Wellness tourism is reshaping the way travelers view food, shifting from indulgent meals to those that nourish and heal. Tanya Khanna, a nutritionist and yoga trainer, notes that this change reflects a growing awareness about food’s impact on well-being. Now, people choose meals based on their health benefits, prioritizing high-quality ingredients to enhance their physical and mental health during travels.
Aditi Srivastava, a financial analyst from Delhi, discovered the healing power of food at Santani Wellness Resort in Sri Lanka. Her experience began with a turmeric-infused lentil dish that awakened her senses and lifted her spirit. Over time, the resort’s Ayurvedic-inspired meals alleviated her chronic fatigue and boosted her clarity and digestion.
Each guest at Santani undergoes a thorough health assessment to tailor meals to their specific wellness goals. Executive Chef Indika Bandara collaborates with wellness specialists to create individualized meal plans that address guests’ unique health profiles. For instance, a guest with gluten intolerance may receive a specially crafted dish that meets their dietary needs.
Clinique La Prairie in Switzerland reflects the evolving culinary landscape, where personalized nutrition plays a vital role in promoting longevity. Eloïse Martiner Bot describes how the retreat designs meal plans based on genetic and metabolic profiles, emphasizing the importance of anti-inflammatory ingredients and nutrient-dense foods in enhancing overall health.
At The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts, the focus is on blending ancient Indian wellness philosophies with modern nutritional insights. Shweta Jain remarks that today’s luxury travelers seek transformative culinary experiences, with personalized meal plans that cater to individual dietary requirements. The emphasis is on reimagining recipes to include healthier, low glycemic index alternatives.
Le Meridien in Delhi is also adapting to wellness trends by cultivating their own herb garden. Chef Davinder Kumar highlights the importance of fresh herbs in creating flavorful and healing dishes. This shift towards local and organic ingredients enriches the menu, showcasing the health benefits of using natural elements in cooking.
As wellness tourism grows, projected to surpass $4 trillion by 2033, culinary sustainability is becoming paramount. Chefs are hosting workshops to educate guests about the benefits of organic and locally sourced foods, encouraging a deeper connection to their choices. Cooking that aligns with natural rhythms is essential for true wellness, according to Chef Prem Ram of BCIHMCT.
Overall, wellness tourism champions a highly personalized approach to dietary choices, moving away from generic food options. As the industry evolves, the focus on tailored, health-centric meals is set to grow, transforming food into a powerful force for healing and well-being.
Wellness tourism has shifted focus from indulgent meals to those that heal and nourish. Nutritionists emphasize the importance of high-quality ingredients for overall well-being. Guests at resorts like Santani undergo health assessments for personalized meal plans, merging ancient wisdom with modern nutrition. This trend highlights the industry’s move towards sustainability, as culinary experiences become highly tailored to individual health goals.
The article illustrates the transformation within wellness tourism where food has shifted from indulgence to healing. Through personalized meal planning rooted in health goals and ancient traditions, retreats like Santani and Clinique La Prairie are pioneering a movement that emphasizes nutrition’s role in enhancing well-being. As the wellness tourism industry continues to flourish, the focus on sustainability and tailored dietary experiences is expected to expand even further.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
