5 Bali wellness experiences, from light therapy to breathwork, put to the test
- With some of the world’s best spas and practitioners, Bali is the ideal healing and wellness destination – and there’s much more on offer than yoga
- From vibro-acoustic light therapy, to breathwork, to water sound healing, we try some of the best Balinese experiences designed to rejuvenate
Bali has long been a healing and wellness destination, where sanctuaries, spas, retreats and resorts offer to re-energise, rejuvenate and renew those who visit.
The Covid-19 pandemic has amplified this desire and travellers – weary from lockdowns and isolation – are seeking holidays that life-shift and spirit-lift. Here are five transformative experiences to add to an itinerary on the Indonesian island:
Breathwork
Breathwork workshops can be taken in big groups or solo, but given the response is unique to the person – and it can be intense – I opted for a solo session first.
At Breathwork Bali in Canggu, sessions are conducted in a tranquil wooden cottage surrounded by permaculture garden and tropical jungle. I lie on a batik-lined treatment table with a bolster under my knees in a room made aromatic with essential oils.
The theory goes that we unconsciously inhale and exhale around 22,000 times per day. With each breath we bring life force into our body, stimulating the sympathetic nervous system. Putting conscious thought, depth, focus and circularity into this breathing under the guidance of a qualified practitioner allows our minds to enter what feels like that liminal space somewhere between asleep and awake.