We asked our Director Peter Stearn and Travel Specialist Oliver Ostick what they do to manage their wellbeing and which retreat has helped them on their journey.
Oliver Ostick - SHA Wellness Clinic
To me, wellness is balance. If one part of my life is off kilter, then it can affect my wellbeing as a whole. I try to make sure that I am kind to myself, both physically and mentally. Fresh air, being close to water and blue skies help me feel grounded. I do a lot of meditating and try my best to do yoga a few times a week. At the gym, you will always find me in the pool doing lengths. I'm most happy though, when I am blowing bubbles! Scuba diving is my peace and the underwater world my sanctuary. Conscious breathing and full immersion in nature is what really makes my heart happy!
My favourite wellness destination that I have visited is definitely SHA Wellness Clinic. The expertise, facilities and food were out of this world and it has such a wide variety of treatments that will suit almost anyone. The standout treatments were the traditional Chinese medicine consultation, acupuncture and Shiatsu. There is also some pretty good snorkelling in the area, if you find the time. You can read more about my stay by clicking HERE.
I haven’t visited yet… but Shanti Maurice in Mauritius would be my next choice of destination as I have always wanted to visit Mauritius. I love the focus on ayurveda and we have some excellent exclusive packages there, oh and there is a house reef right on their doorstep!
Peter Stearn - Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda
Wellness to me is an understanding of what it takes to be healthy physically, mentally and emotionally. To do this you have to listen to your body and respect what it tells you. I think to better understand what you need to do, you have to find sources of information you can relate to.
Personally, I prefer the simple approach. Eating well is super important. You don’t need to deprive yourself of anything, but moderation is key. Shopping for and preparing fresh food, limiting red meat and having reasonable portions are all important.
Going to the gym, running or even team sports may not be something you like or have time for, so things like taking walk or biking are great too. I also found tennis and badminton are a great workout. Walking for me has the additional benefit of being calming, almost meditative and I leave the phone at home.
One of our long time partners that really delivers wellness for me is Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda in Italy. First, it is in a stunningly beautiful location, on a hill overlooking the lake with views that don’t stop. To me, speaking to the doctors at was a massive learning experience. The resort itself caters to many types of guests, not just wellness visitors. However in their design, the spa, fitness areas, pools and gardens are cleverly situated on lower levels so there is actual physical separation for those guests that are focused on their wellness programme. If you do enjoy a nice walk, and are ambitious, you can walk down to the town of Gargnano on the lakeside. It is worth the effort and if you can’t face the return trip back up the hill, the hotel can happily send a van down to collect you. Read more about my stay HERE.
Why Wellbeing Escapes?
