Relax, recover and recharge in Fiji
A relaxing experience awaits you in Fiji
It’s been a year; one we’re all unlikely to forget in a hurry. While we’re all enjoying rediscovering our own backyard, it’s hard not to let thoughts wander to where we might go when those international borders finally open.
While long haul flights might feel a little overwhelming, there are plenty of amazing destinations very close to our shores. Fiji does stand out if you’re looking to recharge your spirit as well as your body. Those Fijian smiles are world-renowned for calming even the most frazzled of nerves and making everything feel okay, even after a year that’s been anything but.
So what makes Fiji such a joyous destination?
The ‘Bula Spirit’ is no myth - Professor Lea Waters (President of the International Positive Psychology Association) visited the island nation prior to Covid-19 and discovered there’s an actual scientific phenomenon that makes the Fijian islands one of the happiest places on earth.
“Fiji has a neurological phenomenon known as ‘emotional contagion’ and it occurs in all 333 islands, whereby someone’s smile or kind welcome, the energy is felt by everyone around.” says Waters.
“Fijians put their community first. When you care for and give to others you can boost your own immune system and mental health. Science shows taking a break—for five minutes or five days—recharges your brain, relaxes your nervous system and reconnects you to what is meaningful in your life. Much of Fijian’s happiness is because they disconnect from the rest of the world and worry less about the bigger negative issues.”
Because many Kiwis have been - understandably - experiencing feelings of anxiety and fatigue, heading somewhere where the conditions are perfect for producing serotonin (the happy hormone) seems smart.
Waters explains that the physical sunlight, breathing in oxygen from nature and being part of a community allow the brain to naturally produce serotonin; a holiday and therapy all in one. It also helps that Fiji is one of only a handful of countries in the world to be declared Covid-contained since May 2020.
Fiji has many health and wellness initiatives all in different forms, so if you’re looking at an island holiday to relax and recharge from a frazzling year, here are a few to consider:
Gaiatree Sanctuary
Nestled in the lush forests of Taveuni Island, it’s all about nourishing your body at Gaiatree Sanctuary. The stunning organic spice plantation garden doubles as a day club and ‘nectar lab’. At the end of the fascinating tour, choose from a range of high-quality superfood infused meals accompanied by a fresh smoothie or rejuvenating herbal tonic. www.gaiatreesanctuary.com
Six Senses Fiji
Located on gorgeous Malolo Island in the Mamanuca Islands, Six Senses Fiji design individualised wellness journeys for each guest including sleep schedules,
eating plans and mindfulness sessions. Reconnecting with nature, eating healthy produce direct from the garden and participating in conservation efforts are all part of a road to reinvigoration. www.sixsensesfiji.com
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort
This beautiful resort in Savusavu focuses on rest and relaxation, authentic cuisine, local culture and nature. The focus is on getting families to disconnect from technology so that they can reconnect with each other. Wi-fi availability is restricted, there are no TVs in bedrooms, family volunteering opportunities are provided and complimentary baby-butlers, kids’ club and buddy services also allow parents time to reconnect. www.fijiresort.com
Nanuku Auberge Resort
This luxury beachfront boutique property offers a tropical island experience focussed on wellbeing. Guests can access wellness gurus, be stirred by the centuries-old healing traditions and experience ancient methods of massage passed down through generations. The experience is complemented by Nanuku’s organic cuisine taken straight from their gardens, including 28 indigenous plants. They even produce their own honey, coffee beans and beer. www.aubergeresorts.com/nanuku
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