6 world-class spas you can enjoy at home
Although traveling to a spa may not be possible for everyone right now, some of the world’s best retreats are bringing their expertise directly into our homes – virtually. DANIELLE FOX spotlights six of the best
BEST FOR PRESSING THE RESET BUTTON Chiva-Som
When it comes to destination spas, this luxury medi-spa in Thailand has become a mecca for those searching for 360-degree, immersive wellness, and guests frequently return annually to hit the reset button. While the resort has recently reopened, Chiva-Som is offering video consultations with some of its top experts, from head naturopath Dr Tal Friedman to senior physiotherapist Nutnarinee Lerdsatittroong, for those who cannot make it there in person. Alternatively, you can access the resort’s complimentary online wellness concierge for an array of healthy recipes and exercise programs, as well as its famous pranayama breathing classes. Simply email h-wreception@chivasom.com to book the ultimate at-home spa experience.
BEST FOR EASING LOCKDOWN ANXIETY Bodhimaya
Founded by two brothers, Daniel O’Shaughnessy – a nutritionist with expertise in detoxification, digestion and weight management – and Cornelius – a master in meditation and eastern philosophy – Bodhimaya is known to gently shepherd guests seeking a chance to destress, detox and unwind at its retreats (which are in various locations around England). Now, it is offering the same Bodhimaya experience virtually with complimentary meditation sessions on Zoom and a newly launched At-Home Retreats program. A seven- or 14-day program can be tailored to address immune-system support, gut repair, hormonal imbalance, stress and anxiety. You can enjoy daily meditation sessions, book a video or phone consultation with a mind-and-body expert or join a highly personalized nutritional program with the option of cooking recipes yourself, or having juices and meals delivered to your home if you are London-based. Email info@bodhimaya.com for more information.
BEST FOR A FULL-BODY REBOOT SHA Wellness Clinic
What has always set the SHA Wellness Clinic in Alicante apart from other retreats is its blend of Eastern and Western medical and holistic approaches. Cutting-edge genetic testing and traditional Chinese medicine are given equal emphasis and top international experts in both disciplines work together to give guests the best of both worlds. Now it’s possible to access the award-winning clinic’s experts remotely through virtual one-on-one sessions with SHA’s nutrition, healthy-aging, stress-management and regenerative medical experts, as well as their immune specialists. Which means you can book a full-body reboot from the comfort of your home. See the SHA Wellness Clinic site for more details.
BEST FOR BUILDING A MORE POSITIVE MINDSET The Original FX Mayr
The Original FX Mayr takes a medical approach to physical rejuvenation, which is why it has always delivered such consistent results for its regular guests. Franz Xaver Mayr, the inventor of the medi-spa’s renowned ‘cure’, was ahead of his time and believed that general health is reliant on the gut – an alkaline diet, abdominal massage, Epsom salts to clean the intestine and getting plenty of rest are the cornerstones of the retreat’s approach. While you wait to reserve a place for total transformation at the spa in Austria, Mayr’s cure coach, Claudia Waldner, is doing Skype sessions to offer mental clarity and inner calm during lockdown. We also love getting inspired by the retreat’s Instagram posts featuring alkalizing, gut-friendly recipes you can try at home. Book sessions by emailing medizin@original-mayr.com.
BEST FOR KICK-STARTING GOOD HABITS Ananda
It may be Oprah Winfrey’s go-to Indian escape set high in the Himalayas, but you don’t have to travel to India to be able to experience Ananda’s transformative Ayurvedic programs. Choose from one of the six virtual programs (from revive to wellness bliss), all of which include personal Ayurvedic consultations with Ananda’s Ayurvedic doctor, Matthew; recipes personalized to your body and dosha type; yogic breathing; and meditation consultations and classes. If you’re looking for a break during your working day, you can also book in for Ananda’s group yoga and meditation classes, or a one-on-one Ayurvedic session to carry on your good intentions. Find out more information and book your session by emailing wellbeing@anandaspa.com.
BEST FOR SOOTHING STRESS Como Shambhala
The lush, green Indonesian Como Shambhala estate is healing in itself but, while we’re unable to immerse ourselves in the depths of the Balinese jungle just yet, the iconic retreat has taken its philosophy of exercise and relaxation direct to you with the launch of its digital wellness program. Whether you’re new to the mat or a seasoned pro, the yoga and meditation classes are not to be missed. Or tap into a rich network of expert tutorials and one-on-one sessions, from life coaches and nutritionists to physiotherapists and naturopaths. It’s the easiest – and most luxurious – way to soothe stress from the comfort of your own own home. See the Como Shambhala site for more details.
AT-HOME SPA SOOTHERS
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