(Re)Treat Yourself

From meditation camps in the Himalayas to your own all-exclusive spa on your private island, these Asian resorts are all about wellness… in the way that we like, says Pearlyn Tham.

- Pearlyn Tham

TRADITION MEETS LUXURY

At the COMO Shambhala wellness retreats, ancient healing practices are combined with modern science (and a whole lot of upmarket spa therapies, yoga centres with stunning views of nature, and so on).

One of them is located at the COMO Uma Paro in Bhutan, which has only 20 rooms and nine villas, all tucked away on a hilltop.

If you love your yoga, know that classes are conducted in a pavilion overlooking the gorgeous Paro Valley. A full-time instructor is available for private tuition sessions while retreats are held all year round.

There are also private guided meditation sessions, with lessons in the deep breathing technique known as pranayama. Otherwise, the resort’s guides can take you to meditation camps in the Himalayas on request.

After all that hard work, reward yourself with a facial or body treatment at the Wellness and Spa by Como Shambhala. Ask for a Traditional Hot Stone Bath — inspired by an age-old Bhutan practice, it uses river rocks steeped in hot water where they crack and steam, to supposedly release minerals that reduce body aches.

You’ll want to be eating clean and green too. Most produce comes from the resort’s organic kitchen garden, a partnership between COMO Uma Paro and local farmers in the Paro Valley.

The best spot to feast on this fresh food? At the Archery Field where, surrounded by fragrant pine trees, a BBQ dinner picnic can be arranged, with homemade buckwheat noodles and momo (dumplings) on the menu.

A PIECE OF YOUR OWN ISLAND