New Beginnings in Bali

I’ve noticed a continued evolution of holistic health practices that prioritise physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. COMO Shambhala continues to set the trend with wellness routines that are tailored to individual needs and goals, empowering proactive control of health and optimisation of overall wellbeing. COMO Shambhala Estate feels totally unique within the wellness space. Our philosophy is centred around six ‘wellness pillars’; nutrition, physical activity, mindfulness, spa and bodywork, yoga, and adventure. We offer personalised nutrition plans, fitness regimes, mental health and mindset strategies, and more. The experience is the sum of all its parts; the beauty and natural surroundings of Bali’s jungle, combined with our holistic approach to wellness and the sheer range of therapies we offer. It’s totally immersive and wholly comprehensive.

I often feel as though I didn’t choose this path; this path chose me. When I was in my early twenties I studied herbal medicine, nutrition, homoeopathy, aromatherapy and other natural health practices. One of my modules covered Chinese herbal formulations, which opened up a whole new dimension for me. I began to explore acupuncture, and moved to Hawaii to work under a Chinese medicine doctor who also trained me in Tai Chi and Qigong. When I saw firsthand what he was achieving with his patients using acupuncture and herbs, I wanted to learn more. I’ve never second-guessed my decision to pursue acupuncture and TCM. I’m constantly astounded by how my patients can benefit from simple, holistic and non-invasive treatments.

Chinese medicine offers timeless principles for navigating modern life. Firstly, TCM is all about balance, specifically the balance between yin and yang, as well as the body’s internal systems. In everyday life we face stress and constant stimulation, making it easy to become destabilised. TCM practices such as mindfulness, maintaining a healthy diet and having regular acupuncture, can help restore that balance. Then there’s the crucial element of prevention; TCM focuses on preventing illness rather than just treating symptoms as they appear. By paying attention to lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and stress management, more serious conditions can often be avoided. One of the best things about TCM is its adaptability. We can adjust holistic health to address specific health concerns, and shape routines and recommendations around individual needs and lifestyles.

Absolutely! One common misconception is that TCM is solely based on ancient, mystical practices without any scientific basis. In reality, while TCM does have deep historical roots, modern research increasingly validates its effectiveness through clinical trials and scientific studies. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other TCM modalities such as moxibustion and cupping have been shown to have measurable physiological effects. These include regulating the nervous system, reducing inflammation, easing pain and improving circulation. TCM is a complex system of healthcare which combines both ancient wisdom and modern scientific evidence; it’s a valuable complement to Western medicine.

One of my top recommendations is to prioritise regular physical activity. Exercise not only helps maintain physical health but also has profound benefits for mental wellbeing. Whether it's going for a walk, practising yoga or Qigong, or engaging in a favourite sport, finding an activity you enjoy and incorporating it into your daily routine can have a significant impact on your overall wellness. Additionally, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and prioritising adequate sleep are essential components of everyday wellness. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference over time.

We are extremely proud of the recent launch of our five new wellness paths. They’re uniquely tailored programmes designed to address ‘unease’ rather than ‘disease’, and prevention over cure. We use expert diagnostics including body composition analysis scans and wellness consultations with our residential Chinese medicine or Ayurvedic consultant. We adjust every plan according to the results, as well as any concerns and priorities raised. Our Integrated Wellness Path offers a comprehensive mind-body reset geared towards long-term sustainable health; Fit to Perform is a chance to refine fitness goals whether through injury rehabilitation or optimising athletic performance; Detox to Restore targets digestive and environmental health; Nourish to Glow recalibrates eating habits and focuses on nourishment, tackling issues including dietary intolerances, burnout and menopause; Connect to Rebalance is a digital detox, encouraging connection with nature and restoring focus and joy. While every path offers flexibility and elements of crossover, they streamline goals to deliver targeted, personalised results.

It’s really important to us that the recommendations we offer are easily transferable to everyday life outside the Balinese jungle. When guests leave COMO Shambhala Estate our consultants provide detailed reports and practical routines with realistic long-term targets. Any followup questions and concerns can be addressed with our consultants over email. We also check in with guests three months, six months and one year after their stay to see how they’re getting on and offer further guidance. For an in-person top-up, we’re always delighted to welcome return visitors.

The sheer beauty of the Estate always takes me by surprise, but I especially love the Kedara water garden. I’ve travelled and worked all around the world and I think it’s probably the most magical place I know. My favourite time of day to visit is in the morning, stopping off along the Estate walk — one of our daily activities here — before taking a dip in the natural springs. It never gets old. More often than not, it’s just me, the jungle, the sacred springs and the mighty Ayung river below.