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    The Summer Reset: 5 luxe wellness retreats for a total transformation this summer

    From the Arctics to Southeast Asia, escape to one of these luxurious wellness retreats and give your body the well-deserved detox it needs this summer.

    Six Senses Ibiza – Spain
    Occupying a breathtaking position in pristine Xarraca Bay, Six Senses Ibiza provides unobstructed Balearic sunset views all year long. Aside from its expert-led wellness retreats that will run throughout the summer, the resort also offers a range of experiences for every mood – from fitness programmes, farm-to-table culinary lessons by Six Senses chefs to daily wellness activities like sound healing, breathwork, and cacao ceremonies, and underwater guided meditation, that will keep you fit and in check. The energetic vibes and the Balearic landscape are almost enough to distract you from the fact that you’re detoxing.
    THE HERO EXPERIENCE
    For those in pursuit of longevity, Six Senses Ibiza recently launched RoseBar, a pioneering longevity club that harnesses the powers of science and spiritual wellness with a high-tech and high-touch approach to achieve long-term wellbeing. Featuring programmes with the latest in holistic expertise, scientific advances and biohacking tools such as cryotherapy, IV infusions, biohacking, full-body acupressure, ozone and red light therapy, infrared sauna, cold plunge, shamanic healing, energy medicine and more.
    For more information, visit sixsenses.com

    Rosewood Mayakoba – Mexico
    Check in at one of the eight Wellness Suites situated on its own private island. Set along the water’s edge, these luxury suites feature a meditation and heated plunge pool along with curated Ayurvedic amenities and your own Wellness Butler to maximize relaxation and renewal. Upon arrival, treat yourself to Rosewood’s extensive amenities to kick off jet lag.
    THE HERO EXPERIENCE
    The Temezcal is a unique detoxifying wellness experience that dates back to pre-Hispanic culture. This healing ritual, a Rosewood signature, takes place in an indigenous sweat lodge with naturally heated volcanic stones. The shaman-led ceremony entails pouring aromatic water infused with herbs and essential oils over the hot stones to create steam. Once the body adapts to the temperature, this is followed by the singing of mantras, sensorial rituals, and moments of self-reflection allowing one to feel rooted and present for an inner transformation.
    For more information, visit rosewoodhotels.com

    Joali Being – Maldives
    A short 5-hour flight from Dubai will take you to Raa Toll, the home of the first wellbeing island in the Maldives. Set on the island of Bodufushi, Joali Being provides a picture-perfect setting as you work on achieving your wellbeing goals. Designed as a nature-immersive retreat, it is made up of a collection of 68 private villas with customised wellbeing setups and of course, magnificent ocean views. At the core of Joali Being’s DNA are its Four Pillars: Mind, Microbiome, Skin, and Energy. You can fill your schedule with a variety of result-driven wellness programmes, elemental therapies, and transformative experiences that are based on ancient practices coupled with modern scientific technology advances. Ranging from five nights to up to three weeks, the wellness programmes are tailored towards strength and vitality, mental clarity, hormonal balance, restorative sleep, and much more. Or, simply check in to embrace the slow island life and disconnect. Heaven.
    THE HERO EXPERIENCE
    Joali Being offers an unparalleled and unique approach to mindful eating. Its Gut Reset Program is designed to address the root cause of digestive disorders. The five, seven, or 10-night experience begins with a comprehensive analysis of your dietary habits and routines along with a bio-energetic evaluation through Qest4. This programme entails a synergistic blend of gentle detoxifying treatments and four separate consultations, complemented daily with nourishing earth-to- table cuisine.
    For more information, visit joali.com

    The Retreat at Blue Lagoon – Iceland
    Encompassing a subterranean spa, a geothermal lagoon, a restaurant honouring Iceland’s culinary traditions, and a 60-suite hotel, every aspect of the Retreat is architected for wellbeing wonder. Its design framework channels the surrounding frontier, offering breathtaking views of its unique environment, from a lagoon waterscape to a moss-covered horizon. An amazing day spa as it is an overnight retreat, the landscape itself exudes its own meditative and healing energy with Blue Lagoon’s mineral-rich geothermal seawaters that deliver healing benefits and radiance in all forms, to the mind and body. If you want to venture further afield, immerse yourself in the untamed nature of Iceland with a wide array of adventures such as guided yoga sessions and hikes before you hustle back to your fast-paced life in the city.
    THE HERO EXPERIENCE
    The Float Therapy combines the nourishing powers of water and weightlessness with the sublime pleasures of gentle bodywork. As you float on the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon, you enter a deeply relaxing and highly meditative state. The light massage soothes the mind and body, ultimately calming and elevating the spirit while targeting bone structure and releasing tension from the spine.
    For more information, visit bluelagoon.com

    Kamalaya Koh Samui – Thailand
    Roughly over 10 hours of travel time from the GCC is the ultimate longevity and wellness escape. Located on the southern coastline of Koh Samui, Kamalaya is an award-winning healing hideaway offering life-enhancing wellness experiences and retreats. Perched atop an idyllic hillside and surrounded by lush tropical greenery, this luxury retreat is the perfect place to eat, pray and love your way to restore your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual balance.
    THE HERO EXPERIENCE
    All Kamalaya guests undergo a Body Bio-Impedance analysis followed by a personal consultation with a wellness expert. From there, you have the opportunity to book one (or two) of the 17 wellness programs or simply enjoy over 70 zen-inducing holistic therapies and treatments to ensure you return from the journey feeling restored and renewed.
    For more information, visit kamalaya.com

    Ananda In The Himalayas – India
    Tucked within hundred acres of quiet, Ananda In The Himalayas wellness spa consistently ranks as the #1 destination spa for a reason. Having just recently undergone its own reset, the newly renovated Ananda In The Himalayas design weaves in from the surrounding majestic Himalayan mountains. Embark on a healing journey grounded on ancient Indian wisdom and choose within the five-, seven-, 14- or 21-night commitment of daily massage treatments, movements, and meditative practices to help with rejuvenation, weight management, hormonal balance or chronic ailments.
    THE HERO EXPERIENCE
    If you have 14 nights to spare this summer, Ananda In The Himalayas’ PCOS Management programme is a must-try. It uses traditional Ayurvedic processes that work on the reproductive system to balance the body from within while treating imbalances. It begins with detoxification therapy, Nidana parivarjana, followed by Panchakarma with physical asanas. These are followed with customised ayurvedic medicines coupled with meditative and breathwork practices to reduce stress accompanied by PCOS.
    For more information, visit anandaspa.com

    Palazzo Fiuggi – Italy
    Perched atop an ancient hilltop in a private 8-hectare park, Palazzo Fiuggi is an Italian garden oasis in Lazio where your wellbeing comes first. Located just 50-minutes outside of Rome, Palazzo Fiuggi brings together a team of health experts to deliver personalized medical-based wellness programmes such as Longevity and Rejuvenation, Deep Detox, The Rach at Palazzo Fiuggi, and more, for those looking for an intense overhaul. The accommodations have all the creature comforts of a luxury hotel, offering incredible amenities, home-baked healthy snacks and state-of-the-art technology. If you have extra vacation days to use up, take full advantage of its proximity to nearby charming Italian towns that are a drive or a flight away.
    THE HERO EXPERIENCE
    The Ranch at Palazzo is an exclusive eight-day programme designed to cleanse and recalibrate. Limited to 25 guests each week, it features a daily schedule that includes morning hikes, nap time, core training classes, yoga sessions, and massage treatments, complemented by a plant-based, nutrient dense diet.
    For more information, visit palazzofiuggi.com
    July/August’s – The Travel Issue – Indulge Your Wanderlust  – Download Now 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Temperatures surpasses 50°C in UAE: 4 activities that will help you cool down

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    4 hours ago

    The scorching summer temperatures in the UAE have reached unprecedented levels, surpassing 50°C for the first time this year.
    On July 16, at 2.45pm, an astonishing temperature of 50.1°C was recorded in Bada Dafas, located in the Al Dhafra Region of Abu Dhabi. This sweltering heatwave extended across the country, with Abu Dhabi city experiencing highs of 48°C, while Dubai reached 46°C in the city and 47.9°C in the desert.

    #أعلى_درجة_حرارة سجلت على الدولة هذا اليوم 50.1 درجة مئوية في بدع دعفس (منطقة الظفرة) الساعة 14:45 بالتوقيت المحلي لدولة الإمارات..#The_highest_temperature recorded over the country today is 50.1°C in Bada Dafas (Al Dhafra Region) at 14:45 UAE Local time. pic.twitter.com/1AeUlDgBsT
    — المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@NCMUAE) July 16, 2023

    When it comes to the hottest month overall in Dubai, extensive data collected by the National Centre of Meteorology & Seismology (NCMS) from 1977 to 2022 reveals that August consistently claims the title. With almost all temperature indicators reaching their peak during this month, it is undeniably the hottest period in Dubai.
    As we’re approaching the hottest month of the year, it’s time to indulge in activities to beat the heat. Here’s the Emirates Woman guide that will help you cool down (literally).

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by @visitdubai  More

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    Michelin Star Chef Jason Atherton redefines luxury dining with social charm

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    3 hours ago

    Located in The Grosvenor House, City Social House is a newly opened venture by restaurateur and celebrity Michelin Star Chef Jason Atherton.
    Housing four distinctive dining experiences under one roof, it offers a blend of European and Japanese flavors: City Social (a dining venue inspired by City Social in London), Jazz By City (a lively entertainment concept), 7 Tales (a Tokyo-style speakeasy bar), and Row on 45 ( a soon-to-open exclusive dining experience).
    Here, Emirates Man chats with the mastermind himself to discuss creativity, his career journey, and why he keeps coming back to Dubai.
    Talk us through the first 30 minutes of your day, your morning routine.
    I wake up at 7:00 am, run for 40 minutes, come home, shower, relax, have a coffee, and catch up on news, and then go through emails from overseas.
    When did your love for food begin?
    It started at the age of 10.
    You’ve had an incredible career and have earned plenty of accomplishments. How did you get your start?
    I moved to London at 16 and worked at Boyd’s Glasshouse and washed pans. I learnt on my days off until I became a proper chef.
    You’ve clearly worked incredibly hard to get where you are today. As a highly accomplished Michelin-starred chef, is there pressure to constantly create?
    Always. You learn to keep moving forward and reinvent yourself. You cannot stand still for a second when you are working at this level.
    You had a stint working with Gordon Ramsey. What did you learn during your time there?
    It was like finishing school. He trained me to become a complete chef, a restaurateur. He taught me all I needed to know about finance, ambience… Everything I know, I learnt from Gordon, and I thank him for being the chef that I am today.
    Is there anything you do to spark inspiration and creativity?
    I read a lot. I follow chefs on Instagram, and keep my finger on the pulse.

    What keeps you coming back to Dubai?
    I simply love Dubai. Dubai has been very kind to me. I feel like an official ambassador for Dubai. I love its people; I love the restaurants. It’s just great.
    City Social adds to Dubai’s growing scene of Michelin Chef-led restaurants. Can you tell us more about the vision?
    I want to inspire others who were once just like me at 10, 16 years old. We now have Michelin in Dubai and I think that is great. We want to be benchmarks for chefs coming in, I want to show them that you can dream, you can achieve, but you must work incredibly hard. You cannot sit for a second when you are working at this level.
    What sets City Social apart from your other concepts?
    Modern European menu inspired by Japanese flavours, the fact that we have great music, fantastic views, amazing terraces.
    To you, what are the must-try hero dishes at City Social?
    Wagyu trolley with Wagyu beef flown in from Japan, the ice-cream game which adds an element of fun whilst enjoying the unique flavours we’ve created, and the Beetroot Fujiko Salad… It does not sound much but will blow your mind!

    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by City Social House More

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    In Pics: Inside Lindsay Lohan’s sea-inspired nursery in Dubai

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    Sneak-peek inside Lindsay Lohan’s ocean-themed nursery, co-designed by Nestig.
    The mother-to-be shared a glimpse of the white and blue nursery, “Everything is inspired by the beach and is so peaceful and playful,” said the 37-year-old actor.
    Everything about the nursery is calming and serene. From the painting of the light house on the walls and the colour-coordinated toys to the complementing decor and subtle blue striped patterns — everything will be dreamy and demure for baby Lohan.
    After living in the spotlight for most parts of her early life, the Mean Girl alumni found her quiet oasis in UAE. The actor is a major part of every ’90s kid’s pop culture diet, as she was a part of some of the most iconic movies of the time.
    With fame comes the burden of public scrutiny. Much like many other child stars who grew up in Hollywood and resented the business, Lindsay too, decided to step out of the spotlight.
    Today, in this new chapter of her life, the Parent Trap actor is about to embark on the journey of parenthood herself. Lindsay is married to businessman Bader Shammas, with whom she is expecting her first child. The couple, who met in Dubai, have been incredibly private about their relationship and Shammas is not in the public eye.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature image: Instagram @lindsaylohan @nestigbaby More

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    In video: Sheikha Mahra shares intimate details from her wedding to Sheikh Mana

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    1 hour ago

    Recently, Sheikha Mahra married Sheikh Mana in a grand spectacle of a wedding.
    The Royal couple got engaged in March, officially tied the knot in April and the reception was held in July.
    Attended by the who’s who of the UAE Royal world, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid’s nuptials were amongst the most-awaited events of the year.
    While the Royal Family of Dubai is known for revealing little to no details about their personal lives, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra was gracious enough to share many glimpses of the big day with the world.
    After revealing a couple of images from the grand reception, the Royal Princess recently shared a sweet video, which gave her ardent followers a closer look at the most important day of her life.

    In the video, you can see the couple of the moment having the best time of their lives. From making a grand entrance to posing and laughing together — everything about it was straight out of a fairytale dream.
    Dressed in a gown worthy of a Princess, Sheikha Mahra looked every bit ethereal in a custom-made Ezra Couture ensemble. In the wedding video, the bride’s royal attire is given special limelight, with seamstresses making the final touch. In the backdrop, you can also spot the sketch of the gown, giving you an idea of the modern bride’s vision.
    Besides the voluminous attire with a sweeping veil, Sheikha Mahra punctuated her look with a dainty diamond necklace and a diamond watch by Chopard.

    Apart from the emotions of Sheikh Mana and Sheikha Mahra, the video effortlessly captured the uncontainable joy expressed by the mother of the bride, as she lovingly embraced her daughter.
    Talking about the scale of the reception, it was a visual treat to the eyes. Swathed in candles and white roses, the decor and the aesthetic matched the stature of the couple in focus.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Feature image: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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    The Free Spirit – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    2 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    For our July/August cover, we champion Tania Santos Silva in The Free Spirit.
    A businesswoman that knows how to still leave room for the freedom that enhances her creativity, we have admired Silva’s fierce independence and vibrancy for life along with her sharp mind and quick wit. A truly incredible EW woman.
    How do you balance your business side and creativity?
    On and off, I connect and disconnect. It’s hard but doable to be focused on the business and its daily management and be creative simultaneously. It’s like two sides of the same coin. It’s almost like mastering self-control; it’s a daily effort, sometimes exhausting, but the results are super rewarding.
    You have multiple businesses – are you driven by an entrepreneurial mindset, and what is your latest venture?
    I do; sometimes I wonder why!!! But this buzz inside me tests me and pushes me to do more and become more. I love to multitask; usually, my “ideas” come from my need to have something, and my last venture was just that. I hate to wear tampons or intimate pads during those monthly “hormonal” days, especially if I’m going to the beach… so after some lengthy research for the right technology I launched MaiSwim. This is not just another leak-proof swimwear because there are a few already, it’s sustainable, has cool, clean designs and we even support the cleaning of the oceans with every order. I’m super proud of the concept and the team. We launched only last month, and of course, it’s made in Portugal.
    How do you know when to push forward and when to give yourself space?
    I learned this very young as I’m an only child, so I had time alone. Now I adapt the learning to daily situations. I invest a lot in my sanity, from therapy to mindfulness, ice baths, and breathing techniques that help me build the emotional intelligence and insight I need. I love some “me time,” and being completely alone – it’s like food for the soul. This comes when my body talks to me and prepares me for the overwhelming emotions approaching; in those moments, I disconnect. Usually, I’m back on my feet within 24 hours feeling recharged.
    What have been the biggest signs you’re on the right track, and how have you learned to follow your gut?
    It’s unbelievable how cliché this is, but the gut is always right. I have a very close group of people who trust, invest in, and listen to me. That alone is invaluable and is the biggest sign that I must be doing things right.
    You’re able to think outside the box – have you always been able to do this, and how has it served you?
    Being able to think outside the box sometimes makes me “the odd one out,” I have to be honest, especially during my teenage years. I’m from a tiny city in Portugal, Coimbra. From a very young age, my closest friends told me: “You’re not a fish of this river” and that stuck with me. I’ve never let one opportunity go and I’m never afraid of leaving my comfort zone; you grow and truly evolve when you do step outside our comfort zone. My creative self still thinks outside the box – I adapt the thinking to the business without getting too emotional.
    What does freedom mean to you, and how do you create it for yourself?
    What is freedom? The dictionary says it’s the power or right to act, speak or think as one wants. But when my freedom violates others’ freedom, then it’s not freedom anymore. It’s exercising power. Freedom is love; freedom is to breathe, to travel wherever you want with whomever you want. Freedom is to hug and be hugged; freedom is sun and light, moon and darkness. Freedom to me means everything and nothing. I fight daily to adapt my freedom to my familyʼs freedom. That’s one of my biggest challenges.
    Where has been the best place you’ve visited globally, and why?
    I’ve been to so many places; I’m pretty lucky… but I have to say, Tibet. Landing in Lhasa is out of this world. The smiles I’ve seen there still fill my heart today. I went with my husband, we decided to visit Everest base camp before my pregnancy, and we did it. Some crazy and intense days of no potable water or shower, but reaching base camp at 5500 altitude at 5 am was all worth it. The sky there is different… I love this type of experience that pushes you to your limit. Next one? Summit Kilimanjaro.
    Where has been the place that has given you or your business the most growth?
    Well, I would say my second home country: Angola. I lived and worked there for almost ten years before moving to Dubai, and I still have a lot of family there. I grew so much in that professional environment, which is extra demanding for a woman, that I can face any professional environment honestly.
    This is The Summer Escape Issue – where will you be escaping to this summer?
    From Portugal to Porto Cervo in Italy, from Mallorca in Spain to Montreal in Canada. I will enjoy a bit of the other side of the world, take inspiration and insight from these places and breathe in new cultures. I never stop working obviously… we don’t have holidays when we work for ourselves!
    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva – Download Now 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Insider tips from concierge teams on how to maximise your summer vacation

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    19 mins ago

    We speak to some of the best concierge teams who go above and beyond to share insider tips on how to maximise your summer vacation.

    The Mark – New York, USA
    Our favourite quotes are “the answer is yes, what is your question” and “my only limitation is your imagination” which means that there are very few things that we DO NOT do for our guests at The Mark. From creating a Phantom of the Opera experience in our Penthouse all with original cast members to delivering a special breed of puppy from New York to Qatar – we have done it all!
    INSIDER TIP
    We personally love creating magical summer moments for our guests. From sailing along the Hudson River on the Mark Sailboat with delicious bites by Caviar Kaspia to taking a spin around Manhattan on our new Mercedes Benz e-bikes, we offer unique ways for our guests to experience this incredible city. For those travelling with their family, a picnic prepared from The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges which can be enjoyed in Central Park is a lovely afternoon activity – let The Mark Pedicab take you there! Our second tip is to explore the many outdoor summer concerts and stage performances at our neighboring Central Park. Few things are as enchanting as taking in a Shakespearean play or listening to New York Philharmonic perform outdoors on a warm summer evening.
    For more information, visit themarkhotel.com

    One&Only Reethi Rah – Maldives
    Our Guest Services team at One&Only Reethi Rah curates a fully personalized itinerary based on our guestsʼ preferences. This includes a range of intimate events such as private dining in iconic locations around the resort, as well as themed parties and celebrations for our guests and their loved ones or a bespoke prearrival experience.
    INSIDER TIP
    Get to know our local Maldivian colleagues! They are always eager to share stories about their culture, islands, and experiences; they are exclusive to your time here in the Maldives. Whenever possible, book your experiences ahead of time and consider reaching out directly to the resort. Take full advantage of our expertise so we can offer experiences and activities that you hadnʼt even thought of.
    For more information, visit oneandonlyresorts.com

    Anantara The Palm – Dubai, UAE
    The role of our concierge team involves performing a variety of personalised tasks and services aimed at delighting the hotel’s guests. In essence, we serve as the public face and a dependable resource for guests. As a seasoned concierge well-versed in local hidden treasures, we create tailored itineraries for guests.
    INSIDER TIP
    A customised city tour can be facilitated based on guest preferences. These could include a unique tour to the Museum of the Future, or should guests wish to explore the older parts of Dubai, the historic district of Al Bastakiya comes highly recommended or a walking tour to the Gold and Spice markets.
    For more information, visit anantara.com

    The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert – Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
    In addition to organising dinner reservations and providing recommendations that often involve private dinners amongst the dunes or atop of Al Wadi Tower accompanied by a transfer on a camel or via the 1952 vintage Land Rover to create a unique memorable experience, we also organize various exciting activities throughout the hotel from nature drives, wildlife adventures, to relaxing wellness treatments.
    INSIDER TIP
    Immerse yourself in unique nighttime adventures by participating in guided tours and nature walks, specifically designed to unveil the mesmerizing aspects of Ras Al Khaimah after dark. Engage in stargazing sessions, where you can admire the enchanting constellations while learning about the ancient navigation techniques employed by local Bedouins.
    For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com
    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva – Download Now 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Looking for a wellness getaway? Visit this holistic resort for an inside-out cleanse

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    RAKxa shares how this wellness experience has put Thailand on the wellness map with its holistic treatments and deep detox focus.
    Talk us through the bespoke wellness consultation process you’ve designed for guests.
    Guests can embark on a journey with a three-step assessment that includes a health and wellness consultation session, a functional fitness assessment at RAKxa GAYA, and an in-depth doctor consultation at the VitalLife Scientific Wellness Centre and Traditional Wellness at RAKxa JAI. We place emphasis on addressing the entirety of an individualʼs health by comprehensively examining their medical history to gain a complete understanding of the current health status. Upon completion of the initial consultation, a tailored programme is designed to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident incorporating changes into your daily life. The treatment plan will evolve over time as you progresson your wellness journey. Next, we move onto the Functional Fitness Assessment(FFA) to analyze your daily essential functional movement including strength, mobility, balance, and coordination to guide you to the right treatments, classes, and exercises that suit you best while with us and in your everyday life back home. Then guests will have the chance to consult with an anti-ageing doctor to review all your conditions. Additionally, at the VitalLife Scientific Wellness Centre at RAKxa Wellness, a full repertoire of laboratory tests including complete blood test, hormone panel screening, food intolerance test, micronutrient test, and urine metal test is provided along with online consultation with nutritionists. Our anti-ageing doctors will work collaboratively with the other RAKxa’s traditional therapists with years of experience in practising Ayurveda, Traditional Thai medicine, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, to create a fully integrative personalised wellness programme.

    What was the inspiration behind launching RAKxa, the luxury wellness destination?
    We understand that everyone’s health journey is unique and ever-changing. When it comes to individual health, a ‘one size fits all’ treatment will not be as effective as a personalised one where each individual’s health issues are uniquely treated. We are dedicated to being your trusty health guide, offering valuable support to those navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. We are dedicated to healing, sustaining, and preventing – a lasting wellness journey tailored to your unique needs. We embrace an integrative approach as a whole to wellbeing through a combination of health care, therapies, treatments, and wisdom of traditional and modern medicine, along with, nutrition, rest, and taking advantage of their unique healing benefits that complement one another, then integrate them into a healing system or what we call a programme, to deliver synergistic and complementary wellness results, with a more pleasant healing experience. Our brand philosophy states, ‘Health is Wealth’ – Everyone wishes to guard and cherish their health as much as their wealth.
    “We believe that a balance of opposing forces, known as Yin and Yang, is crucial for both the body’s optimal functioning and overall health.”

    The villas are designed to encourage deep rest and reflection. How does the design and layout ensure utmost relaxation?
    The layout and function of the villas are ergonomically designed by doctors to create a safe and comfortable resting space for everyone. The bed’s height is set to no higher than 70cm for comfort, especially for elderly guests or those with back pain and injuries. Natural materials such as hypoallergenic cotton silk bedsheets are chosen, with a choice of six pillow types for our guests to choose from (contour massage, cervical opedic, classic natural latex, buckwheat, companion, and memory foam), all are made from natural materials. The organic selection of amenities made from high-quality natural materials designed by Thai local brands embraces the idea of giving back to the local community. Our rooms are decorated with earthy tones, creating a calm and serene atmosphere. Soft fabrics and blackout curtains are installed throughout the villas so that our guests can enjoy a peaceful and undisturbed night’s rest.
    The RAKxa’s wellness cuisine is centered on ingredients. How does the retreat focus on restoring balance through food?
    We believe that good food is the best medicine. Our food philosophy is rooted in the idea that what we eat can profoundly impact our overall health and wellness. By understanding each of our guest’s unique dietary needs, conditions, and preferences, we could offer a personalised healthy and balanced dietary menu. At the beginning of your programme – our chefs and nutritionists collaborate with doctors and use dietary lab test results to curate personalised menus that meet individual health goals, from optimising gut health for efficient nutrient absorption to striving to minimise and eventually eliminate harmful toxins accumulated in the body. Also, we work with our traditional medicine doctors – we believe that a balance of opposing forces, known as Yin and Yang, is crucial for both the body’s optimal functioning and overall health.

    Science and tradition come together at RAKxa. How are the traditional treatments combined with energy healing practices?
    Energy Medicine at RAKxa Integrative Wellness is a healing practice that is based on the perpetual transmutation of vibrational energy and has been around for centuries. The techniques are cultivated in various cultures and traditions, and our talented guru’s conduct with grace and skill. At RAKxa, we offer unique examples of this methodology from all corners of the world: singing bowls from ancient Tibet, chakra and pranic healing, part of ancient Ayurveda methodology, healing with crystals which date back to Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece, and Reiki, which originates from Japan. The transformative effects of energy healing help to unleash joy and peace by manipulating brainwaves, enhancing individuals’ chemistry and hormone levels, removing energy stagnation and improving your overall wellbeing. Energy healing can be integrated and treated alongside other medical services, whether it is exercises, physical therapies, or administering medical care such as intravenous vitamin (IV) infusions, because we want everyone to be in good health both inside and out and, importantly, in mind and spirit.

    The property’s medical gym uses technology, functional medicine and the science of movement – what are some of the bespoke exercise routines available?
    Our medical gym at RAKxa Gaya uses a diagnostic approach, drawing upon technology, physiotherapy, sports medicine, and the science of movement to create a personalised exercise. RAKxa’s team of physiotherapists and sports scientist conduct a comprehensive assessment of guests’ body posture, stability, endurance, strength, coordination and balance, as well as everyday movement using state-of-the-art equipment and world-class Olympic Grade Standard machines such as walk-pattern analysis with Gait Analysis, Functional Assessment with Huber, and Neuromuscular reactivation using Redcord Muscle Function Restoration with Red Cord Exercise. Following a thorough assessment, the results are then interpreted by a staff of movement specialists, physiotherapists, and wellness trainers who create custom-made training plans that blend results-oriented, corrective exercises,that are both modern and traditional. Your training programme will be specifically tailored to your conditionsand abilities, as well as your personal wellness goals. Head to Toe Stretch, which is a one-on-one session provided by medical gym staff, is recommended. This passive stretch helps you gently loosen up your physical tension, reduce lactic acid build-up, and improve your range of motion and flexibility.
    The VitalLife provides hyper-personalised treatments – what’s the science behind this technology?
    Our anti-ageing medicine is an array of modern technologies from advanced diagnostic equipment to innovative therapeutic interventions that create hyper-personalised treatments designed to restore and optimise guests’ health and longevity. We strive to provide guests with the highest level of medical standards and care, ensuring they receive the most advanced and tailored anti-ageing solutions in a comfortable and welcoming environment. The treatment sessions are based in the Medical Wellness Clinic under the supervision of medical professionals from VitalLife.
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