The Caribbean Spa Trend That's About More Than Relaxation

It's almost a given that a relaxing spa experience will be part of a stay at every luxury resort in the Caribbean. And no doubt, whether it's a massage, body scrub or facial, the treatment will be both indulgent and restorative.

But it turns out that a growing number of guests are looking for more than the standard spa menu. At a handful of luxury spas around the world, wellness is being redefined, and for women, that means addressing challenges unique to them. Menopause, hormonal imbalances and postpartum recovery are no longer hush hush. Women want to feel heard and seen, and they want relief—not just a general nod in the direction of relaxation.

The Landings Resort & Spa in St. Lucia is a prime example of a property where women's wellness takes center stage. Home to what the resort says is the Caribbean's only female-focused spa, the expansive wellness center offers treatments designed to address concerns specific to women, no matter what stage they are in their lives.

The services are designed to address hormonal imbalances, postpartum recovery, menstrual discomfort, aging, and the various stages of menopause. Their growing popularity reflects a broader cultural shift, as topics like menopause are finally getting long overdue attention from both the medical community and the media.

Jennifer Rubinstein, a luxury travel advisor at Embark Beyond in New York, has seen growing demand for these kinds of specific wellness experiences.

"Wellness and self-care have become such essential parts of everyday life. They're no longer a luxury but a way of life, and topics like menopause, fertility and cancer are no longer taboo. Women are talking about these experiences openly—with friends, on social media—and they're actively seeking community and destinations that can support them through it all."

"I have female clients looking for wellness destinations for all kinds of reasons and at different moments in their lives: while their kids are at sleepaway camp, for just a few days away to recharge, or simply to connect with like-minded women who may be going through similar experiences."

The program at The Landings Resort uses A-list skincare brands- including SkinCeuticals, Elemis and Natura Bissé. Therapists are also trained in applying natural oils such as chamomile, geranium, lavender, and juniper berry, which are often used to help ease symptoms like night sweats.

The treatments have been well received by female guests, says spa director Ana Shierla Sanchez.

"Many have shared that these experiences leave them feeling deeply relaxed, restored, and better equipped to manage the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause or postpartum recovery," she says. "Even more interesting, we are also seeing increased interest from locals and outside visitors who are looking specifically for wellness experiences for women. As awareness grows around women's health and holistic wellbeing, guests are becoming more intentional about choosing treatments that support their overall health, not just relaxation."

This article was originally published on Forbes.com