We all know that Ibiza is best known for it’s massive party scene, chic beach clubs, epic parties, world famous DJ’s and hedonistic summer holidays but recently the island has begun to attract a different kind of crowd – those seeking mindfulness, fitness, energy healing and inner balance rather than pure partying.
Over the last few years Ibiza has seen a rapid growth in the demand of what could be called ‘wellbeing-holidays’, the White Island has become a destination for all types of health and healing retreats and particularly yoga retreats which are now more popular than ever. Often it’s not just yoga that’s offered but a full package including meditation, clean eating and digital detox with the focus on feeling good, finding a balance in yourself and even following an inner journey to stillness.
So what makes Ibiza so attractive as a ‘healing destination’? First, Yoga in general is gaining awareness and popularity all around the world, being part of the global mega-trend towers health and mindfulness. Many see yoga and meditation as an effective way to manage stressful lives and taking care of yourself. Secondly, apparently there are not many places around the globe who offer all the right elements to enable these kinds of well-being experiences and this is what Ibiza has in abundance.
It may be rooted in the history of Ibiza, back in the 60’s when the hippies were conquering the island, they were seeking love, peace and happiness and this vibe still exists on the island even though it has been diluted due to the rise of the global party scene over the last 10 years. But there’s no doubt that the island still has this magic about it that acts as a beacon calling energy-healers from all over the world, including everything from reiki to holistic massages to chakra balancing and crystal therapy. Lots of people coming to Ibiza feel that this is a place of freedom, free from social judgement, where everyone can be as they are.
Then there is Es Vedra – the stunning rock formation on the southwest coast of the island which, even though there’s no science to back up the claim, is fabled to be the 3rd most magnetic place on Earth (after the North Pole and the Bermuda Triangle) and to many it represents the tip of the sunken civilisation of Atlantis. In local folklore it’s also the birthplace and holy island of one of Ibiza’s goddesses, Tanit. The incredible aura and beauty of this mysterious place clearly make it a favourite place for meditation as well as other spiritual practices. According to a famous tale, Tanit, who stands for love, dance and healing is also one of the reasons why many females feel so connected with the island’s vibrant energy.
As an added bonus, few places on earth offer such a big contrast of a wide range of wellbeing retreats, while just around the corner you will find the world’s hottest party spots. Also dancing on a table is a form of freedom.
The party crowd will stay for sure but a new generation of Ibiza lovers are now looking at the island with a different perspective which in turn brings many new possibilities for tourism on the White Isle.
"MAN IN SAN AN" by Martin Makepeace 