A typical Filipino faces the lethal combination of traffic and stress every day. Reason why many want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and head over to sanctuaries that rejuvenate the soul and body.
New Zealand is a country known for its rolling hills and verdant landscapes, offering a rejuvenating sight. But for those searching for wellness and peace of mind, the Waikato region, flanked by the mighty Waikato River, is a place that serves as a transformational retreat in NZ.
Here are the wellness spots in Waikato region in New Zealand.
Te Atawhai
Nestled in the foothills of Mount Te Aroha and Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park, Te Atawhai traces its origins to one Kiwi fashion designer’s realization that modern life is taking a toll on everyone’s health. With a gathering of wellness experts, guests will be treated to wholefood diets and the area’s natural hot springs. Soothe the soul with three Ms: mindful practice, meditation, and massage.
Sakura
In the quaint equestrian town of Cambridge, the wellness retreat hub Sakura, which bears the name of cherry blossom trees, was designed based on ancient Hindu vastu shastra architecture principles. The place offers a wellness regimen coupled with functional fitness workouts. Local celebrity chefs facilitate workshops on nutrition and food foraging. Aside from life coaching and journaling seminars, there are plenty of outdoor adventures.
Solscape
Near the sandy, black coasts of Raglan, lies the award-winning resort Solscape. It fronts the area’s famous surf beaches, considered as surfing mecca by enthusiasts. There is an accommodation fit for any kind of traveler, such as tents, tipis, earth domes, and self-contained eco baches (small holiday homes). One can also stay in an upcycled caboose. They have workshops on permaculture, home gardening, and self-development for those who choose to stay indoors. For more adventurous types, there is a surf school nearby, and other activities like kayaking, horse riding, and rock climbing.
Surf Dames
For a ladies’ night with no boys allowed, the women-only Whale Bay retreat Surf Dames is a hideaway fit for a queen. Tucked between Mount Karioi and the ocean, the resort has trained instructors and lifeguards that will guide anyone to cruise the waves in no time. After hours of frolicking in the water, ease off the tiredness of the body with self-indulgent manis, pedis, body wraps, massages, and facials. At the deck of the Lava Lounge, happy hour cocktails are available. To cap the night, tune the body with end-day yoga, or avail surf-fitness day packages the day after, if one wants to extend stay.
The Narrows Retreat
Overlooking the Waikato River, ananda, which means “joy that lives within and found through regular deep meditation,” will surely be found in one’s stay at The Narrows Retreat. Meditation is proven to reduce anxiety, improve cognitive abilities, and ward off depression.