Men are prioritizing wellness more than ever before, and industry veteran Thor Holm knows the importance of this movement. The spa director of the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa has held a triumphant position in wellness for more than 33 years. Through his experience in spa leadership, Holm has honed in his craft of staff management, creating effective wellness programming and helping guests honor their minds and bodies. Holm chatted with WellSpa 360 to discuss the spa’s exciting “Year of Wellness” initiative, newly launched Recovery Zone and so much more!
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Spa Director, Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
Men are prioritizing wellness more than ever before, and industry veteran Thor Holm knows the importance of this movement. The spa director of the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa has held a triumphant position in wellness for more than 33 years. Through his experience in spa leadership, Holm has honed in his craft of staff management, creating effective wellness programming and helping guests honor their minds and bodies. Holm chatted with WellSpa 360 to discuss the spa’s exciting “Year of Wellness” initiative, newly launched Recovery Zone and so much more!
What was your first job in spa and wellness?
My first job was as the spa manager at Sonesta Sanibel Harbour Resort and Spa. We were short staffed when I first started, so it necessitated me stepping in whenever I could, whether at the desk, locker room or even as a substitute instructor for a class. I learn from every opportunity, and that taught me valuable lessons about the individual roles I was supervising.
What is your favorite memory of your time working in this industry?
I have a lot of great memories, but my favorite was when I met Deepak Chopra at the Don CeSar. I was at the desk and he asked for my assistance in the workout area. I helped him get started on a treadmill and we started talking. I said that he looked familiar, and he said that he was on TV occasionally (this was 1995). He told me about why he was in town, and it struck me that he reminded me of Dr. Norman Shealy, who had worked with my college football team regarding positive imagery techniques.
Well, after I said that, he seemed quite flustered and asked me if I could help him stop the treadmill. He then left the spa. Now I am thinking that I had offended him in some way. He returned a few minutes later and again asked me to get him started on the treadmill. I did and said, “I hope that I did not offend you,” and he said, Not at all.” He handed me four tickets to his appearance at the Mahaffey Theater and said, “Come and see for yourself and tell me if I remind you of him.”
I was so relieved, but also excited. I gave tickets to two of the massage therapists and the other to my girlfriend (who became my wife). We sat in the front row as Chopra spoke for about two and a half hours! When he finished to a standing ovation, he leaned over and asked me, “How was that?”
What do you love about spa and wellness?
I love that it is different and interesting every day. I get to work alongside a lot of great people while making others happy!
Related: 3 Recovery Treatments at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
What new wellness trends do you find most exciting?
I’m excited about the new wellness offerings we are launching at Grand Geneva Resort and Spa. We just introduced our recovery zone, which is a bridge between our fitness programming, golf, ski, racquet sports and our spa. The Recovery Zone is designed to support muscle recovery and well-being. New offerings are designed to ease aches and pains after fitness classes, skiing, golf or even just a long drive. They include:
Theragun Elite massage therapy to improve performance, decrease muscle fatigue and soreness, reduce tension, and improve circulation and recovery.
Recovery Air Jet Boots compression treatments, which apply precise pressure to create a safe, true negative gradient from the feet to the heart and back again—essential for maximizing circulation and recovery.
Our fitness and spa professionals have come together to develop sport-specific routines to enhance performance, range of motion and recovery by taking guests through a program of guided and partner stretching. Guests begin the appointment with an assessment and end with the same test to show progress through the session.
What’s the first thing you do after a long day at work?
After a long day of work, the first thing I do is work out.
What’s your favorite wellness treatment to receive and why?
I love it all, but my favorite has to be a massage after soaking in a hot spring.
What’s your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment, without a doubt, is my son Antonio and my daughter Kari!
What advice do you have for someone just getting started in the industry?
My advice is that you shouldn’t be afraid to move around, and make sure you have fun!
What’s one thing you can’t leave the house without?
My water bottle.
Who inspires you?
My family inspires me. I am one of 11 children and I have some amazing siblings, incredible parents and wonderful children.
How do you practice self-care?
I work out regularly and receive massages, facials, manicures and pedicures.
What is on your bucket list?
Visiting Norway and the town my Dad was born, Skien.
What's on the horizon for Grand Geneva in 2024?
Our “Year of Wellness” is just the beginning of our goal to bring wellness to our community. We are excited about collaborating with wellness practitioners and featuring their work to our members, guests and associates. The Year of Wellness is an innovative spa program designed to educate and enhance the well-being of both the local community and resort guests. Recognizing the growing consumer demand for health and wellness programming, Grand Geneva has curated a range of activities, events and services to cater to the needs and interests of individuals seeking to support their well-being. Throughout the year, the resort will also host a series of wellness events featuring professionals who will share their expertise on trending health topics and research.
