Like most service-oriented industries, the spa industry is keen to stay on the cutting edge of its services - fulfilling what their clients demand - sometimes before the client even realize it's in demand. As more Americans incorporate physical and mental wellbeing into their daily lives, the spa industry is already poised to show them the most effective methods to a balanced life.

In fact, spas are working hard to educate the American consumer on the basics of healthy living: stress management, nutrition and exercise. On average, half of the country's spas offer programs based in nutrition and exercise; nearly half feature programs in healthy eating; and just over a quarter offer programs aimed to educate their clients about obesity and weight-loss.

Another emerging trend in the road to wellbeing is the issue of sleep. Studies continue to emphasize the dire need Americans have for quality rest. The country's populace is running on less of it than ever before. Quality sleep has shown to have a positive effect when it comes to issues such as weight loss, productivity and physical health. And while spa-goers have long embraced programs that will improve exercise and nutrition habits, they are now also requesting help for achieving a good night's rest. Spas are in the position to answer that call by developing extra-relaxing spa treatments, lounges designed for post-treatment naps, and environments that encourage a restful sense of being with low lights and sound. This growing need also has properties adding sleep directors and specialists to their staff who can help those who suffer from sleep apnea and other similar disorders. Now a good siesta may only be as far away as the neighborhood spa.

In addition to adopting a healthier lifestyle, more Americans are also adopting a green philosophy of life. Therefore, many are examining the spa industry's commitment as well. They are looking at a property's eco-friendliness, natural and holistic approach to their business. Issues range from practices such as the amounts of water used to clean towels to the use of locally-grown, organic vegetables. As a result, nearly three-quarters of U.S. spas indicate they are adopting environmentally sustainable practices.

These practices also apply to the products used and endorsed by a spa. Clients are seeing more organic products made from plants, herbs and mineral essentials. Anti-aging foods and organic products are touted for their effectiveness in enhancing one's appearance as well as feeding the epidermis. In addition, spas are incorporating treatments that highlight indigenous plants that highlight the natural world in which the spa is located. These kinds of practices are eagerly embraced by consumers who value a spa's holistic commitment to its guests and the planet.

Fusion is a term that has found its way into cuisine, decorating, and now the spa. The idea behind fusion is to take two effective elements and combine them for a more powerful result. But for an industry bent on innovation, it's not really a new concept. For instance, Watsu was developed by a California therapist who combined Zen shiatsu with water. The term "wellness" came about by those who combined philosophies of well-being and fitness. Other examples of fusion include yogalates (yoga and Pilates) and Kinesis (mind and body exercises). As fusion continues to become more mainstream, spa-goers are seeing more creative combinations that include massage and sound therapy, the use of Jacuzzis with light therapy, and facials that incorporate breathwork.

In an industry that seeks to keep ahead of the curve, tomorrow's unfamiliar trends quickly become today's mainstream treatments. All hold one goal in mind - to provide the essential steps to achieving one's best health yet.