In a testament to the priority being given to wellness, The Springs Resort -- a hot springs property 60 miles east of Durango -- announces that veteran hospitality, spa and wellness operations expert, Sharon Holtz, has been named Director of Resort Wellness Operations.After more than two decades experience with b rands like Mandarin Oriental, Starwood and Destination Hotels and Resorts, Holtz's focus will be on guest experiences that make the most of the healing properties of Pagosa's mineral waters, while underscoring the significance of the resort being home to the world's deepest geothermal spring. Besides crafting and executing a menu of therapeutic spa treatments, Holtz will also oversee the implementation of a two-phase program of wellness offerings over the next year at the resort, such as Forest Bathing Hikes, Aqua Yoga, Mindfulness & Meditation, Wetland Nature Walks and even Aqua Sound Bathing.Working throughout the United States, Southeast Asia and the Caribbean in spas and health clubs at resorts -- including most recently the 50,000 square foot ocean front spa at the Terranea Resort near Los Angeles; ten years as Spa Director at Mandarin Oriental's properties in Bermuda, Miami and Boston; Health Club Manager at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisc o and Fitness Center Manager at the Pankor Laut Resort in Malaysia -- Holtz learned a variety of culturally-inspired healing traditions and brings a global perspective to her role at The Springs.Interestingly, Colorado has played a recurring role in Holtz's life. After studying Business Economics at UC Santa Barbara, she first worked in the tourism industry in Boulder, Colorado and then graduated from The Connecting Point School of Massage and Spa Therapies in Telluride, Colorado; afterwards landing her first spa position The Peaks Resort & Spa in the same city. Holtz met her husband while working with Mandarin Oriental and they actually chose Pagosa Springs as the location of their destination wedding. Now, fourteen years later, her family of four has relocated to the picturesque mountain town.