Fitness
Downward Dogma: A Yogi’s tale from the Maldives
Maldives Promotion House – Our minds and bodies take a lot of punishment over the course of a lifetime. By making an effort to maintain a healthy lifestyle both mentally and physically, we can help prepare ourselves to take on whatever comes our way. Rajanish Govind, resident yogi at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, has dedicated his life to the practice of yoga in order to achieve this goal. A former pharmacist with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, Govind turned to yoga professionally during a quest for mental satisfaction—and he hasn’t looked back. Here he imparts what he’s learned not only about the physical practice of yoga, but about the lifestyle it helps create.
Q: How did you come to practice yoga?
A: I started to practice yoga when I was 15 years old. I was inspired by Yogi Guru Mani Swami at Sadguru Yogashram in Palakkad, Kerala, India, where I ultimately received a diploma in yoga and completed my Yoga Teacher Training Course.
Q: What do you feel are some of the most significant benefits of yoga?
A: Practising yoga helps to increase the body’s flexibility while also increasing lubrication of joints, tendons and ligaments. Yoga is instrumental in helping to release toxins from the body. Through synchronization of the breath and body movements, it helps develop inner awareness by relaxing the mind and releasing mental, emotional and muscular stress.
Q: Balance seems to play a key part, both physically and mentally—how can guests relate this principle to the rest of their lives?
A: Due to busier modern lifestyles, stress is a more dominating factor now than it was before, and that causes a lot of imbalance in life. Practising yoga, meditation and breathing exercises helps to bring back balance. It is recommended that yoga be adopted as a lifestyle; when included as part of a daily routine, it can really help anyone to achieve a sense of well-being.
Q: Can you share some tips for taking what guests learn in your classes and incorporating it into their everyday routines?
A: My yoga sessions tend to be therapy-based; however, yoga practices may vary according to a guest’s own body comforts. Typically, I suggest that the guest practice some specific postures and breathing related to any specific health issues he or she may suffer from. I would then recommend that they practise those on a daily basis for better health results.
Q: What is the most important thing that both beginners and those well versed in the discipline should keep in mind?
A: I always suggest that guests focus on more synchronized breathing (Ujjayi Breath) during the yoga poses. It helps to boost detoxification, lung expansion and creates a deeper awareness within.
Q: What is the difference between yoga and other regular physical exercises?
A: There are a number of differences. First, one can practise yoga at any age. Other physical exercises, on the other hand, have certain age limitations. Practising yoga also helps to cure various health ailments that other physical exercises may not. It helps to loosen all the muscles and joints and increase flexibility, while other forms of exercise often have the opposite effect. Yoga develops inner awareness, and a lot of other activities don’t have such merits. Physical exercises also tend to develop lactic acid, while yoga helps to eliminate it. And finally, the postures used in yoga stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to calm body and mind; physical exercises stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which has opposite result.
Q: What drew you to yoga initially, and what keeps you coming back?
A: My lack of concentration on my studies led me to practise yoga, and my interest in spirituality helped me to learn its philosophies. My whole inspiration was my yogi guru and his selfless service to society. Working as a pharmacist, I found myself lacking in mental satisfaction. I then turned to yoga as a profession so that I would have the opportunity to interact with different people every day, which makes my job more interesting. Helping people with the healing power of yoga gives me happiness and satisfaction.
Q: Are there any new trends that you are particularly interested in or excited about sharing?
A: I usually do not depend on any particular type or style of yoga practice. I am more interested in Vinyasa Flow and intensive hatha yoga practices, or a combination of both depending on the guest’s comfort level. I do include Thai yoga stretches as they help improve flexibility in order to attain various different yoga poses.
Q: What is your best advice for the modern yoga student?
A: If you are looking for a fitness programme, yoga is the best. Be sure to practise yoga safely under the guidance of an experienced teacher and with proper breathing techniques that focus on awareness of the body. You’ll soon find that yoga and meditation help to bring about more positive thoughts and confidence.
Written by Jennifer Sanchez for Four Seasons Magazine
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is set to welcome German track and field athlete Alica Schmidt in October for an exclusive fitness workshop designed for Luminaires at the luxury resort.
This unique opportunity will allow guests to train with the internationally acclaimed athlete, known for her outstanding performance in track and field events. Schmidt, a member of the German national team, secured second place in the 4×400 meter relay at the 2017 European Athletics U20 Championships and earned third place in the same event at the 2019 European Athletics U23 Championships.
The fitness workshop is scheduled for October 6, 2024, at 5:30 pm island time, and will be held on the scenic ALBA Beach against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean. It will focus on fitness and athletics, with Schmidt sharing her expertise and tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Participants will have the opportunity to draw inspiration from her dedication and achievements, transitioning from the competitive sports arena to the tranquil white sand beaches of the Maldives.
“This fitness event is a unique opportunity for our guests and sports enthusiasts to engage directly with Alica Schmidt, gaining insights into holistic well-being while enjoying the luxurious amenities and stunning views at the finest address in the Maldives,” said Vincent Pauchon, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “We are thrilled to offer our guests an exceptional experience alongside one of the world’s top athletes, all while taking in the beauty of our Maldivian property.”
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has announced that it has been awarded the prestigious “Editor’s Choice: Best Resort for Sports & Fitness” by the Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) Awards. This accolade is a testament to our commitment to offering an unparalleled range of activities that combine luxury, exclusivity, and fitness within the stunning natural beauty of the Maldives.
Hideaway stands out as a private sanctuary for those who seek an active, health-conscious lifestyle while enjoying the pinnacle of luxury. The resort’s location on the crescent-shaped island provides the perfect backdrop for a variety of fitness and sports activities, both on land and at sea.
Guests can engage in a range of land-based activities that cater to all fitness levels. The resort boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a fully equipped fitness centre and tennis courts. The recently renovated gym comes with modern equipment, a private room for Zumba or yoga and experienced instructors for any queries. The tennis courts, set against the exquisite turquoise lagoons have proven to be an ideal spot for tennis lovers, both beginners and advanced players. With expert instructors guiding or to play a match or two with, these courts have seen professional tennis players conducting workshops or playing a competitive match or two.
As one of the largest resorts in the Maldives, Hideaway offers an incredible golf putting green, where guests can experience a unique game on a tropical island. If this proves a little challenging, guests are welcome to join in on the golf simulator to practice a couple of rounds indoors before stepping on to the grass. Professional instructors are available to lend a helping hand and assist in anyway possible.
For those looking to combine fitness with adventure, cycling and jogging trails offer the perfect opportunity to explore the lush tropical landscape while staying active. Hideaway also offers beach volleyball, table tennis, and indoor badminton, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding our island offer a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Guests can experience the thrill of windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing, or explore the unique underwater world with our snorkelling and diving excursions. Because of the remote location of Hideaway, underwater experiences can be a unique, once in a life time opportunity as rare marine animals such as guitar sharks are spotted on our dives.
Catamaran sailing and private yacht charters provide a unique way to combine luxury with an active lifestyle, allowing guests to explore the vibrant marine life of the Maldives.
What truly sets Hideaway apart is its commitment to exclusivity and luxury. With 110 villas spread across an expansive island, guests enjoy unparalleled privacy and space, making it the ideal setting for a personalised fitness and wellness retreat. Each villa is designed with relaxation and rejuvenation in mind, offering private pools, direct beach access, and stunning ocean views. The vastness of the island, and the thick vegetation within, guests tend to feel like they are on a private island, away from the rest of the world.
Hideaway believes that true wellness is a holistic experience. In addition to sports and fitness offerings, guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the award-winning Hideaway Spa. Wellness programmes, including yoga and meditation sessions, are designed to complement the physical activities, ensuring that guests leave feeling refreshed and revitalised. The resort offers multiple wellness practitioners throughout the years, to conduct special sessions such as sound baths, healing and multiple therapies for our guests.
This award from TTM is a recognition of Hideaway’s dedication to providing an exceptional sports and fitness experience in a luxurious, exclusive setting. The resort invites guests and fitness enthusiasts to discover why Hideaway is the ultimate destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility in the heart of the Maldives.
Fitness enthusiasts can maintain their routines while connecting with the natural beauty of Furanafushi Island
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites fitness enthusiasts and wellness seekers to join an exciting boot camp in celebration of Global Wellness Day. ‘Shape-Up’, a two-day event, will take place on June 11 and 12, 2024, celebrating health, fitness, and well-being. Hosted by renowned German fitness coach Dennis Felber, the event promises a dynamic mix of workouts against the idyllic backdrop of Furanafushi Island.
Dennis Felber, recognized for his coaching expertise, brings years of experience in promoting healthier lifestyles, weight loss, and muscle building. His engaging and effective approach ensures that participants of all fitness levels can achieve their personal goals. The program includes a variety of workouts, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for beginners, beach circuits, battle ropes, fun aqua aerobics, and many more, ensuring an exciting and diverse fitness experience for everyone.
Elevate your performance with an intensive session with Dennis Felber at CocoFit, an innovative outdoor gym that allows fitness enthusiasts to maintain their routines while connecting with the natural beauty of the surroundings. To complement each session, the signature Furana Detox, crafted from fresh lemongrass, mint leaves, and pandan leaves harvested from the resort’s own Furana Organic Garden, is served to get you refreshed and refueled. To conclude the day, our executive chef, Riccardo Pinna, has curated a wellness-inspired dinner consisting of a three-course hearty meal to ensure a balance of nutrients for your body. The evening promises an experience that delights your taste buds and supports your overall well-being.
‘Shape-Up’ is available complimentary for all resort guests aged 16 and above, accommodating guests of all fitness levels. The event also underscores the resort’s commitment to being the World’s Gathering Place, fostering a sense of community among like-minded travelers who share a passion for wellness.
“We are excited to host the ‘Shape-Up’ with Dennis Felber this Global Wellness Day,” said Mohamed El Aghoury, General Manager of Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. “Our goal is to be part of our guests’ wellness journeys by providing enriching activities while they enjoy the unparalleled beauty of our resort.”
Beyond the boot camp, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers a variety of enriching activities for guests of all ages. From Sunrise Yoga sessions and adrenaline-pumping water sports to “Adopt A Coral,” a coral planting activity, guests can indulge in both adventure and relaxation while contributing to marine conservation. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is accessible with a 15-minute complimentary speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, making it ideal for guests who prefer brief travel.
For reservations and more information, visit www.sheratonmaldives.com or contact the reservations team at Sheraton.Maldives@sheraton.com.
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