Wellness

Reflexology is a harmonising therapy that involves the application of pressure to specific points, known as reflexes, to encourage the body to heal from within. The practice is based on the belief that the feet and hands mirror the body and that every organ in the body can be mapped onto areas of the feet called reflex points. By using these 'mini-maps', therapists are trained to stimulate reflex points on the map by using their thumbs and fingers and therefore bring about a positive effect on the corresponding parts of the body. Reflexology aims to facilitate a free flow of energy in the body so that we are balanced and healthy, any obstructions to this may result in illness. With ever increasing levels of stress in everyday life, it is important that people take responsibility for their well-being. Reflexology may mitigate stress, help you sleep better and improve your mood.

Reflexology is a harmonising therapy that involves the application of pressure to specific points, known as reflexes, to encourage the body to heal from within. The practice is based on the belief that the feet and hands mirror the body and that every organ in the body can be mapped onto areas of the feet called reflex points. By using these 'mini-maps', therapists are trained to stimulate reflex points on the map by using their thumbs and fingers and therefore bring about a positive effect on the corresponding parts of the body. Reflexology aims to facilitate a free flow of energy in the body so that we are balanced and healthy, any obstructions to this may result in illness. With ever increasing levels of stress in everyday life, it is important that people take responsibility for their well-being. Reflexology may mitigate stress, help you sleep better and improve your mood.

With Valentine's Day approaching, it's not too late to book a break away for a truly romantic and healthy getaway. We recommend our top five romantic and healthy holidays for couples this year.

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, it’s not too late to book a couples healthy holiday for a romantic wellness getaway. From Lake Garda and New Zealand, to Thailand and the Maldives, we recommend our top five romantic wellness retreats for Valentine’s Day.

By Suzi Dixon, freelance travel writer

Are you craving sunshine? Dark evenings and cold temperatures in the UK can have an affect on your health and well-being. Lack of sunlight even alters some of the brain’s chemical and hormonal responses and in the most severe cases, can cause SAD, also known as ‘winter depression’.

What is REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort and who is it for?

A 5-star luxury resort in Bali REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort, this resort is for guests seeking holistic transformation in a beautiful and serene setting, bespoke programs are designed for each individual and can be based on your in-depth pre-arrival questionnaire and even genetics with optional DNA testing available.

I learnt to Scuba Dive almost a decade ago and have been enjoying diving in tropical destinations ever since, I always make sure to check out the best dive spots when I'm on a healthy break and am lucky enough to be staying at Siddhartha Ocean Front Resort & Spa in Bali with some of the best diving spots on my doorstep.

What is Thanyapura and who’s it for?

Thanyapura Health & Sports Resort is a world-class facility with an extensive offering, ideal for anyone interested in optimising their sports performance, mental health or physical well-being. Perfect for a fitness or sports holiday, they now also offer a full range of health programs including detox, weight-loss and anti-ageing programs. Guests will have plenty of opportunity to meet other guests throughout their stay. However, there is no set meal times or set table for program guests so it would abe best to be a comfortable independent traveller.

What is Absolute Sanctuary and who’s it for?

Celebrating 10 years in 2018, Absolute Sanctuary is a Moroccan inspired boutique retreat in Koh Samui. The hotel is also part of leading health & lifestyle brand, Absolute You, which includes a training academy and from which they draw their expertise in fitness and nutrition. Previously well-known for their detox and yoga programmes, they have successfully evolved their offerings and now also offer an excellent range of fitness, de-stress, weight loss (voted the best value by Conde Nast Spa Traveller UK) and the only dedicated Pilates Reformer bootcamp in Asia Pacific.

What is Amatara Wellness Resort and who’s it for?

Tucked away in the quiet corner of Cape Panwa, you will find Amatara Wellness Resort. This luxury hotel was recently rebranded to focus on developing the resort as a wellness destination and now offers a range of comprehensive programmes. Suited to those wanting to escape and enjoy a destination spa holiday as well as those looking to take a serious approach to improving their overall well-being.

There is something almost magical about Como Shambhala Estate, as I head through the nearby town of Ubud; home to all things creative in Bali, I feel the excitement start to build. Entering the exclusive Como Shambhala Estate, a luxury destination spa holiday, a sense of peace envelopes me like a warm welcoming hug, and in the lobby I am met with big smiles, a flower lei and an effortless check in. I am then off exploring the immaculate grounds that are cared for by hand by a very large and talented ground keeping team. Nine hectares of perfectly manicured gardens surrounded by the Balinese forest and with the River Ayung set the backdrop of this Jungle wonderland. It’s no wonder Como Shambhala were awarded Destination Spa of the Year in 2013 by Conde Nast Traveller.

Only a short drive from both Da Nang International Airport and nearby the historic town of Hoi An, a well preserved 15th century trading town in the South Central Coast of Vietnam, you will find Fusion Maia, this stylish all-inclusive spa holiday provides the perfect refuge to de-stress after a long month of business travel and deliver the healthy kick start I had been looking for.

Golden Door and who’s it for?

Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa Elysia is located in the beautiful NSW Hunter Valley. Featuring 74 villas this exceptional property is the only purpose built destination health retreat in Australia. Offering Healthy Lifestyle Weekend taster and longer stays ranging from three to seven nights all structured to deliver a holistic wellness experience. Healthy delicious meals are taken together ideal for the solo traveller who wishes to connect with others and attendees range from 25 through to 65+ all with their own unique reason for heading to the Golden Door from major life events, kick-starting their well-being, improving fitness or simply to take a healthy spa break, the program and classes are catered to all.

Located on the North East coast of Bali, is the secluded haven of Spa Village Tembok around 3 hours by luxury transfer presents the ideal opportunity to experience the ever changing Balinese scenery and to take many photos; with your own private tour guide.

What is THE BARAI and who’s it for?

THE BARAI is a luxury spa and wellness destination in Hua Hin, Thailand, set across 4.5 acres of pristine beachfront land and now offering a range of healthy lifestyle programs, perfect for a solo wellness adventure, a luxury healthy honeymoon or even an active family escape as adjoining is the Hyatt Regency and guests have access across both properties. Watch my video review here.

Tell us about the resort – what makes The BodyHoliday special?

The BodyHoliday is a luxury all-inclusive wellness holiday located on the tropical island of St Lucia. It’s been on my wish list for over 5 years and so I was very excited when I had the opportunity to visit. From Australia it’s a long way, however we suggest breaking up the trip with some time in the US or other nearby islands and stay there for at least a week. There are direct flights from the UK and for that reason you’ll find that most of the other guests are British with a mix of guests from Canada and the US as well.

Not far from the hustle and bustle of Manila, you will find yourself at The Farm at San Benito, 90 kilometres from the International airport. Entering the grounds is like entering another realm, time slows and it's all about you, and your well-being.

Travel Specialist Samantha spent 48 hours at luxury 5-star hotel, COMO Maalifushi in the Maldives and this is her snapshot review…

When I daydream I imagine COMO Maalifushi, set on a tropical island, surrounded by white sand and stunning aqua blue waters it is easily accessible from Male via a short seaplane flight, which is a bucket list item itself. The resort offers a 44m free-form pool, COMO Shambhala spa, open air yoga pavilion, water sports centre, dive centre, boutique and library. Three restaurants and fruit and vegetables are locally sourced or grown in the onsite gardens and bottled water is recycled. Transport around the island is mainly by bicycle, which guests can collect shortly after arriving.

Tell us about the resort – what makes Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort special?

Located on a hillside on the southern coast of Phuket, Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort is a small unique property, independently run by a family that gives it a personal, homey touch, allowing you to fully relax.