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Global Wellness Institute Publishes New Edition of Its Popular Hydrothermal Spa & Wellness Development Standards Book

The third edition includes 50 additional pages, among them a step-by-step storyboard on how a successful hydrothermal area is built, an extended chapter on hot springs and geothermal waters, and a chapter on sustainability and regenerative design

Miami, FL – October 24, 2018 – The Global Wellness Institute (GWI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, today announced the release of the third edition of the Guide to Hydrothermal Spa & Wellness Development Standards. The popular book, which has been expanded by 50 pages, is a primer for designing and building thermal experiences and wet areas at commercial properties or in residential homes.

Created for spa owners, operators and consultants as well as designers, architects and builders, the Guide to Hydrothermal Spa & Wellness Development Standards was written to help readers understand these complex areas and guide them as they embark on building a hydrothermal area of any size. It covers everything from project planning to building and construction considerations, including recommended standards and materials, and clearly defines the functions and benefits of all common thermal bathing and wet areas.

“Hydrothermal areas are notoriously difficult to get right—and very costly if they go wrong,” said GWI Chair and CEO Susie Ellis. “This guide reflects unprecedented collaboration between key players in the industry who joined together and formed the GWI’s Hydrothermal Initiative, with a mission to elevate industry standards. Members of the Initiative are committed to increasing transparency and awareness about the design and implementation of thermal and wet treatment experiences.”

“Our aim is to educate the industry so that whenever hydrothermal areas are designed and built, they not only positively impact the health and wellness of users, but they are also constructed in a way that supports our planet and its precious resources,” said Don Genders, chair of the GWI Hydrothermal Initiative and CEO of UK-based Design for Leisure.

The Guide to Hydrothermal Spa & Wellness Development Standards is available for free download at the GWI website, thanks to returning support from absolute-pools, Barr + Wray, Design for Leisure, Dornbracht, Gharieni, Hilton, HygroMatik, Kemitron, KLAFS, Lux Elements, Six Senses, Snowbox, Sommerhuber, TechnoAlpin, Unbescheiden and WDT. Two new sponsors for the 3rd edition are Danubius Hotels and Peninsula Hot Springs.

“The beauty of this guide is that it addresses all aspects of a hydrothermal build, including financial/business issues; design, development and construction; health and wellness benefits; and even recommended usage for each experience,” said Kim Matheson Shedrick, senior vice president at WTS International, a spa, fitness and lifestyle consultancy and management firm.

About the Global Wellness Institute: The Global Wellness Institute (GWI), a nonprofit 501(c)(3), is considered the leading global research and educational resource for the global wellness industry and is known for introducing major industry initiatives and regional events that bring together leaders to chart the future. GWI positively impacts global health and wellness by advocating for both public institutions and businesses that are working to help prevent disease, reduce stress, and enhance the overall quality of life. Its mission is to empower wellness worldwide.