An evolutionary tale

As the old saying goes, life is a journey, and one never knows exactly where it is going to take you – even if you think you’ve got it all planned out. Karen Sailer – author, shaman and founder of famed Ibiza landscaping company Noah’s Garden – has always known her path in life would be different to others. She describes herself as being born with ‘open eyes’ – never quite agreeing with what the world around her expected of her; be it teachers, parents or society. She remembers very clearly the moment at 12 years of age when she looked deep into her eyes in the mirror and made a promise to herself: she would never, ever forget the feeling of being a child and to become the type of adult who would encourage young people to believe in their dreams.

Over the years Karen’s life path took many twists and turns; two marriages and two children in Germany; training as a veterinarian; a creative career as a textiles designer; a third marriage which she found Ibiza, two further children (one from her husband’s former marriage and one son together) and her hugely successful business: Noah’s Garden; a horsemanship academy for children, Alegria; surviving breast cancer, horse rescue, global travels and so much more. In between all of this, she also quietly and passionately sought out shaman and healers from tribes around the world, encompassing a lifetime of education that would ultimately become her true calling. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves; let’s talk about the much-loved Noah’s Garden in Ibiza first.

After more than 20 years of running Noah’s Garden, building it into a landscaping company known for its eco-conscious philosophy and passion for sustainability, Karen and her husband began to feel it was time to step away from the business. For Karen, it wasn’t about money, success or responsibility – she simply knew over time she had changed. Her life’s true purpose had been revealed to her and she was ready to close the business in order to pursue it. And just as it seemed one of Ibiza’s longest running garden centres was about to call it a day; life delivered a surprising gift in the form of the couple’s son Sami.

He’d been living in Germany for the past nine years, working in bars, restaurants, real estate and start-up companies and suddenly felt a strong desire to return to his Ibiza roots. “I left the island when I was young and I had no interest in what my parents were doing,” he explains in all honesty. “But what I imagined the world outside Ibiza to be when I was 16 turned out to be very different. The work wasn’t fulfilling and I wasn’t happy. I wanted to do something new.” On returning to the island for a sabbatical, he discovered his parents were about to retire the family business and asked for a chance to learn the ropes. For Karen, it was the ideal solution. “It’s interesting to see how life unfolds its magic,” she reflects. “Sami was in Berlin, on a different path, and it was a nice surprise that he wanted to return to his roots. The evolution of Noah’s Garden is a nice story.”

Today, the family-run company continues to offer clients its much-needed garden maintenance services – which includes water conservation methods and the use of only non-toxic products – under Sami’s watchful eye (and after a tough induction under his parents’ guidance). The experienced Noah’s Garden gardening and landscaping professionals – many of whom have been with the company for its 20-year history – remain on the team, and continue to put their love and passion into their work, including a very select number of new projects per year.

The ethos for preserving Ibiza’s nature remains – an element that originally hailed from Karen’s underlying shamanic practices. “I always integrated shamanism into my work – it influenced the way we did gardens,” she explains. “I didn’t talk a lot about it – I just did it – but my clients knew. I’d see the reaction with big international businessmen when I told them where I was coming from; they wanted to know more and found it super interesting.” Her respect and understanding of the way nature worked on a deeper level; the energy of water, wind, air, fire, plants, animals, the stars and the moon initially came when she discovered her own spiritual roots in Native American culture as a child. “It was a natural connection,” she says. And so, she slowly began to step away from Noah’s Garden as she tapped further in to her true destiny.

READ MORE ABOUT NOAH’S GARDEN

“My fire was burning for something else,” Karen explains when asked of her lifestyle change. “It was a bumpy road for me at times – but now it’s done. You cannot teach others what you are not living yourself. I do it. I walk it. I live in line with what I am teaching.” So what exactly is she teaching? With more than 30 years’ worth of shamanic work under her belt, Karen began to feel a very, very strong calling to help women restore the balance of feminine and masculine energy. “There’s often a misunderstanding when I talk about female power,” she says. “We all have male and female energy within us, but the world is so dominated by male energy. But now it is time for female energy to rise – from politics to every day life. We need to give our strength to the world.”

The Dalai Lama famously said: “The world will be saved by the western woman.” This is a concept that Karen too, truly believes. “We have access to so much knowledge. We have the possibility to step up and raise our voices,” she says. “When you look at the revolution, when women rose against male power, their methods were all wrong. They were women in men’s clothes, taking over male behaviour, using male energy to fight for equality. And now, male and female energies are out of balance.” She refers to ancient times when female power was honoured; when women’s circles were sacred spaces and wisdom was passed down to the next generation from elder women (as it still is in native tribes around the world). “Now we need to bring this back to reality; balance the passive and active, the male and female. We must empower the female aspect again.”

In order to help women rise up and discover (and importantly, live) their soul’s mission, Karen has developed an exciting new online program – which means she can reach women in all corners of the globe – called Wild Heart. “This teaching is where I feel my calling now. I believe we live many more lives than this one – but that our soul comes to this place, to this body, to do something special. This is what my program is about.” The 28-day program is currently available in German (but will soon be translated into English) and is designed for women with horses (a version of the retreat for women without horses is in progress).

The resulting Wild Heart Sisterhood is a developing global community who share stories, wisdom, support and empower each other. Karen is one of 16 shamans from around the world selected to contribute to a new book called Shamanism for the New Millenium (available via Amazon). Here, she shares the incredible story of her soul’s connection to one very special horse and another unlikely connection that would ultimately lead to her uncovering memories from her past lives, putting her on the next stage of her life’s path as she searches to reconnect with her love of centuries gone by. With all the magic of a fairytale, it’s no surprise Karen’s story was recently made into a short film – one that has current interest from some big Hollywood players.

In the meantime, life goes on, ebbing and flowing, ever-evolving and ever-surprising. Here in Ibiza, Noah’s Garden continues to thrive, as does Karen’s natural horse and life academy, Alegria. The promise she made herself at 12 years of age – to encourage young people to believe in their dreams – she now shares with her youngest son Noah, who has returned to the family fold in Ibiza after a year-long initiation spent travelling through Australia and Bali. “Noah felt called by my mission,” Karen says. “He is showing young people the unspoken tools we are required to learn before the world expects you to be an adult. He shares his knowledge through online programmes, motivational speeches and films.

At the same time, Karen embraces her new role as spiritual teacher and mentor; hosting workshops, full moon and new moon circles and provide one-to-one shamanic sessions. “I’m not sitting here with a feather in my hair and meditating on the sofa,” she laughs. “For me, spirituality is not just light and love. That’s not real life. This is what I like about shamanism – it’s very honest. We also deal with the shadows to help heal your wounds. And there is so much healing needed in the world right now…”

Luxury solo retreats

Not all retreats are created equal at Pure Seven – the luxury wellness centre and spa at the heart of the five-star 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza. And that’s intentional, because no two retreats are ever alike, just as no two participants on a retreat are ever alike. Spa director Lucía Peris has designed a series of four wellness retreats tailored to resort guests; bespoke programmes that are completely customised to suit the individual. Whether you’re holidaying with family yet craving some me time, or travelling solo and looking to embark on a complete lifestyle change, Lucía and her team of health, fitness and wellbeing experts can create specific experiences to suit your needs.

Your home for the period of your retreat is a luxurious suite in the clifftop Cala Conta resort. Choose your preferred accommodation – one or two bedrooms with cliff, garden, pool or bay views are all on offer – and make yourself at home within the stylish surrounds. Open, spacious and decked out in raw natural finishes and in a chic Mediterranean colour palette, it’s a far cry from sharing a double room with a stranger, or sleeping in a yurt, as retreat accommodation is typically portrayed. 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza, and indeed these wellness retreats, are designed for a different type of traveller – those seeking complete luxury, privacy, discretion and comfort. Here, you will feel at home with all the benefits and facilities associated with five-star travel

All retreats start with a personal consultation prior to arrival, followed by another on check-in to allow Lucía and her team devise exactly the right programme for you. All retreat guests have daily teas and juices designed specifically to suit them, plus healthy cuisine co-created by 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza executive chef Bijendra Yadav and Lucía, with the understanding that nourishing oneself must continue outside of the actual spa experience in order to be effective. The first retreat option is based around the concept of de-stressing and pressing the reset button on life.

The Wellness Detox Program can be taken as a two-day programme – ideal for those with a busy lifestyle looking for a weekend away, or alternatively, as a way to ease into your holiday experience and pave the way for further relaxation – or as a six-day experience. The package includes lifestyle coaching, guided mindfulness and fitness activities, spa treatments and rituals for the body and face – working with aromatherapy, hot stones and organic products to offer a deep sense of relaxation and restoration.

The next alternative is the Rebalance Program – a two or six-day experience designed to restore balance between the mind and body. After your consultations, you’ll be treated to Ayurvedic spa treatments, an oxygen bar session, acupuncture, Thai massage, guided mindfulness and fitness activities and more – fusing Eastern wellness philosophies with the contemporary ethos of the spa itself allows you to connect deeply into yourself while still feeling in complete luxury at all times.

For some people, retreats are not all about kicking back and relaxing and with this in mind, the Get Fit Program has been created for those looking for a kickstart with getting their bodies back on track. It may be after an indulgent holiday, before preparing to re-enter reality or vice versa – a six-day body boost before continuing on with your Ibiza beach holiday. Fitness, strength and flexibility sessions are balanced with regenerative massages and oxygen bar sessions – ensuring you don’t burn out or overdo it. On completion of your personalised retreat, your trainer will help devise a workout plan for you to take home so you can retain your new sense of wellbeing.

Last, but absolutely not least, is the Weight-Loss Program – an experience that has been created with much thought and attention to detail, allowing participants to reach their goal weight in a healthy way, balancing nutrition, training and relaxation. For many people, adopting a new diet, exercise regime or lifestyle can be difficult among the day to day pressures of daily life, so taking six days to focus purely on yourself at 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza can be the inspiration you need to get started. Expect fitness and nutritional coaching sessions, daily personal training, oxygen bar sessions, luxurious spa rituals, the signature Pure Seven massage and more, plus you’ll receive a personalised training and nutrition program to take home and continue achieving results.

Waking up in the stunning surrounds of 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza daily will have you bounding out of bed; being nurtured by the team of experts will have you feeling supported like never before, while the results you’ll achieve are all down to your own hard work and dedication. As you check-out of the resort (or get ready stay on for some more downtime), the feeling of achievement is one you should hold onto – your very own luxury solo retreat done and dusted – now you’re ready to take on the world. Editor’s note: 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza closes temporarily for winter on November 19, 2018 and re-opens in March 2018.

Planet wellness

Accepting responsibility for the trace we leave on the world has become an issue that’s more prevalent than ever – there’s undoubtedly a growing global consciousness surrounding throwaway culture and a move towards a more sustainable state of living, and mindset. That’s why it’s so utterly refreshing when a brand like 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza arrives in the Balearics with an unshakeable dedication to eco-conscious travel. Here, they’ve become frontrunners of multiple sustainability efforts, including introducing Pure Seven – the island’s first ever spa designed to have as little impact on the environment as possible. A sprawling 56,000 metres of resort set atop stunning clifftops overlooking the majestic Es Vedrà, 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza has a mantra for doing things differently. The hotel is a trailblazer of new ideas, and in the short time that it’s been open, has already proven that the concepts of luxury and sustainability can and do work harmoniously alongside one another – just because you favour one, doesn’t mean the other must be neglected. Pure Seven is the perfect example of this ethos – a microcosm of unrivalled, lavish bliss that simultaneously champions an eco-friendly approach, it’s a space where you can totally relax in the knowledge you’re doing right by both yourself and your surroundings.

This ideology is palpable as soon as you step foot inside Pure Seven. A feat of masterful eco-friendly design, the inside space mirrors the outside and vice versa. Huge, floor-to-ceiling windows face out to sea, giving the impression of a vast expanse of endless blue, at the same time inviting guests to feel totally at one with nature – indeed, it’s hard not to when the Mediterranean stretches out before you, laid out like a bobbing, sparkly blanket. The interiors too, sing with inspiration from the natural world. Furnishings come in natural wood, wicker and leather, and there’s a tactile physicality to every feature – smooth and silky take precedence over gloss and shine. Products too, are rooted in concepts that do as little damage as possible to the environment. Brands like ESPA and NEOM are heavily featured, with both specialising in natural, paraben-free skincare. ESPA, for example, developed its products while working with a range of biochemists, skin experts and aromatherapists, combining holistic knowledge with scientific methods and the best natural products sourced from around the globe to provide the best possible results. NEOM meanwhile, focuses on 100-percent natural fragrances, which can be used to relieve stress, aid sleep, boost energy and lift mood. In addition, the spa also stocks a range of eco-friendly products for skin and hair from brands including Moroccan Oil and Soleil Toujours.

Then there are the treatments themselves, which naturally, all revolve around a holistic approach. The Pure Seven signature massage promotes a sense of deep relaxation using essential oils like lavender and palmarosa, in addition to a series of Ayurvedic massages including Abhyanga and Udvartana. The former uses organic aromatherapy oils to instil a deep sense of calm, while the latter involves a scrub made from a blend of natural herbs and grains, which deeply stimulates the skin’s metabolism. And it doesn’t end there. Pure Seven is all about the all-important little details, too. TWG Tea is served at the spa and is completely organic – even the bag itself is organic cotton, and then served in china cups. Robes are made using organic cotton – there are no manmade materials in sight. The hair salon uses entirely organic products, and the entire spa is plastic free so water is served in glasses, and fruit – sourced locally and organic – is served on proper crockery. Order the ‘healthy menu’ while you’re at the spa and it’s delivered by an electric bike and served on biodegradable tableware.

At Pure Seven, and at 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza in general, the emphasis is that wellness is a way of life, and the idea of wellness extends beyond ourselves – it’s much more than that. It’s about protecting our local environment, it’s about looking after the planet, and it’s about taking care of ourselves in mind, body and spirit. Neither concept is exclusive, so if we start to think inclusively, eventually these ideas will become ingrained in our psyches. Perhaps then we can really start making a difference to the world we live in.

Rest and recharge at Es Cucons

Perhaps we notice that after months of sun-drenched, jam-packed schedules our minds feel a little frazzled, our bodies are a little achey, or our souls feel a little tired. And if we recognise these things in ourselves, we know it’s time to hit the reset button – that’s why stunning Ibiza Agroturismo Es Cucons is the perfect escape. A place to rest, relax and recharge, it provides sanctuary and motivation for those looking for fresh new energy this autumn. Located amid the rolling valleys of Ibiza’s lush countryside, Es Cucons is nestled among delicately branched almond trees that pepper the fertile hillside. The main building is a stunning 17th century farmhouse, and surrounding it are all manner of brightly-coloured, native flora, the twisted boughs of olive trees and ivy that weaves its way up walls. It’s a space with a strong connection to nature that remains luxurious at the core, making it the ideal venue for soothing body, mind, and soul, and for hosting regenerative retreats, of which there are many upcoming.

Es Cucons has been consummately homing retreats for the past few years, and with a range of events hosted by highly-trained external teachers and gurus, there’s ample opportunity to source one that’s right for you. For a week from September 30, 2018, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Inga Johannsen’s dynamic world of yoga, practising Ashtanga Vinyasa Flow or relaxing Yin yoga – set to be seven days of peaceful, blissed out heaven. Another week-long yoga retreat begins on October 7, 2018, this time hosted by Jen Warakomski who instils guests with the importance of self-care, self-empowerment and self acceptance. From October 13 to 20, 2018, Swiss yoga teacher Christine Rüegg guides a group in search of their inner light – an experience she says is made infinitely more simple thanks to the beautiful surroundings at Es Cucons. And from October 20 to 27, 2018, Annette Lengersdorf leads a retreat (taught in German), guiding guests step by step through a personal transformation process. Naturally, more retreat programs will be added to the schedule as the new year commences, but it’s worth remembering that at Es Cucons, you can also organise your very own carefully curated, private retreat, overseen by the hotel’s in-house yoga teacher and masseuse, Melanie Jane.

A therapist who’s trained over many years, Melanie Jane brings an undeniably calming, reassuring presence to the grounds of Es Cucons. An expert teacher of yoga and Pilates, she also specialises in a range of massage – each individually adapted to suit each client, and designed to instigate ultimate wellbeing. Relax with a lavish essential oil massage, for example, or for something more dynamic try the Thai Yoga massage, which incorporates Hatha yoga, acupressure and Shiatsu, in the process increasing energy and releasing stress. However long you decide to stay, Melanie Jane creates a special wellness package that meets all your needs. In fact, the idea is to view your unique retreat as a holiday of sorts, so come alone, come with your partner, or come with friends, and allow Melanie Jane to bring together all the elements that make this particular trip extra special – from cuisine, juices, treatments and classes, to hikes, meditation and sound baths, it’s all planned into a daily schedule that allows you to switch off, enjoy the setting, and most importantly, recharge those batteries, as and when you want to. The hotel also highly values its guests’ privacy and discretion – once you’ve checked in, you can expect peace, quiet and solitude.

When you’re not occupied with restorative treatments or sessions, toddle along to the Es Cucons wellness area soak up the tranquility of the sauna and whirlpool circuit, recline on a chill-out bed overlooking the beautiful valley, or hop on an electric bike and go in search of some of Ibiza’s most spectacular scenery.  Every experience at Es Cucons is simply magic, but here, there’s an emphasis on not restricting yourself – if you fancy a glass of wine at the end of your bike ride, do it! There’s no judgement here, and that really adds to the beauty of it. The good news is that once you’ve soaked up all the enchantment Es Cucons has to offer – setting yourself up for the impending cold months in the process – you can start to look towards spring, when the picture perfect almond blossom begins to bloom. Around this time of year, the hotel plans to host a conscious health weekender, which under the supervision of chef and nutritional host Adriana Molina, will include cooking lessons and fresh, tasty cuisine served every day, as well as additional Ayurvedic treatments from wellness expert Alba Castán, and daily yoga sessions overlooking the valley below courtesy of Melanie Jane.

Contact the hotel directly to find out more on potential dates – whether you’re treating yourself at the end of the 2018 season or giving yourself the gift of relaxation before the start of the 2019 season, Es Cucons and their team of wellness experts are there to guide you through the process.

Introducing Wellbeing Rituals

The relentlessness of modern life means it’s more important than ever to switch off. There’s sense in taking an approach to life rooted in the essence of yoga – breathe deeply and in the process make space – for yourself, your soul and whatever thoughts are crowding your mind. For some that’s easier said than done, but if you find the right places – like Pure Seven, for instance – they gently nudge you in the right direction. Located at the all new, five-star 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza, this wellness hub is open to hotel guests and visitors alike, making drifting out onto an sea of bliss accessible to everyone. The setting in itself is enough to send you on your way. Perched atop a dramatic cliff on Ibiza’s stunning western coastline, 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza boasts a location unlike anywhere else on the island. At any time of the day, the approach is spectacular – enshrouded by swaying palms, the sun ray’s bouncing off the Mediterranean in the distance, the magical rock of Es Vedrà rising up on the horizon – all this in itself immediately lulls you into a calmer state. But at the heart of all this lies the hotel’s dedicated spa and wellness centre, Pure Seven, and this is where the real enchantment unfolds.

A serene space designed to evoke ultimate relaxation, Pure Seven achieves just that. From the calming tour through its saunas and steam room right through to your treatment cabin with a highly-trained professional, the palpable sense of tranquility captivates every cell in your being, leaving you restored and rejuvenated – seemingly with ease. Naturally, there’s a suite of wellbeing rituals to help along the way, each carefully curated to ensure guests sink into a state of total rest for mind, body and soul, and each recommended on the day, dependent on individual needs. All four of the three-hour wellbeing rituals on the Pure Seven menu were created by a team of 11 NEOM Organic wellbeing experts, and although all are based on the principles of six therapies – meditation, shiatsu, cranio, Thai massage, trigger point and reflexology – they each boast their own unique subtleties. Working with the principle that your body knows what your mind needs most, the first step is overseen by your therapist who performs the Science of Scent Therapy – a ten-second test in which you inhale the raw power of four NEOM blends. Whichever you are most drawn to denotes what ritual you will experience that day.

The first option is Scent to Sleep. You enter a room deeply scented with essential oils including lavender, jasmine and basil, with the sole purpose of inducing a deeply rewarding sleep. It begins with peaceful meditation, reflexation foot massage and breathing techniques, while the unique NEOM Intensive Skin Treatment Candle oil is drizzled on the body throughout. Every inch of the body is then massaged using a range of techniques, with particular emphasis placed on stress-relieving points in the head, neck, face and back. By the end, guests are fully immersed in relaxation, ready to slip off for a night of beautiful, contented sleep. Those with a desire to release tension will find comfort in the Scent to De-Stress treatment. Stress begins to seep away as soon as entering the treatment room thanks to the potent scent of 24 pressed essential oils – a complex combination designed with relaxation in mind. Again, meditation, foot massage and breathing techniques are applied, followed by pressure point massage. The three-hour long experience allows guests to leave their anxieties behind, and to move forward with a more effortless, measured approach.

At the other end of the scale there’s the Scent to Boost Your Energy ritual. Ideal for those in need of a kick-start, this treatment is perfect for enforcing that all-important ‘me-time’, allowing guests to unplug and then essentially, reboot. This ritual focuses on temperature change, speed of touch and contrasting textures. It begins with the NEOM Body Scrub, which consists of wild mint and mandarin, before the body is buffed from head to toe. You’re then enveloped in a NEOM cream clay wrap, where the stimulating oils of rosemary, lemon and grapefruit penetrate the skin, encouraging detoxification. There’s an additional 20-minute face and scalp massage in addition to reflexology, leaving the immune system stimulated and the lymphatic system detoxified. The final ritual is Scent to Happiness. Created to purposefully lift your mood, this treatment involves the fusion of the most complex blend of seven potent herbs, including white neroli, mimosa and lemon. It begins with guided meditation, reflexology and breathing exercises, before skin is lightly buffed. Stress levels are decreased and endorphin levels increased by applying powerful techniques of shiatsu, cranio, Thai massage and trigger point touch. The final result leaves spirits lifted, and ensures you leave the treatment room ready to showcase the very best version of yourself. Whoever you are, wherever you’re from, whatever you need – there is a Pure Seven Wellbeing Ritual to suit you.

Embracing the body beautiful

There are spa treatments that are designed purely to be relaxing; there are other spa treatments that are definitely more results based. But when you’re really lucky, you stumble across the holy grail of treatments – one that manages to combine relaxation and results in a way that makes you wonder why you’d ever opt for only one of the former ever again. At Open Spa – the luxury wellness centre in Ibiza Gran Hotel – that treatment is the Belleza Corporal Pure Detox Wrap Experience, using luxurious, natural Anne Semonin products. Detox is a word that is bandied about frequently in Ibiza. People drink detox juices and follow detox diets, they embark on weekend or weeklong detox retreats and then of course, there are those people who go home needing a detox after spending time on the island’s famous party scene. So it’s no surprise to find a spa treatment catering to fans of detoxing – however this 80-minute all-over experience is not akin to any suffering or hard work. Quite simply, all you have to do is lie back and relax as you let your therapist and her carefully selected mix of products do the rest.

As with all treatments at the luxurious Open Spa, your experience begins from the minute you slip into that big fluffy white robe and take a seat in the low-lit relaxation space, where you’re given some valuable moments to start to embrace the relaxation process before being led down a beautifully fragrant corridor to your spacious and chic treatment room. After a quick walk-through of the treatment you’re about to undergo, de-robing is next and you can settle onto the massage bed between the cool, soft sheets. First up comes a stimulating sea salt full body scrub – a process that gets your blood circulating and sloughs away any dead skin cells, ready to reveal the fresh flowing skin beneath. The fresh, zingy scent of peppermint and lemongrass starts to fill the room as the therapists works her way in long, rhythmic, even strokes all over your body – from the tips of your fingers to the tips of your toes (some people find the scrub a little tickly in this region). Flip from front to back and the process is repeated, leaving your skin with a tingly, warm sensation while your mind starts to drift away.

The next stage of the treatment is the star of the show, so to speak, and although you’re lying on a bed with your eyes closed and covered with a soft towel, it’s almost impossible not to wonder what your body looks like at this moment. You see, the Anne Semonin Spirulina body mask is a thick, gloopy camouflage green mixture that almost looks a little like mud. On the skin however, the mask has beautifully cooling properties that instantly sink into your freshly buffed skin, and as the therapist applies it gently all over your body, the sensation is so relaxing it sends many people to sleep. Chock full of powerful marine ingredients – including the superfood Spirulina and green algae – the mask has been designed to purify the skin, draw out any toxins, restore moisture and elasticity and ultimately, reduce inches. It makes you wonder – why would anybody drink Spirulina if you can slather it all over your body like this instead? Joking aside, once you’ve been suitably covered in the mask and look more like some kind of creature from the deep sea, your therapist wraps you snugly in sheets that help activate the ingredients and then gets to work on a deeply relaxing foot massage while the products get to work on a cellular level.

Once you’re done, the shower (conveniently inside the treatment room) awaits and it’s here where you can see the thick, gloopy Spirulina mix slip away easily from your skin to reveal the softest, smoothest skin beneath. Emerging from the shower is almost like a butterfly coming out of a cocoon – you feel refreshed, energised and embracing the body beautiful. And yet, the treatment is still not over… The final stage of the Belleza Corporal Pure Detox Wrap Experience is an all-over, localised body massage designed to improve circulation and reduce any inflammation in the tissue. The silky smooth Anne Semonin body oils used during this final stage of the treatment again fill the room with the rich scent of essential oils and leave your skin feeling like butter. As you slip back into your robe and return to the warmth of the relaxation room for a herbal tea before returning to reality, you feel as if you’ve been restored the skin you were in on the day you were born.

Meet the team – Pure Seven

The all-new Pure Seven spa at five-star luxury resort 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza is a truly extraordinary wellness centre overlooking the mythical rock of Es Vedra. Offering an array of cutting-edge treatments and therapies, fitness, wellness and yoga activities plus plenty of relaxation, it is open all year round and welcomes hotel guests and external visitors alike. Behind every impressive brand is a great team, and Pure Seven is no exception. The spa boasts a tight-knit team of wellness professionals who have been hand-picked for their unique energy, personality and of course, skills. Meet some of the core team members and learn more about their journeys to Ibiza and Pure Seven below…

Lucía

Born in Valencia, Lucía always felt a connection with her Balearic island neighbours, but spent more than 20 years honing her exceptional skills in spas and wellness centres around the globe before she felt the call to move here permanently. A pioneer in the Spanish wellness industry in Spain, Lucía was originally involved in the development of spa products at the time when five-star hotel complexes had only just begun introducing wellness services, followed by years spent training therapists to the highest possible standards and opening luxury spas around the world. Today, she is at the helm of Pure Seven, where her passion for wellness is matched by a truly stunning location and five-star facilities. In addition to creating the impressive spa menu and hand-picking the entire team, she is also responsible for the implementation of a wellness philosophy throughout the hotel – from the 100-percent organic amenities and products used throughout to custom designed retreat menus based around detoxing, weight loss or fitness to ensuring every last detail is perfect – from the volume of the music to the level of lighting and the scent of candles to the textures of fabrics used, she strives for perfection each and every day. “I’m so lucky my profession is my passion,” she says.

Noemí

“I am in love with the energy of human beings,” says highly experienced therapist Noemí with passion, when asked what led her down the wellness path. As a little girl she would practice massage on her grandma’s tired feet, and on discovering she had the ability to help reduce pain, she began to explore more healing options. A former dancer, her knowledge and awareness of anatomy assists in her treatments – which range from Thai massage and traditional Ayurvedic treatments to chiropractic, sports massage and myofascial techniques. She honed her skills at the most respected school in Madrid for many years, before the travel bug took her to Chang Mai, where she studied Thai massage from the masters in 2011, immersing herself in local life and culture. She describes her style as a therapist as ‘working on layers’, preferring to treat each client as a whole rather than addressing singular concerns, “I have a conversation with your body and I follow the flow to heal it. The most important thing is to be present, to feel and see what is happening on the massage bed or mat, and to make the client feel happy.”

Raul

Growing up in Zaragoza, Raul began playing sports because his father loved football, but a natural aptitude saw him go on to study physical education followed by personal training. His desire to work with an open-minded, cosmopolitan clientele hailing from all over the globe led him to Ibiza, where he could put his advanced skills and cutting-edge training techniques to best use. His extensive experience means within just one session with a client, he can see exactly what kind of workouts and training techniques they can benefit from. “I love to help people,” he says. “I really appreciate the opportunity to make changes in people’s lives. It’s a beautiful thing.” Keeping people motivated is his biggest challenge and he admits that sometimes his job feels like part trainer, part psychologist… but he wouldn’t have it any other way. His own wellness ethos is to live life in the healthiest way possible, with a balance of good nutrition, exercise and rest but to also allow yourself to enjoy yourself. With Pilates, TRX, kettle bells, functional training, HIIT sessions, weights and machines – not to mention the stunning great outdoors at 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza – at his disposal, workouts with Raul are varied, fun and inspiring.

Sara

With her warm and gentle manner, gorgeous glowing complexion and softly spoken style, meeting Sara is almost like falling under her spell. Her honesty with clients allows them to discover the treatments, therapies and products they truly need, while her calm yet considered teaching style helps all students, no matter what level, go deeper into their yoga practice. Hailing from the north of Spain, just outside of Pamplona, she first felt the call to Ibiza 15 years ago but didn’t think of it again until this year when she was looking for a change of pace. Trusting her intuition, she returned to the white isle where things fell into place at Pure Seven – a place where she can take care of the needs of all clients in addition to hosting twice daily hatha yoga classes. “I always say yoga is about strength, stretch and balance,” she says. “Not only in the body but also in the mind and soul. The union of these three things is yoga.” Teaching allows her to go deep into her own practice too, where she is constantly learning. “It’s not about running,” she concedes wisely. “Why would you run if you don’t know how to walk? First, learn how to walk… but step by step.”

Marian

With over two decades of experience in the fitness industry, it was a stroke of luck that brought Marian to Ibiza from her home in Barcelona. She originally came to the island to work in a local Pilates studio for one month, and after falling in love with the island she knew she had to make it her home. A true all-rounder when it comes to the body, Marian – who first honed her craft in gyms, followed by studying yoga, Pilates and physiotherapy – loves to mix things up with her clients, with fitness classes, personal training sessions, yoga and massage. “Every day shouldn’t be the same,” she says. “I like to promote a healthy balance.” She loves the challenge of teaching new clients every day in a resort environment and is passionate about perfection when it comes to technique, be it in her sports-based massages, precision yoga classes or fitness classes. She sees running as her own form of personal meditation time and also enjoys hosting silent nature walks, where clients can simply reflect and observe the stunning environment around them. “We all have our own ways to disconnect,” she says. “I like to help people see that being active can actually be a form of relaxation.”

Love the skin you’re in

Some people revel in nudity and the feelings of freedom and empowerment it brings them. Yet for others, the very thought of being naked evokes feelings of awkwardness, or even worse, shame – be that through social conditioning or self-confidence. Here in Ibiza, Open Spa – the luxurious wellness centre within the Five Star Grand Luxe Ibiza Gran Hotel – offers an all-new full body treatment that helps you embrace the beauty of your bare skin, no matter which camp you fall into; once you’ve experienced it for yourself it’s hard to fall back into any body shaming habits.

The treatment in question is the Glow Body Treatment by Anne Semonin – an incredible 90-minute treatment using all natural, aromatherapy-based products to restore your skin’s surface – body and face – to a pure, smooth and glowing state. The introduction of the cutting-edge Anne Semonin range to Open Spa in 2018 has been hugely successful – the award-winning products and custom-designed beauty treatments offering the perfect level of results-based luxury to Ibiza Gran Hotel’s discerning guests and visitors. Founded in 1985, the brand has over three decades of experience in pioneering products and treatments – all of which can be customised to suit your skin type.

As with all treatments at Open Spa, the Glow Body Treatment begins with a short relaxation session in the low-lit waiting area, complete with a heated lavender compress on your shoulders to ease you into it, cosy slippers on your feet and an array of herbal teas, fruits and chocolates at your fingertips. Your therapist then leads you to the pristine treatment room and gives you a brief introduction to the treatment ahead – you’ll be asked what kind of results you’d like to achieve (relaxing, energising, detoxifying or restorative) and offered four different oils to sniff in order to discover which your body is drawn to, or which you’d prefer to experience. Surprisingly – your subconscious will, on occasion, step in and make you feel attracted to a certain scent, for example lavender if it feels you need to relax.

It’s worth listening to your intuition (combined with the wise words of your therapist) in order to get the best results. Once you’re lying face-down on the massage table, the pampering begins. A beautiful, all-natural exfoliator – the Anne Semonin Nude Body Scrub – is applied in long, firm strokes all over your body. Obviously, a scrub is a little rough in texture, but the gentle, rhythmic massage serves as a balance to any abrasiveness. Given that the product is all natural, including pink quartz powder, hibiscus, lemongrass, sea salt and citrus oils, you can feel it doing nature’s good work on your body as the rough textures removed dead skin and the fragrant oils restore moisture at the same time. As your therapist works her way over your body, from top to bottom, back to front, be sure to breathe deeply – the heavenly aromatics contribute to the relaxation process.

After taking a shower to remove the grains of salt all over your body – another incredible aromatic experience as the water further activates the scent of the oils – you return to the massage table for part two of the treatment. Your chosen oil is gently massaged all over your body in order to deeply nourish, further soften and re-mineralise the skin, in the same style of massage as the original scrub, an experience that almost soothes you to sleep. Mixed in with your oil is a touch of another of Anne Semonin’s cult beauty products, Glow, an essential oil-based essence that adds an instant hint of pearlescent sun-kissed bronze to your skin that means you can walk out of your treatment looking like you’ve just walked off the beach. The product has been designed to adjust to all skin tones and also offers further hydration throughout the day.

The finishing touch of this treatment is an express Anne Semonin facial, to ensure every last centimetre of your skin leaves the treatment room glowing. A gentle cleanse and detoxifying exfoliation is followed by a hydrating oil and moisturiser, plus just the right amount of Glow. As you rise from the massage table, it’s impossible not to love the skin you’re in – it’s baby smooth, glowing like a bronzed goddess, feeling almost brand-new and still tinged with a heavenly aromatic scent. If every woman (and man!) in the world could experience this treatment, our collective body confidence would be raised through the roof. If only they could teach this feeling in schools…

The Glow Body Treatment is suitable for everyone – for those who’ve just arrived, looking to start their holiday fresh after a long-haul flight, it’s the ideal way to slough off tired skin cells and start anew, looking gorgeous and bronzed by the pool. For island residents who’ve spent their summer enjoying the beach, it’s also the ideal refresh – removing traces of sun damage and restoring the skin’s surface to silky smooth without losing your tan. For brides looking for the ultimate wedding day glow, for party girls looking to dazzle on a night out or for those who may not be a sun-worshipper at all, but want to treat themselves to the feeling of simply spectacular skin – this treatment is for all of you.

Surrender in paradise

This is why in times of turmoil we find calm in a stroll by the sea, and when we go in search of peace, it’s often found at the top of a mountain. This also explains why the world’s best spas exist in symbiosis with the lush potency of nature, and why in Ibiza, one of the most highly regarded wellness centres is set within the grounds of Agroturismo Atzaró. An effortless oasis of tranquility, Agroturismo Atzaró is located in the natural heartland of the island in San Lorenzo. Surrounded by abundant, pine-topped hills, verdant fields of local herbs and the zesty, intoxicating fragrance of its world-famous orange groves, this green-tinged setting sings with all the elements required for optimum luxurious seclusion. Rooted in rich Ibicenco history – the original Atzaró finca has been in the same family for generations – this is where guests come for rest, recovery and rejuvenation, all to be experienced in an authentic atmosphere that demands total surrender.

The Atzaró Spa insists on further renunciation of the responsibilities that come as part and parcel of busy lives, instead suggesting you leave all stresses and strains at the door. Here is a place where time slips away, replaced only by the present, as well as an opportunity to sink into a state of placid, all-encompassing bliss. Lounge on a rustic wooden daybed, shaded by an orange tree, take a dip in the stunning rectangular pool that stretches the length of the garden, and then succumb to the expertise of highly-trained therapists at the spa – your personal wellness journey begins here. Naturally, this process is different for everyone, but Atzaró Spa caters for every wellness requirement – be it physically or mentally related – and its services are open to both hotel guests and visitors. In fact, such is Atzaró Spa’s dedication to delivering the perfect treatment that the team behind it have developed an entirely unique range of treatments and products, found nowhere else on the island. There’s the Atzaró Mediterranean Ritual for example, an exfoliating and organic treatment applied using products from Ibiza; the Atzaró Integration Massage, inspired by a combination of Swedish, Balinese and Thai techniques, and the Atzaró Hot Stone Massage, a bespoke fusion of the spa’s signature massage and traditional hot stone techniques.

Elsewhere, there’s a lengthy selection of superb wellness and beauty treatments, all designed to leave you feeling refreshed and revived – and importantly, all curated by a team of clued-up skin experts. Facials include the Natura Bissé Diamond Lifting Multisensorial, which brightens and regenerates while improving elasticity – the perfect anti-ageing regimen, plus the Natura Bissé O2 Relax, which flushes out toxins from the skin using pure oxygen, and a range of additional facials tailored to suit every skin type. The massage and therapy menu is equally diverse. Try the deep tissue massage for relieving pent up tension in the shoulders, neck and head; the healing technique of Reiki to help regulate the vital energy that flows throughout the body; or the ancient Japanese technique of reflexology to specifically target problem areas. Guests can also indulge themselves with an Ayurvedic head and shoulder massage, a classic manicure or pedicure and of course, a variety of waxing options are also available. Everything you need to feel refreshed and restored – inside and out – is within easy reach.

It goes without saying that personal wellness doesn’t end there. Long after you’ve left the comforting embrace of the treatment room, you’re able to continue the journey with the range of products available. From Burbujas oils – made from local Ibiza herbs – that relax and restore, to Campos de Ibiza perfumes and Atzaró’s very own orange scented candles, it’s possible to take a little essence of the spa experience home with you so that in moments of need, a gentle waft of subtle scent can transport you back into a dreamlike, meditative state. If you want to take the journey a little deeper, delving deep into what makes your mind, body and soul tick, there’s also a fitness and yoga club onsite to help nudge you in the right direction – also open to the public. From hatha yoga and vinyasa flow to Pilates, tonification and lessons in pranayama and meditation, there are a range of experts on hand to offer guidance. In addition, spa day passes are now available for guests who aren’t using the spa (with a minimum spend required per daybed), so you can work up a sweat in the fully equipped gym before winding down in the sauna, hammam, pool and surrounding luxurious gardens, before cooling off with a freshly-pressed juice or healthy snack from the all-new spa menu.

Much like the treatments offered at the Atzaró Spa, the ethos here is in wellness that extends to every part of the mind and body, all delivered in the kind of authentically luxurious surroundings that you’ve come to expect from Atzaró. Slow down, take some time out for yourself, and relish in the unrivalled ambience created by a true Ibiza paradise.

Ultimate indulgence ritual

Self-care is the buzzword for our era. Burning out is no longer cool – keeping balanced is. Doing it is not always easy however, unless you find yourself at Open Spa at Ibiza Gran Hotel. The pinnacle of Open Spa’s extensive treatment menu is the Ultimate Indulgence Ritual. The ritual starts from the very moment you’ve stepped over the threshold of this gorgeous, luxury hotel. Walking through the grand reception past the friendly faces of guest relations, bellboys and concierge into the golden light of the inner courtyard provides the first inkling of what is to come. Pure, luxurious and well-deserved indulgence.

As the doors swing open to the spa welcoming area, the eye is immediately drawn to the display of luxurious bottles and tubs of creams and serums but there’s plenty of time for that later. The ambience is gentle and immediately comforting. Before you’ve even been escorted to the changing rooms, the expert hands at this temple of wellness have taken you subtly into their care, guiding you towards some kind of spa nirvana. The Ultimate Indulgence Ritual commences with the spa’s signature Open Aqua experience. This heavenly water circuit is like a modern version of a Roman bathhouse; a vast hall of smooth lines and natural light with a choice of hydrotherapy pools and rooms that induce extreme feelings of pleasure. Take a sip of lemon or cucumber infused water, slip off the fluffy robe and into the waters. Your self-care is truly underway.

The Dynamic Pool is a good place to start with its variegated temperatures, swan neck jets, cascades and submerged spouts. Step through the shallow Way Kneipp pools for contrasting cold and hot. Follow this up with a spin in the Jacuzzi with its inbuilt bubbles bed before shocking the system into euphoria with the cold-water pool. Pass through the Swedish sauna, the Hamman, the salt inhalation room, the ice fountain and myriad choices of shower. As you recline on a heated day bed you’ll be gently reminded of the treatment to come. A therapist waits at the doors of the private treatment rooms with a big smile and an open face. The Ultimate Indulgence Ritual starts with a conversation about the condition of your skin and muscles. A row of Anne Semonin vials stand at the ready while the highly trained therapist explains which is ideal for your skin type. Open Spa at Ibiza Gran Hotel is the one and only location in Ibiza where you can try this globally-renowned luxury skincare brand and each unique product is both cutting edge and healing at the same time. The science is all there, but as far as you’re concerned… simply lie down and let your therapist work her magic.

There are few words to do the Ultimate Indulgence Ritual justice but let’s just say you deserve to have this experience. The back exfoliation that begins the process is the perfect summertime treatment to slough off dead skin and prepare you for the beach as you feel the years being wiped away to reveal glowing skin beneath. Select Anne Semonin body products are used, designed to improve the tone and elasticity of the skin while uplifting your mood at the same time. Then comes the rhythmic, hypnotic full body massage, again tailored to your specific skin and body needs and completely, utterly, out-of-this-world amazing. Promising flawless skin is a big claim but as the therapist begins the pièce de résistance, your Anne Semonin facial, the possibility becomes more apparent. At some point, you’ll lose track of the various uplifting, energising, tension releasing, circulation boosting, detoxifying, relaxing (and more) facial massage techniques and bespoke combination of specialised Anne Semonin serums being used. You’ll lose track of the present and slip into some kind of other world, one that is inhabited by clouds and a dreamlike atmosphere where the air is perfumed, but not overly, and the bed melts from under your body. And that’s totally ok. Remember, there’s time for all that later – right now, your job is to surrender to bliss.

The gentle voice of your therapist brings you back up from the dream world and somehow you float towards the relaxation room where she’ll lie you down, make you a herbal infusion and bring you a bowl of healthy snacks. As you lean back, warm slippers magically appear on your feet and a warm wheat pack over your shoulders. Apparently, it’s been a full 110 minutes since you entered the treatment room but time moves at a different pace here; in fact, it’s almost like time stands still. As for the flawless skin, Open Spa do not make promises they cannot keep. You’ll see a dramatically different glow in the mirror as you depart the changing room – skin is smoothed, plump, luminous and completely rejuvenated. Perhaps while time was standing still, your therapist was turning back the clock! At the same time, you experience a deep feeling of inner peace; of total relaxation. All in all, the Ultimate Indulgence Ritual at Open Spa is the kind of self-care that really matters – one that takes you out of yourself and puts you back together in the best possible way.