What Wellness Retreat Dreams Are Made Of
Have you ever been on a Wellness Retreat? This was my first time and I was so blown away by the experience that I needed to write about it. Read on to find out why this Wellness Retreat was so special!
I Woke Up In Paradise
Unlike many retreats I have been invited to in the past, this one was held in the beautiful Dominican Republic at a Wellness Inclusive Resort, called Melia Punta Cana Beach. The resort is a 5-star adults-only resort with every aspect of the property keeping wellness top of mind. From dedicated meditation spots and cozy hammocks around the resort to an open-air yoga tent on the beach, the location of this wellness retreat was nothing short of amazing. I should also mention we were right on the beach (Bávaro Beach) which offers white sand and turquoise-blue waters. To top it all off, as part of this particular program I was reserved at The Level, which provides personalized attention and exclusive access to private resort areas. I woke up in paradise every day!
The Wellness Program
Although I was there for a specific event (The Isha Foundation Event) in celebration of International Yoga Day, Melia Punta Cana Beach still offers a stacked itinerary of health and fitness activities. I not only got to enjoy a morning meditation and an afternoon yoga class, but I also learned from experts on various topics, such as nutrition and breathing. As a guest at the resort, you also have access to classes like Mud Cleansing, Coconut Oil Creation and Cooking Sessions. There is also complimentary bikes for all to use! So much detail has been put into the program and there is something for everybody! I’ll tell you more about the program, but first let’s talk about the spa!
Get Your Spa On
The YHI Spa is by far one of the most magical places! As a guest at The Level Wellness Suites I was also offered a daily complimentary 30-minute service at the spa. Yes, you read that right … DAILY! You can choose from a Signature Facial, a Massage or a Calming Nature Body Treatment. I have to say all were incredible! I highly recommend that you also stick around the spa to enjoy their water therapies or even just to hang out to enjoy all the zen vibes!
Feed Thy Soul
For me, food makes everything better! Melia Punta Cana Beach has a wide selection of quality and healthy food options. For breakfast, we dined at Quimera which never disappoints! I loved their avocado toast and their lobster + eggs benny! Green juice was always available and the resort also offered a variety of fresh juices on the beach to enjoy post yoga class! This was a Wellness Retreat experience that definitely could not be beat! I was not only feeding my soul with movement and meditation, but my tummy was satisfied too!
Yoga, Beach, Repeat.
Experiencing a yoga class at Melia Punta Cana Beach was one of a kind. We were right on the beach where you could enjoy the sound of the ocean while holding your warrior pose. Kira, who is a resident instructor at the resort, was extremely knowledgeable and down to earth. She truly taught from a place of love every single class. Make sure you sign up for one of her sessions when you visit! Following every class I would cool down in the water and sometimes even take a nap in the shade. For the first time in years I allowed myself to enjoy some self-care with zero guilt. The entire experience at this resort felt like a dream!
Sleep is the Best Meditation
The rooms at this resort also centred around Wellness. Hands down to the vitamin infused showers, air purifiers and the coconut water always being fully stocked in the fridge! The room was a little slice of heaven. I had some of my best sleeps in this bed - a quality mattress and pillow does not go unnoticed in my opinion! What’s more, I was often surprised with an evening dessert that was health-themed in some unique way. As a Wellness Inclusive resort, it covered all grounds! PS - besides my room, my next fave area was the lobby … it was just breathtaking!
Connection
The best part of this Wellness Retreat was the connection that was made between people. After two years of zoom classes, this IRL experience was exactly what the doctor ordered. I made so many new friends from all over the world and also connected with several wonderful people who worked at Melia Punta Cana Beach. The staff at the resort were beyond exceptional and always willing to go out of their way to make sure guests were happy! I am so grateful for this adventure and cannot wait to come back to Melia Punta Cana Beach … perhaps it will be to host my very own retreat! WILL YOU JOIN?