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Open Access
Article
Publication date: 5 October 2022

Daniel William Mackenzie Wright and Santa Zascerinska

Is humanity heading to immortal living? If so, what areas of society are playing an active role in achieving this? In order to understand this, the study explores the relationship…

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Abstract

Purpose

Is humanity heading to immortal living? If so, what areas of society are playing an active role in achieving this? In order to understand this, the study explores the relationship between immortality and the wellness and medical tourism industry to seek potential relationships between them and ultimately, asks difficult questions about the growth of these tourism sectors and the potential need for greater regulation of them.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking a pragmatic philosophical approach and through the examination of refined information from secondary sources and published material and reports, the study presents original theoretical knowledge and a model exploring tourism and human immortality.

Findings

This paper argues that continued growth in the wellness and medical markets today could lead to a world where transhumanists and cyborgs are present in our world, even taking over from Homo sapiens. The study presents a model highlighting the potential role of wellness and medical tourism markets, illustrating the potential for future consumer services that could further fuel the search for immortality. Thus, how such markets and consumer desires are (in)directly supporting humanities desire for (non-human) immortal existence.

Originality/value

Today, individuals are driven by wellness practices and medical and cosmetic desires and are willing to travel the globe in search of companies who are either capable of carrying out the desired procedures or seeking prices more affordable to them. This research offers novel insights into these complex relationships and maps the affiliation between wellness and medical practices and the concept of immortality.

Details

Journal of Tourism Futures, vol. 9 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2055-5911

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 May 2022

Salman Majeed and Woo Gon Kim

Wellness tourism is complex due to the varied expectations and perceptions of tourists. This study attempts to explore components that shape tourist expectations of health…

2856

Abstract

Purpose

Wellness tourism is complex due to the varied expectations and perceptions of tourists. This study attempts to explore components that shape tourist expectations of health treatments and tourist attractions, which have not been deeply explored in the extant literature.

Design/methodology/approach

A scoping review of the literature published between 2000 and 2021 was conducted to reach the conclusions of this study. Out of 303 literature sources, a total of 105 literature sources were retained for the final analysis.

Findings

Findings show that tourists expect a mix of health treatments, such as conventional medical treatments and alternative health treatments and tourist attractions, as part of wellness tourism to improve their health and well-being (HWB). A favorable trade-off between tourist expectations and their perception of wellness tourism impacts tourist HWB and behavioral intention.

Practical implications

The proposed wellness tourism conceptual model and wellness tourism matrix may help wellness tourism service providers to understand tourist expectations for health treatments and tourist attractions in a recent context. Wellness tourism service providers may follow the guidelines outlined in this study to offer health treatments and tourist attractions according to tourist expectations, which may result in the favorable behavioral intentions of wellness tourists.

Originality/value

This study unravels the previously under-explored role of conventional medical treatments, which arguably fall under the category of allopathic medical treatment, in wellness tourism. Destination marketing organizations may focus on the wellness philosophies of health treatments and tourist attractions to meet the growing expectations of wellness tourists for HWB, as outlined in the literature review. This study provides insights into the different components of contemporary wellness tourism those impact wellness tourists' cognitive responses, HWB and behavioral intention.

Details

Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights, vol. 6 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 June 2022

Vera Antunes, Gisela Gonçalves and Cristina Estevão

The purpose of this article is through a systematic literature review (SLR) to present a conceptual approach to the importance of communication for thermalism. An in-depth…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is through a systematic literature review (SLR) to present a conceptual approach to the importance of communication for thermalism. An in-depth analysis of scientific publications provides a conceptual understanding about the definition of thermalism and the importance of communication in the thermal sector. The intention is also to identify the major challenges for communication in thermalism in times of crisis. The literature on conceptual approaches in the field of thermalism is almost non-existent, and this is an important contribution of the research presented.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the objectives, an SLR was carried out, through the Preferred Reporting Items Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Statement method, using the Web of Science and Scopus databases. A total of 139 articles were found, of which only 26 were used for the qualitative analysis. EndNote 20 and Nvivo software were used to identify the articles for the study, their analysis and systematization of the collected information.

Findings

The results, among others, through an in-depth analysis of scientific publications, clarified the definition of thermalism and provided relevant results for better understanding of the importance of the dimensions of communication for thermalism.

Research limitations/implications

The research addresses the current scarcity of academic work on the importance of communication applied to a thermal destination and the lack of relevant strategic models for the diffusion/promotion of a destination. Finally, a limitation was the fact that only 2 databases were considered and only journal articles were included. As a future line of research the authors propose extending the theme to thermal tourism experiences. In addition, scientific studies focusing on water-based experiences connected with thermalism are almost non-existent and very relevant for the future of the sector, as well as studies in the area of communication with the following research questions: where do tourists consult information when choosing a travel destination? and what are the appropriate communication channels to reach the thermal market?; We close this reflection by concluding that the thermal tradition, through the know-how of the medical class, the properties of thermal waters and the cultural history associated with its early days, stimulated more recently by implementing innovations, will regain its role in preserving health and well-being through thermal water and the exploitation of territories' endogenous resources. These factors are the basis through which communication sciences can create strategies adapted to each country to promote a thermal destination brand.

Practical implications

Research in tourism destination management has provided solutions, through communication, to problems that are faced daily by countries, and the authors hope this research also contributes to the recovery of thermal tourism destinations in times of crisis. It is also from this perspective that based on the main themes and dimensions of communication identified in the SLR that the authors propose the Corporate, Organisational, Skills, Management and Online (COSMO) model to help promote resilient thermal destinations prepared for future crises. The diversity and originality of this research model will be useful for destination promoters, spa managers and communication professionals.

Social implications

This study contributes to the literature by providing a theoretical framework of excellence in thermalism. One possible way to solve the ambiguity of terms related to thermalism is to consider another more comprehensive term as a combination of different approaches. The aim is not to create an academic division, but rather to contribute to better conceptual understanding, from a theoretical and paradigmatic perspective, of what thermalism is. Here, a new targeted and more comprehensive concept emerges, which from the academic perspective of communication sciences will lead to prevention for a new way of feeling good with life, contributing to promoting thermal destinations in the world with a greater understanding.

Originality/value

For better understanding of the concepts, this study proposes a new definition of thermalism. As research related to thermal destinations, through communication management contributes to attract tourists, promote experiences, provide the human capital of the sector with skills and create authentic and resilient place brands. It is from this perspective that the model was proposed, based on the dimensions of communication related to the main themes obtained through the SLR. This model supports a plurality of communication strategies, with different characteristics and objectives but which meet a collective purpose: to disseminate information about thermalism, in order to build collective knowledge to promote thermal destinations. The analysis highlights the need for further research into thermalism, with special focus on communication.

Details

Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights, vol. 6 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 May 2023

Kristen L. Farris, Michael E. Burns, Tricia J. Burke and Janet R. Bezner

The authors used a case study approach to explore employees' perceptions of one institution's culture of health. The authors then applied a needs-centered training model to create…

Abstract

Purpose

The authors used a case study approach to explore employees' perceptions of one institution's culture of health. The authors then applied a needs-centered training model to create and test the effectiveness of a workplace wellness training program to improve the culture of health.

Design/methodology/approach

For study 1, the authors recruited 736 faculty and staff from an institution of higher education to complete an online culture of health survey measuring their perceived leadership support, peer support and institutional resources. In study 2, participants (n = 60) in follow-up focus groups described their experiences related to the culture of health at the institution. For study 3, university employees (n = 44) participated in the training intervention and reported on post-test outcomes measuring the training's effectiveness.

Findings

High levels of employee stress and lack of supervisor and coworker support were identified as significant issues in the needs assessment process. Therefore, the authors developed a needs-centered training intervention that focused on supportive and confirming supervisor and peer communication. Results suggest employees perceive the training to be effective, are ready to change their behaviors and are knowledgeable about the training content.

Originality/value

This study provides evidence regarding needs-based trainings focused on co-worker communication and how these trainings may incrementally improve the culture of health within organizations. Accordingly, the authors offer best practices, including the value of focusing on employee needs, advocating for employees, building community through trainings and enacting change through the training process.

Details

International Journal of Workplace Health Management, vol. 16 no. 2/3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8351

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 16 August 2023

Kasturi Shukla and Avadhut Patwardhan

Medical tourism demands tremendous responsiveness and accountability. The triple bottom line in medical tourism indicates that these organizations must emphasize on economic…

Abstract

Medical tourism demands tremendous responsiveness and accountability. The triple bottom line in medical tourism indicates that these organizations must emphasize on economic profits, environmental protection, and conservation of social resources. Developing a resilient medical tourism ecosystem is another critical necessity after the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study attempts to study the various aspects of medical tourism while synthesizing the relevant theories. This synthesis was used to propose a framework for developing a resilient medical tourism system. The outcomes of the chapter also propose the long, medium, and short-term goals. These goals focus on relevant stakeholders for developing highly integrated and resilient medical-tourism destinations.

Details

Resilient and Sustainable Destinations After Disaster
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80382-022-4

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 April 2024

Hakem Sharari, Rasha Qawasmeh, Abdullah Helalat and Ashraf Jahmani

This study aims to focus on how the design of an organization influences employee sustainability. It also highlights how top management support can mediate this relationship.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to focus on how the design of an organization influences employee sustainability. It also highlights how top management support can mediate this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to examine the role of employee quality of life on performance sustainability, a quantitative survey approach was adopted. A questionnaire was distributed using simple random sampling to the employees working in the hotel sector.

Findings

Results suggest that organizations can enhance employee sustainability, including performance, commitment, motivation and retention, by investing in values that align with their employees, providing suitable health and wellness initiatives, and adopting in career growth policies. In that, values, health and wellness and human development are confirmed to be core determinants of employee sustainability, with a negligible role of fair compensation and physical artifacts. Top management support is found to mediate the relationship between employee quality of life and sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to a better understanding of how organizational design for quality of life can assist employee sustainability with the mediation role of top management support. The study recommends that the hotel organizations should consider designing their work environments to promote their employee quality of life, which affects their sustainability within the hotel industry.

Practical implications

This study contributes to a better understanding of how organizational design for quality of life can assist employee sustainability with the mediation role of top management support. The study recommends that the hotel organizations should consider designing their work environments to promote their employees’ quality of life, which affects their sustainability within the hotel industry.

Originality/value

While there is ample research in business and management literature on the economic and environmental factors of sustainability, social sustainability has received less concentration. This study gives more attention to how employee social sustainability can be affected by the managerial and organizational factors of ensuring work life balance and top management support.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 January 2023

Sangchul Park and Hyun-Woo Lee

Fitness service companies often promote the companies' personal training service by attributing trainers' competent characteristics, qualifications or/and service provision to…

Abstract

Purpose

Fitness service companies often promote the companies' personal training service by attributing trainers' competent characteristics, qualifications or/and service provision to their effort or talent. This promotion is called performance attribution promotion. Utilizing attribution theory and the theory's adjacent studies, this study investigated whether and why performance attribution promotion affects consumers' service purchase of personal fitness training.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors developed the experimental stimuli of performance attribution promotion and validated those through a pretest (N = 200). Using the validated stimuli, the authors conducted an experiment with employing a single factor between-subject design (performance attribution promotion: effort vs talent) based on random assignment (N = 200).

Findings

The analysis results revealed that attributing trainers' competent characteristics, qualifications or/and service provision to effort (vs talent) leads to a higher level of service registration intention. Moreover, this effect was mediated by the perceived teaching expertise but not by the perceived teaching trustworthiness.

Originality/value

These findings enrich the literature by illuminating a new mechanism and consequence of performance attribution promotion. The authors' study also extends the marketing studies related to expertise perception by presenting the attribution of visible features as one of the characteristics determining expertise perception. Finally, the authors' findings also have implications for fitness service companies and other stakeholders that seek to effectively leverage trainers' competent outcomes for consumer acquisition.

Details

International Journal of Sports Marketing and Sponsorship, vol. 24 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1464-6668

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 April 2023

Thirumaran K, Emiel L. Eijdenberg and Caroline Wong

This study aims to advance the scholarship of yachting in the context of wellness by exploring the following research question: in what ways is wellness created and experienced by…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to advance the scholarship of yachting in the context of wellness by exploring the following research question: in what ways is wellness created and experienced by luxury yachting?

Design/methodology/approach

Since the extant journal literature from 2012–2023 in peer-reviewed journals is limited on the topic that links luxury yachting and wellness, the authors drew on other sources such as books and chapters in edited volumes. A third layer of material was drawn from the grey literature such as mass media and business websites. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) method, the authors examined 18 publications relating to the intersectionality of yachting and wellness.

Findings

Manufacturing and charter companies in the yachting industry are focused on creating and emphasizing features onboard that create a self-caring and wellness experience. The yacht design, spatial influences and the leisure time spent at destinations on anchor can also add value to wellness. This study enables us to understand the kinds of signals received by manufacturers and the media from yachting clients. These signals relate to the types of wellness needs and activities, as well as how crews and chefs create the best hospitality experiences for their clients.

Originality/value

Given the scarce and niche nature of research on yachting and wellness, this paper explores future research areas in wellness through luxury yachting which include hospitality aspects of creating and co-creating wellness experience on board the yacht and viewing yachting as a lifestyle necessity product for all levels of wealth and well-being.

Details

Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, vol. 15 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1755-4217

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 October 2023

Line Schmeltz and Matilde Nisbeth Brøgger

The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of corporate health initiatives as part of CSR, and how and to what extent these initiatives are communicated in CSR reports.

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of corporate health initiatives as part of CSR, and how and to what extent these initiatives are communicated in CSR reports.

Design/methodology/approach

The study comprises two strands. First, a mapping of the extent and nature of health-related CSR initiatives among 11 selected Danish companies is developed, based on a qualitative email questionnaire. Next, the mapping serves as the framework for coding and analyzing CSR reports from 2018 to 2020 from 15 companies (45 in total).

Findings

The study provides a typology of the extent and nature of such CSR initiatives consisting of more than 50 types of health-related initiatives. Analysis of the CSR reports illustrates an increase in the explicit communication of employee health initiatives as well as the number of different categories applied over the three years.

Practical implications

The study provides CSR managers with awareness about the extent and usage of employee health as part of corporate communication on CSR, including how such initiatives can be communicated in the CSR report. It also gives rise to carefully considering the potential negative implications for employees when planning health initiatives.

Originality/value

The study is the first of its kind to combine the perspectives of CSR and workplace health promotion to discuss the potential institutionalization of employee health as part of the corporate CSR program.

Details

Corporate Communications: An International Journal, vol. 28 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-3289

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 October 2023

Asha Binu Raj, Pallawi Ambreesh, Nitya Nand Tripathi and Anusha Ambreesh Kumar

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of well-being in mediating the relationship between workplace spirituality and job satisfaction. It also studies the role of…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of well-being in mediating the relationship between workplace spirituality and job satisfaction. It also studies the role of spiritual leadership in moderating the effect of workplace spirituality on well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

The study proposes a hypothesized model tested among 515 teachers from Indian higher educational institutions, selected through random sampling. Mediation and moderation analysis are used to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

Drawn on positive organizational studies, the results indicate that inner well-being, comprising of psychological, emotional, social, spiritual and intellectual dimensions, does not mediate the relationship between spiritual dimension of workplace spirituality and job satisfaction. Same effect is observed for mediation role of physical well-being. However, inner well-being and physical well-being both mediate the relationship between mindfulness and job satisfaction among teachers. Also, teachers experience higher levels of well-being in the presence of spiritual leadership at their workplaces.

Research limitations/implications

The paper contributes to leadership and workplace spirituality literature by testing an integrated framework of mediating role of inner well-being and physical well-being.

Practical implications

The study helps practitioners to integrate their practices and programs with workplace spirituality for improving well-being and attaining positive outcomes, which can further contribute to performance and productivity in institutions.

Originality/value

The proposed framework highlights the impact of workplace spirituality dimensions and mindfulness on inner well-being and physical well-being of teachers which lead to positive outcomes such as job satisfaction. It also enriches the spiritual leadership literature.

Details

International Journal of Educational Management, vol. 37 no. 6/7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0951-354X

Keywords

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