The clinic offers a choice of 5 wellness programmes, each helping us form better habits and ultimately achieve better health. They are tailored to an array of purposes that guests visit for, with the 5 programmes being Optimal Weight, Rebalance, Advanced Detox, Intensive (which is a combination of Optimal Weight and Advanced Detox) and Healthy Ageing (with a different programe for men and women).
I was booked on the "Rebalance" programme for a 3 day stay, though usually it is recommended that you stay 4, 7 or 14 days for this programme.
My programme was all about recovery, learning and general wellbeing and is designed for people who may not have any health issues but are looking to optimise their health and wellbeing. The experience starts with a general health examination and a consultation with a nutritionist - the results of these session will establish the rest of your programme as each is tailored to the individual. No matter your results though, you are sure to have an expansive itinerary that covers SHA's 'integrative approach', with treatments that range from the latest scientific medicines to ancient holistic therapies. My 3 days were filled with personal training sessions, massages, acupuncture, Pilates and yoga.
Depending on which programme you are on and how your nutrition consultation goes, your diet will be personalised to suit your needs. I found that even though the portions were small, the food was delicious, and I felt the benefits for eating such a balanced and nourishing diet. The chefs work with local and in season produce and despite exerting myself in the fitness aspects of the retreat I always felt energised.
The star of the show for me was the app. Before you even leave for the clinic you are given access to their app which gives great advice on what to expect, what to eat in preparation and what to pack. Once you check in, the app serves as your daily agenda - it tells you where you need to be and at what time. I was so impressed as everything worked like clockwork and every appointment was on time and ran smoothly.
For those looking to establish better habits and a good routine, this structure was incredible. It makes it easy to settle into the clinic but it also means that you are able to make the most of the facilities and treatments on offer, which I found especially useful having only had a 3 day programme. It felt like the app was really in tune with the goals of the people who visit this type of retreat.