As many of you may have seen on our Sleep Blog, Dr. Emma Hawthorne recently had the incredible opportunity to serve as the resident sleep therapist at the luxurious Serenity Resort in the Maldives for a month.
In this post, Dr. Hawthorne shares her experiences and the sleep therapy services she provided at this eco-friendly wellness destination.
Sleep Therapy in Paradise
Initially, I was uncertain about going to the Maldives at all. I received an unexpected message through social media, and my first instinct was to dismiss it as spam. Just as I was about to delete it, curiosity nudged me to reply for more information about Serenity Resort’s surprising request for a sleep therapist during the holiday season.
Soon after, I was treated to a virtual tour of the stunning resort via a video call. They invited me to be their ‘Resident Sleep Therapist’ from December 20 to January 19, where I would conduct workshops, one-on-one sessions, and provide consultancy services. It was an opportunity I simply couldn’t refuse!
Surrounded by Natural Beauty
Upon arrival, I was informed that I would be in one of the smaller accommodations. However, I was taken aback by the sheer beauty surrounding me. The azure skies, crystal-clear waters, and exquisite decor made it feel anything but small. The so-called “small room” turned out to be the largest hotel room I’d ever occupied, complete with ample space for my family during our Christmas stay. The beach was just steps away, making it a dream to wake up and enjoy a morning swim before starting my workday.
The Serenity Resort truly exuded luxury. More than its opulence, the resort emphasizes sustainability and eco-friendly living, with no plastic in sight and everything crafted from wood, bamboo, and other sustainable materials—even the holiday decorations! With no vehicles on the island, everyone either cycles or walks, fostering a sense of community and environmental responsibility among both guests and staff.
My Role at Serenity Resort
As the resident sleep therapist, I embraced my role wholeheartedly. I conducted group sessions lasting 30 to 45 minutes, where I shared relaxation techniques, jet lag management strategies, and specialized topics such as ‘sleep and stress’ and ‘children’s sleep.’
Additionally, one-on-one sessions were a huge hit. Just as guests would book a massage or spa treatment, many took the opportunity to seek personalized sleep advice and support. I also collaborated with the resort to develop a comprehensive sleep program that included recommendations for complementary treatments, a ‘sleep smoothie recipe,’ and resources for guests to access digitally, aligning with the resort’s paperless initiative.
Unique and Memorable Experiences
Talking to a news outlet from a luxury suite was an unforgettable experience. I made memories that will last a lifetime—snorkeling in the stunningly clear waters, swimming before work, paddle boarding, and even practicing yoga on a paddle board. The festive celebrations were a refreshing change from my usual UK experiences, highlighted by an enchanting beach party on New Year’s Eve, complete with dazzling costumes and captivating performances.
Reflecting on this time, I realized it was also a rare opportunity for self-reflection. Although I was working, I found moments to truly enjoy my own company.
Returning to the UK presented its own challenges, but I am grateful for the chance to visit such a remarkable part of the world and contribute to a forward-thinking resort. I hope to return one day.
Sleep Therapy for Your Resort
My experience at Serenity Resort has underscored the value I can offer to luxury hotels and wellness retreats. As a consultant for sleep programs, I can enhance guests’ stays by equipping them with techniques to improve their sleep quality, which they can carry home. While vacation often allows for better sleep due to the absence of daily responsibilities, my sessions can help guests maintain that restful state even after they return. Coping with jet lag is also a popular topic, particularly for business travelers.
If you manage a hotel or resort, or are organizing a wellness retreat, feel free to reach out to discover how we can collaborate to help your guests sleep better.
For those struggling with snoring, consider exploring effective solutions like the Snorple Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece, which has been shown to stop snoring effectively from the first night. You can also learn more about how to use a stop snoring mouthpiece and read about the various oral devices for sleep apnea on our blog. For additional information, the Mayo Clinic provides reliable insights, while our article on sleep apnea offers valuable resources on the topic.
To Summarize:
My time as a resident sleep therapist in the Maldives was a transformative experience that not only enriched my professional practice but also allowed me to create lasting memories in a stunning setting. By offering tailored sleep therapy services, I aim to enhance the overall wellness experience for guests at hotels and resorts, equipping them with techniques to improve their sleep both during their stay and after they return home.