Ananyah Rastogi
07-May-2026
I tried one of 2026’s Hottest Wellness Trends, and here’s my honest take.
Inputs by: Ananyah Rastogi, Creative Director at Sawadhee Traditional Thai Spa
I tried one of 2026’s Hottest Wellness Trends, and here’s my honest take. My experience began at Belly Burn in Bangkok, Thailand, one of the most aesthetically pleasing studios I’ve stepped into. Credit where it’s due, the entire space was perfectly in sync. From the lighting to the layout to the sound, everything felt intentional, instantly putting me in the mood before the class had even begun.
As the name suggests, at the heart of the session is the red-light mat, the star of the show. The mat offers five intensity levels, allowing you to adjust the strength of the red light depending on the exercise. In my class, we were advised to begin at the highest level and gradually lower it, especially during movements where you’re facing down toward the mat. If you’ve ever tried red light panels, beds or face masks, this experience feels noticeably milder. Unlike those, you can comfortably engage with the light throughout the session without needing to avert your gaze, making it a lot more comfortable to work out with.
I attended the class after a long day of travel and exploring, squeezing it in before dinner plans, and surprisingly, it felt like the perfect reset. There’s something about the combination of movement and red light that left me feeling deeply relaxed yet re-energised. It wasn’t just a workout; it felt restorative.
As for the Pilates itself, it was a standard mat pilates class. The real differentiator here, as with most classes, it comes down to the instructor and your personal fitness goals. Whether you’re opting for a group session or a more focused one-on-one class, the structure remains familiar.
So, would I try it again?
Absolutely. It’s an easy yes. If anything, it feels like an ideal way to start the day combining a mindful workout with a subtle wellness boost that leaves you feeling fresh, positive and ready to take on whatever’s next!
