Vladislav Doronin, Aman Group owner, chairman and CEO, leads an organisation that specialises is creating unforgettable guest experiences in some of the most awe-inspiring locations on earth. Vladislav Doronin is also the CEO of Janu, Aman’s sister company, which was created with a focus on fostering social interaction and meaningful connection between kindred spirits.
Aman Group takes a holistic approach to wellbeing, with its retreats focused on personalisation, privacy and seclusion. Aman Spa presents the ultimate escape, enabling guests to engage in local rituals with indigenous ingredients and a profoundly therapeutic touch. This article will look at the importance of achieving harmony between the mind and body, providing pointers to achieving physical and mental wellbeing.
Research form the Wellcome Trust suggests that some 92% of the global population regards mental health as equally or more important than physical health in terms of overall wellbeing. Over the past four years, and particularly in 2021, mental health rose sharply up the political agenda. For example, in 2021 in the United Kingdom, the Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan was agreed by health ministers, establishing a framework for measurement of mental health goals and targets to 2030.
Globally, a host of nations have pledged to take action, launching national programmes and policies and reforming legislation. Nevertheless, experts suggests that this is no time for complacency, warning that a great deal more needs to be done.
The emergence of COVID-19 brought mental health into the spotlight in many countries, with millions of people left feeling incredibly isolated following months of lockdowns and social distancing policies. In addition to the pandemic, a combination of other factors, such as a challenging economic outlook and an ever-deepening ecological and climate crisis, have compounded the problem, culminating in a surge in demand for mental health services and support.
There is an inextricable link between physical and mental health, and multiple well-evidenced associations between mental health problems and chronic conditions that significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. This double-edged sword also places pressure on healthcare providers and other publicly funded services, as well as generating adverse consequences in society.
The World Health Organization asserts that ‘there is no health without mental health’, defining health as not a mere absence of disease or infirmity but a state of complete mental, physical and social wellbeing.
The associations between physical and mental health are:
People with chronic physical conditions facing an increased risk of developing poor mental health
People with serious mental health conditions facing an increased risk of developing chronic physical conditions
Certain activities can reduce an individual’s risk of developing either a physical condition or mental health problem. Key preventative steps include maintaining a healthy, balanced diet rich in nutritious foods; increasing physical activity; and improving social engagement.
Many experts advocate a holistic approach in terms of wellness, not focussing solely on the mind or the body but looking at the whole person and their physical, social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
Each person affected by a mental health problem has their own experience, with their path to recovery influenced by a variety of different factors, for example gender, age, heritage, culture, faith, socioeconomic background, life experiences and personal beliefs. A holistic approach to wellnesses focuses not only on an individual’s illness or condition but also on their overall health and wellbeing.
In addition to looking after the body, for example by getting enough rest, taking regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet, it is also crucial to take steps to maintain mental wellbeing. Good mental health does not mean a person is always happy or unaffected by challenging situations and experiences, but it does better equip them to cope with daily life.
In terms of improving mental health, positive steps include taking part in relaxing activities that help to reduce stress; finding ways to be creative and learn new things; connecting with others; spending time in nature; getting enough sleep; and maintaining good physical health.
About Janu
Centring around equilibrium, alignment and community, Janu takes its name from the Sanskrit word for soul. The company was founded on the belief that the finer things in life can also be those that are not only good for the spirit but the body too.
Janu facilitates the restoration of mind and body through the attainment of harmony, nourishing the body, spirit and mind through a sense of connection, discovery and delight.
Creating social scenes in vibrant cities and remote regions alike, Janu’s culture imbues a sense of connectedness, beginning and ending with people – cultivating connections between guests, local communities and beyond through a philosophy of openness and warmth.