As we celebrate International Women’s Day this year under the theme of "Inspire Inclusion," we had the privilege to interview with Lucia Papalini, the Spa Director at Four Seasons Hotel Firenze- one of our esteemed spa partners offering our signature Sodashi treatments. Lucia, an advocate to women’s empowerment and inclusivity in the spa and wellness industry, shared her insights on how the spa experience transcends mere relaxation to become a journey of holistic well-being and connection with nature.
- As the Spa Director of Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, how do you envision guests experiencing the benefits of wellness through your spa treatments?
Our guests have the unique opportunity to discover one of the most beautiful destinations in the world starting from an urban resort, immersed in the tranquillity of the Gherardesca Garden, in the heart of the city. The Spa reflects Florence’s identity, offering different rituals based on four cosmetic brands: the ancient traditions of Italian herbalism, highly performing face and body treatments supported by technologies that emphasise the power of active ingredients and the power of a holistic approach combined with organic products and aromatherapy.
- Sodashi is known for its commitment to natural ingredients. How does the brand's philosophy align with the emphasis on nature and the Healing Garden at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Firenze?
The Spa is immersed in one of the most important and largest private gardens in the city. Nature surrounds us with its beauty, and protects us with its strength. Every month, Healing Garden offers open-air activities supporting and highlighting the importance of one’s connection with nature.
Sodashi and Healing Garden’s purpose is just the same: to bring people into a profound state of well-being, bringing attention to themselves, starting from simple gestures guiding us along a path of awareness. Each participant will experience it in a completely personal way, which is exactly how nature best express itself.
- The Samadara facial was introduced as a new addition last year. How does this facial complement the tranquil atmosphere of Firenze, and what unique benefits does it offer to your guests?
Last fall, we decided to introduce the Samadara facial off the menu to highlight it as a very special experience. Using the power of crystals, the facial ritual becomes a unique moment of bliss. Rose Quartz is known for its pure energy connected with love and optimism, bringing physical, emotional and spiritual benefits. It is often associated with the heart chakra, promoting inner peace, unconditional love and emotional openness, and can also be used for relieving sadness, anxiety and depression. In addition to emotional healing, this quartz is a strong beauty ally and can help reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture.
- Considering the demanding nature of the spa and wellness industry, how do you maintain your own well-being and self-care, and what initiatives have you implemented at Four Seasons Firenze to promote these values among your female staff, encouraging their growth and leadership development?
We spend so much time at work, therefore we need to feel good with our team and of course the place itself!
Feeling good in a group means being able to create a deeper connection with each other, and you can do that by removing prejudice, actively listening and putting yourself in others' shoes.
The whole team contributes to ideas and solutions: each member is an active part of our different projects, and this promotes the team’s sense of belonging.
I have always believed in the strength of women. My team is made by exceptional women, focused on supporting each other, collaborate and achieve our most important goal, all together: make our guests’ experience unforgettable.
- How does Four Seasons Firenze's spa customise treatments and services to meet the diverse needs of your female guests, particularly in making leadership decisions that ensure inclusivity in wellness offerings?
Through the open exchange of our expertise and constant trainings, we improve our knowledge. Through natural empathy, we understand what our guests are looking for, suggesting the best rituals, tailored on their needs. Communication is a key factor: our colleagues who welcome the guests can share crucial details to the therapists, making sure that the experience will be one of the highlights of their stay.
Whether you're planning a trip to Florence, Italy soon or reside in the vicinity, we invite you to experience the indulgence of Four Seasons Hotel Firenze Spa, offering our exclusive Sodashi spa treatments. Treat yourself to our signature spa experiences, like Samadara Facial Treatment amidst the captivating allure of Florence.
If Florence isn't within reach, discover our other spa locations near you and indulge in the luxury of Sodashi treatments.
Can't make it to Florence? Discover our other spa locations near you and indulge in the luxury of Sodashi treatments.
