In recent years, wellness tourism has grown significantly, reflecting a growing global trend to prioritize health, relaxation and self-care during travel experiences. Wellness tourism includes a wide range of activities and destinations that promote physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
Travelers seeking wellness retreats are often drawn to destinations with natural landscapes, such as serene beaches, lush forests, or rejuvenating hot springs. These places provide the perfect backdrop for activities like yoga, meditation, spa treatments and outdoor adventures.
Wellness resorts and retreat centers have responded to this increase in demand by offering specialized programs and services designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of wellness travelers. These may include personalized wellness consultations, organic and wholesome meals, holistic treatments and immersive wellness experiences.
Seema Rekha, Managing Director, Antarman Consulting, says, “Wellness tourism is the future. Post the pandemic, not only individuals but organizations have also realized the importance of health and wellness for their workforce. Seeing this as a cost and time-effective solution, individuals and organizations are preferring wellness travel across destinations.
India being a symbol and rich in ancient holistic wellness knowledge is one of the most preferred destinations across the globe. “Earlier confined to the southern part of the country or the mountains, we are now seeing nature resorts coming up in the heart of the country, even in metros as well as tier two cities, which has improved the feasibility and has reduced travel time and cost,” adds Rekha.
The rise of wellness tourism can be attributed to a number of factors, including a growing awareness of the importance of self-care, rising stress levels, and a desire to escape the fast-paced modern lifestyle. Furthermore, the integration of wellness into mainstream travel has made it more accessible and attractive to a wider audience.
Ayurveda Tourism
Dr. Anuradha Sharma, Chairperson, Shatam Jiva, Jhansi says, “Ayurvedic wellness tourism has seen a remarkable growth in recent years and this can be attributed to a number of factors. First, there is growing interest in natural and holistic approaches to health care. Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that focuses on restoring balance to the body, mind and spirit through natural remedies such as herbs, oils and massage. This has increased the demand for Ayurvedic wellness programs.”
Secondly, the age group that wellness tourism caters to varies widely, but traditionally trends towards older age groups (40+) looking for ways to maintain good health and prevent age-related diseases. are doing. However, there is also growing interest in wellness tourism among young people who are looking for a break from their busy lives and want to focus on their well-being.
“Key aspects of wellness travel include a focus on physical activity, healthy eating, and relaxation. Many wellness programs include activities such as yoga, meditation, and spa treatments. The environment is also an essential factor, with many resorts located in beautiful and serene environments. There are wellness retreats,” says Sharma.
Ayurvedic wellness tourism is likely to continue to grow in the near future. As people become more aware of the benefits of a natural and holistic approach to health and wellness, the demand for Ayurvedic wellness programs will increase. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought greater focus on health and wellness, which is likely to drive further growth in this sector.
Rekha feels, “Weekend travel seems to be a high priority for leaders where the realization of “food is medicine” is paving the way back to the roots. Lifestyle with rise in lifestyle-disorders Changes have become a necessity which are coming into the picture.
Key aspects of health visits for employees:
- Positive Employee Experience Guaranteeing Rejuvenation
- Hybrid working flexibility
- The many health benefits of the stress-relieving potential provided by
- cultural engagement as it is a step to go ‘back-to-the-roots’
Realizing the immense potential of the motherland, the present Indian government is also promoting and supporting wellness tourism. In addition, the Global Wellness Institute estimates that the global wellness tourism market will be worth US$639 billion in 2017, with secondary wellness travelers accounting for 89% of trips and 86% of spending. Home health visits account for 82% of total visits and 65% of expenditure.