London Says Hello To A New Conscious Wellbeing Retreat

14.03.2024 - 10:37 / forbes.com / London

With the Global Wellness Institute valuing the global wellness economy at $5.6 trillion in 2022, and predicting it will reach $8.47 trillion by 2027, the art of wellbeing has never been so ‘under the microscope’... or so forward-thinking.

Catering to increased demand and a new rise in consumer knowledge, as well as pushing the boundaries of what has traditionally been thought of as ‘wellness’, there are new, groundbreaking openings and initiatives opening up across the world. Whether it is dedicated spa islands in the Maldives, such as Joali Being; new hospitality wellness brands, such as Aman’s new Janu concept, which has just opened in Tokyo (it is a sister hotel brand to Aman with a focus on enhancing wellbeing with a multi-disciplinary spa and wellness centre); or urban wellness hubs, such as the new The HVN which has recently opened in Knightsbridge, London, the keyword that modern-day wellness nomads are looking for is expertise.

Found on a busy street corner in the heart of central London, The HVN has been set up to offer exactly this in a zen-like sanctuary purposely created for busy urbanites. Based on the concept of ‘conscious wellbeing’, a guest’s journey starts the moment they enter the building, with the biophilic design of the interiors being an important part of their experience.

Featuring living plants, natural colours and tactile, curvy walls and wooden furniture, the interiors of The HVN are inspired by the Japanese rituals of forest bathing and the importance of nature to one’s outlook. A relaxing area boasts rounded wooden seating, while a charming soundtrack of birdsong, specially recorded in British forests and known to lower blood pressure, can be heard. Even the air has been considered, with it being specially treated with phytoncides to improve immunity. Acclaimed artists Andrea Serra and Martha Freud, meanwhile, have also been commissioned to create standout pieces to enhance dopamine production and to complete symbiosis with the design space.

“At The HVN, you will start your wellness journey before your treatment even begins,” says Jo Harris, COO. “From the unique forest bathing experience to consistent circadian lighting and a natural soundscape, you are welcomed into a soothing environment that has been designed with purpose. While it isn’t a sterile, medical feel, it also doesn’t lean into a stereotypical spa stereotype. Wherever the eye travels you are treated to a relaxing, natural environment of curves and arches, with earthy pinks complemented by a forest aesthetic. We want each guest to decompress from daily stresses and to be taken on a journey that is beneficial to their health and wellbeing.”

Opened in late 2023, The HVN was conceived by three professionals who