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Ananda in the Himalayas returns to The Nautilus Maldives for soulful healing residency

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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.

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Four Seasons Kuda Huraa introduces ŪRJĀ, a new naturopathy wellness island

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Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa has unveiled ŪRJĀ Naturopathy Island – the next evolution of holistic healing in the Maldives. Named after the Sanskrit word for vitality, ŪRJĀ is a wellness destination with a difference. Its programme balances naturopathic principles with scientific expertise, shifting the focus from surface-level relaxation to meaningful restoration.

ŪRJĀ was created with a clear intention: to move beyond the sameness of many modern spa experiences and offer something deeper. A space where ancient knowledge, natural healing and personal empowerment come together in harmony. Beyond buzzwords, trends and quick fixes, ŪRJĀ is designed for genuine, ongoing healing, not momentary escape.

Many treatments at ŪRJĀ feature AION A®, the powerful healing mineral discovered in an ancient Roman quarry in Würenlos, Switzerland by visionary Swiss naturopathic researcher Emma Kunz (1892–1963). Named it after the Greek for “without limitation”, AION A® supports detoxification, soothes inflammation, and encourages healing via positively charged ion exchange.

A Grounded Vision of Wellbeing

Rather than chasing the latest wellness protocol, ŪRJĀ takes a holistic path rooted in knowledge, education and integrity. In a world defined by stress, digital overwhelm and physical fatigue, it asks: what do guests truly need now?

The answer is timeless: Naturopathy, practicing for centuries what the modern world now calls ‘biohacking’, restores balance, supports natural healing, and guides enduring, sustainable habits.

Rooted in this philosophy, ŪRJĀ’s programmes unite nutrition, movement, detoxification and energetic realignment, for lasting wellbeing. The imparting of knowledge is central to the experience. Guests learn about the body’s innate intelligence, the importance of rhythm and nourishment, and how small, consistent changes can restore vitality. Diagnostics, consultations and personalised guidance empower them to return home with deeper understanding and practical tools for everyday wellbeing.

ŪRJĀ’s philosophy also recognises the growing need for stillness. In a world of constant stimulation, moments of silence and reflection become powerful therapeutic tools. Experiences encourage guests to reconnect with nature, their breath, and the peace found within.

ŪRJĀ invites guests to rediscover something simple yet profound: the body already knows how to heal. Sometimes it simply needs the right environment, guidance and silence to remember.

Naturally Inspired

Accessed from the Resort’s main jetty via a small Maldivian dhoni, ŪRJĀ offers a deep immersion in elemental rhythms – a living reflection of its ethos of vitality through nature. Over-water treatment suites, open-air rituals and the pulse of the surrounding ocean immerse guests in natural rejuvenation.

The spa’s pioneering approach centres on individualised wellness. At its heart are four core naturopathic pathways: Rest & Rebalance, Cleanse, Nourish, and Reconnect. Each pathway offers a collection of therapies and rituals to align mind, body, emotions and intellect, awakening self-healing. Every journey begins with an expert Naturopathic Consultation to craft a bespoke programme of therapeutic care. Optional micronutrient scans, iris diagnosis and postural mapping offer deeper insight into internal balance and vitality.

Signature treatments include Mud Therapy, Heliotherapy, Life-Force Healing, Magneto Therapy, and Sound Healing. Complementing these are Yoga Therapy, and traditional naturopathic practices such as fasting, acupuncture and full-body alignment rituals. Highlights include the ‘Vagus Reset’, a centring ritual that activates the vagus nerve, and the Night Spa Ritual, a celestial open-air experience aligned with the rhythms of the cosmos.

ŪRJĀ also offers specialised programmes guided by the team of onsite Naturopathic Doctors to address root causes of imbalance through therapies, coaching and nutrition. From Sleep Enhancement to Liver Detox and Joint Care, each is designed to restore and sustain lasting health.

Healing Geometry

ŪRJĀ’s approach is complemented by the work of visionary Swiss naturopath and artist Emma Kunz. Four Seasons has exclusive access to Kunz’s geometric drawings – believed to emit healing energy and reflect universal principles – which illustrate ŪRJĀ’s treatment menu.

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VARU by Atmosphere celebrates Maldivian cuisine with new Kaagé cookbook

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VARU by Atmosphere has unveiled the Kaagé Progressive Maldivian Cookbook, bringing the flavours and culinary heritage of the Maldives to life through an immersive new experience. As part of the island experience, guests can enjoy private cooking masterclasses, offering a hands-on connection to authentic local flavours and the opportunity to take home the beautiful cookbook as a memento.

At Kaagé, the award-winning speciality restaurant, guests embark on a culinary journey through the history and traditions of the Maldivian islands. Time-honoured local recipes are paired with modern culinary techniques, allowing the distinctive flavours of the Maldives to be recreated in kitchens around the world.

Held on 20th August, the exclusive cookbook launch event brought together journalists, culinary influencers and resort guests, who joined the resort’s chef team for an interactive masterclass. The session explored local ingredients including skipjack tuna, coconut and fiery Scotch bonnet chillies, offering participants an authentic taste of Maldivian culinary traditions.

“These immersive cooking classes are now a permanent part of your resort experience. Kaagé is a tribute to the vibrant culinary identity of the Maldives,” says Maurice Van Den Bosch, General Manager at VARU by Atmosphere. “Through our cookbook and masterclasses, we invite you to connect deeply with island culture. We look forward to sharing these traditions with you.”

VARU by Atmosphere is a naturally Maldivian island escape in North Malé Atoll, just a 45-minute speedboat journey from Malé. Blending authentic Maldivian culture with contemporary elegance, the resort offers an intimate island experience centred around warm hospitality, vibrant dining, wellness and immersive experiences. From its distinctive overwater villas and unique overwater cellar to its island-inspired cuisine and commitment to sustainability, VARU by Atmosphere celebrates the essence of the Maldives while offering a refined and relaxed tropical retreat.

The Kaagé Progressive Maldivian Cookbook is available exclusively to participants of cooking masterclass. To discover more or reserve your spot, visit www.varu-atmosphere.com or contact reservations@varu-atmosphere.com.

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BBM Hulhumalé Phase 2 opening promotion winner receives Honda Airblade

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Bestbuy Maldives (BBM) has presented a brand-new Honda Airblade motorbike to the winner of a lucky draw held to mark the opening of its newest wholesale outlet in Hulhumalé Phase 2.

The outlet, located at Lot 20286 on Nirolhu Magu, opened on 16 February 2026 as part of BBM’s expansion of its wholesale operations.

To celebrate the opening and thank customers for their continued support, BBM introduced a special lucky draw exclusively for customers who made purchases from the new outlet on its opening day.

Customers who purchased products during the opening were eligible to enter the draw, with a Honda Airblade motorbike offered as the grand prize.

The lucky draw was conducted on 13 August 2026, with Ibrahim Shifaz of Vagthun Vaguthah outlet selected as the winner.

Shifaz was recently presented with the ceremonial key to the Honda Airblade by AVS Subrahmanyam, Chief Operating Officer of Bestbuy Maldives.

The promotion formed part of BBM’s activities surrounding the opening of its Hulhumalé Phase 2 outlet, which provides customers with access to the company’s range of wholesale products from the growing residential and commercial area.

Bestbuy Maldives is a supplier and distributor serving businesses across the Maldives, including customers in the hospitality, food service and retail sectors.

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