Retreats for men

Retreats For Stress & Anxiety

Over the past decade, stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout have risen sharply among men around the world. Yet men are still less likely than women to seek help. While women often speak openly about their health and wellbeing, many men keep their struggles to themselves - trying to "man up" in the face of pressure. But this silence can lead to isolation and worsening mental health. The good news is that proven tools like mindfulness, movement, and meaningful connection can make a real difference. A wellness retreat brings all of these elements together in one supportive, pressure-free setting. For men, it’s a unique opportunity to take a step back, reconnect with themselves, and recharge both body and mind. More than just a break, it offers space to reset, gain new perspective, and build lasting resilience - on their own terms.

What Makes Shanti-Som the Perfect Wellness Escape for Men

Shanti-Som is widely recognised as a place where everyone feels truly welcome and accepted. The atmosphere is intentionally calm, open, and free from judgement or pressure, allowing guests to unwind from the moment they arrive. Without targeting a specific gender or age group, Shanti-Som has naturally attracted a diverse and growing community. Increasingly, more men and members of the LGBTQ+ community are discovering the retreat - often through personal recommendations and its reputation for genuine, heartfelt hospitality. For men seeking mental clarity, physical balance, and meaningful rest, Shanti-Som provides a safe and supportive space for deep renewal and self-care.

Wellness Programs for Men

Shanti-Som offers wellness programs that are thoughtfully created for all genders, without focusing on one specific group. While the retreats aren’t exclusively for men, many male guests feel particularly at home in the Fitness Retreat. It offers the chance to work on strength and stamina with the guidance of a personal trainer, while also creating space for rest, recovery, and reflection. There’s also a growing trend of couples retreating together - combining movement, yoga, and detox to support each other in building a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Although some men may still feel unsure about joining a retreat setting, that perception is changing. More men are recognising that caring for their physical and mental wellbeing is just as important - and just as normal - as it is for women. Shanti-Som offers a supportive environment where that step feels both natural and welcome.

What to expect from a wellness retreat

Shanti-Som's wellness programmes 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. All you have to do is choose how you want to spend your day—stress-free, pressure-free, and completely yourself.

Early Morning Yoga

Exercising first thing in the morning comes with its own advantages. Testosterone levels are naturally higher - up to a third more than in the evening - which can lead to more energy and better muscle gains. Yoga, often underestimated as gentle or low-impact, can be as intense and challenging as you choose. Just like any workout, the pace and difficulty can be tailored to your fitness level and how you’re feeling that day. Take Vinyasa Yoga, for example - a dynamic, full-body practice that builds strength, boosts endurance, and often leaves you sweaty, energised, and uplifted for days. Why is yoga especially beneficial for men? Many men deal with tight muscles and limited flexibility - and yoga is one of the most effective ways to improve both. Through consistent stretching and mindful movement, the body becomes more mobile and balanced. There’s also a long-standing connection between yoga and martial arts. From Olympic athletes to soldiers on deployment, more men are turning to yoga to support their strength, focus, and overall wellbeing.

Personalised Health Screening

Shanti-Som places strong emphasis on both prevention and personalisation. Tailored health screenings are carried out by experienced local doctors, offering valuable insight into each guest’s current health status. Regular check-ups play a key role in detecting early signs of imbalance and lowering long-term health risks. Based on these results, a personalised wellness program is developed—combining expert guidance on nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle adjustments. The aim is to support energy levels, restore vitality, and enhance overall well-being. A retreat at Shanti-Som goes beyond rest and relaxation; it marks a purposeful step toward a healthier, more balanced way of living.

Holistic Massage

For men who train hard, massage is an ideal way to release tightness and ease sore muscles. Research increasingly supports what athletes have known for years: regular massage can boost muscle recovery by improving circulation after intense workouts. At Shanti-Som, massages are adapted to meet individual needs. Experienced spa therapists understand how to work with the male body, adjusting pressure levels and focusing on specific areas of tension or injury. Whether the goal is deep relaxation or faster recovery, a holistic massage at Shanti-Som offers the right balance - helping both body and mind reset and recharge.

Hike Through Nature

Shanti-Som is an ideal retreat for those who feel at home in nature. Tucked away in the unspoiled Spanish countryside and surrounded by the tranquil mountains of Andalusia, the setting offers a deeply calming and authentic connection to the natural world. You can take part in daily guided walks, a chance to fully take in the breathtaking surroundings. Andalusia’s mild climate and rich variety of landscapes — from protected natural parks to rugged hills and forests - make it one of the most rewarding regions in Europe for walking. Whether the goal is quiet reflection or an active way to reconnect with nature, time spent outdoors adds a powerful, grounding dimension to any wellness retreat.

Healthy Eating

Food is an essential part of daily life, and at Shanti-Som, health and flavour go hand in hand. Dishes are crafted to be both nourishing and satisfying — proof that eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. While the focus remains on wellness, the menu is far from bland. Recognising that many men are looking for more than just salads and juices, the restaurant brings together bold, authentic flavours from East and West. Think vibrant mezze platters, fresh seasonal salads, wok-fried Asian dishes, and rich, fragrant curries inspired by the sun-drenched cuisines of Bali, Vietnam, and Thailand. For those on detox or weight loss programmes, specially designed menus are available - offering balance, variety, and flavour without compromise.

When You Need a Reset: Finding Space to Breathe

Looking good on the outside doesn’t count for much if things feel off on the inside. True wellbeing starts from within — and a wellness retreat can be the perfect first step toward a healthier, more balanced, and more meaningful life. One of the biggest hurdles today is learning to talk honestly about mental health. Burnout, anxiety, and stress affect many people, yet open conversations about how we really feel are still too rare. Taking time to pause, reflect, and reset is not a luxury - it’s a necessity. If you’re feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, stuck, or simply in need of space, Shanti-Som offers just that: a peaceful environment where you can step away from everyday pressures and reconnect with yourself. It’s a chance to breathe, reset, and regain clarity. By giving yourself that space, you allow the best version of yourself to re-emerge — more present, more grounded, and better able to show up fully in your relationships, your work, and your life as a whole.

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