Ready to stretch your horizons and find your zen in some of the world’s most picturesque places? It’s time to swap your laptop screens for breathtaking scenes, where every deep breath feels like a dose of pure bliss and birdsongs serenade your meditation. So, dust off those passports and roll out your yoga mats as we dive headfirst into International Yoga Day.
Tranquillity and Therapy in Chiang Mai
Nestled in the hills of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a relaxing escape. Immerse yourself in the heritage of Wat Pha Lat, a 500-year-old temple hidden in the lush forest at the foothills of Doi Suthep. This sacred space is perfect for mindfulness and breathing exercises. Join a traditional folk-dance session inspired by Lanna martial arts that harmonises with drums and Thai instruments for a full-body workout that nurtures your spirit. Conclude with a scrub and massage with local herbs to eliminate toxins.
Stretches and Serenity in Seychelles
Picture yourself in lush landscapes and world-class facilities setting the perfect stage for your yoga journey. That’s Seychelles for you. Fancy a hilltop session? Hike up for a guided meditation session. Feel the stillness and the rhythmic flow of the ocean below as you begin your journey within. If beachfront bliss is your style, practice pranayama on the powdery white sand and let the gentle waves guide your breathing.
Wellness and Wonder in Krabi
How about practising surya namaskar on the cliff of the Naga Mountain with sunrise over limestone mountains rising from Southern Thailand’s Andaman Sea? Or a barefoot yoga session on the beach or in the privacy of your villa overlooking the infinity pool? All this is possible at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, where you can deepen your practice amidst unparalleled natural splendour. Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned yogi, a team of certified instructors guides you through various classes tailored to individual needs and goals.
Rest and Reset in Oman
Looking for a unique spot but don’t want to take long-haul flights? Head to Muscat, four hours away from major Indian airports. Perched against the majestic Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman, Shangri-La Muscat doubles as a luxurious sanctuary and yoga haven. With thoughtfully curated wellness programs, there’s a class tailored for everyone. If you prefer to soak in the beauty of the ocean, try stand-up paddleboard yoga which offers an empowering experience. Practice with your best friend on a cliff overlooking the shimmering water. Yogalates, a dynamic fusion of yoga and Pilates, provides a comprehensive workout that challenges your body and mind. Try Aqua Yoga which combines the fluidity of water with traditional postures.
Rejuvenation and Retreat in Sri Lanka
If you are seeking the perfect setting amidst nature, then hop to Sri Lanka. Teardrop Hotels, a collection of boutique accommodations, offers an array of breathtaking backdrops including gardens, a lakeside, and pristine beaches, ideal for intimate yoga and group sessions. Nestled on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Lunuganga—meaning salt river—is a sprawling estate once the private holiday sanctuary of Sir Geoffrey Bawa, the celebrated Sri Lankan architect. Strike a tree pose along the banks of Dedduwa Lake in the landscaped gardens to foster inner peace or opt for a meditation session for an experience unlike any other.
