Bali bliss: 7 activities to boost your wellness journey
From sound healing to yoga and surf retreats, these invigorating Bali wellness experiences will do wonders for your health and wellbeing.
For many holidaymakers, Bali is all about the sun, sea, beach clubs and Bintangs.
But the small Indonesian island with a big reputation for partying is also the ultimate destination for those seeking peace, health, healing and spiritual awareness amid a fragrant, tropical setting.
Is it time to capture some serenity, balance your chakras, or kick-start your wellness journey?
Here are some activities to try on the Island of the Gods – just a six-and-a-half-hour flight from Sydney (and less than four hours from Perth).
Ancient sound healing in a pyramid
Sink into a state of deep relaxation as you lie back and let the meditative rhythms and vibrations of ancient instruments – such as drums, gongs, chimes and Tibetan singing bowls – wash over you.
This 90-minute group activity takes place in an atmospheric pyramid-style building at the Pyramids of Chi, Ubud.
As the energy builds in the space, it can be felt emotionally, physically and even spiritually.
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Yoga surf retreat at a peaceful haven
Love yoga and also love surfing? Or would you like to give them both a go?
Pelan Pelan resort, near Canggu, gives you the opportunity to experience both on a seven-night “Get It All” retreat, where you catch waves in the morning and relax with yoga and meditation sessions in the afternoon.
Balinese massages are also part of the package at this beautiful resort, which is located in a village surrounded by rice terraces.
Ecstatic dancing with a beach view
Feel your inhibitions slide away and the endorphins flow as you dance like nobody’s watching in an ecstatic dance session at Udara Bali, Seseh Beach.
The group session, in an airy pavilion overlooking the beach, is part of the resort’s weekly Udara Sunday Festival, which includes activities such as meditation, yogalates and sound healing.
Fire and ice treatment in a Moroccan-style spa
Bodyworks Spa in Seminyak is possibly the most Instagrammable day spa on the island.
Its Moroccan-style interior provides a dreamy backdrop to treatments ranging from exfoliation, aromatherapy and magnesium massages to marine collagen, vitamin C and deep-cleansing facials.
Try the fire and ice body treatment, which involves an infrared sauna and an ice bath.
It’s said to help improve sleep, circulation and skin, as well as ease muscle and joint pain.
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Chakra balancing at a blissful oasis
One for lovers of alternative medicine, chakras are considered the energy centres in your body.
During your one-hour session, a local healer will use crystals and sound vibrations to balance your chakras and help you deeply relax, while improving your blood flow.
The soothing setting is the Ananda Spa at the breathtaking Samanvaya resort in Sidemen, a peaceful town with dazzling views of rice fields and Mount Agung volcano.
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Ayurvedic treatments at a stunning sanctuary
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medicine healing system.
At Sukhavati Bali, in Abianbase in the island’s south, explore the range of Ayurvedic treatments aimed at helping you achieve peak health through holistic practices.
Rheumatoid arthritis, stress, fatigue and insomnia are some of the conditions targeted in the wellness and transformation programs at the lush resort, part owned by The House of Wellness presenter and ex-AFL footballer Luke Darcy.
Stay in one of the elegant villas set in stunning tranquil gardens.
Yoga, meditation and nutritious Ayurvedic food are also among the offerings.
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Music and wellness guidance at a rocker’s resort
How about adding a rock’n’roll edge to your self-care holiday?
Splash out at Soulshine Bali, a luxurious Ubud sound and wellness resort co-founded by singer and musician Michael Franti.
During the resort’s seven-night Soulrocker Music Experience retreat, spend time with the world-famous singer and his wife, Sara Agah Franti, and enjoy yoga, a DJ dance night, karaoke night, and health and wellness group coaching.
Of course, cocktails and pool frolics are also a must while you’re there!
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For more wellness activities:
- Not a fan of yoga? Try these gentle exercise alternatives for mind-body benefits
- Is HIRT what you need to boost your health and fitness?
- How aerial fitness can take your workout to new heights
- Soothing tones: Can sounds actually heal us?
Written by Joanne Trzcinski.
