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Companies are racing to address the gap of physiological changes and challenges women face in different stages of their life 

by JEN MURPHY 

IN THE US$6.3 trillion (RM26.71 trillion) world of wellness, catering to women is the lowest-hanging fruit on the tree. Yet women’s wellness is an area that’s historically been underfunded and underserved. In the US, women were rarely included in clinical trials before 1993, and in 2020, only 5% of global research and development funding was allocated to women’s health research. 

Even spokespeople for the Global Wellness Institute, the largest research organisation dedicated to tracking the industry, recognise their failure to collect data on what women need or want from the wellness space; they said they’ve found it more logical to focus on fitness and longevity in the past. 

Enter Canyon Ranch, the OG of American wellness retreats, founded in 1979. In September 2026, it plans to unveil its third location on the outskirts of Austin, an ambitious 600-acre (242.81ha) ranch whose primary focus will be women’s wellness. 

Two-thirds of the brand’s guests are women, said CEO Mark Rivers, referring to his existing resorts in Lenox, Massachusetts, and Tucson, Arizona. Yet that same demographic, he said, “is misunderstood and swallowed in general healthcare”. 

By focusing almost entirely on relaxation and beauty, yoga retreats and boot camps, the spa industrial complex is missing a massive part of what women care about: The physiological changes women face in different stages of their life. It’s a gap that companies such as Canyon Ranch have been racing to address in recent years as people’s interest in wellness — and willingness to invest in it — has skyrocketed. To date, their efforts have typically manifested as the occasional treatment or themed retreat; there still isn’t a single wellness resort making women’s health their calling card. 

The very symptoms that women’s wellness retreats address — hot flashes, vaginal dryness, hair loss — have long felt too taboo to name out loud, much less put on a marquee. But lately the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause have become buzzy talk show fodder and the subjects of best-selling books. Everyone from Oprah and Drew Barrymore to Michelle Obama and Naomi Watts, who has her own menopause health product line, is now openly talking about the stage in a woman’s life that for decades was vaguely referred to as “the change”. 

By 2030 the world population of menopausal and postmenopausal women is projected to increase 9%, to 1.2 billion, with a forecasted market size of US$24.4 billion. Spas will have to cater to this powerful market or risk getting left behind. It’s no wonder that wellness industry pioneers including SHA Wellness in Mexico and Spain, Ananda in the Himalayas, and Kamalaya resort in Koh Samui, Thailand, now offer programmes to address fertility, pelvic floor dysfunction and more. And the growing discourse around these issues for women has made it easier for men to admit to similar concerns too. 

“The rise in awareness around the gender health gap — particularly the lack of persistent data on female hormones and health — has helped normalise conversations that were long overdue,” said Anna Bjurstam, head of wellness at Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, which earlier this year introduced a female wellness pilot programme in partnership with women’s health expert Dr Mindy Pelz. 

“Let’s face it, the wellness industry has historically centred on weight loss and aesthetics. But women want to feel good, not just look good. What we’re seeing now is a shift toward empowerment, education and energy.” 

Canyon Ranch’s Rivers claims that his resort, however, will be the industry’s first dedicated women’s wellness practice. “There’s a lot of noise in the space, but we’re actually making an investment in it,” he told Bloomberg News. To wit, Canyon Ranch Austin is a sizeable investment. It had previously been reported to be costing approximately US$122 million. Now Rivers confirms the price tag is actually reaching US$500 million, of which US$50 million will be devoted to the largest spa in Texas, clocking in at 40,000 sq ft with 37 treatment rooms. 

When Canyon Ranch opened in Tucson in the 1970s, it was a departure from the era’s trendy, weight-loss-focused “fat farms”. From the start, the brand worked with nutritionists and fitness experts to offer a lifestyle-driven approach to wellbeing. “We are not a hospital or medical clinic,” Rivers said. “We are a resort focused on health as a lifestyle choice.” 

It’s also a global leader for all things longevity. Since its inception, the brand said it’s welcomed one million guests and curated a team of board-certified medical doctors including US Olympic Committee medical advisor Dr Jennifer Wagner and former US surgeon general Dr Richard Carmona. 

“If women have been short-sold by the medical world, I also feel like they have been getting short-sold by the wellness space,” said Beth McGroarty, director of research for the Global Wellness Institute, who has no affiliation with Canyon Ranch’s forthcoming resort but considers it to be groundbreaking in its ambitions. 

“We suddenly saw all of these menopause programmes, but many are rooted in pampering, community and celebrity-driven supplements. Canyon Ranch is adding the medical piece.” 

Although Austin will focus on women’s health, Tucson will be considered Canyon Ranch’s hub for all things longevity and the Lenox location, in Massachusetts’ Berkshire Mountains, will tackle burnout. Stays at the Austin outpost will be priced from US$1,400 per person, per night — including pickleball clinics, infrared sauna sessions and wine-paired tasting menus. (That price is about US$200 more per night than its siblings charge, and higher yet than its global competitors, though Canyon Ranch rates cover lots of classes and programmes that other wellness resorts charge for à la carte.) 

Canyon Ranch Austin is the first resort the company is building from scratch; the others fill historic, retrofitted buildings. Located a little less than an hour from downtown in rural-feeling Spicewood, the project is being designed by award-winning architecture firm Lake Flato. It will have 141 hotel rooms, 134 residences, six racquet sports courts, two pools and an outdoor cooking studio centred around grilling. The onsite female health facility, called the Women’s Wellness Collective at Canyon Ranch Austin, will address the evolving needs of women from their 30s onward; it will cover a wide range of health concerns including sleep, nutrition, postpartum depression and midlife beauty. 

Men will be welcome too. Blood work, bone density scans, sleep screenings and other medical tests will all be recommended or prescribed according to gender, age and individualised health concerns; the same will apply to the fitness offerings. 

In a state that so heavily polices fertility medicine, Canyon Ranch has decided not to include reproductive health in its offerings and will not be staffed with Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYNs). But the brand’s other properties have a high volume of babymooners, and Rivers said the Austin location will offer prenatal massages and pre- and post-birth body work. Prescription-based hormone replacement therapy will also be available. 

That’s not to say that beauty will be an afterthought. Hair thinning and skin elasticity are examples that beauty and women’s wellness go hand in hand, Rivers argued, and said that the spa will be prepared to deal with these topics holistically. 

The intention is also to give guests tools and techniques that they can carry home, but Canyon Ranch also said it hopes that some people will want to live the Canyon Ranch life for good. Like many of its peers, it’s currently offering two- and three-bedroom homes for sale, from US$3.4 million, alongside the new Austin resort. Each residence is kitted out with wellness features such as saunas, cold plunges, recovery lockers stocked with massages guns and foam rollers, and star-gazing perches with NASA-grade telescopes — plus complimentary access to the spa and the resort’s 35-plus daily activities. 

That, in some ways, paints another version of the future of wellness resorts, in which people no longer vacation to establish healthy habits but relocate for them. At the very least, it’s a secondary strategy that plays to either gender. — Bloomberg

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• This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition

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Kedai Runcit Dr Cardin is a reflection of Malaysian identity and memory 

by AKMAR ANNUAR 

IT WAS a night that stirred nostalgia and style in equal measure when Dr Cardin, one of Malaysia’s most enduring homegrown footwear brands, unveiled its latest collection through a live-streamed fashion show on TikTok. 

Hosted by actress and presenter Amelia Henderson, the event blended modern digital flair with old-school charm under the theme Kedai Runcit Dr Cardin, echoing the brand’s humble beginnings and the memories of a generation that grew up slipping coins into convenience-store counters. 

Fronting the new campaign were actor Nadhir Nasar and singer Bella Astillah, with a surprise appearance by Muar’s MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, who joined in to support the launch. 

As the models strutted out in sneakers and bags inspired by everyday Malaysian life, this writer couldn’t help but smile. Every shoe design felt refreshingly youthful yet grounded in familiarity, and the bags were funky, practical and undeniably fun to carry. 

Heritage Reinvented 

Speaking to The Malaysian Reserve (TMR), Dr Cardin chief branding officer Chong Charl Yee said the concept was a heartfelt tribute to her childhood memories of her family’s business and the “little joys” of the kedai runcit era. 

“As the next generation to take over the family business, I felt compelled to bring back the nostalgia of my childhood by creating a kedai runcit concept for this show,” she added. 

Dr Cardin, founded over 35 years ago by Chong’s grandfather, began as a small footwear maker producing leather shoes before shifting into retail, and later, digital platforms. 

“We started from my grandfather’s era, then my dad took over and focused on retailing. When my siblings and I came back to the business, we saw the opportunity to go online. That’s why this event is live-streamed — it reflects how our generation connects with fashion now,” she told TMR. 

Even as the brand updates its image to appeal to a younger audience, Chong remains determined to preserve its authentic DNA. 

The latest line, The Origin Heritage Sneakers Denim Series, encapsulates that balance of modern comfort and sentimental value. 

Story of RM1 Coin 

One charming detail of the new sneakers is the hidden DRC 1 coin tucked into the design — a nod to the RM1 coins many Malaysians once used at corner shops. 

“The RM1 coin is no longer in circulation, so we wanted to revive that sense of childhood nostalgia. 

“It represents how even a small coin once gave us freedom, happiness and choice,” Chong said. 

Each pair of Origin Heritage Sneakers symbolises what the brand calls “Everyday Cool Vibe,” built with denim and faux suede leather options and available in eight colours. 

Beyond style, comfort is a central theme — the sneakers come with a double-padded cushion insole, giving them that wearable, all-day feel. 

“Initially we were worried about using denim because we didn’t want the sneakers to look too rugged. But after seeing the finished product, we were confident that it perfectly matched our unisex concept,” Chong added. 

Ballet, Street Cool 

The launch also featured the Drift Ballet Sneakers, designed for those who appreciate the grace of a Mary Jane shoe but with the everyday ease of sneakers. 

The model’s rounded silhouette and soft suede upper make it feminine yet practical — ideal for a day at work or a weekend stroll. 

According to Chong, the Drift Ballet line was shaped by customer feedback. 

“We heard from many that ballet sneakers often feel too narrow for Malaysian feet. So, we made ours wider and added double foam padding for comfort. It’s a small detail, but it makes a huge difference.” 

For those with a more athletic streak, Dr Cardin unveiled the Drift Sneakers, described as carrying a “Street Cool Vibe.” 

Originally inspired by race-track silhouettes, the new version re-imagines that sporty DNA for urban lifestyles. 

The sneakers are unisex but come in gender-specific sizes, with seven colours for men and eight for women. 

“They carry a subtle DRC heritage coin embossed on the heel — it’s a quiet reminder that our past always walks with us,” Chong added. 

Everyday Bags for Every Mood

No collection is complete without accessories, and this season, Dr Cardin debuts two bags — the Era Bag and the Dome Bag — to complement the shoe lines. 

The Era Bag is designed as a go-to piece that transitions easily from day to night. Its structured silhouette draws inspiration from retro bowling bags but remains minimal and versatile. 

Available in matte faux leather and velvet satin finishes, the bag comes in large and mini versions, each featuring a cloud-shaped charm symbolising lightness and freedom — alongside the DRC 1 coin, tying it back to the brand’s heritage theme. 

Meanwhile, the Dome Bag leans toward a polished retro aesthetic with glossy finishes and curved edges. 

Its dual carry options — top handles and detachable straps — make it adaptable for daily routines, whether for the office, café hopping, or weekend errands. 

This writer particularly loved how the bags maintain a chic look without compromising practicality. 

They feel “real” — roomy enough for essentials, yet stylish enough to elevate any outfit. 

Modern Faces, Timeless Charm

In keeping with the brand’s cheeky-humble identity, Dr Cardin chose Nadhir Nasar and Bella Astlah as the faces of the campaign. 

“Our brand personality is cheeky but humble, and both Nadhir and Bella embody those traits. They’re down-to-earth, charming and loved by Malaysians,” Chong said. 

Their youthful energy reflects Dr Cardin’s repositioning toward lifestyle footwear and accessories that celebrate local identity with international appeal. 

“Many still think Dr Cardin is an imported brand. But we’re proudly Malaysian, and we want to show that local brands can stand side by side with global names.” 

Today, the family-run brand focuses on creating “fast-fashion lifestyle shoes” — designs that look effortlessly trendy but stay practical for daily wear. 

Chong said the brand does not aim to compete with established technical sports labels such as Nike. 

Instead, she said Dr Cardin aspires to position itself as a lifestyle brand that offers versatile designs suitable for both daytime and evening wear. 

Local Roots, Digital Future

While many Malaysian labels are expanding overseas, Dr Cardin remains focused on strengthening its presence at home. 

“For now, we want to reach more local customers, especially the younger generation. There are still many Malaysians who don’t realise Dr Cardin is a local brand. Once we’ve built stronger roots here, we’ll look at expanding internationally,” she said. 

Each collection is priced with accessibility in mind — sneakers are typically below RM200, while bags retail between RM79 and RM120 during online shopping seasons. 

This strategy allows Dr Cardin to stay competitive without alienating its loyal customer base. 

The brand’s online presence has also grown rapidly, with TikTok and Shopee serving as key retail platforms. 

Chong also hinted that Dr Cardin plans to host two major launches each year — one in October and another during the festive Aidilfitri season — to maintain momentum and engage different consumer segments. 

“We’re still learning how to connect with this new generation. That’s why we keep improving every year, listening to customer feedback and refining our products,” she added. 

Nostalgia as Design Language

At its core, Dr Cardin’s kedai runcit concept is more than a marketing gimmick — it’s a reflection of Malaysian identity and memory. 

From denim sneakers adorned with symbolic coins to handbags carrying cloud charms, every item blends heritage and modernity with intention. 

And as this writer admired the collection, it became clear that Dr Cardin has succeeded in something rare: Turning nostalgia into a modern statement and a family legacy into Malaysia’s next-generation fashion journey.

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• This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition

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by SARAH RAPPAPORT 

IN LONDON, legendary party hotspot Tramp is opening a 16,000 sq ft wellness club called Tramp Health. On the Riviera Maya in Mexico, the Rosewood Mayakoba now offers guests after-dark programming like moonlight yoga and full moon celebrations with a spirit-free bar. And on Ibiza, the Balearic island known for revelry, the new Soho Farmhouse Ibiza is starting health retreats and trying to position itself as a haven of relaxation. 

Hospitality businesses are adapting to a cultural shift positing wellness as a top priority, with more people focusing on their health and fewer splashing out on bottle service in bars. According a Gallup poll in July, a record low percentage of Americans — 54% — said they drink alcohol, the lowest figure since Gallup began tracking the question in 1939. A belief among Americans 

that even moderate drinking is bad for one’s health is now the majority view for the first time, Gallup said. 

“These days living fully isn’t only about late nights, much as I love them. It’s also about health, vitality and belonging,” said lifestyle entrepreneur Luca Maggiora, founder and chief executive officer of Tramp Holdings. He said Tramp Health feels like a natural extension of that philosophy. The wellness club is set to open this spring in the same building on Grosvenor Square as the brand-new Chancery Rosewood hotel. 

A new members club called Long Lane is also set to open in West Sussex, with a focus on longevity and an alcohol-free bar menu. Its founders are marketing the place as Soho House without the hangover. But Soho House itself has made a concerted effort to add low- and no-alcohol options to drink menus at its clubs around the 

world, and it has wellness as a focus at its new Farmhouse location on Ibiza. The gym is open 24 hours a day, and guests can soak in “onsen”- style thermal baths or get NAD+ IV infusions. 

Hospitality executives notice the shift away from drinking and toward wellness. “We do a communal dinner twice a week, and I was sitting Saturday with a group of eight young people, and they don’t drink anymore. It’s a new commitment to health,” said Edouard Gros-mangin, MD of the Rosewood Mayakoba and regional VP for the brand in Mexico and South America. 

He said the hotel’s new programming for a different kind of night out reflects this. From 8pm to midnight, guests have the opportunity to swap dinner and drinks for breath work, an evening soak in an ice bath next to the cenote or a cacao ritual to craft Mexican hot chocolate. 

“For me, this is about listening to the guests and what they want now,” he said. “It’s beyond just massages and facials at the spa.” 

Travel agents are also seeing tastes change. 

“A lot of our clients are bagging heavy, booze-laden trips to experience more unusual wellness experiences,” said Carolyn Addison, head of product at luxury travel company Black Tomato, who said there is tremendous capital in the wellness side of travel now. 

“One big trend we’ve seen is in wild swimming experiences — or wild bathing, whatever you prefer,” Addison said. “This is tremendously popular all over with our clients in cities too, like Dublin, Antwerp and Oslo. There is something cathartic about this exercise, and it delivers a sense of peace.” Even London’s Canary Wharf has become a swim spot. 

Even the sun-and-rosé-soaked south of France is seeing increased demand for wellness. The plush new Arev Hotel in the glitzy resort town of Saint-Tropez is bringing in Emma Estrela, a leading expert in the Wim Hof method, to host a residency in November. Guests can dip in the colder waters of the Saint-Tropez bay in November and practice breath work. 

These new wellness offerings are getting increasingly competitive as the wellness tourism trend — valued at US$830 billion (RM3.52 trillion), according to the Global Wellness Institute — grows exponentially in popularity. Guests are more willing to shell out for things like yoga under the stars or IV drips in Ibiza as they spend less at the bar. 

“The US market and Brazil, where I’ve spent more than five years, is extremely, extremely concerned by wellness,” said Rosewood’s Gros-mangin. “I’ve never seen so much concern about their body and going to the gym every day.” — Bloomberg

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• This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition

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by LEEN AL-RASHDAN 

SAUDI Arabia’s national carrier has unveiled a clothing collection that blends streetwear with corporate merchandise, an unusual fashion foray for an airline whose business model has long mirrored the country’s strict moral and religious codes. 

Saudia’s lifestyle brand consists of a range of tracksuits, dresses and college jackets featuring green and blue hues that pick up on the airline’s livery and emblazoned in large-font “SV” lettering — the carrier’s official designation code. 

Saudia presented the items at Riyadh Fashion Week last month and plans seasonal drops in the future, though it hasn’t revealed any prices for the gear. 

The move shows how the airline whose main focus has been on religious pilgrimage is seeking to tap into Saudi Arabia’s rapid move to modernise. The once closed-off nation is trying to attract an inflow of international businesses and tourists as the economy seeks to diversify away from oil. 

The desert country is pouring billions into ultra-premium resorts, marquee sporting events, music festivals and cultural landmarks, alongside new luxurious airline Riyadh Air which will also compete with Saudia for passengers. 

The clothing collection moves Saudia into a niche that other carriers have already established as a lucrative brand extension. Emirates, the region’s No 1 carrier, churns out a massive merchandise collection, selling everything from US$350 (RM1,467) roller bags made of recycled first-class leather to limited-edition Wimbledon towels. 

The fascination with aviation merchandise has long extended to in-flight freebies like amenity kits, pajamas and anything with the logo of an airline. Delta Air Lines first-class pajamas sell for as much as US$100 on eBay, and some carriers have teamed up with brands like Swiss luxury underwear brand Zimmerli or shirt maker Van Laack to create in-flight loungewear. 

In the past few years, the Saudi government has overhauled the airline’s management, hired a new commercial head as well as an executive from Qatar Airways, which routinely garners awards for its in-flight product, to oversee passenger experience. 

The changes range from strategic decisions like codeshare agreements to product upgrades including new lounges, designer amenity kits and a collection of coffee cups modelled after different regions in Saudi Arabia. — Bloomberg

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• This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition

The post Saudia joins merchandise race with streetwear range appeared first on The Malaysian Reserve.