The Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti announces a new wellness program with an emphasis on meditation and yoga. Offered as both group and private classes, the new program is open to guests of all levels, with highlight experiences including the Sunset Kopje Nature Walk and Meditation, the Yoga Healing Ritual, which incorporates the therapeutic benefits of yoga, massage, and Moonlight Meditation.
The yoga massage was introduced by resident yogi, Sajeesh, who holds a diploma in Ayurvedic medicine and anatomy, and who also holds certificates in yoga teaching, Thai massage, and western massage. Sajeesh used his experience and knowledge to bring a unique approach to this classic treatment by creating a timeless and comprehensive yoga massage.
“This treatment incorporates traditional acupressure massage along the meridian energy lines, with synchronized breath work which helps prepare the body for assisted and progressive yoga stretching,” explains Sajeesh. Performed on a mat, to allow for a full range of movements, the Yoga Massage is similar to Thai Massage, however, says Sajeesh, techniques of healing-massage practiced in Thailand originate from Indian Yoga philosophy.
“Some of the main benefits of yoga massage include physical tension relief, body re-alignment, postural imbalance corrections, flexibility, and stimulation of natural energy flow, dissolving physical and emotional blockage, eliminating toxins, enhancing energy levels.”
“Thai Massage is what I would refer to as ‘dream-like yoga’ in which the recipient is in a state of complete relaxation, while the therapist gently moves the body into yoga postures. Some of the main benefits of yoga massage include physical tension relief, body re-alignment, postural imbalance corrections, flexibility, and stimulation of natural energy flow, dissolving physical and emotional blockage, eliminating toxins, enhancing energy levels,” he explains further.
Also on the menu for individuals, or for groups of up to six: The 75-minute Sunset Kopje Nature Walk and Meditation led by a Massai warrior. This begins with a short uphill hike to reach the spectacular sunset viewpoint across the Serengeti plains, before commencing with a guided meditation session. Additional private yoga experiences include Detox Yoga, Sun Salutations, and De-Stress and Deep Relaxation. Prefer group classes? Opt for Hatha Yoga or the contagiously re-energizing Laughter Yoga.
The new program is the latest addition to the menu of rejuvenating treatments at the Lodge’s Spa & Wellness Retreat. In addition to the six treatment suites of the Spa & Wellness Retreat, a Yoga Pavilion with views of the nearby local wildlife is the perfect backdrop to each class.