The adage is true when it comes to energy work: What's old is new again. As we continue in the "Age of Aquarius," the demand for wellness experiences continues to rise. Energy services have not only made it back onto spa and wellness menus, but these services are also highly requested. Let's walk down memory lane and review the energy work and practices concept.

Energy work is a holistic approach to healing and well-being that involves manipulating and balancing the body's energy fields. The concept is rooted in various ancient and traditional healing practices from cultures worldwide. While the specific techniques and beliefs vary, the common thread is that a vital life force or energy flows through the body, and imbalances or blockages in this energy can lead to physical, emotional or spiritual issues.

An Ancient Tradition

Many ancient cultures including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda in India, and the practices of indigenous peoples around the world have long recognized the existence of subtle energy that influences health.

Energy work promotes relaxation, reduces stress by releasing tension, and fosters a sense of calm. It can contribute to an overall spa experience to rejuvenate the mind and body.

Energy work also helps release emotional blockages and promotes a sense of emotional balance. Clients may experience improved mood, reduced anxiety and enhanced emotional well-being.

Some proponents of energy work claim that it can support physical healing by addressing the underlying energy imbalances that may contribute to illness or discomfort. However, it's important to note that energy work is typically considered complementary, rather than a substitute for traditional medical care.

For those seeking a more spiritual dimension to their wellness journey, energy work can provide a sense of connection to a higher power or a deeper understanding of oneself.

There are various energy work modalities, such as reiki, crystal healing and energy balancing massages. Spas can offer various options to cater to individual preferences and needs.

Bringing Balance to Clients

I spoke with Cristiane Cole, a multi-faceted energy worker and teacher. She is a certified reiki master teacher, Akashic records guide and PSYCH-K facilitator.

Cole describes her approach to energy work with guests as deeply personal. “Each client has a unique combination of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual energy bodies, plus their reactions to the process,” she says. “The exact process, done between different people, can have strikingly different results.”

The purpose of energy work is to bring balance to the recipient. “Removing energetic distortions realigns you with who you truly are, in control of your life, but with flowing ease rather than determined force,” explains Cole.

There are six major benefits to receiving energy work sessions, according to Cole:

1. Emotional balance: Energy work can help individuals release and process stored emotions, leading to emotional healing and greater emotional stability. Clients often report feeling more centered and at peace.
2. Mental clarity: Balancing the chakras may lead to improved mental clarity. Individuals may find it easier to make decisions and solve problems.
3. Enhanced creativity and intuition: Some individuals notice increased creativity and intuitive abilities after energy work, making it particularly beneficial for artists, writers and those seeking personal growth.
4. Improved relationships: Emotional healing and balance can positively impact personal relationships, leading to better communication and a deeper connection with others.
5. Spiritual growth: Sessions can facilitate a greater sense of connection with the universe or a higher power. It may ease the spiritual journey and enhance a sense of purpose by removing energy blockages that could be making things difficult.
6. Accelerated healing: Energy healing can be a complementary therapy for individuals recovering from surgery, injury or illness.

It’s also important to prepare guests for their sessions to ensure longer-lasting results. “I encourage clients to set clear intentions for their sessions and overall well-being,” says Cole. “This helps them focus on specific goals, whether physical healing, emotional balance or spiritual growth. Energy goes where you focus.”

In addition, simple self-care practices like deep breathing, meditation or visualization before, during and after the session help maintain energy balance and lower stress. Cole notes that this self-awareness can lead to self-acceptance, resulting in a better self-image and confidence over time.

“Big energy shifts can require weekly sessions to maintain results and avoid returning to old patterns," notes Cole.

Related: Trending: Breaking Down Energy Healing Treatments

Modern Energy Treatments

Businesses big and small are embracing the uptick in demand for energy services. “We have six services currently that incorporate holistic wellness: Chakra Gemstone Massage, Chakra Gemstone Facial, Holistic Massage, Abhyanga Massage, and Signature Manicure and Pedicure,” says Joni Torres, director of spa and salon at the Golden Nugget Las Vegas. 

The Chakra Gemstone treatment is designed to release stored energy and stress, helping guests achieve homeostasis by providing mental clarity and self-awareness. It incorporates sound healing with Tibetan bowls, as well as the precious gemstones and essential oils associated with each chakra.

Abhyanga Massage is nourishing and balancing. It involves long, rhythmic strokes concentrating on abundant oil absorption. The Ayurvedic massage focuses on delivering warm therapeutic oil into the deeper layers of the skin to dislodge and eliminate waste, and revitalize the entire being. The strokes along the body's energy lines are deeply relaxing, leaving guests restored and rejuvenated.

Incorporating energy work, such as reiki or crystal healing, into modern spa and wellness offerings enhances clients’ overall well-being and relaxation experience. "We are as healthy as the treatments we receive, and we can bring homeostasis to the mind and body through holistic treatment,” explains Torres. “Holistic treatment is also pivotal in providing therapy where touch is not applicable. Reiki, for example, allows practitioners to move energy throughout the body. Meditation quiets the mind and allows deeper clarity and acuity, while sound healing can help release emotional trauma."

Like any spa or wellness experience, energy work isn't one size fits all. Some clients will love, request and return for energy work services; others will avoid it like the plague. The goal is to have wellness offerings, both services and retail, that meet your guests’ needs and provide unexpected results.

Wellness services, including energy work modalities, will continue to increase in demand. As spa leaders, it is in our best interest to develop, select and create a wide array of offerings that will benefit our clients and our bottom line.

Sherrie Tennessee has more than 20 years of experience as a recognized educator, consultant and wellness "mixologist." Under her SpaSOS brand, she designs and facilitates training programs for properties including Mandarin Oriental. Tennessee is currently a Ph.D. student and instructor at William F. Harrah College of Hospitality, University of Nevada, Las Vegas.