Ready, Set, Grow

Gwinganna’s Optimum Wellness Programme proves simple is still best when hacking health.

The excitement is palpable at Gwinganna’s check-in. Come 2pm on a Sunday more than 60 guests from Australia and around the world arrive at once, scoping out their company for the next few days. There’s all types: burnt-out execs, mothers seeking ‘me’ time and even honeymooners. We’re all here to slow down and find breathing space – plus there’s no better place to people-watch (which becomes a pastime given it’s also a digital detox, and TVs and phones are out).

It’s my second visit, so I know I’m in for a treat, already aware how well my body responds to clean eating, and the mental calm achieved from spending time in tranquil Tallebudgera Valley. It was among the most challenging detoxes, going cold turkey on my favourite addictions – caffeine, technology and sugar. This time I’m here for the five-night Optimum Wellness programme.

I’m lucky enough to be staying in one of the light-bathed Meditation Suites. It comes with extras like a yoga mat and cushions to get comfy on while dipping into the books on self-reflection, or listening to guided meditations. Watching the sky change colour while keeping an eye out for kangaroos and peacocks from the deck outside replaces mindless phone scrolling. A nature reserve in its own right, five koalas and eight echidnas have also been released on property, as part of Gwinganna’s ongoing wildlife survival programme.

DAY 1

Scheduling devotees have no choice but to let go of control here. There are no timetables deliberately to keep you present. You find out what you will be doing on the day, often immediately beforehand. All you do need to know is that qigong starts at 6am on the front lawn every day, an easy routine to fall back into for repeat guests. Today Anna introduces the basic stance and start of the sequence.