If you want to take yourself on a self care retreat and are in need of some nature therapy, peace and quiet, relaxation and nourishing food then head to the beautiful Samanvaya resort in Sidemen, located in East Bali, a traditional, authentic, rural and unspoiled village.

samanvaya sideman

Samanvaya is the secret spot to reconnect with oneself, destress, live life in the slow lane and put yourself together again.

Here are six reasons to visit:

1. The breathtaking scenery immersed in nature

The scenery is just overwhelmingly beautiful and the entire resort has panoramic views over the rice fields that seem to go forever. You are literally living within nature.

Just being here, in the presence of the vibrant backdrop, falling asleep to the sounds of a nocturnal symphony and waking up to the chorus of the birds has such a calming effect. With each passing day, I felt myself relaxing more and more… finding that coveted body, mind, soul connection.

2. The Ananda Spa

There’s so much choice on the menu at the Ananda Spa – from tradtional Balinese massages to body scrubs and wraps – they have it all!

Whenever I see the Ayurvedic treatment ‘Shirodhara’ on the menu I get excited, as it’s my all time favourite. It’s a must try and in my opinion, is the most magical and multi-dimensional holistic healing treatment out there. I first experienced it in the Maldvies and have been a huge fan ever since.

For those not familiar with the treatment, Shirodhara stimulates the Ajna Marma, which is one of most important vital points of the body, or ‘maha-marma’ on the head. It is a key juncture not only for nerves and tissues, but also of the circulation of vital life force, or ‘prana’.

The Ajna Marma is also called the ‘Third-Eye’ Chakra, which is the sixth primary chakra in your body, and is often known as the centre of intuition and foresight.

According to Ayurveda, stimulating the Ajna marma leads to an expansion of awareness, a state of parasympathetic repose, an egoless state, during which we connect deeply with or own selves and subconscious. It is a process in which the innate intelligence of our body is revealed. With your eyes covered, you enter a state of blissful relaxation akin to meditation.

The process of pouring oils over the forehead also exfoliates dead skin cells, moves lymphatic fluids, and eases muscular tension mitigating the stress response.

After the treatment, my body sent delightful signals of wellbeing – body bliss – which made the connectedness of body and soul very tangible.

Also highly recommended, is the Chakra massage with the Sideman valley village Priest, yoga and meditation master and Shaman, Mangku Mastra.

The Chakra massage is designed to open the 7 main energy centres of the body using herbs and essential oils created by Mangku Mastra himself. This is a spiritual and physical journey that will leave your mind and body re-energised and elevated to its highest state.

Note: You can visit the spa as a day guest and experience the rest of the facilities.

3. Breakfast at Asri Dining overlooking the rice fields

For an authentic experience, this is the place to be. There is something very meditative about the setting whilst eating breakfast in the middle of the rice fields, as if time stands still.

The focus is on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients (they even have their own organic garden). You can view their breakfast and other menus here.

I like to use early mornings as a time of reflection, letting the mind wander as I soak in the colourful surroundings of variant shades of green, watching the sun rise and the ever changing colours of the sky. I could spend all day here lost in thought.

4. To explore the local villages and waterfalls

Samanvaya can arrange for an informative guide on a scooter to show you around the local villages, markets and waterfalls. This way you can sit back and enjoy the adventure, take photos, and gain some knowledge and history as you drive along.

The Jagasatru waterfall is just 20 minutes away and offers crystal clear water and panoramic views of the Sidemen Valley. We had it all to ourselves and at the base of the waterfall there is a holy water area that you can bathe in or participate in a purification blessing ceremony.

The suspended yellow bridge is worth a visit – it’s rickety and broken but some locals still ride over it as we witnessed for ourselves. Below in the river you will see children playing and people bathing and washing their clothes

5. To experience their Spiritual Retreat Package

This is the perfect three night mini break, all packaged up for you to experience your own retreat with yoga classes, massages and spa treatments, a guided village and temple tour, plus daily breakfast and a three course dinner.

You can find further details here.

6. To stay in the absolutely stunning new pool villa suite

(the photos speak for themselves!)

This is Samanvaya’s largest and most luxurious villa with unique Javanese design, living and dining areas, an ensuite with a luxurious natural stone bathtub, and an outdoor area with private pool. The peak of luxury, romance and modern design with views of the rice fields to the ocean.

Whatever occassion you wish to celebrate, the staff at Samanvaya will be sure to make it memorable and faultless for you. Their hospitality is at the heart of the resort and they will go that extra mile for you to ensure you have an incredible time.

For those looking for a special place to celebrate Nyepi, you can enjoy two nights accommodation, daily A la Carte breakfast for two, a 60 minute Balinese Massage for two, use of the Yoga studio, complimentary Afternoon tea, free Shuttle service and guide to the Ogoh-Ogoh parade and a delicious Megibung shared dinner for two. Priced from RP 3.400,000. Use the code NYEPI. Book here.

To get in touch with Samanvaya you can email them on samanvaya@samanvaya-bali.com or call/whatsapp on +62 821 4710 3884.