Trace the development of contemporary spas from the 1960s to present day

What will be an ideal response?

In the 1960s, a movement began for simpler ways of life that were closer to nature. Along with food grown organically and ways to center oneself, such as yoga and meditation, mineral spas were appealing to naturalists and health enthusiasts. Also during this time, programs to help people lose weight began developing; these programs included a regimen of rigorous exercise and low-calorie food. As more and more people were making use of these programs, retreats were built for those who wanted to lose weight in seclusion and be pampered while they did it. Classes for relaxation and self-development, like meditation, were added, as well as treatments for beauty, such as facials. In the late 1970s and 1980s, fitness began to be a priority for many people. Hotels and resorts determined that in order to remain competitive, they needed to provide workout facilities in addition to pools for swimming. Some went further and added saunas and salons for hair styling, skin care, and nail care. This was the start of the amenity spas, and it was a natural progression to evolve from offering beauty treatments to offering bodywork. There began to be an integrated approach to connecting the mind, body, and spirit, and a focus on wellness and health maintenance. In addition to healthy food, exercise, relaxation, and stress-relief techniques, bodywork therapies became available to spa goers. Old-fashioned treatments, which had not gone out of style in European spas, were rediscovered. Hydrotherapy in the form of Vichy showers, whirlpool baths, mineral baths, hot tubs, and cold plunges were added to spa menus. Substances known to ancient populations were researched; seaweed and muds appeared in the form of wraps and facials. Scrubs using salts, sugar, and other abrasives were developed. Other ancient healing traditions were incorporated, such as aromatherapy and the traditional medicine of India, Ayurveda. Because of an increase in interest in optimal fitness and vitality, and because of an increase in disposable income, these new treatments met with success.