If health and wellness are on the agenda, Team OT rounds up the five places you should add to your list
Meditation, regular exercise, yoga coupled with a digital detox - there are many ways to relax and rejuvenate, away from the hustle bustle of city life.The pandemic instilled a sense of deep introspection about what self-care meant and entailed. As the focus shifts towards greater physical and mental well-being, here is a roundup of wellness retreats that will make your stress melt away
Ananda in the Himalayas, Narendra Nagar
One of the most well known and loved wellness retreats in the world, this former residence of the Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal is surrounded by forests as it rests on the foothills of the Himalayas. Situated near Rishikesh, Ananda in the Himalayas is a multi-award winning, destination spa and wellness retreat, with signature wellness programs such as Ayurvedic Rejuvenation, Panchakarma, Holistic Detox, Dhyana Meditation, and Stress Management.
Shreyas Yoga Retreat, Bengaluru
Shreyas has put in place guidelines for both the staff and guests for healthy lifestyle practices. Guests will be on special diets to boost immunity, along with regular yoga sessions, breathing and meditation practices. The serene atmosphere at Shreyas and the greenery are a great add-on for healing. Last year, the retreat had put together a post-Covid care package that includes Ayurvedic therapies, naturopathy, yoga (pranayama and meditation) and a nutritious diet plan.
Six Senses Fort Barwara, Chauth Ka Barwara
Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal might have made Barwara a household name, it is their 30,000-sq-ft Six Senses Spa and fitness centre that steals the limelight once you are here. Indulge in a rejuvenation of all your senses as you find peace amidst ayurvedic treatments, meditation sessions, with customised wellness programmes that cater to your exact requirements.
The Roseate Ganges
One of the best spas in Rishikesh, the Aheli Spa integrates ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with contemporary international practices and the use of pure, natural products acquired from the cusp of nature. In addition to high quality Ayurveda products, the signature skincare line by Olivier Claire and Pevonia are also used for a menu of curated spa services and therapies delivered by highly trained therapists.
Adding to the wellness experience is the infinity pool. Swimming in the temperature controlled infinity pool, overlooking the valley is a therapeutic experience that brings unmistakable calm and composure, especially at dusk.
Namami Health Retreat Wellness Sanctuary, Kerala
Namami Health Retreat and Wellness Sanctuary is a futuristic wellness centre at the banks of Periyar River in Ernakulum, Kerala. Their retreat combines the ancient sciences of Yoga, Ayurveda and Meditation with complementary alternative medicine to enhance life expectancy through a holistic 360-degree approach towards health and wellness. They curate tailor made packages with best remedies, functional medicine, post-operative care, treatments, cuisines, activities and accommodation through strategic partnerships and associations in the lap of nature and luxury.