Images: Supplied
Written by Roshaan Bouwer.
When an invitation to attend a mini retreat at Phakalane Spirit Spa recently landed in my mailbox, I was immediately intrigued. After reading what the itinerary for the weekend would entail – an immersive sound journey, a sauna and ice bath, and a closing guided meditation ceremony – I swiftly confirmed my RSVP.
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Nestled in the tranquil, forested slopes of Hout Bay, Cape Town – just 30 minutes from the city centre – Phakalane is a boutique wellness retreat and holistic lifestyle sanctuary. Designed as a space for self-exploration, healing, contemplation and meaningful rest, it offers a unique blend of ancient healing practices and modern science-based health modalities through immersive mini retreats and curated wellness programmes.
As if Mother Nature knew this was what I needed, she set the ambiance for the experience that lay ahead, bringing heavy showers of rain, which many believe to be a symbol of renewal, cleansing and spiritual connection.
I arrived at Phakalane just shy of 1.30 pm on a Friday afternoon. As the rain continued to bucket down, I quickly made my way up the stairs that led to the glass entranceway where I was welcomed by media liaison Matthew Liebenberg. He ushered me inside out of the cold into the lounge to a spot next to a warming fireplace. Here I was introduced to the space and the rest of the group attending the mini retreat. After a brief meet-and- greet, we were treated to a spread of wholesome snacks in the dining area, prepared by nutrition coach Marlien Wright.
Feeling comfortably satiated and nourished, I returned to the lounge – the natural wooden floors adding to the sense of warmth and the central windows allowing the swaying of the trees to be visible from within this sacred space. I sat listening to the sound of the rain falling outside along with the crackling fire, which created a relaxing and serene soundtrack that aptly carried us into the start our programme, a 60-minute immersive sound journey.
Led by Parisha Chetty of Tiger Moon Holistic and Cezanne Le Clerq of Numina Wellness, the session was held in Phakalane’s magnificent temple situated right in the centre of the venue. Built as a circular dome, the walls extend up to the sky to create a sense of connection with the heavens above. With the smell of incense wafting in the air, we were invited to get comfortable on our yoga mats. Parisha and Cezanne then proceeded to guide us through the journey with the use of various instruments such as singing bowls, gongs, chimes and vocalisations. This harmonic soundscape transported us into a meditative state and I finished the session feeling relaxed, whereas others noted experiencing a sense of emotional release.
After taking a moment to fully appreciate what we had just been a part of, we sat down to enjoy a hearty and warming dinner. We shared how we each experienced the sound journey and then retired to our rooms where we could enjoy our time in quiet reflection. Phakalane has a range of luxurious and budget-friendly accommodation options – I was lucky enough to spend the night in their newly appointed Duck House Villa, which is suitable for larger groups. A highlight of the villa is its built-in sauna, which I enjoyed before taking a hot shower and settling in for the night.
Breakfast the next morning was followed by a tour of the retreat before a closing guided meditation by Kerry Burns. Again, everyone shared their unique experience. To follow was an outside sauna and cold plunge pool for those brave enough. I opted to enjoy my remaining time by taking a walk in the retreats beautiful natural setting.
The weekend had captured the essence of Phakalane which is to offer therapeutic experiences that empower long-term well-being. I left with a rejuvenated body, revived mind and desire to further explore my own personal path of healing.
For an introduction to holistic therapies and to start your own transformation, Phakalane Spirit Spa is hosting a Revitalisation Retreat on 1–3 August. For more information on the retreat and their various accommodation offerings, please email Matthew on [email protected] or +27 73 133 8949
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