The world of wellness has so much more to offer than a traditional massage. In recent years, the term has achieved a far more holistic meaning, incorporating practices and disciplines like yoga, meditation, forest bathing, sound and music therapy, and more. Many luxury resorts and spa retreats now include unique and immersive therapies in their wellness menus, offering a harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern practices. So, if you are looking for a new mindful experience for your wellness journey, let this curated list be your handy guide.
1. Bathe in Sound Showers at Auroville, Svaram, Puducherry.
Nestled within the serene embrace of Auroville, the Svaram Sound Experience stands as a captivating sound institute where creativity converges with the healing power of music. At the heart of Svaram lies an array of immersive experiences, inviting seekers to embark on transformative journeys through the realm of sound. Step into the ethereal world of ‘Nada Yoga’, an ancient practice that delves into the origins of sound, exploring the cosmic vibrations that underpin existence. This meditative exploration unveils the intrinsic connection between sound and consciousness, illuminating the path to inner harmony and self-discovery. Envelop yourself in the mesmerising embrace of sound showers that bathe you in a cascade of harmonious frequencies, restoring balance and tranquillity to body and mind. A stroll through Svaram’s enchanting sound garden invites you to immerse in a symphony of natural sounds—wind chimes, singing bowls, and musical sculptures all thoughtfully arranged to create an oasis of serenity.
2. The 21-day Ayurvedic Panchakarma at Vana, Dehradun
Vana stands as a premier wellness centre, offering a comprehensive and holistic approach to Tibetan wellness and healing. The therapies here are less spa-indulgent and focus more on healing and medicine. Vana has a strict no-technology rule throughout the resort—phones and laptops can only be used in the room. With a diverse range of intensive therapies, including the renowned 21-day ayurvedic panchakarma, Vana has established itself as a sanctuary for those seeking relief from various ailments. What sets Vana apart is its unique distinction as the only wellness centre in India to provide Tibetan medicine in a luxurious and opulent setting. Within the serene ambience of Vana, guests can immerse themselves in the therapeutic wonders of sowa rigpa, a traditional system of healing, akin to Ayurveda in its foundation upon the principles of the five elements and the three main humours of the body.
3. Art Yoga at SwaSwara, Gokarna
The art studio at SwaSwara invites you to experiment with a wide range of creative activities that include tribal Warli painting, watercolours on handmade paper, origami and clay work on a traditional potter’s wheel and mindful art practices. The yoga class encourages you to put ‘Zen to Paper’ through a meditative and therapeutic practice – Zentangle. The process of the art yoga class is simple—take off your shoes and sit down amid a spread of brushes, oil paints, and crayons. Then you can relax, meditate, and capture the first image that comes into your mind and paint it.
4. Clearing Physical and Emotional Blockage through Water Therapy at Dune Eco Village, Puducherry.
Dune Eco Village is an oasis of sustainable luxury nestled in the idyllic coastal town of Puducherry, India, offering an array of water-b
ased experiences designed to invigorate the senses. The retreat hosts several relaxation treatments including Aqua Wellness, Chroma Water, Aqua Gym, Aqua Relax, Aqua Reflexo, Aqua Zen Aichi, Woga (Aqua Yoga) and the famous Watsu. The Watsu treatment is done in warm water and rebalances our energies. Watsu allows the water element to release tensions in muscles and joints, clearing blockages on the physical, emotional and mental levels, bringing a deep sense of relaxation. It is said that one hour of Watsu is equivalent to four hours of sleep.
5. Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village, Palakkad, Kerala
Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village in Palakkad, Kerala, stands as a serene sanctuary for seekers of authentic Ayurveda and holistic well-being. Every material used in making the village is sustainable and locally sourced. Kairali’s healing process starts right from the time one enters the villa. The minimalist architecture, red bricks, eco-friendly red oxide floors, and the Valampuri Conch come together to soothe the mind. The resort has a canteen, where vegetarian food is customised for each individual as recommended by the doctors. What’s special about the food served here is the lukewarm pink water called Pathimugam, which is a source of antioxidants and has a significant place in Ayurveda.
