Winter Blues

At these tropical resorts, wellness is in the water

- Stephanie Vermillion

THE WELLNESS INDUSTRY brims with rejuvenating travel experiences, yet one timeless tactic to cure the winter blues still stands above the rest: a tropical vacation. Just being near the ocean yields countless health rewards. Research shows that gazing at the sea alters the frequency of brain waves, sparking a calm, meditative state. Walking barefoot on the sand aids relaxation by grounding us to the earth. And the health perks of simply being around a large body of water—staying active, getting more sunshine and spending time away from screens—can improve physical and mental well-being.

I noticed all of these health benefits and more within minutes of sipping my welcome coconut at the Motu Nao Nao resort. Adventures and wellness at this lagoon-flanked escape, one of French Polynesia’s newest private islands, center on the South Pacific’s signature turquoise water.

“Everything in French Polynesia revolves around the lagoons,” says Sophie Bessou, sales and marketing director for South Pacific Management, which operates the island. Guests come for all sorts of aquatic activities, she says, “on the water, in the water and under the water.”

The sheer volume of activities made that obvious. I found solace while beachcombing and bicycling the lagoonside trails. Other options include sunrise yoga by the lagoon, Pilates in the water-view garden, or the most popular attraction: on-site watersports.