Whether you’d prefer to travel solo or in a group, to the beachside or hilly forests, here are 5 beguiling yoga retreats in Asia to train your mind and body for a better you.
People travel for many reasons – to discover amazing sights, to taste and understand a culture, to explore a business opportunity, or simply to rejuvenate the mind and body. If you’re in the last category, then you could consider going for a yoga retreat.
Designed to improve health and fitness, a yoga retreat doesn’t merely allow you to escape reality, it leaves you with a boost of confidence when you return to your daily schedule.
Whether you’d prefer to travel solo or in a group, to the beachside or hilly forests, here are 5 beguiling yoga retreats in Asia to train your mind and body for a better you.
Ananda, India
First on the list is the country from which yoga originated – India. One of the country’s most popular and luxurious yoga retreats is Ananda in the Himalayas, which has previously been visited by Oprah Winfrey and Brad Pitt. Located in the Himalayan hills overlooking the Ganges valley, Ananda offers a tranquil environment like no other to achieve peace and wellness. The Ananda lifestyle covers everything from living and dining to spa and activities, with health as the main focus of your stay. Guests are welcome to participate in their all-inclusive traditional Indian wellness regimes of Ayurveda, Yoga and Vedanta, combined with other international programs tailor-made for individual health goals. W anandaspa.com
Kamayala, Thailand
Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s best spots for yoga holidays, and Kamayala easily ranks among the top for its holistic approach to an enriching lifestyle. Their range of wellness programs include detox, stress and burnout, emotional balance and yoga, as well as personalised experiences with their team of international naturopaths and mentors. After training your muscles, posture and mental endurance, retreat to the calm poolside or your personal suite or villa by the hillside, garden or beachfront for further relaxation and bliss. W kamayala.com
Four Seasons, Maldives
For a combination of yoga programs and marine exploration, try the Four Seasons Resort in Maldives. Rotate between yoga classes in three dedicated areas – an over-water deck, in-jungle pavilion and oceanfront seawater pool – followed by a range of water activities, such as windsurfing, wake-boarding and diving, available from morning till evening. In between activities, indulge at any of the dining venues, from Arabian and Italian restaurants to cocktail and shisha bars. Reflect and absorb it all in at the end of the day as you return to your private spacious bungalow, villa or suite. W fourseasons.com
Reclaim Your Self, Japan
Embark on a different kind of yoga journey with Reclaim Your Self, a yoga retreat community with various yoga holiday packages around the world. Tour around Japan from Kunisaki to Kyoto and explore thermal hot springs, bamboo forests and grand temples along the routes of ancient pilgrims, while challenging yourself to dynamic Jivamukti yoga sessions with experienced teacher, Emma Henry in between. Participants also get the opportunity to join Gojun-san, a priest from the famed Futago-ji temple, in meditation. W reclaimyourself.com
Uluwatu Surf Villas, Indonesia
Experience Bali’s oceanic views and lush green forests on a special yoga retreat to Uluwatu Surf Villas, where you’ll surely enjoy a warm welcome and lively camaraderie with other guests. Popular for event hosting, Uluwatu is a place where you can improve your physical, mental and social skills all at once. They offer daily yoga sessions with experienced trainers, inclusive of a fresh coconut drink, yoga mat (and mesmerising oceanic views). When you need a little peace and quiet, lounge in your own secluded loft, bungalow, suite, or the most luxurious of all – the villa, which comes with a private pool. W uluwatusurfvillas.com
Images: Courtesy of respective yoga retreats and resorts