{"id":2878,"date":"2026-01-02T11:15:37","date_gmt":"2026-01-02T11:15:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/?p=2878"},"modified":"2026-01-02T11:15:37","modified_gmt":"2026-01-02T11:15:37","slug":"wellness-or-woo-woo-the-trending-experiences-everyones-trying","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/?p=2878","title":{"rendered":"Wellness or Woo-Woo? The Trending Experiences Everyone\u2019s Trying"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>From crystal rooms to cacao ceremonies, here\u2019s your guide to the trending rituals currently capturing the world\u2019s imagination.\u00a0<\/p>\n<div><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/wellness-experiences-woo-woo-min-300x225.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"wellness experiences woo woo\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/div>\n<p>Some experiences promise deep relaxation, others a spiritual jolt, and many are just delightfully woo-woo. From crystal-lined therapy rooms and cacao ceremonies, the modern <a href=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/travel\/wellness-travel\">wellness<\/a> world, now valued at around $1 trillion and growing, is a fascinating mix of science, ritual, and imagination.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you\u2019re a seasoned wellness traveler or simply curious, these are the trending experiences that deserve a spot on your radar.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Temazcals<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/temazcal-wellness-experience.jpg\" alt=\"temazcal experience chable\" class=\"wp-image-252912\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Luxury hotels across Mexico have adapted the centuries-old temazcal ritual into refined wellness experiences \u00a9Chabl\u00e9 Yucatan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Mayan temazcals \u2013 also known as sweat lodges \u2013 involve a shaman pouring infused water on heated rocks, causing steam to engulf the dome-like hut. The experience lasts up to three hours, all in near darkness; singing, chanting, and crying is common. Think: sauna on acid. Hotels across <a href=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/americas\/mexico-americas\">Mexico<\/a> \u2013 Chabl\u00e9, Banyan Tree Mayakoba, and Amanvari, which is set to open in 2026 \u2013 have refined versions.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Facialist residences<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/teresatarmeyledtreatment.jpg\" alt=\"facialist led treatment\" class=\"wp-image-252902\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">LED treatments are still reigning supreme in the world of beauty and wellness \u00a9Teresa Tarmey<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>As skincare gets ever-more technical, top hotels are bringing leading facialists inhouse: Teresa Tarmey and her arsenal of tools have a residency at Claridge\u2019s, and Iv\u00e1n Pol was just at Chenot Palace Weggis. The idea has taken to the skies, too: VistaJet has partnered with Dr Barbara Sturm.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Calmcations<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/theritz-carltonmaldivesfariislands-2560x1440.jpg\" alt=\"The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands\n\" class=\"wp-image-252910\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Calmcations offer the perfect setting for guests to unwind, recharge, and fully embrace the art of doing nothing \u00a9The Ritz-Carlton Maldives<br \/><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>An evolution of \u2018fly and flop,\u2019 calmcations encourage travelers to switch off: no itineraries, no rules, no stress. Try Four Seasons Resorts Bali or Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for a proper dose of relaxation.<\/p>\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/health-wellness\/spas\/back-to-basics-spa-hotels\">See more: Back to Basics: The Hotels Redefining Modern Wellness<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cacao ceremonies<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/cacao-ceremonies-wellness-1707x2560.jpg\" alt=\"cacao ceremonies\" class=\"wp-image-252907\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Cacao ceremonies are rooted in ancient Mesoamerican traditions, where cacao was revered as a sacred plant, believed to open the heart, awaken the spirit, and strengthen emotional bonds. \u00a9Chabl\u00e9 Yucatan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>In Mesoamerican lore, cacao is said to foster spiritual awakening and strengthen emotional connection. At Chabl\u00e9 Yucatan, guests grind beans to create their own cacao drink beside a sacred cenote.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Intimacy programs<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/wellness-intimacy-retreat-1919x2560.jpg\" alt=\"Zem Wellness Clinic\" class=\"wp-image-252927\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">At Zem Wellness Clinic in Spain, the Intimate Boost program combines hormone analysis, genetic insights, and tailored physiotherapy \u00a9Zem Wellness Clinic<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Zem Wellness Clinic in Spain offers an Intimate Boost program, designed to enhance sexual wellness \u2013 for men and women \u2013 via hormone analysis, genetic studies and physiotherapy.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Equine therapy<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/rosewood-mandarina-equina-therapy-2560x1920.jpg\" alt=\"Rosewood Mandarina equine therapy\" class=\"wp-image-252953\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Equine therapy harnesses the calming presence and intuitive energy of horses \u00a9Rosewood Mandarina<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Harnessing the calming presence of horses, Rosewood Mandarina is launching an equine therapy program, in which the animals\u2019 supposedly healing energy is used to foster self-discovery. There\u2019s polo and horseback riding, too.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fitness retreats<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/gym-fitness-retreat-2560x1707.jpg\" alt=\"fitness retreat wellness\" class=\"wp-image-252925\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">From Dubai to Montenegro, fitness retreats are booming \u00a9Siro\/Natelee Cocks<br \/>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Siro opened under the Kerzner umbrella, which also includes One&amp;Only, and identifies itself as a \u2018base for world-class fitness, recovery, and leisure,\u2019 translating roughly to \u2018exercise hotel.\u2019 <a href=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/travel\/destination-guides\/africa-and-the-middle-east\/dubai\">Dubai<\/a> opened first, Montenegro followed in spring and <a href=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/travel\/destination-guides\/north-america\/miami\">Miami<\/a> is slated for 2026.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Crystal rooms<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/rosewood-sp-asaya-spa-crystals.avif\" alt=\"Rosewood S\u00e3o Paulo crystal room\" class=\"wp-image-252934\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Rosewood S\u00e3o Paulo takes crystal therapy up a notch \u00a9Rosewood S\u00e3o Paulo\/Andr\u00e9 Klotz<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Taking crystal therapy to a new level, <a href=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/travel\/travel-news\/rosewood-sao-paulo-penthouse\">Rosewood S\u00e3o Paulo<\/a> has unveiled its new spa area \u2013 which includes a mirrored therapy room, lined floor-to-ceiling with geodes. Inside, treatments include crystal reiki, crystal sound instruments, and crystal meditation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The moon<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/moon-yoga-2560x1707.jpg\" alt=\"moon ceremonies\" class=\"wp-image-252930\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The moon\u2019s influence on our health and wellbeing remains a subject of debate, but hotels are increasingly embracing it as part of their wellness offerings \u00a9Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The moon\u2019s influence on our health is contested, but hotels have begun moonwashing wellness. In Napa, Stanly Ranch hosts ritualistic full-moon ceremonies and in Riviera Maya, Auberge Collection\u2019s Et\u00e9reo is using la luna to guide treatments.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Longevity programs<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/minos-palace-2560x1707.jpg\" alt=\"Minos Palace sunrise\" class=\"wp-image-252916\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Minos Palace in Crete offers wellness programs targeted at longevity \u00a9Minos Palace<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A crop of hotels offer holistic life extending programs, combining bio-metric and prognostic tests with overall lifestyle adjustments \u2013 from diet to social circles. Try out Minos Palace in Crete or The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Silent retreats<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/elitetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/12\/silent-retreat-1440x2560.jpg\" alt=\"woman at beach doing yoga\" class=\"wp-image-252922\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Silent retreats offer a rare chance to step completely away from the constant demands of modern life \u00a9Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Zoom calls, Teams meetings, email notifications: kill \u2019em all. Silent retreats remove the distractions of normal life but can be surprisingly taxing. Mandali in Italy offers silent therapy amid its wider programming, while at Gaia House in the UK, all programs are silent (and communication of any form is prohibited).<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From crystal rooms to cacao ceremonies, here\u2019s your guide to the trending rituals currently capturing the world\u2019s imagination.\u00a0 Some experiences promise deep relaxation, others a spiritual jolt, and many are just delightfully woo-woo. From crystal-lined therapy rooms and cacao ceremonies, the modern wellness world, now valued at around $1 trillion and growing, is a fascinating [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2879,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"","beyondwords_project_id":"","beyondwords_content_id":"","beyondwords_preview_token":"","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2878","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2878","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2878"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2878\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/2879"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2878"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2878"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/facesjournal.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2878"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}