Jennifer Kirby has built a career on turning vision into measurable success while never losing sight of the human element at the heart of wellness. As senior vice president of Trilogy Spa Holdings and managing director of the newly opened Guerlain Wellness Spa at Waldorf Astoria New York, she brings a blend of sharp business acumen, revenue-driving strategy, and deeply rooted leadership to every endeavor. With a track record that spans brands like WTS International, Setai Group, and The Ritz-Carlton and the launch of iconic spa partnerships including La Prairie and Sisley Paris, Kirby is also known for her ability to mentor talent and elevate guest experiences. Here, she shares some of the practices that help her maintain her own wellbeing.
What does wellness mean to you?
Wellness, to me, is a balanced state of being where my physical health, mental clarity, emotional resilience, and sense of purpose are all supported and evolving together. It’s not just about avoiding illness or stress but about feeling energized, grounded, and aligned with my values. Wellness means having the capacity to show up fully at work, in relationships, and for myself while giving myself permission to rest, reset, and adapt when life shifts.
What are your favorite things to do to maintain your personal wellbeing?
To maintain my personal wellbeing, I prioritize a mix of habits that support both my mind and body. Regular movement, whether it’s walking, strength training, or yoga, helps me manage stress and stay energized. I also value mental reset time, like reading, journaling, or short mindfulness breaks to maintain clarity and perspective. Staying connected with friends and family, getting consistent sleep, and setting clear boundaries around work and personal time are equally important. Together, these routines help me stay grounded, focused, and resilient.
Is there a specific fitness activity that you love and why?
Yes, one fitness activity I genuinely love is strength training. I enjoy it because it makes me feel both physically and mentally strong, and it’s empowering to see measurable progress over time. It helps build confidence, improves focus, and supports overall energy levels in a way that carries into daily life. I also appreciate how adaptable it is. Whether a workout is intense or intentional and slow, it always feels purposeful and grounding.
What is your favorite healthy food, and do you have a favorite way of preparing it?
My favorite healthy food is salmon because it’s both nourishing and satisfying. I love how rich it is in flavor while still feeling light and energizing. My favorite way to prepare it is pan‑seared or roasted with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s simple, quick, and pairs well with vegetables or whole grains for an easy, balanced meal.
What is your greatest wellness achievement?
Learning to consistently prioritize movement, rest, and mental balance, while setting boundaries around stress and expectations, has made me feel stronger, more grounded, and more resilient over time. It’s about maintaining a lifestyle that truly supports my wellbeing.
What do you think is the most exciting wellness innovation you have recently discovered?
One of the most exciting wellness innovations I’ve recently discovered is the rise of personalized wellness technology, especially wearables and apps that focus on recovery, stress, and long‑term health, not just activity. Tools that track sleep quality, heart‑rate variability, and daily stress signals help create a more holistic view of wellbeing and encourage smarter balance between effort and rest. I find it exciting because it shifts wellness from a one‑size‑fits‑all approach to something more intuitive, intentional, and sustainable.
What is your favorite self-care routine?
My favorite self‑care routine is a simple evening wind‑down that helps me reset both mentally and physically. I like to unplug from screens, stretch, or do a short mobility flow, and take a few quiet minutes to reflect or journal about the day. Pairing that with a consistent bedtime routine, such as dim lights, calming music, and intentional breathing, helps me release stress and signals my body to truly rest. It’s a small habit, but it makes a big difference in how recharged I feel.
What is your go-to for de-stressing?
My go‑to for de‑stressing is stepping away from screens and getting outside for a walk, even if it’s short. Movement paired with fresh air helps clear my head and reset my energy quickly. I also find that controlled breathing or a few minutes of quiet stretching helps me transition out of stress and back into a calmer, more centered mindset.
What aspect of your wellbeing do you struggle with the most, or would most like to improve?
The aspect of my wellbeing I’d most like to improve is maintaining consistent balance, especially around rest and mental downtime. It’s easy to stay focused on productivity and momentum, so being more intentional about slowing down, fully disconnecting, and giving myself permission to recharge is something I actively work on. Improving that balance helps me stay more present and energized in all areas of life.
