Wellness is generally defined as the state of being healthy in body and mind, especially as the result of deliberate effort. It is an active process of becoming aware of and making choices towards a more successful existence. For physical wellness, this normally involves getting regular exercise, appropriate nutrition, sustaining a healthy weight, getting sufficient sleep, practicing safe behaviors, remaining free from use of tobacco, alcohol and additional drugs, and using healthcare systems. On the intellectual side of things, one may work on expanding knowledge and skills in order to live a life which may be satisfying and successful. Socially, one may get genuine satisfaction from interacting with others within the community. There are currently many diverse wellness retreats in the city providing a place far removed from the stress and demands of everyday life. These retreats often focus on a specific area of wellness, such as providing meditation spaces or offering classes, and they are likely to have professionals on hand to guide and support individuals on their personal wellness journey. Retreating is an act of moving back or withdrawing and is an act of moving back or backward away from anything hazardous, unpleasant or inconvenient. The idea of a wellness retreat is to provide an opportunity for individuals to step back from the hustle and bustle of daily life and the environments which may contribute to poor wellness, and to experience a lifestyle which embraces a more optimal and balanced way of being. The removal of common stresses, the physical separation from an unhealthy environment, the opportunity to focus on personal growth, the living of a more non-materialistically orientated lifestyles and the experience of following a more health giving routine – all these apparent by-products of retreating serve to physically, emotional and spiritually promote an overall wellness and sense of self. In the next section of the article, I will explore the benefits of wellness retreats and how it may enhance people’s overall experience of wellness.
The Concept of Wellness Retreats
The concept of a wellness retreat is to provide an environment for rejuvenation and nurturing of the body and mind by incorporating a healthy, balanced diet, exercise, relaxation, and positive teachings such as yoga and meditation. It is a place where people can take time and space for themselves away from stress and physical exertion in their daily routine. Wellness retreats are set in beautiful, often remote surroundings to encourage the feeling of getting away from the pressures of life’s daily challenges. Some retreats are centered purely on relaxation and well-being, whereas others can be more specialized towards a certain activity or skill, such as yoga or detox. The main aims of wellness retreats are to create and maintain a well-functioning and healthy body and to promote a positive, calm, and focused state of mind, whereby overall wellness rejuvenates that fullness from within the spirit’s deep heart’s core. In achieving this, wellness retreats offer a range of different activities and learning opportunities designed to “cleanse the body and soul” and achieve harmony with our individual selves or the natural surroundings. For instance, a typical day at a wellness retreat may offer activities such as yoga at sunrise for an hour, followed by breakfast time. Then from 10 am to 2 pm, there are a selection of treatments and free time to take a bike and explore the beautiful surroundings before a group lunch at 2.30 pm. More wellness activities proceed for the afternoon and then an early supper, leaving a relaxed, silent end to the day with perhaps some herbal tea, where talking, TVs, or mobile devices are discouraged after sunset. The idea of joining a wellness retreat is “a vacation that takes care of you.” As everything has been planned and designed for the retreaters to achieve the full benefits and bliss, neither much thinking nor indivisible plans are required, thus truly offering a total stress-free environment. All programs and activities offered in a wellness retreat, such as the type of activities, food and beverage provided, and the duration, aim for the same goal: to gain positivity, strength, knowledge, and the findings or improvements of health conditions – seen and felt. Every minor change or development of physical health and mental well-being could be noticed and recorded. The general experience and benefits at such a retreat could be the long-lasting, life-changing delight that has helped to form the path of holistic practice for personal growth.
Benefits of Wellness Retreats
Another important feature of wellness retreats is that the environment is free from habitual lifestyle patterns. It may not be easy to find a supportive environment for change in our home. The fact that we are in a different environment and with different people, we can think more deeply about our life and what changes we need to make. This is particularly helpful for someone who is in the stage of thinking about change but may feel a bit stuck. It is also important to be free from digital and electronic stress. In today’s 24/7, ‘always on’ culture, it is very difficult to escape from the tyranny of digital devices. We are in a constant state of alertness due to bombardment of stimulation and information from electronic gadgets. The truth is, we cannot get away from electronic devices anymore. A lot of our day to day work depends on these devices. However, we do need to be mindful of the impact these devices can have on our mental well-being. Most wellness retreats are located in areas that are out of range of electronic and digital stimulation. This helps to minimize the overstimulation that is caused by digital devices. This over-stimulation might affect attention span, mood, self-esteem and ability to soothe and control emotions in the long run. Last but not least, because many retreats have specific purposes, such as a focus on yoga, Digital Detox, holistic nutrition, spa treatments, life coaching, meditation, stress management and relaxation activities, the program can be tailored to suit different needs. For example, a wellness retreat on holistic nutrition may offer education and support to help in the transition to a real food lifestyle. Programs like Digital Detox will help to guide a person to make new, healthy tech-independent habits.
Overview of Wellness Retreat Singapore
Wellness retreats are gaining popularity among people from all walks of life. Singapore, one of the most developed and fastest growing countries in Asia, is now home to a number of good wellness retreats. Indeed, there is such a good range of wellness retreats in Singapore that you are spoilt for choice. Whether you’re looking for a short wellness break or a longer retreat, you will be able to find something that suits your preferences. But what exactly is a wellness retreat? What can you expect to find in a wellness retreat? How do you choose the wellness retreat that suits you best? This chapter not only gives an introduction to wellness retreats specifically in Singapore, but also tries to answer these questions. By doing so, potential wellness tourists can have a better understanding of the offerings in Singapore and they can plan their retreat accordingly. I will begin with a general introduction to wellness retreats in Singapore – the type of experiences you can expect and the key features that differentiate a wellness retreat from a “normal” holiday. Then in the subsequent section, the chapter will provide an insight into tranquility and peace in Singapore’s urban environment. The chapter will cover the different types of wellness experiences tourists can get from Singapore, from nature retreat and mindfulness practice to healthy living and detoxification activities. Next, the chapter will move on to talk about the popular wellness retreats specifically in Singapore. By dividing into different sub-sections and introducing a few examples in each sub-section, potential travelers can have an idea of what kind of retreats suit their interests most. For those who do not have a clear understanding of what yoga is or are new to yoga, local and overseas visitors are welcome to sign up for any yoga sessions held by instructors in the retreat. Such type of retreat normally offers other wellness activities like spa services, relaxation massage, and body massage therapy. I will include yoga retreats in this section and give details on the programming offers. Also, this chapter will share some tips and important messages in terms of planning a wellness retreat in Singapore. For example, how to choose and book the right wellness retreat and what we should prepare before the retreat commences, etc. By providing this practical information and suggestions, the chapter will serve as a useful guide for those who are interested in coming to Singapore for wellness retreats.
Tranquility Amid Urban Life
The heart of Singapore is a maze of ancient and towering trees, whispering to one another with the wind, creating a melody of peaceful sounds. The most famous, and my personal favorite, is the ‘Tembusu Tree’, a species native to Southeast Asia. Found in the Singapore Botanic Gardens, this tree is as old as 200 years. This place is a perfect setting for people to relax and rejuvenate. Due to rapid development, it is only in recent years that Singapore has started embracing the ‘go green’ movement. With urbanization, many of these nature retreats are disappearing so the focus of the government is now to incorporate more greenery across the island. There are different types of nature retreats found in Singapore. For example, garden city walk which is about wandering through the beautiful gardens of bay or the garden by the bay which is known for its extraordinary displays of horticulture and garden art. On the other hand, if you are finding yourself in the middle of a bustling day, mindfully watching as the breeze sways the vibrant flowers in the garden can be a great way to awaken your senses and reground yourself. For a deeper experience, head over to a nearby pond or lake area in the gardens and listen to the sounds of life around you. Even in the midst of the city, the distant call of a bird or the soft gurgling of a stream runs free within the pause. And in these quiet moments, let the air fill your lungs and shake away the stresses of the day. Mindfulness can be achieved in the comfort of your own home, using a technique called ‘mindful breathing’ which is recommended by The NHS Website. This can be helpful for people with mild anxiety or depression or just to increase general well-being. By focusing your mind on the breathing and bringing your awareness to the present moment, it can really help center your mind and relax your body. Another very unique wellness experience you might have in Singapore is practicing ‘meditation and mindfulness’ with the Buddhist monks upon The World Peace. This retreat is located in the East Coast in a lush green sacred space and it will be led by the Venerable Sayadaw U Ottama. It is a perfect opportunity for anyone who wishes to explore the practice of meditation. The retreat is suitable for different levels with various sessions of guided teaching. Singapore also offers more modern wellness options like ‘floatation pod therapy’. A great way to help and heal body ailments, the float pod helps users to escape the daily stress and achieve deep relaxation. When the body and mind’s stress system is managed and reduced, blood circulation is enhanced and stress hormones are removed to help greatly in rejuvenating the body and mind. In the heart of the city, with the daily stress and noise surrounding us, it can be difficult to find harmony in body and soul. However, with the combined effect of modern and traditional wellness practices, the body and mind will surely be rested and rejuvenated in Singapore.
Finding Peace in the Heart of Singapore
Well, that being said, the bustling city life can be overwhelming for some and not all may find inner peace simply by coming to Marina Bay. For visitors who are also looking for a spiritual sanctuary to calm their restless mind and soothe their emotional upheavals, they can consider visiting the Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple. Well-known for granting good luck and prosperity, this Buddhist temple, located at Waterloo Street, is a popular place for devotees to offer joss sticks and joss papers as well as to make donations. However, aside from the customary practices, the temple is also a place where one can seek spiritual consolation and peace in a quiet and cool environment. The serenity of the temple provides a stark contrast to the surrounding busy streets and one can literally feel the calming effect as soon as he steps in through the temple gate. With the merciful eyes of Kwan Im Bodhisattva watching over him, one can take his time to clear his worries.
The calming effect of the sessions can be enhanced if the participants focus their attention on their breath and learn to be more mindful in the present moment. This is an important aspect of mindfulness practice, which is about paying full attention to what is happening around you and inside you – in mind, body, and heart. Mindfulness practice also incorporates the basic principles of meditation, which is to focus and quieten the mind and produce a tranquil and well-balanced state of mental awareness. By learning to be more mindful, Marina Bay provides a conducive environment where people can take the first step to mindfulness and experience a sense of inner peace slowly growing inside them. Such experiences of peace and tranquility are beneficial for one’s well-being, as they nourish a sense of happiness and contentment in life.
In Singapore, there are various activities and places that are designed to help people relax and find some peace and tranquility even in the heart of the city. For example, the Marina Bay area is a popular spot where people can take a leisurely walk on the waterfront promenade and enjoy the mesmerizing city skyline. Besides the breathtaking view, Marina Bay also offers a range of relaxing activities that people can engage with, such as free yoga sessions in the morning and evening. These sessions, held against the backdrop of the beautiful sunrise and sunset, allow participants to immerse themselves in the peaceful and quiet surroundings while doing yoga exercises, which are known to calm the mind and release tension in the body.
Living in a fast-paced urban environment often creates a high level of mental stress and physical tiredness. Singapore, being one of the busiest cities in the world, has a population that faces similar challenges on a daily basis. As such, it is increasingly important for city dwellers to take charge of their well-being by finding ways to slow down and recharge in the midst of their busy lives.
Nature Retreats in the City
Similarly, Singapore Botanic Gardens and the Southern Ridges are well known for its amazing landscapes and scenic views. Both are easily accessible and well-connected by public transport from different parts of the city. In particular, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a popular spot for taking a walk in the lush greenery and to admire the rich variety of tropical plants. Visitors may also join in free-of-charge Tai Chi or guided nature walks which are held at the Gardens. These outdoor programs not only acquaint the public with natural environments and heritage, but also promote mental wellness through exercises. At the same time, the Gardens boasts some restaurants where people can have a leisurely meal in a charming setting, creating a full day of relaxation at the Gardens.
The Central Catchment Nature Reserve is the largest of its kind in Singapore, offering a wilderness experience for nature lovers. Such retreats provide an opportunity for urbanites to immerse in green spaces and engage in outdoor activities such as guided nature walks. On the one hand, they can discover and learn about biodiversity and ecosystems that are native to the tropical rainforest. On the other hand, visitors are allowed to practice mindfulness by strolling through the reserve silently, allowing time to experience the surroundings with all their senses.
Tucked away in parks, gardens, and along the southern ridges of Singapore, nature retreats in the city provide an escape from the fast-paced urban environment. Nature retreats are often surrounded by lush greenery and situated near the sea or other natural water bodies, making them the perfect place to rejuvenate and relax. To name a few, there are retreats located in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, Singapore Botanic Gardens, and the Southern Ridges.
Mindfulness and Meditation Practices
Mindfulness is a state in which we focus on the present and appreciate our surroundings. It is nearly impossible to achieve in a fast-paced environment, but one place where peace and mindfulness can truly be achieved is the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The lush greenery and clean air are a sanctuary for people to relax and calm their minds. As the sun rises between 7 and 7:30 am, visitors can participate in a simple session of guided mindfulness practices led by experienced facilitators at the bandstand. These free sessions have been ongoing since 2016 and are conducted every day except Mondays and in the month of June. The practices may include Samadhi meditation, the application of deep concentration to quiet the mind and ‘Vipassana’, a gentle and non-reactive observation of present, passing phenomena as they manifest within our consciousness. Through these practices, we develop wisdom and understanding, bringing about feelings of joy and tranquility. For the more experienced, self-practice sessions are available throughout the day from 8 am until 4:30 pm. From personal experience, I believe that self-practice in the morning is most effective as it acts as a reminder to be mindful throughout the day. One can see the beauty of the gardens becoming magnified as the sun slowly rises, from the lush green terraces to the colorful landscapes of the swan lake and palm valley. It is also a much quieter time of the day and visitors can really appreciate the sounds of nature. On a different note, the use of mindfulness practices has extended into many different settings such as schools and office spaces to support people’s wellbeing. It is well suited too as it does not require any form of special or hazardous apparatus, making it a universally accessible technique. Over at ‘The Conscious Zone’, a mobile-app destination of wellness, activities and facilities provided at Singapore Botanic Gardens is featured. This caters to the increasing demand for a source of wisdom and educational programs related to the cultivation of body and mind, promotion of good health, and leading to a balanced lifestyle. Such features of mindfulness practices at the Singapore Botanic Gardens provide the community with the facility for private events, social interactions, and personal practices. This further reinforces Singapore’s cause as a city in a garden by providing the people with a concrete environment to practice mindfulness harmoniously with nature.
Detoxification and Healthy Living
Singapore’s bustling lifestyle can lead to overeating, indigestion, and late nights out – very bad news for our body. Many wellness retreats in Singapore offer programs designed to help the body get back on track with healthy living. Some retreats promise to help you lose the stubborn fat and flush out the toxins by nourishing the body, instead of starving it. Juice cleansing, for example, is a popular detox program offered by many wellness retreats in Singapore. The juice cleanse programs deliver a simple, convenient and nutritious, yet delicious way to flood the body with live nutrients and give our digestive system a bit of a break. As it is vital to give attention to the mind and soul, not just the body, the retreats always include complementary elements such as yoga sessions, healthy food preparation classes, and mindfulness workshops. A juice cleanse typically works in a fashion where every two to three hours, the body will receive nutrients. The first day will be the hardest stage as the body is still in the midst of adjusting, and some may feel more tired than usual or have mild headaches. From the second day onwards, there will be more energy, mental clarity, and the digestive system will feel more restful and less bloated. Most of the retreats allow guests to choose programs from different lengths, ranging from a weekend reboot and seven days comprehensive one. A longer program means better results and the shorter one may act as a sample for those who wish to try on this detoxification and healthy living lifestyle. Well, that sounds too good to be true! However, it is our responsibility to distinguish between genuine and humbug advice because many companies are cashing in on people’s willingness to lose weight and detoxify their body. Always check for the qualifications and backgrounds of the people offering the programs. Nowadays, social proof is a very powerful indicator; Google for reviews and look for the real feedback from the past participants. Last but not least, make use of the free trials and avoid paying a large sum of money upfront for weeks of supplies because many people simply give up because of lack of taste or support from the company. Juicing can actually be a very enjoyable way to meet the target of recommended vegetable and fruit intake of the day and enjoy a wide range of potential health benefits at the same time. Well, the juice has been loose!
Popular Wellness Retreats in Singapore
Participants will experience 90 minutes of exercise daily in relation to yoga practice, and the rest of the day is free for them to join sightseeing tours to interesting places or just relax at the retreat villa. On top of that, the eatery provides healthy, delicious Indian vegetarian meals for lunch and dinner.
The Tirisula Yoga Retreat is not just about doing yoga, but it also teaches tourists about famous tourist spots in Singapore. The owner, Satya, and his wife, Ram, both have years of experience in yoga. Ram is also a certified Orin therapist from Germany. In addition to the participants of this retreat, they also share their knowledge about the importance of yoga and healthy living, as well as the wonderful energy and experiences that each participant brings. Moreover, to fully enjoy the beautiful and green scenery of Singapore, participants will be taken to various tourist spots throughout the day. For example, Singapore Zoo, Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Orchid Valley Park, and the shopping paradise, Orchard Road. We also provide transportation support for participants when needed.
For tourists who like yoga and are planning to visit Singapore, they should go to the famous Tirisula Yoga Retreat which is situated at Ang Mo Kio. Started by Master Satya, an experienced yoga guru who is helped by his wife Ram, who is an Orin therapy specialist from Germany, together, they have many years of experience in practicing and teaching yoga to both customers. Besides sharing their knowledge about yoga and benefits of healthy living in a natural environment, customers are also given an opportunity to explore the other parts of Singapore. With 14 days of yoga retreat, everything is well taken care of including all the meals, airport pickup and drop off, and customers will enjoy plenty of spare time to relax in this beautiful and fascinating garden city because tourists will be only taken to yogic activities in the morning and late afternoon while the rest of the day is free for them to explore places like Singapore Zoo, Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari, Botanical and Orchid Gardens, and also the shopping paradise, Orchard Road. We also provide transportation for our customers to these popular places too.
Retreat A: Rejuvenation through Yoga and Spa
Retreat A, to be precise, is called the Zen and Yoga Special. It is a specially crafted all-inclusive program featuring unlimited yoga classes and full-board meal options. The sessions are designed for beginner, intermediate, and advanced practitioners of yoga. Therefore, ones booking this retreat need not worry about not being able to keep up with the rest. Additionally, every participant for this program will also be entitled to a spa treatment, in which you may select either the Aromatic Swedish Body Massage, the Balinese Massage, or the Foot and Scalp Massage. Each spa treatment session will last for 90 minutes. In order to achieve the goal of the retreat, all the classes throughout the days would take place in a secluded private studio which is set in the lush forest of the Sentosa Island. If the weather permits, there will be outdoor yoga sessions available too. With this beneficial factor, participants can feel the natural energy of the environment during the yoga session, hence heightening the total experience of body, mind, and soul well-being. The retreat begins from Thursday and ends on Sunday. Every day, there will be yoga classes ready at 8 am and 4 pm, both lasting for 75 minutes. The proposed schedules for the first two days are almost identical. Lunch hour at 1 pm which is followed by a spa treatment and the rest of the evening for relaxation and leisure for yourself. However, on the third day, morning class schedules remain the same but the lunch session will be replaced with a yoga theory class which is conducted for an hour. This class will provide an understanding and realization of the different concepts of yoga. And it is open for discussion and questions from the participants as well. Both the theory class and the spa session will take two hours in total. Last but not least, do not forget to have a cup of organic tea after the yoga session. It is well served at the yoga lounge, together with some light and healthy refreshments. It will definitely freshen and cleanse your body right after a self-fulfilling yoga. Sounds fun, isn’t it? Well, I am thinking of joining the retreat too. How about you?
Retreat B: Holistic Wellness and Nutrition
In short, holistic wellness and nutrition retreats are suitable for anyone who would like to establish a healthy eating routine, minimize the risk of diet-related diseases, and improve vitality and general well-being. Some other benefits may include weight loss, beautiful skin, and better digestion. Well, come and immerse yourself into a life-transforming and self-nurturing experience in tropical Singapore.
Most holistic wellness and nutrition retreats in Singapore offer vegetarian meal plans. This is because not only does the conventional vegetarian diet include a higher consumption of fiber and other important nutrients, but it also helps to promote the overall well-being and benefits the digestive system. In addition, the vegetarian meal plans can well be accepted by both first-timers and regular detox guests. Honey and eggs may be included in the vegetarian meal plans, depending on individuals’ body constitution recruited by the instructor for the class. Flexibility in vegetarian meal plans is also one of the reasons why the popularity of holistic wellness and nutrition retreats in Singapore has been gradually increasing.
As Singapore is a tropical country, holistic wellness and nutrition retreats in Singapore essentially offer plenty of fresh, tasty, and nutrient-rich tropical fruits, vegetables, and herbs which are vital in any detoxification processes. And whenever possible, the food in these retreats is all organic and labeled with a full list of all additives. In general, all artificial preservatives, colorings, flavorings, sweeteners, emulsifiers, and other 7000 odd additives used in processed food and soft drinks are known to be harmful to our health and have been eliminated.
Holistic Wellness and Nutrition retreats aim to provide guests with holistic therapies, healthy diet plans, and nutritional counseling that are tailored to individuals’ body constitution, current health conditions, and lifestyles. Nutrition is the study of nutrients in food and how the body uses those nutrients in health and disease.
There are different types of wellness retreats in Singapore, such as spa and yoga retreats, holistic wellness and nutrition retreats, stress management and mental well-being retreats, and fitness and outdoor activity retreats. Holistic wellness is actually an approach to life. A holistic approach takes into consideration the whole person – body, mind, spirit, and emotions – which are interrelated.
Retreat C: Stress Management and Mental Well-being
The stress management and mental well-being retreats in Singapore offer a close retreat experience to the highly competitive, fast and demanding working and living life of the urbanized city-state. Therefore, the programs offered under such retreat sessions are specifically designed to help participants with stress management using different techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, and customized outcome-focused health programs. To avoid and reduce stresses in a comfortable setting along the nature, some retreats are hosted in one of the several small tropical islands outside the main island of Singapore. These retreat programs can last from a few days long to a week long where participants can be fully immersed in the experience and take the time to absorb the teachings and practices, due to the retreat being geographically isolated from the Singapore main island. A week-long program typically costs around $2,500 and most of them provide the full board accommodation where participants can have peace of mind and a close to undisturbed experience in the retreat center. These retreat centers are licensed by the Singapore government Health Sciences Authority, which also regulates complementary and alternative medicine and therapist practices in Singapore. Therefore, all these retreat programs are closely monitored by the authority for the safety and efficacy of the treatments offered by the retreat centers. The attention to the mental well-being of the Singapore population has never been more than now. As the modern society develops rapidly, more and more Singaporeans are exposed to a highly urbanized living environment, which is often associated with continuous work stresses, overly competitive social standards, and a serious lack of personal spaces when compared to the surrounding natural environments. Due to the increasing mental health sicknesses of Singaporeans such as anxiety disorders, phobia, and major depressive disorders, Singapore’s Ministry of Health has put in great effort in promoting mental well-being in the society. One of the many government initiatives includes the opening of the Psychological Medicine Department in the Singapore General Hospital and funding for primary care services to set up Community Health Assessment Team that focuses on mental health well-being of the population. Well-being services operators who are providing mental health promotion programs in the workplace and stress management talks for the corporate society (e.g., inspiraAsia wellness) are under the funding and regulatory support from the Ministry as well.
Retreat D: Fitness and Outdoor Activities
The retreat is led by award-winning Karen Gaskell, who is also a peak performance coach and international speaker. One of the guests’ favorite activities is the afternoon stay of the retreat, as people travel from one island to another, from business to tranquility, and from rush hour traffic to swaying palm trees, open skies, and fresh air. The guests are led through Southeast Asia’s first and only treetop obstacle course, set in the lush greenery of Imbiah Hill’s rainforest. This activity is designed to challenge the guests both physically and mentally with great views and excitement and end the adventure with a zipline that lands on beautiful Siloso beach.
In addition, all meals in the retreat aim to help the guests fuel their activities of the day, which is why they do not only taste good but contain the right balance of macronutrients. One highlight of choosing this retreat is that the group size will not be too big compared to other retreats, which accept up to a maximum of 20 guests at any one time. The smaller group size means that I can make friends ‘more personally’, and it is easier to share and have more interaction.
Retreat D, which centers on fitness and outdoor activities, is suitable for corporate travelers and those visiting Singapore for a short break. This is because the retreat is only 3 days long compared to the others, which range from 5 to 7 days. The program is designed for guests to reboot their fitness regime, and it consists of various activities such as interval training, coastal walks, Pilates, and shake up their senses workouts.
Planning Your Wellness Retreat Experience
Choosing a wellness retreat There are plenty of wellness retreats in Singapore to choose from, each offering a different experience with different focuses and in varying levels of remoteness. Urban retreats are still very much in a city environment and can be much easier to get to. Works that offer more of a nature focus are obviously within the parks and by the beach, providing a more tranquil atmosphere. A good recommendation for those looking to experience a nature retreat is ‘Wellness at Sentosa’, which is located in Sentosa’s Capella Hotel. “It is not a degree of remoteness that helps us to choose a retreat as such. It is whether a place is dedicated as a retreat and has the appropriate facilities and environment to support that kind of activities for people on retreats. I tend to go back to the same place over and over again because it feels like home to me, it’s comfortable, it makes me feel secure and I can totally relax.” This shared by Ansuman Gupta, a long-time devotee of wellness retreat who usually visits the ‘Food for thought’ retreat at Methodist Centre at Barker Road. He found that going to the same place gives him the opportunity to participate in the development of the retreat as he understands better the routine of the place that he is so familiar with over the years. It shows that with every different retreat being placed emphasis on different aspect of the programme, understanding the focus of a particular retreat can help practitioners to make an informed choice based on their own needs and preferences. Some retreats are dedicated to practitioners who share the same beliefs; for example, Christians can join in many Christian retreats held in retreat centres run by the Roman Catholic Church. Others are non-religious and are open to people of all faiths and those with no religious beliefs. These types of retreats normally do not have an element of structured spiritual activity, making it less formal and perhaps more sociable and users can engage themselves in a wide range of activities led by professional practitioners.
Choosing the Right Retreat for Your Needs
The retreat that you choose will depend on your personal wellness needs and preferences. Regardless of your choices, you can be assured that all wellness retreats will do you good, both physically and mentally. You may wish to do yoga or some other form of exercise, or you may just want relaxation and meditation. Most retreats will take a holistic approach and offer a combination of these things. However, some may focus more on certain areas of wellness, such as exercise, weight loss or stress reduction. For physical wellness, you may like to look for retreats that offer activities such as yoga, pilates, physiotherapy or hydrotherapy. On the other hand, for mental wellness, you may want activities such as meditation, life coaching, art therapy or counseling. When choosing a retreat, ensure you are clear what is included in the package and not just what activities are on offer. Most retreats include accommodation, meals and some wellness activities, but many treatments, as well as flights and transfers, may be extra. Also consider in detail the location of the retreat, as your surroundings will have a big impact on your overall wellness experience. For example, a beach or countryside setting may well offer peace and tranquility, as well as beautiful views and nice places to walk, whereas a city retreat may be more focused on providing experiences like spas and yoga studios with convenient access. More importantly than anything else, do your research. Read reviews and look for case studies and testimonials about the retreat you are considering, to ensure that you are making the right choice for your wellness needs. Also, seek advice from travel experts and from your doctor as to whether the trip would be beneficial. However, the most valuable advice could come from speaking to the retreat owner directly. If you are still unsure, they might be able to provide comprehensive information and allay any concerns you might have. Through this, you can ensure that at the end of your trip, the investment of both money and time has paid off and has left you well-equipped to continue living well.
Preparing for Your Retreat
When preparing for a wellness retreat in Singapore or elsewhere, it is important to pay attention to both the packing list and the mental preparation. First, start off by clothing and personal items. Know the weather in Singapore around the year and pack suitable clothing. A good pair of sandals/flip flops is essential because most of the wellness retreats involve multiple treatments in a day and it’s nice to maximize comfort especially when you are indoors. Also, do not miss out on your sunscreen because Singapore is just one degree north of the equator and sunray is fairly strong. Some retreats may take place in remote areas and if you’re on daily medication, ensure that you bring enough stock to last. This includes over-the-counter remedy for issues such as headaches, allergies, and sleeplessness. Next, focus on the mental preparation. Come with an open mind and enjoy the experience of trying new things. Forget about your work and daily stress and concentrate on the wellness retreat that you’re going to engage. For beginners who are new to wellness programs and retreats, set your goals realistically. It’s not necessary to dive into every activity at the retreat from the first day and you can take time to rest and self-explore. On the other hand, for someone who has been to wellness retreats frequently, try to experience different types of programs that you’ve never tried before. Lastly, disconnect from technology. This is quite a tough challenge nowadays especially technology has been improving and become part of our life. Give yourself a break and take this opportunity to be isolated from your digital device. Constant messages, news, or social media feed can be a chore for your mind and causing anxiety. Switch off your phone or be on flight mode throughout the retreat so that you can focus on your mind and soul.
Maximizing the Benefits of Your Retreat
Every wellness retreat in Singapore is designed to help you make the most of your experience, with organized schedules and a full program of wellness activities and treatments. While you may feel compelled to fill every waking moment with something new, it is important to allow some time for personal reflection and relaxation. Whether this means exploring the grounds of your chosen retreat or simply finding a quiet spot to sit and relax, taking time out for yourself will help you mentally and emotionally process and appreciate your experience as it unfolds. Similarly, it is advisable to avoid overindulging in food and drink during your retreat. A healthy, balanced diet is often a key aspect of wellness programs, and many retreats will promote and facilitate nutritious meal options. However, it is worth being mindful not to consume excessively – for example, overeating at mealtimes – and to be conscious of the effects of certain food and drink on your body and mind. Retreats often encourage guests to embrace new experiences, like mindful eating, so use this opportunity to develop your awareness of how different foods make you feel. Also, the many wellness and yoga retreats in Singapore are often located in natural, leafy surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Being immersed in nature provides a fantastic opportunity to practice mindfulness and be present in the moment, ideals at the heart of many wellness retreat programs. So, wherever possible, take advantage of the green spaces that your retreat has to offer. Whether you are doing yoga, meditation, or simply going for a walk, being outdoors will enable you to deeply connect with nature and the self. Remember that your wellness retreat experience will be highly personal and unique to you; it is important to go at your own pace and be open-minded to new experiences. There is no right or wrong way to maximize the benefits of a retreat of any kind, so take each day as it comes and be attentive to your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By doing this, you will allow yourself the best possible opportunity to learn and grow from the experience in a way that is tailored and meaningful to you.