Self-care and mindfulness are key elements in the travel industry.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has experienced a major shift in priorities, with holistic health and mindfulness emerging as central themes in many aspects of life, especially travel. The pandemic has served as a stark reminder of the fragility of health and has led many to seek ways to enhance their physical and mental wellbeing. This has led to an increasing focus on holistic health and mindfulness practices in the travel industry.
Holistic health emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, mind and spirit and promotes a holistic approach to wellness. Mindfulness, a key element of holistic health, involves being fully present and focused in the moment, cultivating a sense of calm and awareness that reduces stress and improves mental clarity.
Practices such as yoga, meditation and breathwork have been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and enhance overall mental health. These practices encourage people to slow down, pay attention to their bodies and develop a deeper connection with themselves and their surroundings. As people become more aware of the benefits of these practices, we are seeing a significant increase in their incorporation into daily life and travel experiences.
The pandemic has disrupted travel on an unprecedented scale, forcing many to rethink how and why they travel. As restrictions ease and the world begins to open up, travelers are placing a new focus on health and wellness. This shift is reflected in the growing popularity of wellness tourism, which emphasizes holistic health and mindfulness practices.
Find a Holistic Retreat
Omega Holistic Institute
One holistic center seeing an increase in interest in retreats and programs is Omega Holistic Institute, based in Rhinebeck, New York. Since its founding in 1977, Omega has offered a wide range of multidisciplinary workshops, retreats and training sessions. These programs are designed to address a holistic approach to wellness, including physical health, emotional balance, spiritual development and intellectual stimulation. Offerings are divided into six main areas:
Body, mind and spirit
Health and healing
Creative Expression
Relationships and family
Leadership and Work
・Sustainable living
Yoga and Wellness
The yoga programs are designed for yoga practitioners at all levels.
Omega’s Yoga and Wellness programs are some of our most popular. Renowned instructors from around the world lead sessions in different styles of yoga, meditation and mindfulness practices. These programs are designed for practitioners at all levels, from beginners looking to learn the basics to advanced practitioners looking to deepen their practice. Workshops on topics such as Ayurveda, nutrition and holistic health provide participants with comprehensive tools to enhance their wellbeing.
Arts and creativity
People socialize not only during workshop classes but also during breaks and free time.
We emphasize the creative arts as a means of self-expression and healing. Workshops in painting, writing, music, dance and other creative activities encourage participants to explore their artistic potential. These programs often attract artists, writers and performers looking to stimulate their creativity or overcome a career block.
Meditation and Mindfulness
Mindfulness and meditation are popular programs at the center.
Omega is known for its meditation and mindfulness programs. These sessions cover a wide range of traditions and practices. Renowned spiritual leaders and teachers guide people through workshops aimed at deepening their understanding and practice of mindfulness.
Personal Growth and Development
Often times, people apply to the program when they are going through a major transition in their life.
Omega’s personal growth workshops are designed to help individuals navigate life’s challenges and changes. They delve deep into topics such as relationships, leadership, stress management and resilience. These programs attract individuals who want to increase their emotional intelligence, gain new perspectives and foster personal transformation.
Sustainability and Environmental Awareness
The campus features nature trails and meditation gardens.
OMEGA’s commitment to sustainability is evident in programs that focus on environmental awareness and sustainable living. Workshops on permaculture, eco-friendly building and renewable energy aim to educate participants about living in harmony with the planet. With its sustainable design and eco-friendly practices, OMEGA’s campuses are living examples of these principles.
Omega Center for Sustainable Living (OCSL)
The Omega Institute is the Omega Center for Sustainable Living
The centerpiece of the Omega Institute is the Omega Center for Sustainable Living. OCSL is a state-of-the-art environmental education center and natural water reclamation facility that is a model of sustainable design incorporating green building techniques, renewable energy, and ecological wastewater treatment. The center offers workshops and tours that teach visitors about sustainable living practices.
Omega Women’s Leadership Center (OWLC)
Our leadership programs for women attract participants from all over the country.
OWLC is committed to supporting and empowering women leaders. It offers programs focused on leadership development, social change, and personal empowerment. The Center’s mission is to develop a new generation of women leaders who are compassionate, inclusive, and effective.
