Small Steps to Give Guests a Healthy Biome

Maintaining a healthy microbiome involves promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria on the skin and in the gut, and avoiding practices that can disrupt the balance of microorganisms.

Spas can help clients maintain a healthy gut through massage therapy, facials, mud baths, steam rooms, salt scrubs and more. These services improve gut and skin health by reducing symptoms of digestive disorders, reducing stress, increasing blood flow and circulation, and removing toxins.

Spas can also support their clients by offering healthy food options, encouraging hydration, recommending supplements and educating them about positive lifestyle habits.

Microbiome Basics

The microbiome is an incredibly complex and dynamic ecosystem that plays a vital role in human health. It is composed of a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and others that live within and on the human body. There is a beautiful interconnection and communication within and between nature and the human microbiome.

“Just as the earth’s biomes affect each other, the biomes of your body also directly impact one another," says master herbalist Paul Schulick. "For true wellness to be realized, the connection that exists in nature and in your body needs to be acknowledged, understood and respected.”

These microorganisms are essential for digestive, skin and respiratory health. They can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as diet, medications and environmental exposures.

“Recent research has suggested that imbalances in the microbiome may be linked to a range of health conditions, including obesity, diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease,” explains Kenneth Brown, M.D., a functional gastroenterologist interested in bridging the gap between natural and medical science research. “The microbiome also helps regulate the immune system by protecting against pathogens and aiding in the development of immune cells. It provides metabolic functions, such as breaking down complex molecules, which can help to maintain a healthy body.” 

Maintaining the Microbiome

There are several key factors that can disrupt the microbiome, including:

• Antibiotics: Can kill beneficial bacteria along with harmful ones, leading to dysbiosis.
• Poor diet: A diet high in processed foods, added sugars, and saturated and trans fats, as well as low in fiber, can promote the growth of harmful gut bacteria.
• Stress: Chronic stress can lead to dysbiosis, causing changes in gut motility and leading to diarrhea or constipation. It can also affect immunity.
• Lack of sleep: Can cause changes in gut motility, increase inflammation and affect the immune system.
• Environmental toxins: Exposure to things like pesticides, heavy metals and other chemicals can alter gut permeability and affect gut motility, leading to dysbiosis and inflammation.
• Infections: Can disrupt the microbiome and lead to dysbiosis.
• Aging: As we age, the diversity and abundance of beneficial gut bacteria tend to decline, which can contribute to dysbiosis and an altered gut microbiome.

This is why it’s vital for spas to implement healthy practices to ensure the microbiome health of their clients. Luckily, there are plenty of ways that spas can help!

Offer biome-focused treatments featuring skin care products that support a healthy biome, such as brands with pre- or probiotics.

Consider providing biome-friendly menu items and at-home meal planning outlines. If you don't have a dietician on staff, partner with a local dietitian, restaurant or meal delivery service. You can also sell healthy biome home kits for use between treatments. Local gastroenterologists may have great suggestions. 

Encourage guests to sign up for your stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga or deep breathing classes with a focus on biome health. 

“Instead of having a fear-based attitude toward our microbiome, we should strive to nurture and nourish it instead," adds Schulick. "When we support the microbial ecosystems within us, they will in turn help us to flourish.”