Spas and Retreats For Mental Wellbeing have been used for centuries. From as far back as the roman empire and Turkish baths of the middle east or greek therapies that soothe the mind. The benefit of spa ‘treatments’ for one’s well-being has been well known for millennia. The invention of the spa though was created in Belgium In 1326, a Belgian ironmaster discovered a natural spring in the Belgian town of Spa and a health resort soon appeared. This was how the spa began life!

If you are visiting this page then it is likely you are considering booking a spa or retreat. We at Seek a Therapy want to help answer your questions and concerns surrounding the two types of therapy in order to help you select the right place for you. That is why, on this page, we have included some of the most common questions a person may have before attending a spa or retreat.


Why Attend a Spa or Retreats For Mental Wellbeing

The word retreat means “an act of moving back or withdrawing” and this is definitely what you’ll experience. Without the distraction of your everyday life, you’ll find yourself focusing on elements you might normally ignore or attempt to cram into your hectic schedule, like exercise and eating healthy, nutritious meals.

But do wellness retreats actually work? In a 2017 study on the benefits of wellness retreats, researchers found after a one-week holistic, residential retreat, participants showed substantial improvements in their psychological and physical health.

The most interesting statistic, however, is that six weeks later these substantial improvements were still being displayed. Researchers concluded, “these results suggest that retreat participants enjoyed benefits over and above the ‘vacation effect’ from being away from routine domestic and work activities.”

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10 of the Most Luxurious Spa’s Around The World

We have shared a video that discusses 10 of the most luxurious spas from around the world. We felt the video gives a good impression of what to expect in a spa and obviously, different spas may provide less or be smaller in size. The location may be different or the types of therapy on offer may also be different but it does help you to understand what may be a part of your own package.


Examples of Luxury Wellness Retreats For Mental Wellbeing?

Likewise, we have also shared a video of some of the top retreats around the world. We hope by sharing this video you can identify the difference between the spa and retreat. Retreats tend to be connecting with like-minded souls, for example, attending yoga as the sun rises etc whereas a spa tends to be about you and finding your inner calm. Much more of a hotel experience than a retreat offers.

Retreat for mental health

How Much Does A Typical Spa or Retreat Cost?

Unfortunately, you can’t ask your GP for a spa or retreat for your mental health. You have to pay for your own escape and seek a spa that is most suitable to you and your needs yourself.

There are many options available and often, there may be some travelling involved too so doing research on the country you want to visit and the types of therapy the spas and retreat offer may also be worth considering rather than just the cost.

There are so many variables when choosing a retreat such as travel, therapies, luxury level, hotel room as well as spa and more that it’s difficult to give ‘an average’ cost. It is best to contact the spa or retreat to discuss the costs yourself and/or put together your own itinerary for your getaway.


How Do I Know Which Spa or Retreat To Choose?

Retreats For Mental Wellbeing

Regarding spas and retreats, you need to ask yourself what kind of therapy you would like to have. Do you want a massage? A swimming pool or maybe a jacuzzi with beautiful scenic views or is floatation or sauna enough for you? Do you want to connect with like-minded souls or just escape for a while? We recommend writing a list of what you are trying to get out of the spa/retreat and then identifying what you believe would help aid you in improving your wellbeing.

Once you have a list of what it is you are looking for maybe shortlist a few different spas/retreats and then go make enquiries. Also, maybe see if they can do a discount if you take a friend, partner or family member. It can be even more relaxing to have the support of a loved one when attending these types of activities.


How Long Does It Take To Have An Effect?

retreat in a forest

It will depend upon your music therapist as it can sometimes just be once or occasionally many times in order to master a musical instrument. The therapist will assess your description of personal issues and then inform you how many sessions they believe you will need. Usually, it isn’t more than up to 8 or 10. Music therapy has had great reports in helping many people in many walks of life and with many alignments.  It can really transform your life in many ways.


What If It Doesn’t Work For Me?

First of all, don’t worry!

If you think attending a spa or retreat is the right therapy, but you have the wrong location then maybe you need to possibly look for a different type of spa. Also, there are many, many different types of therapy and this is only one. Use our therapy directory to find a different therapy, you may find counselling works better for you or possibly some holistic treatment. The key is not to think this is your only option there are many routes to finding optimum wellbeing and mental health.


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Please note: This information should not replace professional medical advice, it is purely for informational purposes. At all times when you are in crisis please first seek help from your GP or another medical professional. Thank you