The Oxford dictionary defines wellbeing as the state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy. There are perhaps different ways to achieve wellbeing, but one of them is through nature. Did you know that nature has an intrinsic ability to nourish, nurture and heal to the very core of our being?
“The Seychelles is the perfect place to explore the power that nature holds for our wellbeing,” says Robin Hanson Coordinator of Nature Seychelles Green Health programme, which provides a full range of nature-based activities for wellbeing including a non-faith based system of yoga, meditation, physical fitness, and healthy eating.
Some of these activities will be offered at the inaugural ‘Seychelles International Mind Body and Spirit Festival’ which Nature Seychelles is partnering with. The festival is being held from 18-29 June across several islands in what the Seychelles Tourism Board has called “a celebration of wellbeing in the perfect setting.” It is expected to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit for locals and visitors alike. Events include Tai Chi, meditation, yoga, spa, massage, music and art, and self empowerment in beautiful settings.
“The festival will enable you to re-discover yourself and re-charge your batteries through a veritable carnival of holistic activities, free community events, affordable Workshops, Masterclasses and Retreats,” festival directors David and Marsha Clarke of the United Kingdom say. They have brought together a cross section of local and international partners to facilitate activities.
Robin, who is a British Wheel of Yoga trained teacher, will deliver three activities over the course of three days.
If you love hikes, get those legs working and hearts pumping during a moderate walk to one of the most breath taking views of the Seychelles on June 18. Here, you will discover Seychelles hidden secrets, whilst getting fit, healthy and happy.
On June 20th, you can take part in the evening green yoga class at Nature Seychelles in the purposely built Nature X centre, which is located within the beautiful surroundings of the Sanctuary at Roche Caiman.
Green yoga has many health benefits. People who attend the regular classes say they have been extremely helpful. During the classes everyone works at their own level doing physical work before resting down for a long relaxation session. “I encourage self exploration to hone the teacher within, and to practice and focus on what is important and to realise we have everything we need right here and now,” Robin says.
Or participate in the Jungle Yoga, which Robin will hold at the Mission Lodge on June 20th during the morning hours. Participants will practice in this unique spot, while soaking up the stunning views on offer. The session will include a physical practice that encourages working with a compassionate awareness, leading to a listening concentration practice and finally resting down under the warm Seychelles sun.
“At the heart of all sessions will be our wellbeing and how our own efforts can be aided by the exploration of the natural world around us,” says Robin.
It’s important that you book the activities before hand, Robin says. All events can be booked via the festival’s website http://www.seychellesmindbodyspirit.com/.
The festival is expected to draw visitors to Seychelles, who will have the opportunity to rejuvenate while enjoying the famed sun, sand and sea. It will promote the Seychelles as the world’s natural health spa and one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly destinations on earth. Organisers are planning to hold the festival every year.