A healthy mind
Being constantly connected makes it almost impossible to find time to really switch off. Even on holiday, people maintain their morning run and keep up with emails – often finding it difficult to accept detaching from work. In the spirit of ensuring you take care of your mind, body and soul, we’ve rounded up seven luxury wellness resorts and retreats that are a must-visit (for when travel bans lift, of course).
Gaia Retreat & Spa, Byron Bay, Australia
Located in the tranquil setting of Byron Bay, New South Wales, the Gaia Retreat & Spa is one of Australia’s most awarded boutique wellness retreats. Founded in 2005 by Grease star, Olivia Newton-John, the resort focuses on pampering and relaxation, offering guests the option to create a completely bespoke experience during their stay. The retreat gives the ability for guests to totally disconnect as there are no phones and limited WiFi access. There’s a range of activities from yoga to meditation to boxing to organic cooking classes and more. There’s also a luxury spa giving your body and skin the rejuvenation it deserves.
What we recommend: The Detox Deluxe. This package cleanses, rebalances and restores your body. During the treatment you will experience a steam room session with an organic Dead Sea salt polish with green tea and minerals which aim to stimulate the body’s lymphatic system. Guests are then wrapped in a body masque full of purifying minerals, which helps flush toxins out of the body.
ITC Grand Goa Resort and Spa, Goa, India
Situated in South Goa, an island off the coast of India, the ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa is surrounded by 45 acres of gardens and lagoons, promising a relaxed and intimate getaway for guests. There are a range of yoga classes that take place on the resort’s beach front gardens, using the pranayama breathing methods with yoga poses to help guests relieve stress and be in tune with their body’s rhythm. Their spa also offers a wide range of treatments focusing on improving breathing and digestion.
What we recommend: Ayurvedic ritual – Marma Abhyanga – this treatment encompasses energy point stimulation and long soothing strokes taking guests through a natural deep cleansing process helping energy levels and overall mind and body balance.
COMO Shambala Estate, Bali
Labelled a true “retreat for change”, this luxurious getaway located near Ubud, Bali, houses a range of resident experts including a dietician, yoga teacher and Ayurvedic doctor. With top of the line gym facilities, zen surroundings for hiking and other activities, spa therapies and nutritionally balanced meals on offer, the goal of this retreat is to leave guests with lasting changed habits. Guests can immerse themselves in a full range of programmes to reset and recharge. Or you can opt for one-off treatments too.
What we recommend: The Cleanse programme. Working with the resort’s wellness experts, this programme helps to increase energy levels, balance hormones and improve digestion. You’ll receive a tailored diet plan for the duration of your stay, participate in regular yoga classes and nature treks, undergo cleansing treatments and more.
Anantara Spa at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
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For a rejuvenating and relaxing staycation getaway look no further than the Anantara Spa at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort. With 24 treatment rooms available including a holistic cocoon room and an Ayurveda room, there’s plenty on offer in the spa, as well as a range of activities including yoga and Thalasso wellness treatments – you’ll reach peak zen in no time.
What we recommend: The Rejuvenating Experience. Using Natura Bisse products combined with the balancing of chakras and the use of precious gems, you’ll reach a total state of relaxation. In the 120-minute treatment you’ll experience a nourishing exfoliation and a regenerating massage. Guests are also treated to the Diamond Experience Multisensory Facial which will give your skin long-lasting hydration and bring natural brightness to your complexion.
Atzaro, Ibiza
This luxury resort nestled in the heart of Ibiza, far away from the parties and wildness, is a wellness retreat encompassing yoga, yogirate and Pilates all in an idyllic sanctuary amongst the aromas of orange blossom and lavender. As well as yoga, some of their specific retreats include health coaching sessions, art therapy, silent walks and sharing circles and detox rituals, including tongue cleaning and oil pulling.
What we recommend: Atzaro Mediterranean Treatment 80’. As well as all of the above, enjoy an exfoliating and wrapping treatment complete with organic products derived from the Ibiza area.
Six Senses Laamu Maldives
If we’re talking about relaxation and rejuvenation we can’t possibly forget about the Maldives. With an array of on-land and overwater villas, this resort makes use of the natural materials it’s surrounded by, encouraging guests to reconnect with themselves. There’s nine unique treatment hubs dotted around the resort right on the beach and amongst the leafy landscape. Not only can you enjoy nourishing treatments, there’s yoga and meditation available on a rooftop studio.
What we recommend: Elakizhi. This helps to improve circulation, joint pain and muscle tightness using herbal leaves, powders and spices which are warmed in mediated oils and then massaged into the entire body.
Amanpuri, Phuket, Thailand
To really get away from it all, this is the place to be. Set on the idyllic shores of one of Phuket Island’s most white sandy beaches, Amanpuri gives guests the opportunity to reach peak peace and serenity. Focusing on wellness, the resort has a medical grade Holistic Wellness Centre. The centre offers a range of different programmes including weight management, cleansing, life resets and stress management, all of which are tailored to the client’s personal goals.
What we recommend: The three-day detox and cleansing programme. This is the ultimate chance to purify the body and refresh the mind. With a range of treatments including lymphatic drainage massages, detoxing body wraps and private sessions to focus on cleansing the body, this will give you a true chance to hit the reset button.
What to pack
For more on sustainability & mindfulness, pick up a copy of May’s ‘The Mindfulness Issue’ or download it here.
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Images: Supplied
