Wellness is a broadly defined term, and those delivering wellness experiences often view it as a practice. An art that is forever refined to suit the wellbeing of those seeking wellness experiences. Sindy Lagare, Director of Spa and Wellness at LUX* South Ari Atoll talks to Maldives Wellness Review about her journey in the wellness industry.

MWR: How did you first get interested in a career in the wellness industry?

SL: I was working in a different sector when, unexpectedly, I received an offer to join the Spa and Wellness industry. The requirements were being interested in promoting the highest level of care, and the attention and personalizing the unique needs of each client. I believe helping people back to well-being and providing a true quality of treatment in a haven of holistic wellbeing, enhances physical and emotional experiences. Through the progression of these experiences my fascination for human anatomy and nutrition took off. While offering massages, body treatments, discovering a wide range of  beauty products, wellness retreats and other alternative activities, I can engage my passion for diversity in the wellness industry. There is no deadline for success. I believe in my ability to make progress. It takes a lot of hard work and consistency and I do  emphasize the importance of the advice of superiors and friends who guided me in the quest of excellence.

MWR: Did you specifically think of the spa industry or did your interests lead you there?

SL: I strongly believe that exploring diverse experiences is crucial to enhancing my expertise. Therefore, I was committed to seek out and immerse myself in a variety of opportunities that had helped me to broaden my knowledge and to become a skilled individual.

MWR: Where and how did you begin your professional career?

SL: At the outset of my professional journey, I had set my sights on becoming a secretary. I commenced my career in the hospitality industry as a secretary, but soon realized that my energy and passion could not be confined to the four walls of an office. I relished interacting with guests, striking up conversations, and meeting people from all corners of the globe. Over time, I have harnessed every opportunity to pursue my objectives with discipline, resilience, enthusiasm, and a steadfast commitment to learning and growth.

MWR: What is your experience working in the Maldives?

SL: Success comes with many challenges, which encourage and strive me to give the best of myself. I am grateful and appreciate every minute I spend in the Maldives, its idyllic environment and thalassic flora and fauna. Where we make each moment matter and help our guests celebrate life.

MWR: Is Maldives seen as a wellness destination by travelers?

SL: More and more resorts are adding innovative wellness experiences to the destination. The Maldives, with its idyllic location and weather, naturally contributes to enhancing the guest experience. However, guest needs have changed over the years and wellness has become an important component of their stay. Guests want to rejuvenate, reconnect with themselves, and be pampered during their stay.

MWR: What is your personal definition of wellness?

SL: It is a practice to enhance a healthy lifestyle on a daily basis, to achieve optimal physical and mental health outcomes in all aspects of our life. Wellness is now a necessity which includes self-care, peace of mind, happiness and strength.

MWR: Is there a signature treatment or recipe you would like to share with readers?

SL: We have created our LUX* South Ari Atoll Aaramu Dhathuru signature massage, and we use Dhivehi wordings to illustrate this massage – meaning relaxing and serenity.

The therapist will target your pressure points using raw baby coconut and massage you with warm coconut oil – the best skin food. And then you wrap it up with a fresh ‘kurumba’, coconut water, which is high in electrolytes.

All photos: courtesy of LUX* South Ari Atoll, Maldives