Chasing nature's dopamine: Wellness in Maldives beyond the spa

The wellness landscape in the Maldives has undergone a profound transformation, with travellers showing a deepened appreciation for the healing power of nature. Many Maldivian resorts have returned to their roots, helping guests connect with nature as they strive to replace stimulants like caffeine and social media with a natural “high”. By shifting towards a more holistic approach, the wellness landscape in the Maldives is becoming more diverse and inclusive than ever before.

As the place that invented the widely emulated overwater villa concept, the Maldives knows a thing or two about making the most of a spectacular setting. But it’s not only ocean vistas from a levitating infinity pool that have the power to heal. Seclusion and tranquillity found on dry land have an equally potent effect. This is a tropical paradise, after all!

Shaded by lush foliage, these land-based hideaways provide a peaceful retreat where guests are exposed to both the green and the blue, promoting nervous system regulation, as humans naturally thrive when surrounded by nature’s calming colours. The serene environment, away from the stressors and distractions of daily life, is perfect for mindfulness and deep relaxation.

Once a niche pursuit, digital detox retreats offering a hermit-like experience have become a fixture of wellness in the Maldives. Once the inevitable withdrawal symptoms have given way to dropped shoulders and joy, life away from the screen becomes second nature.

Without the blue light negatively affecting sleep quality, guests find themselves slipping into deep sleep faster, and abstaining from doomscrolling first thing in the morning sets a relaxing tone for the rest of the day. And with no pressure to document every meal and asana in a reel, one feels fully present and more connected to the serene surroundings.

This heightened sense of presence allows guests to truly unwind through mindfulness practices, guided meditation, nature walks and by simply being.

For insomniacs not ready to hand in their electronic devices just yet, there is hope in the form of light therapy that synchronises circadian and chronobiological rhythms. Other sleep-improving innovations that are part of wellness in the Maldives include IV drips to combat jet lag, cold therapy, sensory deprivation, binaural sounds and inhalation aromatherapy. If all else fails, good old massages focusing on techniques like acupressure work by stimulating melatonin production to restore circadian rhythms.

Helping guests make sense of this variety of therapies are sleep experts who customise the treatment plan based on a medical assessment. Some guarantee not only the best sleep of your life but also promise to lay a foundation for drastically improved sleep back home.

After first gaining popularity in the cities, eco-conscious fitness spaces have reached more remote shores as well. From eco-friendly exercise equipment to energy-efficient facilities and biophilic design that connects the outdoors to indoors, engaging in sustainable wellness in the Maldives has never been easier.

In contrast to urban centres, where outdoor workouts are often affected by traffic, pollution and lack of space, the Maldives offers an abundance of outdoor activities that produce no emissions and require no plugged-in equipment. Engaging in water sports like snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding can be incredibly therapeutic, providing physical exercise while also helping to connect with nature and reduce stress.

One of the biggest joys of travel – experiencing new cultures – can also be highly beneficial for wellbeing. Enhanced mental stimulation challenges your brain, stepping out of your routine allows you to unwind, and navigating a new culture can boost your confidence and adaptability, leading to personal growth.

In the past, only the most determined tourists would make it to Malé, the capital, or the remote islands where locals live, so few visitors to the Maldives saw much of its culture. Thankfully, things are different today. Resort spas now offer traditional healing practices, collectively known as Dhivehi Beys; hotel chefs spin catch of the day into authentic dishes like garudhiya (a fish broth) and mas huni (shredded fish with coconut); and colourful cultural shows featuring bodu beru drummers and folk dances are as common as sunset DJ sets.

Where will your pursuit of wellness take you this year?

For more resources and ideas on planning a holiday focused on wellness in the Maldives, please visit our collection of properties from Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort where open-air salas over water for Thai massage alongside endless ocean views; Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, home to award-winning underwater dining and the Maldives’ only overwater observatory; Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, an adults-only sanctuary with a wellness host to see to your needs.

Beyond Anantara, Niyama Private Islands Maldives features two islands offering contrasting wellness experiences from laidback to adventurous play, while Naladhu Private Island Maldives crafts bespoke wellness journeys within the intimacy of just 20 elegant houses.