Happy days at a holistic spa

Holism (from the Greek "holos" for "all," "whole," "complete") derives from the idea that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. The term was coined in 1926 by the South African philosopher Jan Smuts. Why holism is booming right now is obvious: in modern life, we have learned to fragment everything, to magnify individual aspects of our bodies under a magnifying glass. Through this focus on details, however, we often lose sight of the fact that body, mind, emotions and spirituality are complex systems that should be brought into balance as a whole.

Many a luxury hotel aims to help guests recapture their zest for life. © KIattipong Pachee

Basically, the point is that the individual needs of patients are the starting point for treatments; that you can't just eliminate the symptoms, you have to tackle the causes. Those who strive for a holistic way of life not only make sure of their own well-being, they also take their environment into consideration, live sustainably and conserve resources. Which aspect takes center stage is an individual question. Should it be a spiritual journey into the self? Then monasteries are a good choice, where experiences of tranquility and silence can be had. Or more luxury with massages and targeted sleep programs?

Taking enough time to let your mind wander can help internalize a healthy lifestyle. © Martin Morell

This trend is all about learning to focus on the essentials again. The Spa Hotel "Almyra"on Cyprus, for example, promises holistic hedonism in a design hotel right by the sea. You book a "Week of Sleep" with a corresponding nutrition program, yoga sessions, massages and lots of rest. In luxury hotels, it is now common anyway to have a Pillow Menu to choose the height, but also the filling of the pillows to guarantee a healthy sleep, which is the basis for everything else. It may sound banal, but it is so: Rested the world immediately looks very different.

Parameters for a long life

An exciting concept is also pursued by the "Vair Spa" in "Borgo Egnazia" in Apulia, which is located in a so-called Blue Zone; Blue Zones are regions where people live particularly long. These longevity hotspots were studied to clarify how to achieve a longer and at the same time happier life. The parameters that emerged were: routine natural exercise throughout the day, a plant-based diet, close relationships with family and friends, and a strong sense of purpose in one's life.

Related: Borgo Egnazia, Puglia's most magical resort

The Vair Spa in Borgo Egnazia, Puglia, embodies the peaceful atmosphere of the region. © Borgo Egnazia

If you take this science of happiness as a basis, then the wellness and relaxation sector is also about detaching oneself from one's technical devices for a certain period of time and having real experiences in order to establish a new, meaningful connection with nature, the environment and ultimately oneself. At "Vair Spa," they swear by outdoor and group fitness training. Socializing is important to release happiness hormones together and promote well-being. Those who wish can also book sessions with a laughter coach, who combines music and dance workshops with scientific theories about laughter.

Relaxing in the suite at Amangiri Resort, with private pool. © Joe Fletcher Photography

Regain the zest for life - this is the motto of many luxury hotels and spas. After the isolation of the pandemic, a holistic approach wants to help us reconnect with the world and recharge our inner batteries. Me-time and we-time with friends, as well as other guests, should be balanced. "Gather with your tribe - friends, colleagues or wellness warriors - for a rejuvenating break on our island of indulgence": that's how "Joali Being" in the Maldives advertises, for example. A variety of workshops here revolve around sustainability, mindfulness, well-being and health.

A time out in a quiet ambience with regular body treatments, relaxing massages and meditations, this usually continues in everyday life. © provided

Trees as healers

Healing gardens are becoming more and more central to this. In Japan, there is the concept of Shinrin Yoku, which is even recognized by orthodox medicine: doctors prescribe immersion in the forest atmosphere. Forest bathing, which is also increasingly gaining a foothold in Europe, means consciously spending time in the forest to relax and practice mindfulness.

Happiness is about building a new meaningful connection to nature, the environment and yourself. © Stocksy

Trees produce messenger substances, also called terpenes; these are organic substances and oils that you absorb when you breathe in. In combination with exercise, meditation and mindfulness exercises, the body automatically calms down and blood pressure is lowered. The oxygen-rich forest air also has a positive effect on cortisol levels, and focused breathing helps relieve stress and worry and increase well-being. And best of all, health care in nature can also be integrated into everyday life at home. After all, the new, creative spa and recreation concepts are increasingly aimed at making a difference mentally: With a positive attitude and a new awareness of nature, it is possible to deal with pressure and stress at work differently - perhaps more creatively and freely.

Related: Trend Watch Forest Bathing - This is behind the Japanese Shinrin-Yoku