Irene Campaña, director of spa and wellness at Casa de Campo (La Romana, Dominican Republic), is an experienced spa expert who has traveled the globe leading luxury spa and wellness centers. Before joining the Casa de Campo family, she served as the spa director at Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal (Mexico), where she played a key role in maintaining the Forbes Five-Star rating for four consecutive years at this prestigious luxury chain. Previously, she held the position of spa director at major hotels in the Caribbean. She ventured into luxury hospitality in Cuba, at the iconic Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana, and was involved in the opening of Chablé Maroma in Mexico. Here, discover how her passion for wellness and personal care drives her to professionally expand the benefits of wellness to everyone around her.
What does wellness mean to you?
Wellness, to me, is like giving myself a daily dose of love and care. It’s about listening to my body, mind, and heart and responding with kindness. From nourishing meals to joyful movement and meaningful connections, it’s all about finding balance and embracing the beauty in everyday moments. Wellness is a journey of self-love and gratitude, one small step at a time.
What are your favorite things to do to maintain your personal wellbeing?
I love delving deep into myself, analyzing my behavior, and honing self-awareness to improve aspects that inadvertently may harm or affect others. In leadership or aspirational positions, we have the responsibility to be highly mindful of our words and actions, as we oversee an entire team of human beings. We must understand the impact we have on those around us and how we can influence them depending on the choices we make in life.
Is there a specific fitness activity that you love and why?
I love step classes for their perfect mix of cardio and dance. Those classes are a vibrant gathering where music and movement are intertwined, providing both fitness and a sense of community. In today’s world, dance remains a universal language, bridging divides and celebrating our shared humanity. They are more than just workouts; they are so much fun and effective, so I still do them at home. I also love to do long walks in nature with my dogs.
What is your favorite healthy food, and do you have a favorite way of preparing it?
I am crazy about salads. I could honestly eat them every day! Growing up in Mediterranean culture where fresh fruits, veggies, and legumes were always on the menu, I learned to love the colorful variety and vibrant flavors they offer. For me, salads are like a blank canvas, a chance to get creative in the kitchen. I love mixing and matching different ingredients, from crisp greens to juicy fruits and crunchy nuts. Whether it is a simple garden salad or something more exotic, each bite is a burst of freshness and goodness. Plus, knowing that I am nourishing my body with vitamins and nutrients makes it even better. Salads are not just meals; they are moments of joy and connection with nature’s bounty.
What is your favorite healthy beverage (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), and do you have any insider tips for preparing it?
Water! I only drink water, rarely juices or mocktails, because it helps me stay hydrated without added sugars or artificial ingredients. Water supports overall health, boosts energy levels, improves skin complexion, aids digestion, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Plus, it is readily available and cost-effective, making it the perfect choice for daily hydration. I stopped drinking alcohol a year ago, and it was the best decision I ever made. However, if I go out and have a crazy time, I like to have tonic water.
What is your greatest wellness achievement?
My greatest achievement at work has been fostering a sense of happiness and camaraderie within my team. By prioritizing their wellbeing and providing the support they need to grow, both professionally and personally, I have seen a real transformation in how we work together. Seeing my team members develop their skills, achieve their goals, and enjoy coming to work every day has been incredibly rewarding. Knowing that I have played a part in their happiness and success makes all the effort worthwhile, and I am excited to continue supporting them on their journey.
What person in wellness do you most admire and why?
I greatly admire Bonnie Baker in the wellness industry for her holistic approach to wellbeing and her dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Bonnie’s emphasis on promoting not only physical health but also mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness resonates deeply with me. Her commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with my own values, and her teachings have guided me in creating a supportive and nurturing environment for my team. I admire her passion for empowering individuals to live healthier, more sustainable lives, and I aspire to incorporate her principles into my own wellness journey.
What is the best piece of wellness advice you have ever received and from whom?
The best piece of wellness advice I have ever received came from Fernanda Montiel, my Mexican guide, healer, and best friend. She helped me discover the effects of cortisol in my blood, assisting me in lowering my stress and anxiety levels to healthier levels. This advice has been invaluable to me, serving as a reminder to pause, breathe, and trust in the process during times of uncertainty or overwhelm. Through Fernanda’s guidance and support, I have learned the importance of mindfulness, self-care, and listening to my body’s signals to maintain overall wellbeing.
What do you think is the most exciting wellness innovation you have recently discovered?
The most exciting wellness innovation I have recently discovered is dark retreats. In a world saturated with screens and external stimulation, dark retreats offer a unique opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and delve deep within ourselves. By immersing oneself in complete darkness and silence for an extended period, individuals can quiet the mind, explore their innermost thoughts and emotions, and reconnect with their true selves. This innovative approach to wellness encourages introspection, mindfulness, and self-discovery in a way that is often overlooked in our fast-paced, technology-driven society. Dark retreats provide a sacred space for personal growth, healing, and renewal, allowing individuals to recharge their minds, bodies, and spirits away from the distractions of modern life.
What is your idea of balanced healthy happiness?
My idea of balanced healthy happiness involves nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. It’s about cultivating positive thoughts, nourishing the body with nutritious food and exercise, and fostering a sense of purpose and connection to oneself and the world around us. True happiness arises when these three aspects are in harmony, allowing us to live authentically and joyfully.
What do you think is the most overused word or words in wellness?
In my experience, one of the most overused words in wellness is anything with “anti” attached, like anti-aging or anti-cellulite. It seems like everywhere we look, there is a new product or treatment promising to fight against the natural processes of aging or our body’s natural changes. But to be honest, it can feel exhausting and even unrealistic. It is like we are constantly being told that we need to fix ourselves instead of embracing who we are. I believe in celebrating our bodies just as they are, wrinkles and all, and focusing on wellness practices that honor our natural selves and the world around us.
Do you have a secret health or wellness tip you would like to share?
Sleep well, sleep on time, and sleep consistently! One secret health tip I swear by is sticking to a consistent sleep routine. Setting a regular bedtime and wakeup time, even on weekends, can greatly improve overall health. Quality sleep supports immune function, cognitive performance, and mood regulation. Creating a calming pre-sleep routine, like avoiding screens and practicing relaxation techniques, helps signal to the body that it is time to unwind. Prioritizing sleep has had a profound impact on my wellbeing, and I highly recommend it to others.
What is your favorite place for a healthy vacation or escape?
My favorite place for a healthy vacation or escape is anywhere I can be near the sea or witness the miracles of nature. Whether it is relaxing on a beach, snorkeling in vibrant reefs, or marveling at natural wonders like auroras, waterfalls, or snow-covered forests, these experiences rejuvenate me physically and nourish my soul.
Is there a particular wellness company or brand that truly impresses you with their efforts and why?
I find it impressive how the wellness industry is increasingly emphasizing sustainability and community engagement. Over the years, I have been committed to integrating sustainable practices into my personal wellness journey, striving to give back to nature and support local communities. It is gratifying to witness that many wellness companies and brands are now following suit, recognizing the significance of environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Whether it is through eco-conscious product packaging, initiatives that promote environmental conservation, or community outreach programs, there is a noticeable shift towards aligning wellness practices with broader principles of sustainability and holistic wellbeing. While I may not have a specific company to spotlight, I am heartened by this collective movement towards a more mindful and responsible approach to wellness, and I’m optimistic about the positive impact it can have on individuals and communities alike.
What is your favorite self-care routine?
One of my favorite self-care routines is all about nurturing both my body and soul through simple yet deeply fulfilling practices. It starts with ensuring I get a good night’s sleep, allowing my body to fully rest and recharge. I’m an early riser, usually up at 6 a.m., excited to kickstart the day with a refreshing morning walk alongside my furry companions. There’s something truly special about those early hours—the peacefulness, the stillness, and the company of my dogs. These moments of movement and connection not only keep me physically healthy but also bring a deep sense of peace and gratitude to my soul.
What is your go-to for de-stressing?
My go-to method for de-stressing is immersing myself in the serenity of the beach and the rejuvenating benefits of seawater. The sea has a unique ability to restore balance to both my mind and body. The sea’s natural elements, such as the minerals in the water and the negative ions in the air, have been scientifically proven to promote feelings of wellbeing and reduce stress levels. For me, there is no better way to unwind and recharge than by reconnecting with the healing power of the sea.
What aspect of your wellbeing do you struggle with the most, or would most like to improve?
I struggle with consistent exercise, particularly lifting weights. While I understand its importance for overall health, I find it challenging to stay motivated in this area. Moving forward, I am committed to exploring strategies to overcome this barrier and prioritize strength training to improve my fitness and wellbeing.
What wellness-related books or authors do you recommend, and why?
I believe that wellness-related books often come into our lives at the right moment, choosing us when we need their wisdom the most. How many times have we passed by a book without giving it a second thought, only to find that it holds profound insights and guidance when we finally pick it up? I have experienced these firsthand countless times. There is a certain serendipity to discovering a book that resonates with our journey, offering clarity, inspiration, and practical tools for personal growth and wellbeing.
How do you celebrate small victories?
I celebrate small victories by sharing them with my team and family, capturing memories through photos and videos. I enjoy gathering to reflect on our achievements and express gratitude together. I also love creating “rememberings” by revisiting past victories, sharing photos or videos to relive the joy and sense of accomplishment. These celebrations strengthen our bonds and inspire us to keep striving for excellence.
What brings you joy?
One of the things that truly lights up my life is helping street animals and seeing them thrive in their new homes filled with love. There is just something so incredibly fulfilling about being able to offer care and support to animals who have been through tough times. It warms my heart to see their transformation—from neglected strays to cherished companions, wagging their tails, or purring with contentment. Every time I witness one of these furry friends finding a loving family and settling into their new life, it fills me with so much joy and gratitude. It is a powerful reminder of the impact that compassion and kindness can have on both animals and humans alike. Overall, helping street animals and seeing them thrive brings me so much happiness and fulfillment, and it’s something I feel incredibly grateful to be a part of.
To learn more about Casa de Campo’s new spa and other wellness offerings, check out our review here: Wellness Makes Its Home at Casa de Campo.
