“a sustainable spa is where healing is an integration with nature, not a separation from it”
Amy McDonald
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.”
John Burroughs
SpaFinder’s 7th Annual “Top 10 Global Spa Trends to Watch in 2010”
by Susie Ellis
Amy McDonald, a seasoned and always thoughtful spa and wellness consultant, took the novel approach of customizing music channels for Foothills Health Consultants in Calgary, Canada, by adding a “white noise,” “filler sound” option. Reports are it has become their most popular channel. link to article
Healing Lifestyles & Spas, Spa Trends 2009
by Margie Goldsmith
“Expect even more green,” says Amy McDonald, principal of Amy McDonald & Associates, a sustainable spa design and consultancy firm. link to article
Healing Lifestyles & Spas, Spa Trends 2008
The evolved spa by Margie Goldsmith
As spa guests become more conscious of the environment and begin to understand their bodies better, spas are evolving. link to article
SpaFinder, Jan/Feb 2008
50 Roads to Renewal by By Ann Abel, Melisse Gelula, and Gary Walther
Number 16: Have "BONE-CLEANSING" Bodywork from Ed Moffett. link to article
Time Magazine, Fall 2007
The Rise of the Wellness Spa by Sonja Steptoe
"Consumers are more interested in staying at lovely places that make them feel cared for now," explains spa consultant Amy McDonald.
Organic Spa Magazine, Winter 2007
Paving the Way.
Meet the minds behind the sustainable spa movement. by Mary Bemis
Find Bliss Magazine Online, April 2006
Amy McDonald Queen of the Green Spa World. by Kyle Roderick
With the intuitive heart of a healer and the fair finesse of an ethical executive, McDonald believes “in the value of blissful experiences to transform, empower, heal and reveal”. link to article
Los Angeles Yogi Times, November 2006
Sustainable Spa Superwoman. by Kyle Roderick
“The concept of sustainability has many levels, from totally sustainable to the most basic beginnings. My feeling is that any spa that does not seek to integrate sustainability options in its design and daily operation will be rapidly eclipsed by those that are more sustainable, primarily because the consumer is becoming so savvy about what goes into their body.
Healing Lifestyles and Spas, September/October 2006
10 Metrospiritual Pioneers by Kyle Roderick
“My team specializes in developing sustainable spas, evidence-based and integrative medical spa programs, and organic self-care products of tomorrow,” McDonald explains. “Besides helping the spa, hotel, resort, and self-care worlds create sustainable facilities, programs, products, and events,” she continues, “we also consult on strategies for businesses wishing to implement sustainable elements in measured steps.”
Healing LifeStyles and Spas.JPG
Robb Report, May 1, 2005
Luxury Portal, Spas: Lotus Blossoms. by Shari Mycek
“There is no right or wrong yoga style,” says spa director Amy McDonald. “The perfect practice is what gets you out of your head—and into your heart.” Prior to guests’ arrival, McDonald queries them about their goals and then creates suitable yoga programs.
Spa Finder Luxury Magazine, March/April 2005
Spa Sleuth: The Full Monte. by Gary Walthers
“It’s the therapists that make the Living Spa stand out. McDonald, is one of the most respected people in the business, says she's astonished by the high level of expertise and diversity in Taos, adding even the out-there therapists McDonald has hired are grounded in at least one respect: They know how to give a great massage. It's the consistency of the hands that makes this spa singular.”
New York Times, April 23, 2004, Travel Section
Journeys At Eco Spas, It’s Nature and Nurture. by Gretchen Reynolds
“AMY MCDONALD is a serene advertisement for rejuvenation and purification. Soft-voiced and efficient in a gentle, diaphanous way...
“a living spa, where healing is an integration with nature, not a separation from it” (she) moved massage tables outdoors and organized open-air yoga classes.” link to article
New York Times, January 16, 2004, Shambala Mountain Center
No Talking. No Fun, It’s Called a Vacation by Karen Rabinovitz
O, The Oprah Magazine, April 1, 2004, Beauty Section
“Soak and ye shall find ... serenity, energy, good cheer. Spa expert Amy McDonald knows how to turn an everyday ritual into a bliss-a-thon. Here’s one thing you’ll probably never hear about - speed bathing. “Taking a bath is an acknowledgment of your intention to relax,” says Amy McDonald.”
American Spa, November 2002, In Touch
In broad terms, the word "holistic' means promoting long-term health. More specifically, a holistic spa "is a place of healing for the mind and body," explains Amy McDonald.
Real Simple, 2004, Kick back, Relax. Vacation at home.
“Eliminating reminders of time helps wipe away the stress of the daily grind” says Amy McDonald.
Amy McDonald & Associates: Sustainability and wellness