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Left: Accommodations at Six Senses Vana are perfect for unwinding. Bottom: Dramatic backdrops welcome overnight guests at Bali Silent Retreat.

and their life choices from a differ- ent perspective. “Our egos diminish when we stop talking,” she says. “We begin to listen, to hear things, especially in nature, that speak to our inner voice. When there is no social talking, we stop defining who we are. We begin to discover inner truths and perspec- tives about ourselves and others.” BLUE ZONES Contemplating the healthiest cultures around the world and learning how to incorporate similar lifestyle standards into one’s own every day is the thrust behind “Blue Zones,” a term that’s come to mean areas with an extremely high concentration of centenarians. Although the world’s five Blue Zones—Ikaria, Greece; Loma Linda, California; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Oki- nawa, Japan; and Sardinia, Italy—are geographically scattered, these cultures share common character-

istics—including minimal stress, strong social ties, regular movement, a clear sense of purpose, and diets grounded in whole foods—that seem to lead to a long and high-quality life. “The promise of the Blue Zones is that there are simple and enjoyable things you can do to live a better and longer life,” says Celine Vadam, retreats and hospitality expert at Blue Zones LLC. “And they are scien- tifically based.” To avoid oversaturating these destinations with tourists, Minne- sota-based Blue Zones LLC offers immersive experiences around the world that are curated and guided by experts who are eager to share longevity principles. “We have partnered with proper- ties across the world to host retreats, some near Blue Zone areas, like at Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo, and Halekulani, Okinawa,” Vadam says. “Others are held in

and monthly events, such as healing fire ceremonies scheduled around new and full moons. “Guests do what they want, when they want,” says founder Patricia Miklautsch. “We offer the space for each person to explore their inner voice, with spiritual integrity and intelligence. Here, they can relax and recharge their minds.” A silent retreat can result in clarity, calm, and deep and restful sleep. After a few days, Miklautsch says, guests often see themselves

To help uncover the ideal destina- tions and programs, here is a sample of some popular types of wellness retreats. SILENCE The epitome of mindfulness, silent retreats can help travelers block out the noise of the world and self-reflect without distraction. These programs are steeped in quiet meditation, and many have a religious or guru-led element. However, others simply provide a conducive space for intense self-reflection. Bali Silent Retreat, located in central Bali, isn’t a traditional retreat center. Rather than facilitating group getaways, it offers a peaceful sanctu- ary that includes a water mediation area, a dedicated crying bench, and stargazing beds, as well as a variety of areas for active self-reflection such as a labyrinth, a jungle path, and a rice-field walk. Guests can stay overnight in the retreat’s lodge or purchase a day pass. There are daily classes and programs, and weekly

Well Traveled An expanding definition of well-being that targets body and soul is adding dimension to traditional retreats, from Bali to New Mexico

there is more choice than ever. “There’s pretty much a retreat for everything now, whether it’s grief, heartbreak, menopause, or life purpose,” says Beth McGroarty, vice president, research, Global Wellness Institute, a nonprofit based in Miami. Over the past 10 years, there also has been a movement toward authentic encounters. People flock to Asia to receive traditional Chinese medicine, ayurvedic bodywork, and yoga; to Mexico for sweat lodges; and to South America and the Caribbean for psychedelic experiences. Almost every country has local wellness practices to explore. “People seem hungry for what’s

indigenous to a destination and having indigenous practitioners deliver it,” McGroarty says. Wellness tourism is forecast to more than double from a $617 billion market in 2017 to an estimated $1.4 trillion by 2027, according to the Global Wellness Institute. While many resorts have revamped their everyday wellness programs and facilities, now they often feature special branded retreats organized by well-known experts.

BY ELAINE PAOLONI QUILICI

F or decades, wellness travel was geared toward women and focused on pampering or weight loss. But the business has changed, and a plethora of special- ized retreats has taken center stage.

From silent contemplation and purpose-seeking programs, to exploring the ways of healthy cul- tures around the world, and using technology to delve into the science behind one’s individual health,

Above: Blue Zones LLC holds retreats in places where people have extraordinary longevity.

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