Wellness in the Woods: The Rise of Forest Retreats as Holistic Health Destinations
The hustle and bustle of city life is surely draining. We all need to get away from it from time to time. One of the spots that is gaining popularity is a forest resort. They are emerging as holistic destinations for wellness lovers. Just think about it, you wake up and breathe fresh air (not a thing in the cities), hear the sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds, and experience calmness. That’s it, who wouldn’t like the experience? Well, that sums up the experience at a forest resort.
The Rise Of Forest Resorts
The famous tourist spots are all filled to the brim with travelers. Exploring those areas can be quite a hassle during peak seasons. If you are planning to travel to a calmer and quieter place, staying in forest resorts is one option that is gaining popularity.
Here are some of the reasons for the same:
1. Digital Disconnect
Name three things you cannot live without. Were your smartphones on this list? Mobiles and the Internet have become a staple for most of us. Whether it is checking social media for the latest updates or replying to work emails, we do it all using our mobiles. This is one of the reasons why people face issues like sleep disruption, FOMO, anxiety, depression, and attention span issues.
A trip to forests is like a digital detox where you disconnect with technology to reconnect with yourselves. Without the interference from screens and mobiles, you can take in the serene atmosphere around you. You can casually walk around in the area and discover the natural surroundings around you. You can even practice mindfulness and enjoy the break.
2. Holistic Healing
When you book a forest resort, you only think about some of the basic activities like bird-watching tours, jungle safaris, canoeing, hiking, trekking, boating, and kayaking. No doubt these activities are really enjoyable and adventurous if you have that kind of personality, but there are a lot of unexplored things that you might miss out on.
Forest resorts provide a perfect opportunity for people to connect with nature. Go for an accommodation that provides yoga classes, meditation classes, forest walking tours, forest bathing, and forest therapies.
3. Mental Clarity and Creativity
Many scientific studies suggest that spending time in nature has a positive effect on our creativity and clarity. In our daily lives, most of us are often multitasking to get things done. But did you know that this means you might suffer from cognitive fatigue? Kalpan's Attention Restoration Theory (ART) suggests that any kind of exposure to nature improves our focus and ability to concentrate.
When it comes to creativity, generating multiple solutions to a single problem is one aspect of it. This is basically called divergent thinking. People who spend more time in nature and participate in outdoor activities show increased divergent thinking.
4. Connection With Community
The city life is way too busy. People do not have time for each other. All of this often leads to social isolation among people. Taking a trip to the forests can really help fight these feelings as you can connect with like-minded individuals here. Group activities like meditation classes, guided tours, and nature walks help you create bonds that can even last after the trip is over.
Moreover, forest resorts also offer educational workshops on topics like sustainability, herbal medicines, and nature conservation. These classes are a great way to learn about what initiatives other people are taking and at the same time share your own experiences. This increases your knowledge and other people’s as well.
Top 3 Forest Resorts In The World
If you are convinced by their popularity and want to plan your next vacation to a forest resort, here are some of the options you can consider:
1. Kayon Jungle Resort, Bali
It is one of the top jungle resorts in the popular tourist destination of Bali. Just 25 minutes away from Ubud, the resort offers spa treatments as per local traditions, guided treks, and cultural experiences. You can even experience some local delicacies here and live life like a local.
2. Soneva Kiri, Thailand
Only 90 minutes away from Bangkok, Soneva Kiri is the best choice for people who prefer sustainability. This eco-luxury resort is perfect for getaway with families as it offers multiple activities for kids and adults. You can experience water sports, try ziplining, become a wildlife explorer, or tour Soneva Fushi’s Eco Centro.
3. Mango Bay Resort, Vietnam
If you want to skip the chaos of city life just like you skip YouTube ads, stay at the Mango Bay Resort in Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam. The beachfront bungalows offer scenic ocean views and you can indulge in activities like organic cruises, spa treatments, snorkeling, and island tours.
Conclusion
Digital overload and stress have become a part of our everyday lives now. The slightest inconvenience can cause us to worry. In such a scenario, seeking out these forest resorts can be a real help for your well-being. These retreats are refreshing, provide nature therapy, and increase awareness about mental health. So, the next time societal pressures weigh you down, trade off your urban life with a forest resort.