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If you are looking for a holiday in an area of pristine, stunning natural beauty, somewhere with a slower pace of life and incredible food traditions then North Karelia is just the place for you. It is in the easternmost part of Finland with over 2,200 lakes and around 24,000-holiday cottages. This is where local Finns escape for their staycations.

Discover Karelian roots in Lakeland Bomba

If you want to appreciate Karelian architecture and tradition, your first stop should be Bomba House in Bomba, Nurmes. The ornate house is a replica of a famous building in Russian Karelia and now houses unique exhibitions of Karelian culture. The whole village consists of numerous buildings including hotels, restaurants and chapel along with breathtaking views of Lake Pielinen. The lake is the 4th largest in Finland and a diverse fishing destination. You can attend a Karelian pastry-making workshop in the local area with the likes of Äksyt Ämmät, who not only provide cookery classes but also eco-friendly sporting adventures like guesthouse biking tours.

A musical genius at work

The awe-inspiring scenery in this region is a catalyst for many artists’ greatest triumphs. Hence, it is no surprise you’ll find celebrated cellist, Jussi Makkonen living in Nurmes. One of the most unique experiences is enjoying a private concert in his cultural home. He’s performed in the finest of auditoriums across the globe but there is nothing quite like tuning into his melodic sounds in the comfort of his living room. And enjoying breakfast cakes and pastries lovingly prepared by his wife. Check his website to see when he’s running these regular monthly concerts.

Be inspired by nature at Koli National Park

Jussi specialises in playing music from Jean Sibelius, widely regarded as Finland’s greatest composer. The fourth symphony of Sibelius was inspired by the composer’s hikes through Koli National Park. The Tolkienesque scenery with rolling hills, snow-capped trees and blissful serenity always instils a sense of amazement every time you visit. You can go snowshoeing and hiking up the peak to enjoy uninterrupted views of the remarkable landscape. You can live the traditional Finnish countryside lifestyle by visiting Korvenkoda, which is literally in the middle of nowhere in the national park. Here you can experience an authentic Finnish smoked sauna and then go for an icy dip into Lake Pielinen. Dinner is courtesy of freshly caught pike perch from the lake, which is cooked over a wood fire and in a candle-lit setting. There is no electricity on-site for this back-to-basics experience.

Biathlon – one of the fastest-growing sports in the Nordic region

If you are up for more thrills than just a sedate hike, then head down to Kontiolahti Biathlon Stadium. Biathlon is a winter sport that combines the endurance of cross-country skiing and the precision of rifle shooting. It is a hugely popular and rapidly growing sport in the Nordic countries. And even as a tourist, you can experience the joys of biathlon. Alternatively, you can partake in each component separately or take part in other active sports like cross-country fat-biking. The stadium is surrounded by impressive pine trees, rivers and lakes and is a haven for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.

Botania – a tropical garden in the forest capital of Europe

Who would expect a luscious tropical garden in Finland this far away from the equator? Well, this has all been made possible but the quirky genius that is Kari Kola. When he is not busy being a light artist across the globe over major historic monuments like Stonehenge, he can be found in Botania. Currently, he’s launched his winter garden special exhibition consisting of life-size Easter island statues created on a 1-1 scale. There is a remarkable exhibition space with butterfly-themed ice sculptures. And his tropical greenhouse consists of exotic plants like banana plants which you would never normally spot in Finland.

Where to stay

Sokos Hotels is the leading hotel brand in Finland and they reliably have outposts in both Bomba and Koli. The Break Sokos Hotel Bomba is particularly impressive with exceptional spa facilities including outdoor jacuzzis where you can admire the snowy scenery. They have 3 types of saunas: Karelian, Finnish and steam. Restaurant Bomba serves exceptional seasonal cuisine sourced from the surrounding regions. They are planning to offer a tasting menu with berry wine pairing courtesy of Valamo monastery nearby. Dishes make fine use of local ingredients including the likes of sunroots with crayfish and sugar-salted pike perch. Whilst their hotel in Koli is right in the heart of the national park and makes the perfect base to explore the unspoiled countryside.

In Joensuu, you should consider booking into Lietsu Boutique Aparthotel. This charming accommodation is like a home away from home. Each room is uniquely decorated and celebrates Karalian culture. Whilst their buffet breakfast is filled with local offerings like different types of Karalian pastries. The rooms are equipped with a fridge, cooktop, dishwasher and washing machine so you can feel very much at home when you stay at Lietsu.

https://www.visitkarelia.fi/en/

There’s nothing really alternative about alternative medicine. Most forms of alternative medicine have been around much longer than modern medicine.

Prescription medications are a relatively new phenomenon. And they aren’t always as effective as traditional treatments.

Here are five types of effective alternative medicines.

Yoga

Some people might not consider yoga alternative medicine.

That’s a fair argument considering it’s not a product that you consume. It’s more of a lifestyle and spiritual practice.

However, there are huge medical benefits to yoga.

Yoga will sometimes be prescribed alongside physical therapy. It can be particularly beneficial in treating injury. Practicing yoga regularly will also prevent injury and lead to a healthy lifestyle.

At its core, yoga is a practice based around breathing.

It isn’t just about contorting your body into strange positions. Yoga is about combining physical and spiritual harmony.

There’s no need for expensive yoga classes. It’s beneficial to have someone teach you the basics. Improper posture can damage you.

Online videos and books can teach you what you need to know. Your home is a great place to practice yoga.

At home you don’t have to worry about other people watching you.

Magic Mushrooms

Drugs like magic mushrooms and cannabis are perfectly safe.

So long as you consume responsibly, they can change your life for the better. There are no negative long-term side effects associated with these products.

There are really only benefits, and there is more variety than with modern medicine. There are many types of psilocybin mushrooms, more commonly known as magic mushrooms.

Here is an overview of the different types of mushrooms.

Many cultures have used mushrooms for spiritual and medicinal purposes.

They have proven the test of time. Thus, they are a lot safer than prescription pills. Most pills don’t go through proper clinical testing.

Mushrooms are an all-natural product. The same is true for cannabis. They don’t go through an artificial manipulation process.

It’s unfortunate that the contemporary medical industry doesn’t accept these natural products. They are cheaper and safer to produce than pills.

Mushrooms and marijuana aren’t addictive like painkillers. They can be used to treat a wider variety of problems such as depression and anxiety. Getting high is not the only reason for using them.

There’s no reason why you shouldn’t try these natural medications.

Reflexology

There’s more to reflexology than foot massages.

Reflexology is based on the concept that there are certain parts of your body that connect to certain emotional triggers. This may seem like a crazy concept, but it’s actually not.

Think about how complex your nervous system is.

Everything goes back to your brain at some point. Otherwise you wouldn’t be able to feel anything.

Your emotions and thoughts are interconnected with your body. It’s easy for certain areas to become blocked. This can have psychological consequences.

Blood needs to flow for you to stay healthy. Massages based on reflexology help open blocked areas.

Nothing can go wrong during a reflexology massage.

Acupuncture

Don’t be afraid of the needles.

Acupuncture needles are nothing like the needles you get during an injection. They are smaller, thinner, and cannot harm you.

Here’s information on how acupuncture works from a scientific standpoint.

Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. It is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that has been proven to effectively treat many problems.

Back pain, sore muscles, and even seasickness can be treated with acupuncture. Even problems like anxiety and depression have been proven to be successfully treated with acupuncture.

You won’t see or feel the needles, so there’s nothing to worry about.

Chiropractors

Not all chiropractors know what they’re doing.

You should double check the credentials of your chiropractor. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re worried about something.

However, many doctors don’t know what they’re doing, either.

Chiropractors focus on issues like spine alignment to treat pain. They use alternative medicine instead of pharmaceutical products.

The downside to chiropractors is that not all insurance plans cover them.

The same is true for many forms of alternative medicine. You might have to pay for alternative medicinal treatments out of pocket.

But if it helps, it’s probably worth it.

Conclusion

Consider alternative medicine before taking prescriptions. It is usually the healthier option.

Wondering what to get your loved one this holiday season? Why not consider giving them a spa trip as a gift? The holiday season can be stressful for anyone. Fortunately, Spa treatments offer celebrity attention to clients, which can help relieve some stress. Here are all the reasons why a spa trip makes the perfect gift for holidays.

A Plethora of Treatments is Offered

Spas have evolved over the years allowing people to meet their exact needs. They come with different types of treatments to make you feel good. From facials, beer bath hydrotherapy, and mud masks to massages, there is always something for everyone. Each of these treatments is designed for their well-being. For instance, they will experience hydration and clear pores if they get facials.

Your loved one can choose whatever treatment they want that will suit their needs. Most centers also offer holiday spa specials so your loved ones can choose to add more treatments to pamper themselves and enhance their experience.

Spas Treatment Have Various Health Benefits

Day-to-day life involves beating deadlines, caring for loved ones, homeschooling, and much more. All of these can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Spa treatments are not just for beautification but also relaxation. No matter their treatment, their minds will begin to feel at ease. A day at the spa will allow them to realign and refocus their priorities, thus giving them the energy and motivation to tackle any challenge.

Spa treatments will also ensure they get a night of proper sleep. Sleep is essential for our functioning and also mental health. Their sleep patterns improve as they relax and feel good, allowing them to perform better in their activities.

If you need to find holiday day spa specials, you can visit the site.

Not Many People Are Willing to Spend on Themselves

Spa treatments are often viewed as an expensive endeavor. Most spas charge upwards of hundreds of dollars, which your loved one may hesitate to pay even if they would like to. For this reason, getting them a gift card for relaxation and pampering will likely brighten their day. They deserve a day that is all about them, especially if they have taken care of you and your needs. Spas offer packages that range in price and time from a couple of hours to a full day of relaxation.

Helps Them Look Their Best

Who doesn’t want to look their best? We are not saying that natural beauty isn’t good; however, once in a while, a little bit of extra makeup will do much more. If your loved one has neglected their skincare routine, a professional treatment will help them turn heads with radiant smoother, tighter skin. There are so many non-surgical skin rejuvenation procedures that they can benefit from, and they will thank you for them.

Gift Your Loved Ones With Holiday Spa Specials

A spa trip is a great gift for your loved ones, especially when you have no idea what they love. Whether it’s your parents, daughter, lover, brother, or sister, they will appreciate a day of utmost pampering and relaxing at a holiday spa. Give us a call today to make a reservation for your loved one.

It’s the time of year when personal wellbeing can take a back seat which can end up making us feel sluggish and not so great. If you’re looking for a quick way to boost blood circulation, aid digestion and increase energy levels then these bite-sized workouts could be just what you need this festive season. ‘Fitness snacking’ is a method of working out that can be structured into quick rounds just once or twice a day, making them perfect to squeeze into a packed holiday schedule.

Fitness Professional Haylene Ryan-Causer, founder of the Energy Studio at Volonté in London shares some of her top snackable sessions!

Beat the bloating bubbles with this CHAMPAGNE  workout:
Feel fabulous and burn up to 80 calories in just ten minutes

X 2 rounds
Running on the spot
Air Squats
Running on the spot
Glute Bridges
Running on the spot
Mountain Climbers

Be Mindful with this MULLED WINE  workout:
Burn up to 210 Calories in just 20 minutes

Go outside and find some stairs (approximately 20)
X5 runs up and walk down followed by 10 Squats – X3 rounds

On just one step
X20 Up and Downs on each side, 20 Calf raises on the floor – X3 rounds

The Energy Boosting Eggnog  Workout:
Fire through over 340 Calories in 30 minutes

X2-3 rounds – followed by a 10 minute fast walk or jog
X5 Burpees
X10 Jump Squats
X15 Push ups
X20 Sumo Squats
X25 Jumping Jacks
X30 Crunches
X25 Jumping Jacks
X20 Sumo Squats
X15 Press Ups
X10 Jump Squats
X5 Burpees

Do These Digestion Friendly Workouts:
Many factors contribute to poor digestion, especially a sedentary lifestyle. Your gut and brain are connected through neurotransmitters. High intensity training and exercising with weights increase the amount of nerve inputs to the muscles and therefore increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter.’ – Haylene Ryan-Causer, founder of the Energy Studio at Volonté

Here is a short daily workout to aid with digestion:
X20 High Knees
X5 Plank to Crouch
X5 Half Burpees
X10 Deep Squat Jumps
X20 Plank Jacks
X20 Alternating crunches
X10 Windscreen Wipers

Strength training moves to try:
Squats
Deadlifts Lunges
Horizontal push
Horizontal Pull
Vertical push
Vertical Pull

Volonté’s Energy Studio has been created from Haylene’s belief that the future of fitness studios revolves around building community-led spaces that draw on deeper human connections. With a vision to create a nourishing social environment to restore, energise and connect, each fluid and restorative workout utilises functional equipment. This includes barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells and bands combined with bikes and rowing machines to offer highly rewarding, purpose-led fitness experiences with tailored workouts and mentorship.

With a collective spotlight on nutrition and wellbeing, the studio and café is intrinsically linked, uniting as one with a feel-good menu that supports an effective, full-body workout. Volonté, translating into the French feminine noun for ‘willpower’ – is the realisation of Haylene and her business partner Vidushi Binani, who she has personally trained since the age of 12. It is this personal relationship, combined with their contrasting expertise and ethnicities that inspired the female-duo to create a forward-thinking, inclusive wellbeing space.

Volonté, 299-301 Brompton Rd, London SW3 2DY

www.cafevolonte.co.uk

@volonte_energy

Monday to Saturday: 7am – 7pm

Sunday: 9am-6pm

Looking for a wellness centre in Brisbane? Wondering how much they cost? You’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we will take a look at the average cost of wellness centres in Brisbane, as well as some of the factors that can affect the price. So whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or are willing to spend more for premium services, we have you covered!

What Is the Average Cost of a Wellness Centre in Brisbane?

If you are wondering what the typical cost of a wellness centre in Brisbane is, there is no single answer. Prices vary widely depending on factors such as services offered, the size and facilities of the centre, and location. Of course, more luxurious centres in premium locations will be more expensive than those on the outskirts of the city.

Some wellness centres require memberships or subscriptions; this will usually increase costs but make for a much more comprehensive experience. Generally speaking, a basic package at an average wellness centre in the city can range from $30 to $150 per person per session or visit. Make sure to read through all details when selecting your centre so that you know exactly what you’re paying for.

What Services Do Wellness Centres Provide?

There is no denying that Wellness Centres offer a wide range of services, from massage and yoga classes to spa treatments and fitness programs. Each centre will offer different types of activities, so be sure to ask what they have on offer before you book an appointment. Generally speaking, most Wellness Centres in Brisbane provide the following services:

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is an effective form of physical treatment used to reduce stress and tension, relieve pain and stiffness, increase joint flexibility, and promote relaxation. By applying pressure to certain parts of the body, massage targets the muscular-skeletal system as a means of restoring health.

Massage therapy can be deeply therapeutic; in addition to its physical benefits, it can help improve emotional well-being by facilitating a calming effect on the body’s nervous system. Many people also report that they experience enhanced mental clarity after a massage. With regular sessions – either at home or with a professional therapist – this form of healing can restore balance and health in both body and mind.

Yoga Classes

Yoga classes are a great way to take care of your physical and mental well-being. With the guidance of an experienced teacher, you can learn postures and breathing techniques from a traditional practice that dates back thousands of years. In addition to improving your physical strength and flexibility, yoga classes provide an opportunity to relax and reduce stress through meditation.

Regular attendance helps to develop a better understanding of your body’s limitations, as well as increase awareness of your own alignment and range of motion over time. Yoga classes are also an opportunity to foster self-care by setting aside time dedicated solely to yourself and your own health – reducing the impact of everyday life on your body and mind.

Spa Treatments

Spa treatments offer a wide range of relaxation and rejuvenation opportunities for individuals. From traditional Swedish and deep tissue massages to facials, body wraps, and hot stone therapy, spa visits provide an excellent opportunity to de-stress and leave feeling revived. Spas also utilize specialized treatments that target specific issues, from increasing circulation to targeting wrinkles.

Regardless of your spa service preference, it is important to discuss your individual needs with a professional in order to get the best experience possible. With the help of a knowledgeable team member, you can confidently explore different services until you find the ideal combination for yourself.

Fitness Programs

Fitness programs can play an important role in helping individuals achieve their health and wellness goals. With the right plan and consistent effort, you can make significant steps toward long-term success and an improved lifestyle. Depending on your preferences, fitness plans come in many shapes and sizes – from personalized one-on-one programs to group classes or virtual platforms – all designed to fit different needs and lifestyle constraints.

Before committing to a specific program, it’s important to take time to identify what types of activities you actually enjoy doing so that you stay motivated. Additionally, for maximum results, ensure that your program offers adequate progression, variation, and proper instruction with respect to exercise technique as well as smart goal-setting strategies.

Things To Look For in a Wellness Centre

Before you decide on a wellness centre in Brisbane, there are a few important things to consider. These things include the following:

Cost

The cost of a wellness centre can vary greatly depending on which service you choose and how often you use it. Some centres may charge an hourly rate, while others may offer discounts for multiple sessions. It’s important to check out the pricing structure of any centre before committing to a long-term plan.

Quality

The quality of service is also important when choosing a wellness centre in Brisbane. Make sure you check reviews online and ask friends who have used the centre before so that you can get an idea of the service quality and value for money.

Location

Another important factor to consider is the location of the wellness centre in Brisbane. If you live far from the city centre, make sure that you can access the centre easily by public transport or car.

The location makes a huge difference in terms of convenience, so spend some time researching which centres are most easily accessible for you.

Range of Services

Finally, make sure to check out the types of services a wellness centre in Brisbane offers. Some centres may offer yoga classes, massage therapy and nutrition counselling, while others might focus more on relaxation techniques or therapeutic activities. Knowing what’s available will help you decide which centre best suits your needs.

Once you’ve taken these factors into consideration, it’s time to start researching the cost of a wellness centre in Brisbane. Prices can vary depending on the type of service and duration of use, but most centres offer competitive rates. You may even find some centres offering discounts or packages that can help you save money while still getting the services you need.

It’s also important to remember that the cost of a wellness centre in Brisbane is just one part of achieving optimal health and wellness. Investing in your own well-being is an investment for life, so take some time to find the best centre for your needs and budget. With a little research, you can find an affordable and quality wellness centre in Brisbane that helps you achieve your health and wellness goals.

Only this year, did I start to dye my hair to cover my pesky white/grey hairs. I am thankful that at this point, they are thankfully sporadic!

Not thrilled with harsh chemicals in hair dye products, through the “magic” of Instagram algorithm and my fellow writer, Wendy Sy based in New York, I was introduced to Arey.

The duo behind the brand is Allison Conrad and Jay Small. Allison is a Stanford MBA grad and serial entrepreneur focused on e-commerce brands in the wellness space. With over 20 years experience in the beauty/wellness space as a hairstylist, Jay has worked in education and product development for Paul Mitchell Systems.

Hear more about Arey in their own words:

What’s in a name?

Arey is derived from the French word arrêt, meaning “stop”. After playing with different iterations we landed on Arey as it nicely rhymes with grey!

What prompted you to start Arey?

When Allison saw her first grey hair, the first thing she did was ask Jay, her trusted hairstylist of many years, what to do. At the time the only way to address grey hair was with hair dye, which led Allison to question why there wasn’t a proactive solution. She was using wrinkle cream and SPF to prevent wrinkles, but there were no options for maintaining healthy, youthful hair. Enter Arey.

This led us to research the causes of grey hair, and we discovered a study that identified there is only one gene (IRF4) that causes it. With genetics only accounting for 30% of why we go grey, this means a large portion is left to diet and lifestyle choices. This inspired us to research ingredients that could offer a preventative solution to grey hair by supplying the body with what it needs to grow healthier, youthful hair and maintain pigment. Soon after the idea for Arey was born, we filed a trademark for the slogan “The Wrinkle Cream of Haircare”.

Why was tackling the issue of aging hair from both an external and internal lens important?

As we researched the causes of grey we found that much was linked to diet and lifestyle, and there are 2 key areas: vitamin & mineral deficiencies and oxidative stress. Understanding the link between premature grey and nutrient deficiencies is what informed the formula for our daily supplement Not Today, Grey. Each ingredient in our supplement plays a role in cellular activity, including promoting cell turnover and improving the protein structure of hair. Oxidative stress results in free radicals that are located all over our bodies. When these build up over time they can stifle cell productivity and can lead to grey hair. This is why we include antioxidants such as Fo-Ti and sesame seed to help reduce oxidative stress in the hair bulb.

As we learned more, we were fascinated to learn about peptides and their applications within skincare. This led to the creation of our topical serum To The Root. We created this oil-free, scent-free topical serum to be applied directly to the scalp in order to target areas with initial signs of grey hair, similar to an eye cream. To The Root’s patent pending formula uses antioxidants and a clinically effective peptide to create a healthy environment near the hair follicle and help with re-pigmentation by stimulating the MC1-R (Melanocortin 1 Receptor). Our best-selling product The System combines Not Today, Grey and To The Root as the ultimate inside-out and outside-in method for delaying grey [hairs] and preserving pigment.

We now offer a suite of topical products including our patent-pending Wash shampoo, to allow customers to choose the right regimen that fits in with their habits and lifestyle. For decades, skincare has been built around a multi-step regimen and we think it’s just as important to have a hair care regimen.

Who would most benefit from using Arey?

Arey is designed to be used at the first signs of grey hair. We believe a proactive approach that preserves healthy hair is the best way to prevent signs of hair aging. Grey hair happens at all ages, therefore we measure grey in percentages, with 0-30% being the ideal range for [the] best results when using our products. Most users can expect to see a healthier scalp within the first month; fuller, smoother and more vibrant hair in months 2-3, and less grey hair growth and possible re-pigmentation in months 3 and beyond.

For those customers with 30% or more grey, the slowing of new grey hair growth and some re-pigmentation is possible, it will just be harder to measure the results with that higher percentage of grey. When formulating Wash, Smooth, and Live In Mist, we focused on how to address other common characteristics of aging hair: Coarseness, dryness and brittleness.

Our Wash shampoo delivers our patent-pending active ingredients while gently cleansing both the scalp and hair strand, without leaving either feeling over-cleansed. Smooth is a daily conditioner that draws moisture to the interior of the hair strand, swelling the strand while jojoba oil and shea butter close the cuticle. Live In Mist is a leave-in conditioner that provides natural UV protection from raspberry seed oil, helping protect from a main cause of oxidative stress, sun exposure.

Where can you purchase Arey?

areygrey.com

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Read about more 2023 Haircare trends in this Allure piece.

Many wellness companies fail to recognise one of the essential pillars of wellness: happiness. They focus on extreme fitness through unrealistic boot camps, where celery juice and smoothies are the only options on the menu. But, after a full day of healthy activities, it’s human instinct to crave some reward. If we do not get one, our happiness levels deplete, leaving us dissatisfied, and we often return home ready to gorge on everything on offer!

The Andronis Group clearly understands that the secret to wellness is balance, which breeds happiness. When we feel happy, our bodies release chemicals and signals to the brain that make us feel good, reducing stress and increasing overall wellbeing.

As a woman who has worked in the high-pressured, high-stressed corporate world for over two decades, finding and maintaining balance has become a lifelong mission. How do we find balance in the ever-changing world of the ‘new normal’ we live in, where employers and clients demand speed of delivery and growth of change? In recent years I have discovered that slowing down for a moment can, in fact, help us speed up; even the fastest car in the F1 needs a pit stop to stay on track, right? So, when the invite arrived on my desk to attend an award-winning luxury wellness experience, how could I say no?

Situated on the idyllic island of Santorini, live a collection of luxury wellness hotels by the Andronis Group. Each hotel is uniquely different, but all share the same philosophy ‘to ensure guests live the holiday experience in full, in every way, every moment of their stay’. The island resides on volcanic rock that provides an undeniable earthy yet electric energy that leaves one feeling grounded and invigorated.

The group have charged itself with redefining and reimagining hospitality, focusing on space, peace, and unparalleled service. During my visit, they certainly achieved that.

My experience started in Imerovigli, a Santorinian gem on the island’s most romantic coast, with views stretching across the breathtaking Caldera. The Caldera of Santorini has cave houses and architecture built on volcanic soil. Words cannot describe the awe-dropping beauty of this place; a picture cannot capture its full glory, so I will express the feeling I felt when I stepped out of my Andronis Concept suite onto my private terrace. Immediately excited to see the infinity pool built out on the edge of the cliff landscape to look out onto the horizon of the Aegean Sea. At that moment, it was as though time stood still, with an incredible rush of feelings of wonder and gratitude for our wonderful planet. It was a tantalising beauty that made me feel alive, yet the vastness of the water and its tranquillity immediately allowed me to relax completely. The weight of career aspirations, targets, goals, and expectations evaporated into the ether, and at that moment, I belonged to the Andronis Concept, which is all that mattered. A wise man once told me there is something about large bodies of water that influence our nervous system.

Staring at the ocean changes our brain waves’ frequency and puts us into a calm meditative state. Listening to the waves activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which makes us more relaxed. In addition, the negative ions in the sea breeze have a mood-boosting effect. What a perfect destination.

Andronis Concept Wellness Resort Santorini has 29 pool suites and villas, with sophisticated yet minimalist interiors, but it’s the private outdoor terraces that receive the gold star and its resident restaurant, Throubi. Fine dining at its best, Santorinian gastronomy, created using the fresh raw ingredients from their garden. An evening meal here is not just dinner; it’s an experience, a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. The competition between the beauty of the sunset views from the restaurant and the artistically created and flavoursome dishes leaves you in sensory overload.

The Kallos spa is the hub of wellness at this hotel, and whether it is a traditional massage, advanced beauty, or yoga, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. My curated program consisted of all of the above and a non-evasive bio-energy session with Dr.Zulia Frost.

The spa boasts two pools and a hammam area, but be sure to immerse yourself in the hot cave pool to get an authentic feel for Santorini and its hot springs. My favourite activity was aerial yoga, something about hanging upside down and looking out onto the Caldera from the elevated yoga studio was utterly magical.

My wellness journey continued in the spectacular town of Oia. If you have seen the Santorini picture-perfect postcards with the white buildings nestled into the cliff edge and the bluest sky as the backdrop, chances are it’s Oia. The perfect honeymoon destination; as you walk through the busy winding paths in this town, you can feel the love! And, if it’s love you want, in the form of cuisine, then I must mention Lauda Restaurant, Santorini’s first-ever restaurant, labelled ‘the best restaurant in Santorini’ for a reason; simply put, it is. Lauda is the resident restaurant at Andronis Boutique, and although I didn’t stay there, I wasn’t going to miss the opportunity to try the legendary 3 Michelin Starred Chef Renault’s creations.

The Andronis Arcadia is the newest member of the Andronis family in Santorini. The all-suite hotel offers an exceptional standard of comfort, and I preferred the elegant modern living space. The hotel has a different atmosphere from the Concept, I enjoyed a more vibrant feel, but, I did miss those spectacular views. Each suite here boasts its own private pool and terrace, but as this hotel had an onsite beach club offering chillout music, cocktails, and delicious sushi from the Pacman Sunset Restaurant, I spent most of my time here after treatments. Did I enjoy a cocktail or two? Of course, I did! This group promotes a balance, and an 80/20 rule, so it would be rude of me not to enjoy the entire experience.

A jam-packed agenda of wellbeing curated by Director of Wellness, Carla Sage, is what I received at the Evexia Spa, the centre of wellness at Arcadia. Guest comfort and experience are a priority here with its newly installed private spa pool, beautiful design, and unique water path, known as the Kneipp pools, designed to ignite reflexology points. I recommend following the Kneipp experience with a deeply relaxing foot massage to leave you feeling refreshed, reset, and relaxed. If feet are not your thing, delicious sound baths, kundalini dance, and regular treatments are all available. Finally, I was honoured to experience an excellent session with Royal Acupuncturist Ross Barr. If it’s good enough for our Royals, it’s good enough for House of Coco.

How would I sum up my experience with the Andronis?

Cosmopolitan life at its best, the highest level of luxury, the best quality food (and alcohol); yes, all of that in a wellness resort. As I asked at the start of this article, ‘Have the Andronis Group just redefined wellness by achieving the perfect balance? My verdict? I believe they have.

www.andronis.com

Wellness retreats from €3,045 for 3-days (two adults sharing a Sunset Suite including breakfast) based across either Andronis Arcadia and / or Andronis Concept

Acupuncture by Ross Barr and sessions by Zulia Frost are bespoke and tailored to the individual; POA.

Hypervolt Go 2, £199

The Hypervolt Go 2 is TSA approved, super lightweight and portable to provide relief on the go. Melt away tension from long hours of travelling with Hyperice’s patented QuietGlide technology, meaning you can use without disturbing fellow travellers as it is virtually silent.

Origami pond gym towel, 55 EUR

Not only is this practical towel functional, it’s pretty damn cute, too. It’s name comes from the unique way it folds as it’s scrunched together, providing more space in your bag for other things. It also features a special knitting technique developed in-house and sports a funky design.

Bottlesoc bottle sleeves, £12.99

Never get your complimentary bottle of hotel water mixed up with anyone else’s again. Designed to fit most 500ml bottles, the fully adjustable strap allows you to carry your bottle of water over your shoulder – perfect for those mountain hikes.

BOBO1325 exercise mat, £65

If you prefer to workout in your hotel room or just don’t want to do your downward dog on a communal gym mat, then look no further. These eco-friendly non-slip exercise mats are the perfect accessory. Light weight make them ideal for traveling and the black strap makes it perfect for carrying around town.

Blendjet 2 portable blender, £85.95

The ultimate travel companion, the sleek size makes it ideal for packing away in your suitcase to make your favourite protein shakes wherever you are in the world. It’s powerful, self-cleaning and all you need is a USB lead to power it.

Cuckooland bGem wireless earphones, £89

Forget taking bulky headphones with you when travelling, these wireless earphone fit perfectly into your pocket and are just as powerful. They feature bluetooth and allow calls straight to your ear controlled via buttons on the earphones. 4 hours of playback time.

ESPA fitness bath and body oil, £36

This invigorating bath and body oil will help to soothe and revive body and mind after a full on workout at the gym. Help those tired legs after a day of hiking when you pour this into a warm bath. With eucalyptus, clove bud and sweet almond your skin will be left feeling soft and supple. Plus with its 100ml bottle it’s ideal for carry on luggage.

Peloton Guide, £275

This fitness based webcam is the perfect companion for those always on the road looking for a studio worthy workout. Just connect it to your hotel TV and it will display all the classes available on the Peleton app, with a focus on strength training, for you to follow along to.

LIT Axis – Smart Resistance Bands, £164.15

Lightweight and compact, these resistance bands are perfect for a full-body workout, and you can do them anytime and anywhere without a gym. This band can give resistance up to 200LBS, which is excellent for strength training, Pilates, cardio and recovery.

Maintaining an active lifestyle is often a challenge for ageing adults. But it is vital to keep age-related diseases at bay, maintain mobility, and stay ahead of mental wellness goals. Most importantly, an active lifestyle translates into longevity. However, seniors often struggle to identify a workout regime they can stick with without worrying about their capabilities and potential injuries. Fortunately, yoga emerges as the ideal one to embrace for seniors.

The mind-body practice does more than help you stay active. You can rely on it to live healthier and longer. It can address chronic pain, strengthen your bones, keep stress at bay, boost flexibility and mobility, and promote sound sleep. You can even rely on it to age gracefully with a toned body and glowing skin. But you may have some qualms regarding practicing it, considering the age-related limitations and health issues. Let us explain some actionable ways to practice yoga safely as a senior.

Accept your limitations

Practicing yoga in your twenties and thirties is different from doing it after your fifties and sixties. You must accept your physical limitations and decide on realistic goals accordingly. You may also need to fine-tune your practice according to age-related health conditions like joint pains, hypertension, and inflammation. Recognizing your limitations helps you pick the apt poses and get the best results from them. Also, stick to your comfort zone and listen to your body. It is better to go slow and stay consistent instead of trying too hard and giving up sooner than later.

Work with a trainer

Working with a qualified yoga trainer can help you practice it safely as a senior. You can follow their guidance without second thoughts because they have the experience to understand specific needs and challenges. These professionals simplify yoga for seniors, from suggesting apt poses to modifying them according to your health conditions. The best part is that you can seek guidance online instead of driving to the class. Nothing gets better than working out from home for seniors, so look for an instructor who offers online sessions.

Rework your poses

Whether you are regular with yoga or embrace it in your fifties, you must rework your poses over the years and with changing needs.This way, you can continue safely with the poses you are comfortable with. For example, you can use a chair to modify the downward dog pose if you develop arthritis in the wrists or hands. Placing your hands at its back provides extra support for your hands. So you can perform the pose regardless of your limitations. A little rework can help you continue with most of the poses, even as your strength and mobility levels decline down the line.

Get adequate rest

The last thing you should do as a senior is to go over the top with any form of workout. Yoga is no exception, even though it is a gentle exercise. You must get adequate rest between poses and sessions. Also, take a break when your body does not seem ready. You may have always pushed your limit as a youngster, but listening to your body keeps you safe once you step into old age. You can focus on repeating poses instead of holding them for long or experimenting with new ones. Make sure your routine blends well with your daily schedule and does not stress you out physically and mentally.

Create the right environment

Practicing yoga safely as a senior is also about creating the right environment. Consider joining a senior group if you practice at a studio. You tend to feel safe with like-minded fitness buddies as you need not worry about competing with them. At home, create a safe space for quiet sessions and low injury risks. A proper yoga mat and comfortable clothing are non-negotiable. Investing in belts, blocks, and blankets is an even better idea because these accessories keep you safe and comfortable. Wherever you exercise, ensure a positive ambiance as it keeps you happy and motivated.

Yoga is an ideal form of activity for seniors because it is gentle for the body and soothing for the mind. But you must practice some precautions to perform it safely during the golden years. After all, your capabilities do not remain the same when you get to the other side of the fifties. You can rely on these tips to be on the safe side while availing of the best benefits from daily practice. Also, look for a trainer you can rely on for dependable guidance.

If in the run up to Christmas, you are looking for a dose of goodness and a sprinkle of zen, we’ve got you covered. Check out our round up of the best wellness advent calendars.

T2, ‘Sip the future hello’ advent calendar, RRP £22

This December, start each day with a bit of positive-tea with the ‘Sip the Future Hello’ advent calendar from Aussie-born tea specialists, T2. Available in two limited editions, as easy to brew teabags or loose-leaf blends, the ‘Sip the Future Hello’ advent calendar will delight any tea connoisseur. Visually stunning and guaranteed to raise a smile with its cheerful design, the ‘Sip the Future Hello’ advent calendar folds out to reveal small daily suggestions to inspire you and help boost your daily brew.

ESPA Wellness Advent Calendar, RRP £160.00

Discover a wellness goodie guaranteed to bring a little calm to your day with ESPA this advent. Each day of December begins with a harmonising gift of luxurious textures, soothing scents and powerful ingredients through the selection of 25 luxurious full size and deluxe minis, from invigorating cleansers to lavish creams and rich essential oils.

Myprotein, RRP £74.99

Myprotein is back with another calendar for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious shoppers looking to stay on track during the festive period.

Each door contains a delicious snack, vitamin or pre-workout, but also a daily challenge, wellness tip or nutrition titbit to help keep you active and motivated during a time when it becomes easy to remain sedentary. Some of these include encouraging you not to count your macros, doing a random act of kindness, trying a plant-based meal and doing fifteen repetitions of any exercise.

Myvegan, RRP £74.99

Myvegan has launched a vegan alternative designed for those who want to partake in a plant-based diet or those looking to cut down on animal-based products. The advent calendar is the first of its kind for the brand, containing 24 vegan snacks and indulgent treats helping gym-goers and conscious eaters to stay on track during the festive period.

Yankee Candle Advent Tree, RRP £89.99

Countdown the days of Christmas with the Yankee Candle Advent Tree. Each door reveals one of their much loved and new fragrances, including White Night Stars and White Spruce & Grapefruit. Expect an array of candle care accessories, frosted glass tea light holder, silver wick trimmer and snuffer.

Onolla’s Winter Wellbeing Calendar, RRP £250.00

This beautifully curated advent calendar includes sustainable, natural products as well as access to insider practices and transformative tools from experts such as Deepak Chopra, Katie Brindle of Hayo’u Method and astrologer Shelley Von Strunckel. Nurture your mind, body and soul this Christmas.