THE INCREDIBLE lightness of being

A pioneer in wellness retreats that blend Eastern and Western healing philosophies, the Asia-Pacific region knows how to cure what ails you - in serious style. From high in the mountains of India to the foothills of New Zealand's Southern Alps, here are 10 places to recharge and reinvigorate.

ARO HA

Glenorchy, New Zealand 

In the foothills of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, overlooking Lake Wakatipu, Aro Ha strips you of your stress from the moment you arrive. The goal here is to reawaken your soul through week-long retreats that involve an intensive program of mindfulness, healing and exercise, with daily diversions that might include yoga and pilates or interval training and climbing mountains. Natural highs are guaranteed in the form of end-of-Earth vistas from the infinity pool, and serious Southern Hemisphere stargazing at night. There’s also a focus on what you put into your body, with meals revolving around raw, vegetarian cuisine. aro-ha.com

ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS 

Rishikesh, India 

On a 40-hectare Maharaja’s palace in the far reaches of northern India, this resort is as close to Nirvana as you can get. In the foothills of the Himalayas, overlooking the spiritual town of Rishikesh and the Ganges river valley, this part of the country is where yoga, meditation and Ayurveda were born. Ananda takes its legacy seriously, offering guests a holistic approach to healing that unites both Eastern and Western therapies. And, it’s all complemented by delicious Ayurvedic cuisine and ridiculously indulgent spa treatments that will leave you feeling pure bliss. anandaspa.com 

GAIA

NSW, Australia