Does it matter to clients if your spa or massage practice is committed to protecting the environment? There’s a good chance that it does for many of them. A survey conducted by Nielsen last year found that 55 percent of global online consumers across 60 countries are willing to pay more for products and services provided by companies committed to positive social and environmental impact.
Considering the role you play in healing the body – and the mind – through your treatments, it makes sense to extend your “healing practices” to the planet. There are many ways your spa or massage practice can go green to both lighten your ecological footprint and attract like-minded clients while you do. Some of the following practices may already be part of your business operation. If not, it’s never too late to go green.
Offer Organics
One of the best ways to protect the planet and meet clients’ needs for purity is to use professional products that contain the fewest synthetic ingredients. For clients who prefer organic when it comes to the massage, BIOTONE offers Pure Touch Organics Massage Creme and Gel.
Clean Green
Avoid commercial cleaners that contain hazardous chemicals. Use natural products for cleaning, such as vinegar, multipurpose, and can be used straight out of the container for floors, windows, and countertops. Mix it with baking soda and essential oils for cleaning out sinks or toilets. Avoid bleach and chlorine, which can be harsh on the skin and toxic to the environment when disposed of down the sink. When it comes to rags and sponges, use those made from natural fibers. Definitely avoid cleaning with paper towels and disposal use wipes that end up in landfills.
Freshen the Air Naturally
Chemical fresh air cleaners can irritate the eyes and skin and cause breathing problems. Open doors and windows to let fresh air in and circulate. Also, consider using fresh or dried flowers or lighting aromatherapy candles, or spraying an aromatherapy mist to add a natural scent to your spa or massage practice.
Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
You won’t always be able to use non-disposable items, but do so as much as possible. Install a drinking fountain instead of offering clients bottled waters. Try to use reusable plates, cups, and utensils. When it’s time to get rid of old towels and blankets, donate them to a charitable resale shop or animal shelter. Consider sharing supplies with other spas or massage practitioners, such as an extra massage chair you haven’t been using.
Check your Equipment
Make sure your equipment is made from sustainably sourced hardwoods and not endangered ones or plastics that pollute.
Conserve
Choose Energy Star appliances that are low energy and unplug them when they are not in use.
Let your clients know how your spa or massage practice is contributing to the well-being of the planet. Your actions may spur them to reduce their own carbon footprint.