Page 29 - ANDRONIS_2022

focus

A n d r o n is S p a D i r e c to r , C a r l a S ag e , t a l k s e x c l u s i v e l y a n d
e x p l a i n s h o w A n d r o n is c a n h e l p u s r ed is c o v e r o ur be s t s e l f .

As a specialist, what is your philosophy concerning our signature collections, which are based on our wellness
Andronis spas? What are the core values of your direction? pillars. And of course, one of our most popular from last year
Human beings are incredible creatures and we have so much is the water healing treatment, The Water Path, which is a
within ourselves to not just survive but flourish. Our philosophy combination of our Kneipp pool experience in contrast bathing,
is focused on a person’s entire well-being as unique individuals accompanied by a treatment that focuses on reflexology and
because no two people are the same. With the right tools and the energy meridians of the body through the lower limbs.
proper guidance, our hope is that guests can unwind, reflect,
recharge, and reconnect with their inner self. The pandemic has dramatically reshaped traveler attitudes
Our spa and wellness core values are based on this philosophy towards health and wellness. What are the changes brought
through 3 Wellness Pillars; Be DeStressed, Be Rested and Be to Andronis Spas as a response to this?
Balanced. Our wellness concept has matured a great deal in the last year,
Tell us a bit about yourself and your relationship with not necessarily because of the pandemic, but because we
Greece. How did you come to Santorini? recognized that in today’s world there is a growing need for
It is not a coincidence that a Greek poet said; “moderation in nurturing our mental health in combination with our physical
all things”. I believe that moderation reflects the very essence health. Our core values and wellness philosophy will continue
of a healthy lifestyle, so perhaps I was drawn here because I to focus on embracing guests’ entire wellbeing through body
am aligned with this philosophy. In my career, I have lived mind and spiritual balance.
and worked in Greece on different occasions, but my arrival What’s your approach towards therapeutic methods and
to Santorini was because a mutual friend of mine and our wellbeing in general?
General Manager, George Filippidis, brought us together I think my philosophy has always been that we are powerful
after recognizing we were aligned in our forward thinking beings, and we have the will and the inner strength to heal
on the concepts of wellness and the direction Andronis was ourselves and choose wellness for our physical bodies and our
wanting to take as a leader in the spa and wellness arena minds. My studies have been in the area of human biology
for Greece. and behavioral science, but I am a therapist at my core, so I try
Can you describe a day in your life as the Director of Spa to create treatments and services that are all encompassing.
and Wellness at those amazing Andronis Spas? How do you explain the strong pace of development of the
Every day is unique, I think. I do my best to open the door to spas in almost every hotel around the world?
all possibilities. I have a great spa manager that takes care of In my opinion, the pace of development of spas has been
our operations, so that allows me to focus on staying in the strong for many years, but perhaps that much more in the
forefront of developing our training banks, and creating the best last 3-5 years. Perhaps it is a sense of desperation to find that
environments, and treatment protocols for our future. It also magic “answer” to good health. I try not to get too caught up
allows me to nurture our relationships with guests, colleagues, in the race for trends and passing excitement. I think being
and the marketing image. present and mindful and creating experiences that enrich the
What should Andronis guests expect this year from outcome for guests visiting the spa and wellness facilities is
Andronis Spas? the key to success.
Gosh…. Have you got an hour so I can share everything with What do you love most about your job in the island of
you….. expect to be surprised and delighted! Santorini and what are the challenges you face?
Each one of our 3 spa and wellness locations is different. Both in Living on an island you always face operational challenges
their environment and menu philosophy. While our foundation because things don’t always function as they should, and
has a common bond, we have developed new menus this year shipments don’t always arrive when we wish them too, so you
for each location, as well as a wellness menu. So, there is a must be open to adaptation, always!
lot going on. A few things to share; body screening analysis, I love that we live on an island rich in natural infrared radiation
remedial & recovery therapies, and then some lighter offerings; from the island’s powerful energy source, the volcanic arc. That
family reconnection fun, an adult art space for guests to find in combination of being surrounded by the healing waters of
their inner child, mindful eating sessions, kundalini dance… the Aegean Sea… it’s a win win!
“Embracing guests’ entire wellbeing” Exciting things are happening! What is your favorite Santorini spot you go to recharge
yourself?
What has been the most popular spa treatment among
them? Hmmmm…. I can’t give away my secret spot, but it is definitely
Carla Sage, Andronis Spa Director I think it is still a bit early to know what will be popular with near the water’s edge. I am 100% of the mind that there is
this year’s guests, but so far, we are seeing a lot of interest in healing in natures salt bath. •

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