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The long weekend was an opportune time to sneak away from the city. After weeks of back-to-back Zoom meetings, an overwhelming influx of messages flooding the inbox and the rush of fast-approaching holidays, a wellness escape was in order. The late afternoon flight to El Nido was timed for a breathtaking arrival on this hidden piece of paradise. As the boat cruised across Bacuit Bay, a soft glow cascading from the forest tops towards the shore illuminated the property. It immediately impressed as something dramatic, romantic, and magical. It was also a fitting preamble to a unique and transformative wellness experience.  

Since events of the pandemic in 2020, no other idea or concept has been more freely thrown around than “wellness.” Now more than ever, individuals across cultures, ages and lifestyles are investing on services, products and experiences that support or enhance a sense of wellbeing. A new mindset, greatly informed by unprecedented events of past months, has inspired many to seek out their best lives and subsequently, the best versions of themselves. “Invest on experiences—not in things,” has also become the shared credence of a post pandemic world.

Although broad and sometimes overreaching as an idea, we are often inclined to associate the state of being well to medical facilities, rigid diets and intimidating fitness programs. At the newly opened LIHIM Resorts in El Nido, the wellness experience is custom fit to your unique wellness journey—regardless of where you might be. Developed and run by new luxury travel player, Araw Hospitality Group, the wellness travel experience offered by the boutique resort is far from cookie-cutter or boot-camp. LIHIM is all about experiencing and reconnecting with nature in your own unique way—and at your own pace—to bring back balance and bliss.

WELLNESS TREND #1: RE-WILD TO REWIND

Araw Hospitality’s The Shaman/Corporate Wellness Manager, Ryan Escobido began, “Our wellness program is curated to be recreational. The main idea behind LIHIM has always been to create a wellness sanctuary in Palawan where you can be close to nature.” Programs incorporate all tiers of wellness with emphasis on experiences and integration with nature as key healing modalities.

With only 16 villas throughout the initial phase of the development, well-appointed accommodations can be likened to nests. Perched atop forest hills and surrounded by lush emerald greenery they offer sprawling views of Bacuit Bay. Immersive nature walks that take you from the villa to other hidden gems around LIHIM are, in themselves, meditative and invigorating experiences. Wrap around balconies embraced by verdant foliage, put one in the best company possible: mother nature.

There are private lounges all throughout the property, also ideal for moments of stillness, mindful movement or partaking in farm-to-table delights that highlight local flavors. Late lunch of grilled fish, fresh greens and fruits, set up at one of the Forest Lounges, was the perfect way to usher in another restorative afternoon on the island. Following an energizing hike up the forest hills, a hearty yet healthy spread was laid out in a secluded area, hidden amongst centuries-old forest trees. A cool breeze and thick canopies of leaves cooled down the senses after walking up 160 steps. The sight of bean bags, strategically placed under the shade of the tropical jungle was invitation for an afternoon nap.


WELLNESS TREND #2: DISCONNECT TO RECONNECT

Unlike other wellness destinations where you feel like cattle being herded from one sterile facility to another, LIHIM goes above and beyond to give guests unparalleled privacy and undisturbed communes with nature. Each villa is appointed its own personal butler who essentially makes all the arrangements—from unpacking luggage, sorting out daily menus and even booking island experiences.

A daily Talusi report, read out each morning over coffee and breakfast takes away the need to scroll through social media feeds or take in the negative news printed on the morning paper. It is a refreshing way to start each day, prompting one to truly disconnect from the digital and outside world.

Island experiences curated by the resort are also unique in that they take you to spots otherwise inaccessible to other tourists. The resort has its own private lounge in Cadlao Lagoon where you can fully disconnect from the world and take in the majesty of Palawan’s most storied secret spot. The private lounge is perched on limestone rock formations of the lagoon, giving one a sense of being fully integrated with the natural topography of the island. Araw Hospitality’s Chief Astounder/Chief Operating Officer, Raffy Ladao, explained, “We also made sure that these lounges were built around and integrated with the natural landscape. When we were building, we were keen about not cutting trees or disturbing the topography.”

A few hours spent at Cadlao Lagoon—sans signal or internet connection—was like spring water to the soul. And while most stunning views merit countless posts on social media, it felt apt to stay in the moment and take it all in. There were no other tourists present save for travel buddies and a full staff of butlers dedicated to providing an experience of what the resort calls “Luxury in Simplicity.” Fitting of an island destination, this included the freshest catch of the day grilled in a brick kitchen hidden behind a rock. A chic bamboo water tumbler with my name engraved on it was a brilliant touch, sent over by my butler Eunice to make sure I was hydrated throughout the island hopping experience.

While starring off into serene aquatic life, framed by gothic limestone cathedrals, a curated playlist of lounge music played softly in the background. There was option to sip on bubbly or preferred grape varietal while relaxing underneath the shade of trees overhead. But in that moment, even that prospect did not compare to the joy of not having to check emails and respond to urgent messages from the outside world. Ryan expounded, “After the pandemic, most of us had to deal with mental issues especially with all our work happening online. We want our guests to disconnect from all that and return to the symbiotic relationship they have with nature.”

WELLNESS TREND #3: SUNSET THERAPY

It was impossible to part from that perfect day in Cadlao Lagoon, but our tour guide, Sammy, promised that the next secret destination would not disappoint. So we boarded a speed boat and cruised towards another private lounge on Pinagbuyutan island just in time for sunset. A sprawling platform, built as if were it floating above massive rocks lining the shore, provided front row seats to a spectacular sunset. As it was at the lagoon, the structure was seamlessly integrated with palm tress, allowing one to lean on its steady trunk while taking in the entire experience.

Healthy canapes had been expertly plated and served as they lounged on wicker beds and waited for the sun to descend. There was ample space for an afternoon yoga flow facing the ocean, which now adds to the list of reasons for a return trip. Convivial company on a deserted beach inspired gratitude and a state of being in the moment. Author Jessie Blackwell for The Conscious Consultant wrote: “On the most hectic and stressful days, setting aside a few minutes to watch the sunset can help put everything into perspective. Taking this time to stop and watch the sunset also encourages the practice of mindfulness, which can have a significant positive impact on mental health.” And that’s exactly what we did as we ended each day at Lihim Resorts.

WELLNESS TREND #4: FITNESS AND NUTRITION BY INTUITION

Nutritional and fitness programs at LIHIM are as unique as the needs and goals of their guests. Ryan shared, “We are a retreat; not boot camp. More than immediate results achieved through programs that deprive you or shock your system, we believe in gradually introducing the mind, body and senses to healthy habits that you can take continue to apply once you re-integrate back into the outside world.”

Personal butlers are trained to help craft menus that suit your taste preferences and dietary requirements. So whether you subscribe to a vegan, pescatarian, Flexitarian, paleo, or Keto diet, a wide range of flavors are available. Whenever possible, ingredients are fresh, organic and locally-sourced. Ryan detailed, “Menus are customized according to your diet. If you have specific health goals, we make suggestions on the menu that allow you to reach that end goal—slowly and gradually. The idea is to make it enjoyable so that you associate wellness with something positive instead of deprivation.”

The same approach applies to fitness and movement. Yoga, sound baths, breath work, mediation are on offer daily. The resort’s in-house coach is also available to support guests with cardio, strength and muscle building regimens. A fully-equipped fitness studio, located right at the heart of the forest, is an ideal spot for raising endorphins. Ryan declared, “We believe in allowing the body to move or rest when it needs and wants to. The idea is balance. Move when your body needs it, and take it slow to allow for recovery.”

WELLNESS TREND #6: NATURE AS HEALER

Rest, restoration and recovery are end goals that inform LIHIM’s therapeutic massages, body scrubs and soaks. They are complimentary experiences that allow rejuvenation after re-wilding. The resort’s healing sanctuary, Panari Spa, offers a unique collection of treatments that showcase natural ingredients and healing powers of touch. A 90-minute Signature Warm Bamboo Wand, scheduled on the first full day on the island, set the tone for the wellness escape.

Treatment suites, cocooned in lush foliage, brought one into a state of full relaxation and ease. The ritual commenced with an exfoliating foot complete with petals and salt scrub. Once settled on the massage bed, the therapist applied a generous layer of virgin coconut oil infused with grape seed and essential oils all over the body. The therapist explained, “Our oils are blended in-house using natural ingredients.” According to Ryan, essential oils are preferred over mineral or fragrance oils to fully nourish the body with natural goodness.

A warmed bamboo was rolled over the back, arms and legs to unknot aches, knots and tension points. This was soon followed by deep tissue strokes that support healing of fascial adhesions and muscle traumas. The Warm Bamboo Massage was also recommended for enhancing a wider range of body motions. Use of heated bamboos have also been scientifically proven to maximize absorption of nourishing oils and relax the body. The sound of rain gently falling over the thatched nipa roofs of the spa promptly lulled one into deep slumber throughout the rest of the treatment.

Senses later awakened to the distinct smell of the forest after the rain. A tray containing a cup of banana tea and taro chips were brought in to accompany a few more moments lingering in the experience. Plans for an in-villa Lihim Journeys treatment were soon made through the assistance of my personal butler. She explained: “LIHIM Journeys is a holistic treatment that starts with a body scrub. It is then followed by a massage, lymphatic drainage facial and herbal body soak.”

The company’s Wellness Manager furthered, “The resort believes in the adage that if you can’t ingest it, it shouldn’t be used on the body. Our scrubs highlight local ingredients like coconut, rice grains or cashew nuts.” Use of ingredients sourced from earth benefit people, planet and local communities. Furthermore, it anchors a holistic mindset that believes in nature as the grand healer.

THE NEW LUXURY TRAVEL GROUP BEHIND THE SECRET

LIHIM Resorts was conceived, developed and built by Araw Hospitality Group. A new player in the luxury travel category, the company aims to redefine sojourns and holidays that introduce new perspectives on how tourists experience the Philippines. Raffy added, “We are focused on building an experience group; not just a hospitality management group. At ARAW, we believe that experiences define luxury.”

There are plans in the pipeline for opening more wellness properties around the country. Paying homage to unique locales, every brand or concept is a showcase of Philippine culture, flavors and distinct brand of hospitality. In the case of LIHIM, the decision to build a wellness sanctuary that harness the healing powers of nature and transformative experiences had much to do with the hidden gems the island has to offer. Raffy concluded, “Lihim Resorts in El Nido is distinguished by the luxury of experiences. Our unique holistic program is a core pillar designed, formed and inspired by the natural landscape of its setting.”