Why Men Need to Retreat

Men Need to Retreat For Stress & Anxiety

Over the past decade, rates of stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout have significantly increased among men worldwide. Yet, men are less likely than women to seek help. While women often talk openly about their health and well-being, men tend to keep struggles to themselves—trying to "man up" in the face of difficulties. This tendency can lead to isolation and worsening mental health. Research shows that mindfulness, physical activity, and social connection are effective tools in managing emotional distress. A wellness retreat offers all of this in one supportive setting—without pressure or expectations. A wellness retreat for men provides a unique opportunity to reconnect with oneself, recharge both body and mind, and gain the tools to build lasting resilience.

Why a Shanti-Som Wellness Retreat Is Ideal for Men

Shanti-Som is known as a place where everyone feels truly welcome and accepted. From the moment guests arrive, we cultivate a relaxed, non-judgmental atmosphere—free from pretension or hidden agendas. While we don’t target a specific gender or age group, we've seen a growing diversity in our guests. More and more men, as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community, are discovering Shanti-Som—often through word-of-mouth, drawn by our reputation for genuine hospitality. For men seeking mental clarity, physical balance, and authentic care, a retreat at Shanti-Som offers a welcoming space for deep, personal renewal.

Wellness Programs for Men

While Shanti-Som doesn’t offer retreats exclusively for men, all of our wellness programs are designed to suit both men and women. From experience, many male guests gravitate toward our Fitness Retreat, which allows them to enhance their training with the support of a personal trainer. We also see more couples retreating together—combining fitness, yoga, and detox programs. It’s a powerful way to motivate one another and start a healthier lifestyle together. Some men may feel hesitant about joining a wellness retreat, but times are changing. Today, mental and physical well-being are just as important for men as they are for women. 

What You Can Expect at a Wellness Retreat

Shanti-Som wellness retreats are thoughtfully designed to give you the tools to learn, grow, and relax—entirely at your own pace. Whether you're seeking activity, rest, or a bit of both, you have the freedom to shape each day just the way you like. Start with a morning yoga session in the tranquil outdoor pavilion, build strength with our fitness trainers, or head out for a scenic hike through the Andalusian hills. Afterwards, unwind with a book by the pool or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. The options are there. All you have to do is choose how you want to spend your day—stress-free, pressure-free, and completely yourself.

Early Morning Yoga

Working out first thing in the morning also has its benefits, as you have a higher level of testosterone (around a third more compared to evening workouts), meaning more energy and more muscle gained. Yoga is not just gentle and easy. Like most types of exercise, you can dial up the intensity and duration to suit your fitness levels and mood. Vinyasa Yoga will strengthen you body all over and leave you dripping with sweat and feeling positive for days. Why is Yoga good for men? Yoga is a great workout for men who often have tight muscles and poor flexibility- the best way to combat this is with stretching and gradually training your body. There has also been a long-standing relationship between martial arts and yoga, and we’ve seen Olympic athletes to soldiers on tour including yoga practices into their lifestyle.

Personalised Health Screening

At Shanti-Som, we believe in both prevention and personalisation. That’s why we offer tailored health screenings performed by experienced local doctors. Regular check-ups are essential for early detection of potential health issues and for reducing long-term risks. Based on the results, we create a custom wellness program designed specifically for you. It includes expert advice on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes—supporting your energy levels, vitality, and overall well-being. A retreat at Shanti-Som is more than just relaxation—it’s a meaningful step toward a healthier, more intentional life.

Holistic Massage

For men who train intensely, massage is an excellent way to relax tight, sore muscles. Recent studies show that regular massages can help muscle recovery by enhancing blood flow after exercise. Our skilled Spa Consultants are experienced in providing massages tailored specifically for men. They can adjust the intensity of the massage to your preferences and target any injuries or muscle soreness. Whether you're seeking relaxation or muscle recovery, a holistic massage at Shanti-Som offers the perfect balance for both body and mind.

Hike Through Nature

Shanti-Som is the perfect destination for nature lovers. Nestled in the untouched beauty of the Spanish countryside, surrounded by the peaceful mountains of Andalusia, our location offers an authentic and calming experience. We offer daily group walks, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes. Andalusia is an ideal region for walking, with its mild climate and stunning natural parks—from protected reserves to diverse landscapes and ecosystems, the region is a walker’s paradise. Whether you're seeking relaxation or an active way to experience nature, a walk in the wilderness is the perfect complement to your wellness retreat.

Healthy Eating

Food plays a vital role in our daily lives, and at Shanti-Som, we believe that health and flavor go hand in hand. We don’t compromise on taste, offering dishes that are not only nutritious but also a delight to eat. While our focus is on health, we understand that most men aren’t excited about just eating a bowl of salad and drinking juice. That’s why our restaurant is designed to bring the robust, authentic flavors of the East and West together. Indulge in delicious mezze platters, fresh salads, Asian wok specialties, and flavorful curries, inspired by the sunny cuisines of Bali, Vietnam, and Thailand. For guests participating in our detox or weight loss programs, we’ve curated special menus.

Concluding

Looking good on the outside doesn’t mean much if you don’t feel good on the inside. That’s why a wellness retreat is the ideal way to begin your journey to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. One of the biggest challenges we face today is normalizing conversations about mental health issues like burnout, stress, and anxiety, and simply talking openly about how we feel. If you constantly feel tired, drained, or stuck in life, or if you just need some time for yourself, Shanti-Som provides exactly what you need: a safe space to escape from stress, responsibilities, and the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s time to take control, reconnect with your inner self, and find the peace you need. By doing so, you can bring the best version of yourself to your relationships, work, and life in general.

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