THE HEALING BUSH RETREAT

UKUTHULA HOUSE, MJEJANE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Set in the five-star Ukuthula House safari resort on the banks of the Crocodile River, this wellness retreat is all about de-stressing while being surrounded by the natural splendour of the African bush.

Whether spotting a leopard drinking from the banks of the river while doing yogalates or hearing the roar of lions while enjoying a guided sunset meditation, visitors talk fondly about their experience and how it allowed them to truly immerse with the magic of the land.

These tailored retreats go beyond being a mere bush escape by focusing on healing, personal growth and a deep awakening of self. Yoga and Pilates classes bring a closer connection between the body and breath, while cacao ceremonies, which take place under an ancient baobab tree in the middle of the bush, open the heart and invite much-needed space and quiet contemplation within.

“Calming breath work, movement, guided meditations and sound therapy help to build self-awareness, relieve anxiety and set the tone for us to create a retreat of gratitude and inner peace,” says retreat facilitator Linda Green. “This is not a one-module-fits-all scenario, but rather a personalised experience for each individual to process their needs with absolute intention.” mypilates.co.za/retreats

The focus at Ukuthula House is on promoting a healthy mind, active body and peaceful soul. This is achieved by peeling away the stress of day-to-day life and creating an environment where you can reconnect with your authentic self and walk away with a strong sense of mental and physical renewal, having broken old habits, routines and thought patterns to create a new conscious way of being.

If you’re looking for a short escape to help clear the mind and refocus, these retreats should be at the top of your list

FUTURE FOUND SANCTUARY BY NEWMARK, HOUT

BAY, CAPE TOWN

This sanctuary’s mutidimensional approach to wellbeing is regenerative and focuses on nourishing and healing our inner and outer ecosystems, creating harmony between yourself, others and the environment. The intention is to not only give guests an escape, but to help them slow down and learn healthier ways of living.

Everything at the sanctuary is designed according to the Wheel of Whole-Being, honouring time to rise, realign, reflect and rest while being guided by nature, sleep, nourishment, movement and mindfulness. Being inspired by various indigenous living systems, this so-called Wheel represents the dimensions of nature on a macro and microcosmic level, helping guests connect to the five senses, five elements and five rhythms for a much deeper sense of awareness and healing.

Wellbeing guru, Romy, personally crafts itineraries for guests based on their intentions and needs, and has designed this experience guided by her studies in yoga, meditation, mindfulness and her learnings from indigenous tribes over the past 10 years.

Elixirs, teas, amenities, fragrances, experiences, rituals, food and beverages are all made on-site to align with nature’s rhythms in support of whole-living, and there is a rich food philosophy rooted in regenerative practices and African culture. newmarkhotels.com/accommodation/future-found-sanctuary

HOUSE OF INSIGHT, FALSE BAY, WESTERN CAPE

Surf therapy is now being recognised as an effective way to help treat stress, anxiety and PTSD. With this in mind, House of Insight has created retreats that offer surfing, mindfulness, meditation and yoga to support mental wellness.

Situated along the coast of Simonstown, the retreats are hosted in beautiful seaside villas located near one of the most magnificent surf spots in the southern hemisphere.

Yoga and Pilates sessions are held on the deck with 180-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean. Morning classes are dynamic and energising, while afternoon sessions focus more on mental relaxation and healing. Mindfulness workshops facilitated by a qualified psychiatrist are an important part of the overall experience too. houseofinsight.com ■