My name is: Sarah Hilmy.
I'm known for being: marketing manager for Coco Collection, a homegrown luxury hospitality brand in the Maldives.
I’m launching: Summer Wellness, a residency program for which we host fitness and wellness personalities at our island resort to lead exclusive classes for our guests.
It’s located at: Coco Bodu Hithi, Maldives—and runs over the months of June and July 2019.
I was drawn to this spot because: I was born and raised in the Maldives and spent almost every day of my childhood swimming in the salty sea and climbing palm trees. As a Maldivian, you learn from an early age that not all islands are the same—some are undoubtedly better for diving or have more charming beaches to set up your barbecue! What I love so much about Coco Bodu Hithi is that the island encapsulates the best of the quintessential Maldivian experience: The beaches are vast with soft white sand, the jungle is thick with native vegetation and the surrounding waters are rich enough to keep even the keenest diver engaged.
This program is special because: Coco Bodu Hithi is designed to help you refresh your senses. Our program is special because we have three wellness residencies led by three amazing women with very different and interesting backgrounds: Cat Meffan is an extremely popular YouTuber, Master Shanshan has been training in the art of tai chi and kung fu since the age of 7 and Shifana is one of the most respected yogis in the Maldives with her own boutique yoga studio. It’s a very unique opportunity to experience an intimate class with these accomplished individuals.
One thing you can’t miss is: The tai chi class with Master Shanshan is an absolute must. While many of us are familiar with yoga, tai chi is still relatively new to those outside of China and greater Asia. This is a wonderful way to experience this peaceful practice in a beautiful setting.
My favorite secret detail is: The view from the very tip of the Coco Residences. It gives you an uninterrupted view of the ocean and is the perfect place to stop and watch a breathtaking Maldivian sunset. When sitting by the deck, with your feet dangling over the blue sea, you truly get the sense of being a castaway on a private island.
Your body will thank you because: Wellness is about nourishing both your physical and mental self. The ancient practices of both yoga and tai chi are wonderful ways of achieving both, as you carve out a moment for yourself. Yoga and tai chi help develop your physical strength and balance, while simultaneously teaching you meditative breathing techniques.
I never retreat without bringing: My Rose Mask from Fresh. I like to keep it in the fridge for a few minutes before putting it on as I get ready for bed. It helps bring down puffiness in the face and provides instant relaxation—the perfect way to end the day.
Retreating should be part of your process because: It’s important to take time out of our hectic lives in order to stay mentally and physically healthy. By choosing an idyllic and relaxing destination, you’re presented with the opportunity to recalibrate your thoughts in a peaceful environment and to focus on what is most valuable to you.
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