Nestled within the unparalleled beauty of Soneva resorts, a Soneva Soul facility transcends the typical luxury spa experience, offering an oasis where holistic wellness melds with transformative, life-changing journeys. For the discerning traveler seeking more than simple relaxation, Soneva Soul provides an integrative approach to health and wellbeing, blending ancient healing traditions with cutting-edge medical innovations. Now in its third year, the ground-breaking Soneva Soul concept reflects a paradigm shift to an unprecedented level in the luxury wellness experience.
The concept first launched in 2022, born from the pioneering spirit of the luxury brand’s visionary founders, Sonu Shivdasani and Eva Malmström Shivdasani, building on over a quarter-century of expertise that started with the first spa at their first resort, Soneva Fushi, in 1995. This visionary concept harmonizes ancient healing traditions with modern science to create bespoke wellness journeys. Rooted in the principle of lifestyle evolution, Soneva Soul integrates ancient traditional therapies that have stood the test of time with cutting-edge treatments like cryotherapy. Each wellness center blends seamlessly with the surrounding environs, offering transformative experiences to ultimately reconnect mind, body, and soul.
A Symphony of Nature and Nurture
At the heart of every Soneva Soul is the brand’s original ethos of maintaining a profound connection to nature, with each resort and experience seamlessly integrating the serene beauty of the lush surroundings that now incorporate these innovative wellness practices. Each facility harmonizes with its distinct environment, creating a serene backdrop in its holistic approach to wellness, all while maintaining the brand’s ongoing mission to leave each destination better than its original state.
At Soneva Jani, this comprises a new three-level complex that integrates with the existing over-water spa. Featuring open-air treatment rooms, a yoga pavilion, and meditation platform high above the tree line, it offers panoramic views of a private lagoon. At the legendary, original barefoot hideaway, Soneva Fushi, a two-level tropical wellness complex provides an oasis completely encircled by lush jungle, inviting guests to rejuvenate, restore, and relax. And, in the Maldives’ most remote atoll, the new, ultra-private Soneva Secret, each of the 14 over-water villas or the single, floating Castaway villa enjoys its own individual healing space. No matter which destination a guest chooses, each aspect of Soneva Soul is designed to enhance every stage of healing through the inherent energies and tranquility of nature.
Tailored Wellness Journeys Balancing Ancient Wisdom with Modern Science
A cornerstone of the Soneva Soul philosophy is providing guests with targeted wellness journeys customized to their individual needs and goals, ensuring that everyone embarks on a path uniquely suited to his or her own well-being. Soneva Soul’s multidisciplinary care plans adapt to and elevate each guest’s journey, from overcoming health challenges to post-illness recovery, to achieving long-term wellness goals, or simply indulging in luxurious pampering.
Soneva Soul features diverse treatment menus, incorporating practices deeply rooted in ancient healing traditions while embracing the latest scientific advancements. These range from traditional therapies such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine to the latest innovative science like stem cell and ozone therapies. The integration of these methodologies ensures a comprehensive approach to health, addressing the physical, mental, and spiritual facets of each guest’s well-being. They extend beyond traditional spa treatments, encompassing a wide array of wellness programs designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. A movement program goes beyond the typical gym routine, encouraging guests to engage in playful and inspirational exercises set within the natural environment.
Expert coaches and trainers personalize these sessions, integrating guidance on both exercise and nutrition to support a holistic fitness journey. Yoga and mindfulness are integral components of the Soneva Soul experience. Led by seasoned yogis and yoginis, sessions are tailored to individual needs and can include a sunrise session on the beach or private meditation within the serene confines of one’s villa. This dedication to personalized wellness ensures that each guest can find their optimal spiritual and physical balance.
Innovative Sleep and Skincare Programs with Specialists
Recognizing the vital role of sleep in overall well-being, Soneva Soul offers expertly developed sleep programs designed to cultivate healthier long-term sleep habits. These personalized programs are complemented by a range of take-home sleep aids, ensuring that the benefits of a Soneva Soul stay continue long after a guest’s departure
The skincare and wellness products available at Soneva Soul are another testament to their commitment to holistic health. Inspired by Ayurvedic principles, these all-natural, organic, and cruelty-free products are tailored to rebalance and restore the body’s natural harmony.
A defining feature of Soneva Soul is its access to a global network of eminent wellness specialists. These experts, ranging from integrative medicine doctors to acclaimed fitness trainers, offer their services through longer-term residencies. This access ensures that guests receive the highest standard of care along with the latest in wellness innovations.
Photos: Aksham Abdul Gadhir, Sandro Bruecklmeier, Moses Halym, Stevie Mann, Hassan Ishan, Soneva Media | Words: Janine Devine
