5 new wellness spots to check out in 2020

The expansive Sangha Retreat overlooking the pristine Yangcheng Lake in Suzhou has programmes to suit a broad definition of wellness. Situated 90 minutes west of Shanghai, the 19-hectare resort’s special features include a sound healing dome, a 12-stage hydrothermal circuit and an extensive Chinese and Western therapy spa menu with 21 programmes (ranging from two to seven days) covering concerns such as spinal adjustment, sleep disorders, gut health, weight loss and heart health.

Embark on a personal transformation at the luxe Canyon Ranch Woodside resort where wellness is infused with immersion in nature and a dose of creativity. Located just outside San Francisco, within a historic redwood forest, accommodation options include glass-clad treehouses that look out to a canopy of redwoods. Reconnect with nature through activities that range from equus coaching (a life coaching session with horses) to a jungle gym course, have dinner with an artist colony’s residents or peruse the spa treatment menu which focuses on the body, mind and longevity, as well as genetics and brain health.

Situated on the waterfront of the Chao Phraya River, the newly opened Four Seasons Bangkok is a spot of zen within bustling Bangkok. Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy along an open-courtyard concept with statement water features, the hotel’s on-site Wellness Centre offers “anti-gravity” yoga sessions, spiritual therapies, stand-up paddleboard yoga and bespoke spa services such as the Bellabaci Cupping Massage to target stubborn cellulite and the Harmonizing Quartz Massage that uses the healing power of quartz to revitalise the body.

Take a meditative pause in the serene hills of Panchalimedu, three and a half hours from Kochi, at Prakriti Shakti where naturopathy is at the centre of all treatments. With a minimum commitment of seven days, treatments such as heliotherapy, energy medicine, hydrotherapy and yoga therapy are dispensed by a team of doctors and nurses to treat the root causes of ailments like metabolic disorders, hypertension and high cholesterol. Expect a carefully planned diet and zero caffeine intake.

This 2020, plan a different trip to New York. Instead of doing the usual urban dining-partying itinerary, move north to the Catskills Mountains and snag a space at one of creative organisation Blind Seed’s weekend HeartCamps designed to help cultivate personal clarity and positivity in an inclusive, judgment-free space. The agenda varies but everything from digestive yoga, cacao ceremonies, sun gazing and sunset forest baths can be expected. The weekend retreats book up fast, but check their Instagram for the next free Urban Retreat evening taking place in the city.

To book a flight, visit singaporeairlines.com

SEE ALSO: 8 wellness trends to try in 2019