News
Ananda in the Himalayas returns to The Nautilus Maldives for soulful healing residency
At The Nautilus Maldives, wellness is more than a retreat – it is a deeply personal journey of realignment, restoration, and renewal. From 11th to 18th August 2025, The Nautilus welcomes back the globally acclaimed wellness experts from its esteemed partner, Ananda in the Himalayas, for an exclusive residency: “Holistic Healing for Balancing Energies”.
Rooted in the timeless principles of Ayurveda and energy healing, this immersive retreat invites seekers of well-being to recalibrate their inner rhythm. Guided by expert practitioners from Ananda in the Himalayas – the multi-award-winning, world-renowned holistic wellness retreat – the experience draws upon elemental balance to restore vitality, emotional harmony, and a profound sense of inner peace.
Guests will be in the care of Ms Sunita Kumari and Mr Sandarbh, each bringing a wealth of knowledge that blends Ayurvedic tradition with contemporary therapeutic insight. With over nine years of international experience, Sunita is renowned for her intuitive ability to enhance circulation, revitalise the body, and support long-term resilience. As a senior trainer at Ananda, she curates bespoke programmes that address the complexities of modern life, while honouring ancient healing philosophies. Sandarbh brings a serene presence and a personalised approach to each treatment, gently encouraging the body’s natural rhythm to restore itself. His thoughtful techniques foster a deep sense of calm and release, guiding guests into a state of profound rest and renewal.
This intimate residency invites guests to experience Ananda’s signature energy-balancing therapies, including Manipura and Kundalini Back Massage, the harmonising Tibetan Ku Nye Massage, and Ananda Moksha – a ritual of release inspired by the concept of liberation and the unimpeded flow of prana. To ensure the journey continues with intention, each guest will receive a complimentary follow-up consultation with Ananda’s Ayurvedic physician, offering personalised guidance to support everyday life and wellbeing throughout the year. For those wishing to deepen their journey, curated glimpses of Ananda’s Ayurvedic cuisine will be available anytime, anywhere across the island.
With just 26 private houses and residences, The Nautilus is a haven of freedom set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll. Surrounded by ivory sands, vibrant coral reefs, and the tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean, this island sanctuary offers a space to breathe, to realign, and to simply be. Thoughtfully designed boho-chic interiors, exceptional spa rituals, and unscripted moments of stillness come together to create a true retreat for the soul.
Manipura Massage (85 mins)
Manipura means “beautiful, shining jewel” in Sanskrit. It refers to the solar plexus (navel) chakra, our centre of fire and sun energy that ignites our health and vitality. This transformative treatment is designed to stimulate and balance the solar ‘sun’ vitality within us through reflexology and Marma massage, lymphatic drainage, and the application of Himalayan herb poultices applied to the 10 petals of the solar plexus. This unique body ritual combines a Himalayan crystal scrub to purify, detox, and stimulate the lymphatic system with various techniques to harness and restore the energy of the body.
Kundalini Back Massage (85 mins)
Kundalini – a female goddess of awareness in the form of a coiled snake – is the dormant energy present at the base of the spine. When awakened, this powerful force travels up the spine to the third eye, leading to increased energy and spiritual enlightenment. This treatment begins with a Himalayan crystal scrub to purify, detox, and stimulate the lymphatic system, and also cleanse the energy body. This is followed by a back massage which is deeply soothing and relaxing, balancing the whole nervous system owing to the synergistic use of an essential oil blend combined with ancient techniques of massage and chakra healing.
Tibetan Ku Nye Massage (90 mins)
A Tibetan body massage designed to balance the five elements and restore a harmonious flow of energy and vitality in the body. A blend of five essential oils, chosen to balance the elements, is combined with traditional Tibetan techniques of cupping, kneading, and acupressure using hot Himalayan crystal salt poultices. The aim of this treatment is to restore the nervous system and stimulate a free flow of energy within the body.
Shiatsu (60/90 mins)
Ananda Shiatsu is a full-body pressure point experience involving the application of pressure with the thumbs, palms, elbows, and knees to specific points or areas on the body to maintain physical and mental wellbeing. Shiatsu is known for reducing stress, improving circulation, and boosting the immune system. It is also believed to have sedative effects and may alleviate insomnia. In a broader sense, Shiatsu is thought to enhance physical vitality and emotional wellbeing.
Deep Tissue Massage (85 mins)
Deep tissue massages involve an understanding of the different layers of the body and the ability to work with the tissues in these layers to relax, lengthen, and release holding patterns in the most effective and energy-efficient way possible. They are especially recommended for most forms of chronic muscle tension and are generally effective for individuals who experience overall body tension due to stress or overexertion.
Ananda Moksha (90 min)
The holistic therapy is inspired by the concept of Moksha, which signifies a liberation of the senses and a release for the free flow of prana, or energy. This treatment has been customised to work on different levels of the human body and consciousness to create a sense of overall physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Ananda Moksha is a full-body massage which uses traditional Ayurvedic therapeutic techniques practised for thousands of years in India. It begins with a traditional oil application using long strokes across the entire body, followed by the release of pressure points, thereby stimulating the musculoskeletal system and leaving you with increased energy and a heightened sense of vitality. This immediately eliminates sluggishness and simultaneously helps to ease discomfort, blockages, aches, and pain. The therapy continues with slow release along the spine, followed by abdominal circulation, and ends with relaxation, toning, and easing of muscle tension in the shoulders, neck, head, and scalp. The therapy works on the physical system, but its effects go deep into the recesses of the mind and emotions. The result is a feeling of complete rest, repair, and rejuvenation.
To learn more about the upcoming Ananda Wellness Residency at The Nautilus, visit https://www.thenautilusmaldives.com/ananda-wellness-residency. To reserve your place at the “Holistic Healing for Balancing Energies” retreat, please contact The Nautilus at hello@thenautilusmaldives.com.
Drink
THE OZEN COLLECTION to host sixth Bodegas Viñátigo wine master class
For wine lovers and curious travellers alike, there are few experiences as captivating as discovering a wine with a story. And few stories are as compelling as that of Bodegas Viñátigo a winery born from the volcanic soils of Tenerife, where winemakers have spent over thirty years bringing nearly forgotten grape varieties back to life.
This November, that story arrives once again in the Maldives, as THE OZEN COLLECTION hosts the sixth annual Bodegas Viñátigo Wine Master Class, a rare and immersive journey through the flavours, traditions, and artistry of the Canary Islands.
The journey begins at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO from 23rd to 25th November with The Submerged Cellar Soirée at M6m, the iconic underwater restaurant six metres beneath the lagoon, with the experimental underwater aged wines as welcome drink and a curated menu celebrating land and sea is thoughtfully paired with the expressive wines of Tenerife. The exploration continues across the resort’s signature dining venues, each offering a distinct perspective on the Bodegas Viñátigo collection. At Sea, Salt & Soy, the bold flavours of Pan-Asian cuisine meet the nuanced elegance of Canarian wines at TRADITION PEKING, creating a symphony of taste and texture. The experience culminates with Brunch with Shakespeare, a refined and poetic conclusion to the Maadhoo chapter, where wine, food, and storytelling converge beneath the Maldivian sun.

“Our wines from Tenerife’s volcanic soil to the pristine shores of the Maldives has been an extraordinary experience,” shares Juan Jesús Méndez. “Our collaboration with THE OZEN COLLECTION has allowed us to share these remarkable wines with a global audience. The continued enthusiasm from our guests encourages us to create even more expressions of our wines.”
The vinous voyage continues at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI from 27th to 29th November, where curated dinners and tastings explore the artistry of the wines through innovative culinary collaborations. The journey begins with The Sand Cellar Soirée at ORIGINꓱ, a contemporary dining experience that pairs the depth of volcanic wines with modern gastronomic artistry. A Pan-Asian dinner at Sand, Smoke & Soy brings together two distinctive culinary traditions in a creative dialogue, exploring the harmony between bold island flavours and the heritage of the Canary Islands. The experience culminates with Sunset with Shakespeare, an intimate beachside wine pairing offering guests the rare opportunity to engage directly with the Bodegas Viñátigo wine makers, connect with the passion and heritage behind each vintage, and toast to an unforgettable journey.
“Canary wine is a story of land, tradition, and connection. My journey with Bodegas Viñátigo has taken me to the annual harvest in Tenerife recently, where I witnessed the care and precision that shape every vintage. That experience brought a new level of detail and understanding to our collaboration, reinforcing our commitment to bringing guests not just a wine, but a sense of place. This partnership has enriched our offering and deepened our dedication to authentic, terroir-driven experiences,” said Rohit Salunke, Assistant Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core, said about his experience with the wine makers.

Since 2021, THE OZEN COLLECTION and Bodegas Viñátigo have shared a commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship, and the art of winemaking. Each year, this exclusive collaboration brings the rare volcanic wines of Tenerife to the shores of the Maldives, offering guests an intimate glimpse into the heritage and passion behind every vintage. Over the years, the programme has evolved into a signature event on the Maldivian luxury calendar, a celebration of terroir, tradition, and the enduring bond between two island cultures.
As part of the resort’s all-encompassing RESERVE™ Plan and INDULGENCE™ Plan, this once-a-year experience invites guests to indulge in an extraordinary celebration of wine, cuisine, and island beauty. With limited spaces and a programme designed to enchant both connoisseurs and newcomers alike, we encourage you to reserve your place and raise a glass to the artistry of land, sea, and timeless craft.
Meditation
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort to mark World Wellness Weekend with three-day celebration
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will commemorate World Wellness Weekend 2026 with an immersive three-day celebration inspired by the restorative power of nature. Taking place from September 18 to 20, 2026, the thoughtfully curated program invites guests to embrace mindful living, holistic wellbeing, and meaningful connection through experiences designed to foster balance, vitality, and renewal in an extraordinary island setting.
Rooted in the St. Regis tradition of crafting exceptional experiences, the weekend brings together movement, mindfulness, self-care, and wellness education against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldives. The three-day program includes yoga and meditation, Pilates, strength and fitness training, Anti-Gravity Yoga, aquatic fitness experiences, skincare workshops, and guided self-care sessions. These experiences encourage guests to reconnect with themselves, cultivate inner balance, and embrace a more mindful way of living.
Nestled between lush tropical rainforest and pristine white-sand beaches on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers a serene sanctuary where luxury and wellbeing exist in harmony. From sunrise rituals overlooking the Indian Ocean to transformative experiences at the award-winning Iridium Spa, every element of the weekend is thoughtfully designed to inspire presence, deepen one’s connection with nature, and nurture a lasting sense of wellbeing.

Day One | Friday, September 18, 2026
The weekend begins with Morning Yoga at the Yoga Sala, where guests are invited to greet the day with sun salutations that energise the body and calm the mind. A dynamic blend of aerobics and boxing follows, designed to strengthen, challenge, and invigorate.
Later, guests can explore the principles of holistic wellbeing during Balancing Your Doshas, an interactive Ayurvedic workshop focused on achieving greater harmony between mind, body, and environment. The afternoon continues with an energising Beach Boot Camp, before transitioning into a restorative Chakra Yoga session, encouraging self-expression, authenticity, and personal growth.

Day Two | Saturday, September 19, 2026
The second day begins with Sunrise Yoga and Meditation, followed by Mat Pilates, session designed to enhance core strength, balance, and flexibility.
A highlight of the day, Anti-Gravity Yoga combines traditional yoga principles with suspended movement, creating a unique experience that is both engaging and restorative. At Iridium Spa, guests may participate in a Skin Analysis Workshop, featuring personalised consultations and expert recommendations tailored to individual skincare and wellness goals.
The afternoon features Strength Training, before concluding with a guided Chakra Meditation centred on Ajna, the third-eye chakra, encouraging clarity, intuition, and reflection.

Day Three | Sunday, September 20, 2026
The final day starts with a tranquil Morning Yoga session, followed by an invigorating HIIT Workout, challenging participants with high-intensity movement designed to elevate fitness, endurance, and vitality.
Guests are then welcomed to the iconic overwater Iridium Spa for an interactive BR Skin Instant® Workshop, where tailored insights and expert advice highlight the relationship between wellbeing and radiant, healthy skin.
The wellness journey continues with Pool Bike Fitness, a low-impact aquatic workout that combines resistance and cardiovascular training, followed by The Art of Massage Workshop, where guests can learn simple therapeutic techniques to support relaxation and recovery.
The weekend concludes with a Modified HYROX Workout on the beach, a dynamic functional fitness challenge that blends strength, stamina, and cardio. A final Chakra Yoga session dedicated to Sahasrara, the crown chakra, brings the celebration to a meaningful close.
A Journey to Renewal
Nestled between lush tropical rainforest and pristine white-sand beaches on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort provides an extraordinary setting for renewal and discovery. From sunrise rituals overlooking the Indian Ocean to transformative experiences at the award-winning Iridium Spa, every element of the World Wellness Weekend is thoughtfully designed to inspire presence, deepen one’s connection with nature, and nurture a lasting sense of wellbeing.
For more information on World Wellness Weekend 2026 and the resort’s wellness offerings, visit stregismaldives.com.
Featured
Baros Maldives sets festive calendar of dining, culture and marine experiences
Baros Maldives will welcome guests for its festive season from 22 December 2026 to 7 January 2027, with a programme centred on the island’s natural surroundings, Maldivian heritage and a series of culinary, marine and cultural experiences.
The programme will combine Christmas and New Year traditions with activities inspired by island life, including ocean excursions, local cultural experiences, festive dining and wellbeing sessions.
The season will begin with a Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, followed by a series of activities introducing guests to festive traditions and Maldivian culture. These will include a Christmas cookie workshop, an Ocean, Coconut & Spice cooking class, a Maldivian Heritage Evening and an Island Christmas Market.
Marine experiences will remain a central part of the festive programme. Guests will be able to join a Sunrise Nooma sailing experience, take part in fishing trips at sunrise or twilight, explore the house reef with the resort’s marine team or join a dolphin-watching cruise.
Private yacht excursions, visits to local islands and trips to Malé will also be available for guests wishing to explore beyond the resort.
Baros Maldives will also offer a series of culinary experiences throughout the festive period. These will include a Sake Pairing Dinner, a Great Gatsby-themed five-course dinner and a Champagne Dinner inspired by the Seven Seas.
Other dining experiences will include a Butcher’s Block buffet, an Omakase tasting lunch and a Master Chef Tuna Carving Show & Tasting. Guests will also be able to take part in wine discovery experiences, cocktail-making sessions and an Island Crafted Cocktails programme.
On Christmas Eve, guests will gather at The Lighthouse for a cocktail reception before continuing to Lime for the Christmas Eve Gala Dinner.
Christmas Day will feature breakfast, festive activities and time for guests to enjoy the beach, lagoon and other island experiences with family and friends.
New Year’s Eve celebrations will begin with a cocktail reception, followed by a Gala Dinner, live entertainment and the countdown to 2027.
New Year’s Day will start with a celebratory brunch, followed by a selection of wellbeing and dining experiences. These will include a beachfront degustation dinner accompanied by live violin and saxophone performances.
Younger guests will also have a dedicated programme of festive activities, including mocktail-making, Christmas cookie workshops and island-based activities designed for families and children.
Throughout the season, Baros Maldives will host live music, marine presentations, yoga and meditation sessions alongside its wider programme of dining, recreation and ocean experiences.
The festive programme is intended to reflect the character of Baros Maldives by combining Christmas and New Year celebrations with the island’s marine environment, culinary offering and Maldivian culture.
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