yes; if you’re looking for a miracle, probably not.
Some wellness professionals are skeptical of the high-tech treatments and the promises they make. But while you shouldn’t expect long-lasting effects or for it to “cure” you (don’t quit therapy just yet), they can promote mindfulness and relaxation and help you feel grounded, even if only temporarily.
Ultimately, it’s too soon to really judge their effectiveness — but at a time marked by high anxiety and overstimulation, you can trust that they’ll do well enough for us to eventually find out.