Mike’s work is currently showcased at Miraval Spa in Tucson, Arizona and will be an integral part of the design of the new Life in Balance Spa set to open in May 2012.
Throughout its sixteen year existence, Miraval has become the top-rated spa in the United States and the ultimate destination for individuals looking to open the mind, body and soul. It assists people in finding balance and changing their lives for the better. Oprah Winfrey, the queen of self improvement, has given Miraval her stamp of approval, and sees the spa as a source for life-long learning; she has devoted six full segments of Oprah to Miraval over the years.
With a focus on sustainability, the new Life in Balance Spa’s luxury is not about excess, opulence, or lavishness but rather embraces the mantra “Life Enhancing Minimalism.” Working in harmony with renowned Mithun Architects and Clodagh Design –the same team who helped create the Villas at Miraval that completely sold out in fall of 2011 – Miraval is crafting a physical environment that reinforces the spa’s connection to the earth, creating a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor relaxation spaces.
“Design and architecture are not just disciplines, but also healing arts that support and enhance the spirit as well as the body,” said Clodagh, principal of Clodagh Design. “The Miraval Life in Balance Spa with Clarins is no exception, with thoughtful designs that impact guests in life-enhancing and sustainable ways.”
Clodagh chose Mike Elsass’s painted steel pieces as the perfect artistic compliment to the energy of the Life in Balance Spa, as his work focuses on the balance of the elements of nature and the harmony of life’s processes. Elsass has been commissioned to paint pieces specific to the design of the new spa, and will spend most of February hard at work in his Dayton studios, painting pieces that will represent the elemental energy of the desert spa in which they will be integrated.
The Miraval Philosophy
Miraval helps individuals to live and feel better, resulting in more a more magnificent life, through a focus on healthy and sustainable living. The Miravalexperience is: fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to make gorgeously flavorful food; signature Clue-In™ self-discovery and growth activities that make the heart-pump and the head re-think; fabulous Chill-Out™ spa services that ignite the senses; an unrivaled team of well being Specialists to help you make positive and lasting change in your life; and the feeling of being taken care of from your first point of contact.
Mindfulness is the core of the Miraval philosophy. In everything they do, they encourage guests to live in the present moment, conscious of the unique intersection of mind, body, and spirit. Miraval can be the catalyst for a healthy lifestyle change, the escape and support through challenging times, or simply somewhere to rest, reflect and re-energize to begin the next chapter in one’s life story. For most of their guests, the Miraval experience is nothing less than a life-changing and life re-affirming moment.
Miraval Core Values
- Personal choice is paramount
- Encourage Mindfulness
- Meet people where they are
- Honor nature and support sustainability
- Believe that life is a journey
- Grow and expand boundaries
