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Anantara plans retreat on Zambezi River banks incorporating traditional African massage techniques

14 Jul 2021 Marrying indigenous wellness culture and breathtaking scenery, The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara in Zambia, Africa, will host an immersive holistic wellness retreat from 19-22 August 2021.

Set on the banks of the Zambezi River in full view of the spray of the iconic Victoria Falls, Anantara Spa will offer a spectacular outdoor setting for natural revitalisation, in riverside safari gazebos immersed in the idyllic beauty of the surrounding landscapes, with rushing water, chirping birdsong and the calls of wildlife providing an uplifting soundtrack.

During the three-day retreat, guests will choose three 60-minute spa treatments from a menu that draws on revered local wellness traditions.

Signature experiences will include the Zambezi Massage which uses the traditional African Ukuchina massage technique. In this treatment, warm towels are used in kneading and compression movements to relieve muscle pain and tension.

Traditionally performed to rejuvenate and cure malaria, fatigue, muscle pain, inflammation and other body ailments, Ukuchina massage is also a popular postnatal treatment for women and has been passed down through generations.

To ensure both the mind and body are nourished, the retreat will also include daily Vinyasa sunrise yoga and meditation sessions overlooking the magnificent Zambezi, as well as a restorative sunset yoga session on the day of arrival.

In addition, attendees will be encouraged to reconnect with nature through a sunset river cruise and self-guided walk with direct access to Victoria Falls.

Anantara will round off every day with a soothing evening turndown service incorporating chamomile tea and lavender essential oils to help guests unwind.

The package is completed with a private live cooking demo and wellness dinner on the final evening, as well as an express spa treatment.

The retreat is available from US$1,108 (£802, €937) per person and also includes a wellness departure gift, plus daily wellness breakfast, lunch, dinner and high tea.

The event will be conducted by Stuart Kirton of Cape Town’s Yo Yoga Studio. Kirton has been instructing classes since 2003 in a multitude of styles such as Ashtanga, Hot 26, Restorative and Vinyasa yoga.