A visionary of the health and wellness industry, Ruth was a pioneer in mind-body work and grew to become an icon in the fitness and spa worlds. Integrating Eastern and Western practices in her personal and professional life, Ruth envisioned a new approach to wellness, promoting that health and fitness are not the chief goal in life, but rather the potential to be good citizens of the earth. She wrote: “The resiliency of the human spirit makes it possible for us to find a sense of well-being in our lives. Our challenge is to be emotionally resilient and physically healthy to handle the changes and stress.”
Ruth founded The Marsh, A Center for Balance and Fitness in 1985, with a philosophy and mission to offer a “liberal arts approach to health”. Blending allopathic and alternative disciplines, The Marsh opened with an acupuncturist and cardiologist working side by side, a union unheard of 35 years ago. The Marsh stands alone as a comprehensive center of integrated, innovative programs and services, welcoming all. Dr. Andrew Weil describes The Marsh as a “center of the future…. a combination of spa, hospital and health club”.
“Words can barely describe what it was like to work for Ruth” says Tim Mortenson, General Manager of The Marsh. “For myself and many others at The Marsh, to witness her create, nurture and challenge our work for 35 years was an extraordinary experience. She was hands-on and heart-in for the mission every day. Ruth is the vision and the author of The Marsh, one of many legacies she leaves behind. Her leadership inspires us to carry The Marsh forward.”
Ruth was honoured with multiple industry awards such as the Spa Hall of Fame award by the Washington Spa Alliance – alongside industry figures such as Deborah Szekeley – and received the Humanitarian of the Year Award by ISPA.
ISPA also has an award named after her – The Ruth Stricker Spa and Wellness Award – which offers financial assistance for the purpose of stimulating research and exploration into the various ways that spas can meet current healthcare needs, promote wellness, and enhance the quality of life.
Ruth Sticker was born March 12, 1935 and passed away April 14, 2020 at the age of 85.
