June 26, 2024by Sasha Ella

Nature’s healing power

We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us

With our fast paced lives, dominated by screens and endless notifications, finding moments of quiet and genuine rejuvenation, seems like a pipe dream. Enter the world of escape, adventure and travel, with eco-wellness a growing trend. Why? Because it goes beyond a traditional spa experience and embraces the benefits of decompressing and disconnecting with the digital world and finding solace in nature. It’s about reawakening our senses and making our vacations count – it’s about more than simple physical relaxation.

Nature therapy or eco-therapy is a cornerstone of eco-wellness. Scientific studies have shown that time spent in nature can reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve your mood. Whether it’s hiking through lush forests, exploring serene lakes, walking along pristine beaches or a game drive, nature offers a sanctuary from the busy treadmill of daily life.

At Mantis we recognise the need to find a perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life and offer numerous choices for the perfect eco-escape.

Travel and change of place impart new vigour to the mind – Seneca

Sun salutations

Imagine greeting the day with a yoga session as you watch the sun rise over an African savannah or ocean, surrounded by bird calls and the sounds of nature stirring. Outdoor yoga is invigorating, the fresh air and natural beauty a perfect backdrop to help you calm your mind.

Outdoor yoga is offered at several Mantis properties Mantis EPIC Hotel & Suites, Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls, Nungwi Dreams by Mantis, Mantis Soanambo Hotel & Spa, Vivari Hotel & Spa each with its unique environment – from white sandy beaches to indigenous forests and gardens and views across wilderness areas.

Water therapy

Swimming offers a refreshing way to connect with nature. It’s known to reduce stress hormones and boost the immune system. Swimming in lakes, rivers or the ocean not only cools and relaxes the body but is soothing and rejuvenating. Pools with views and in unusual settings, offer the same tranquil experience.

If you’re at Mantis St Helena, swim out from Jamestown wharf to the wreck of the Papanui where you can snorkel the full length of the wreck with its abundance of fish life. St Helena is also one of the best places in the world to see and dive with whale sharks (December to April) and to spot large pods of dolphins, seabirds and other marine life.

Heard of forest bathing?

This practice originated in Japan and is known as ‘Shinrin-yoku’, it involves spending time in forests to absorb the calming and rejuvenating effects of the natural environment. At Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls the pool is surrounded by an ancient teak forest providing a very different experience. Or you can simply amble slowly or sit among the trees, breathing in the air and listening to the sounds of nature.

Vivari Hotel & Spa boasts 300 species of trees and is located on the banks of the Crocodile River. Studies indicate that forest bathing can have a profound impact on your mental and physical health.

Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax

Striding out

With guided walks and hikes through the African bush, you can encounter nature and habitats up close and personal. For a more energetic experience and an adrenalin pumping start to your day, tackle the 699 steps as you ‘Climb the Jacobs Ladder’ to the highest point of St Helena.

Starry starry night

There’s something magical about sleeping under the open sky, with a canopy of stars above you. It’s a private viewing of the Milky Way in your very own planetarium and allows you to experience the beauty and tranquillity of nature at night. The absence of artificial light and noise pollution at Feline Fields provides a unique opportunity for stargazing. Listening to nocturnal wildlife and feeling the cool night is a perfection combination for a deep and restorative sleep.

A good night’s sleep is also guaranteed on the Zambezi Queen as you are rocked gently to sleep as you glide down the Chobe River that flows between Namibia and Botswana.

And although fire flies are beetles and not stars, they too shine brightly at night thanks to the wonder of bioluminescence and can be seen in abundance at Mantis Soanambo Hotel & Spa. This is largely due to the lack of light pollution and the crisp, clean air on this south west part of Madagascar.

Sound Therapy

Vivari Hotel & Spa has introduced sound therapy massage which uses Tibetan singing bowls to promote relaxation, balance and healing. It’s a centuries old practice that taps into the resonance and vibrations of these sacred instruments which are positioned around your body and played in a circular motion.

For something more interactive, join a drumming session at Ichingo Chobe River Lodge or enjoy one of the many cultural activities at the various properties.

From farm to fork

A large part of an eco-escape is about the food you eat. When it comes to your culinary journey, our team is known for creating exceptional meals, made with passion and creativity. But it’s not just about producing delicious world-class dishes, it’s more than that. Thanks to our onsite organic gardens we are able to serve you the freshest, seasonal produce.

Sustainable Travel

Part of the Mantis ethos is to offer vacations that focus on leaving destinations better than you found them. Where you help benefit and uplift local communities and maintain the important natural ecosystems. This form of travel enriches your personal experience but also ensures that natural wonders and cultural treasures are preserved for future generations.

Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes…including you

Digital detox is a significant component of eco-wellness. Our hyper-connected world can lead to burnout and anxiety. So … whether you seek adventure, relaxation or personal growth, pack your bags, turn off your devices and join us for an eco-wellness vacation. Where nature and wellbeing come together in perfect harmony.