If you’re craving a life overhaul, spas and hotels all over the world offer packages that tackle your psyche
The wellness world is changing. Post-pandemic, we’re looking for far more than a fasting regime and the odd yoga class when we go to a spa or retreat. Many of us are crying out for an ‘emotional overhaul’, too.
Spas and hotels all over the world are scrambling to offer packages that tackle your psyche as well as your cellulite. You could choose stylish spirituality in Spain or Italy. But here in the UK we already have a solid tranche of retreats that are the antithesis of fluffy towels and endless smoothies. These are programmes that pack a hefty therapeutic punch.
They certainly aren’t for everyone, but if you feel the call for a life overhaul, here’s where to start…
MINDFUL IN ITALY
Guests at Mandali, pictured above, practice meditation, breathwork and mindful movement – though nothing is obligatory
Mandali opened in 2017 and is making waves with its dynamic retreat programmes.
The setting is beautiful with views over Italy’s Lake Orta to the Alps, and there are spa treatments available.
Yet this isn’t just another spa experience with a bit of emotional wellness tacked on.
The signature Mandali Experience offers a gentle, yet profound, exploration of your emotional well-being with meditation, breathwork, workshops, group sessions and mindful movement.
The retreat centre, which opened in 2017, offers beautiful views over Italy’s Lake Orta to the Alps
The Mandali Experience is ideal for ‘those who want to dip a toe into emotional healing’
Unlike the UK offerings listed here, nothing is obligatory — if it all gets too much, you can slip away to the pool.
Best for: Those who want to dip a (nicely pedicured) toe into emotional healing.
Details: Five-day Mandali Experience from £564 pp (mandali.org).
Soothe the soul and body: Relaxation and delicious food at MasQi – or the Energy House – in Spain
SPANISH RESET
Voted Best Holistic Hideaway in the Conde Nast Traveller Spa Awards 2020, MasQi (or the Energy House) is a 19th-century farmhouse turned boutique hotel …….