Après-ski for the soul

How winter wellbeing provides après-ski for the soul!

AS THE WORLD GROWS MORE AWARE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF WELLBEING, MANY ARE USING HOLIDAYS IN THE SNOW TO IMPROVE BOTH THEIR MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH. HERE, THE EXPERTS AT BONNE SANTÉ EXPLORE THE BENEFITS OF TAKING A BREAK IN THE MOUNTAIN AIR – A RESET BUTTON FOR THE SOUL…

Unlike a beach or city break, a trip to some snowy hills is inherently active, and exercise is proven to aid both mental and physical health in several ways. Whether it is skiing, boarding, hiking, or simply walking through a snowy Alpine town centre, you are moving, and the air is thinner at altitude and your body has to work harder in general.

These forms of challenging and exhilarating aerobic exercises increase your blood flow, improve fitness and calm an overstressed mind, providing a truly restful break.

Ultimately, physical exertion in the mountains releases happiness-boosting endorphins and dopamine, which is why adventuring while on holiday gives you that feel-good buzz.

The beauty of snowsports is that they offer a limitless set of challenges for both beginners and experts so you can stay mentally and physically stimulated.

Ask anyone – the joy of successfully completing your first black run, or beating a hill of moguls, is difficult to replicate. You can push your limits and engage in more thrill-seeking activities, or you can stick to the relaxing slopes if this is more fulfilling.

So, what about the more holistic approach? Read on to find out…

“If you have muscular aches and pains post-workout, want to improve your athletic performance during downtime, or simply want to relax, a massage is an incredible solution.”

Anna Marie Gleeson, clinical lead at Bonne Santé Alps Physiotherapy and Wellbeing

Studies into massage have demonstrated that it is an effective treatment for a variety of conditions and situations. Some studies have found the practice decreases muscle soreness and tension, reduces recovery time from an injury, improves muscle flexibility and circulation, and improves your sleep quality.

An in-chalet massage is the ultimate chill experience, enhanced by a scenic backdrop and the quiet, calming and healing powers of the mountain.

And why not sink thankfully into your own personal spa facilities afterwards for true bliss?

All Consensio chalets come complete with spa facilities, however if you want a truly amazing winter wellness break, Ultimate Catered Chalet Lhotse is for you!

Chalet Lhotse’s spa facilities are truly phenomenal. Located on the ground floor is a large indoor swimming pool with a state-of-the-art projector screen descending at the touch of a button, along with a massage room, sauna, hammam, gym and indoor Jacuzzi. A further outdoor hot tub is accessed via the front bedroom terraces.

And you can rest assured that Chalet Lhotse’s pools and Jacuzzis use the latest ozone technology to be completely chlorine-free. The natural freshwater oxygen process provides a non-toxic, healthy and environmentally-friendly alternative.

If that still doesn’t create enough Zen on your trip, then how about some yoga?

“Yoga links the mind and body in and out of balance through the flowing of breath. It is a live, breathing art, inspired from the depths of nature. So, what perfect place to honour and celebrate this than in the breathtaking views of the Alps. Everyone should experience yoga in the mountains… it’s unforgettable!”

Jennie Martin, owner of Bonne Santé Alps Physiotherapy and Wellbeing.

Yoga is the yin to skiing’s yang. They complement each other perfectly. When you incorporate yoga practice into your holiday, you allow your body a chance to recover, awaken and engage. You can strengthen muscles in the morning and relax and lengthen them in the afternoon and evenings.

Not only is there the physical asana (body posture) aspect of yoga to consider, but the meditative breathwork provides synergistic benefits such as core strength, flexibility, relaxation, positivity and, predominantly, that mind-body (and mountain)

connection. Yoga ‘creates space’ and is a deeply nourishing and restorative practice – the ideal companion to an energetic day on the slopes.

When staying in Chalet Lhotse, the Bonne Santé team can come to you to provide incredible yoga classes.

Whether you’re enjoying a class in the warmth of the spa or gym or in the fresh Alpine air out on the balcony overlooking the mountains, you will truly unwind in sumptuous surroundings offered by Consensio.

Alpine holidays offer the ultimate break from the stresses of day-to-day life. A snow trip will not only allow you to spend quality time with family and friends amid the beauty and peace of nature, but you will find that holidaying up amongst the clouds also works wonders for your physical and mental health. You can switch off, breathe in the purifying air and truly indulge in whatever ‘time away’ means to you.

Book Chalet Lhotse online for your next luxury ski holiday. www.consensiochalets.co.uk To book any of these treatments while on a Consensio holiday, simply call your sales concierge before your stay or ask your chalet manager to arrange once you are in the resort. Alternatively, contact Bonne Santé Alps Physiotherapy and Wellbeing directly to get details of treatments or classes this winter season. www.bonnesantealps.com @bonnesantealps