Tag Archives: COMO Shambhala

The Whisper Lounge, a Perfect Place for Pre-and Post-massage Relaxation

whisper.lounge.woodloch 735637 The Whisper Lounge, a Perfect Place for Pre and Post massage RelaxationThe Whisper Lounge: a Perfect Place for Pre-and Post-massage Relaxation
By Susie Ellis

One of my favorite places at Woodloch is the Whisper Lounge. John and Ginny Lopis who created Woodloch did something that very few spas do (because it is very expensive). But it was really smart. They created a special lounge for pre and post treatment snoozing and this is NOT the lounge where therapists pick up their clients for treatments. The other lounge is also a nice space, with a fireplace and views, but it is within the changing areas. I wanted you to see what their Whisper Lounge looks like so here is a photo.

I have never liked the “cattle call” system most spas use whereby therapists enter a lounge and loudly shout the name of the guest they will be treating. If that room also doubles as the relaxation room (most of the time that is the case) it is impossible to really relax, sleep or meditate. The hourly or twice- an-hour call is an interruption every time.

So it was a treat for me to take the book I am reading and head down to Woodloch’s Whisper Lounge where I could snuggle up with one of the blankets provided, enjoy the crackling fireplace, the view of the autumn trees at their peak, and sip on some luxury herb tea. I spent a blissful two hours there.

My only suggestion was for them to scatter a few signs within the room reminding people to shhhhhh in case they didn’t see the “Whisper Lounge” sign upon entry. Amazing how loud some people can whisper. In retrospect, it might have been better if they had called the room “The Quiet Lounge” or something like that. But the name just isn’t as fun. icon smile The Whisper Lounge, a Perfect Place for Pre and Post massage Relaxation

Dr. Carmona – From Surgeon General to the Spa World

Continuing on with our theme regarding health care…

You might want to check out this morning’s article in the New York Times entitled, “Surgeon General Sees 4-Year Term as Compromised”. Former Surgeon General Richard Carmona spoke to a Congressional panel, stating that during his four year term he had felt pressure to suppress public health report information for political reasons. Wow – more fuel for the consumer fire of outrage.

391px Richard carmona 781202 Dr. Carmona   From Surgeon General to the Spa WorldDon’t miss reading further down in the article where it describes what Dr. Carmona is doing these days. He is now vice chairman of Canyon Ranch! How cool is that?

Although he has been affiliated with Canyon Ranch for some time now, his newfound notoriety will no doubt bring more awareness to his new surroundings. Not to mention it’s great for our industry to have someone of his background and character associated with a leading spa and wellness resort. Mel Zuckerman, owner of Canyon Ranch said in a 2006 press release, “Dr. Carmona has committed his life and career to saving and improving lives. His commitment to safety and preparedness, and his unwavering dedication to better health through prevention have changed the way that millions of people view health and well-being.”

As Vice Chairman, Dr. Carmona works with other Canyon Ranch executives, Medical Director Mark Liponis, M.D. (who I met during my stay at Canyon Ranch, Lenox) as well as the integrative medicine team on major projects like the Cleveland Clinic, which is recognized as one of the top medical research institutions in the United States. I believe Dr. Carmona will find enthusiastic support at Canyon Ranch for his commitment to scientific (instead of political) health care considerations.