Kamalaya Koh Samui's 'Sacred Renewal' programme combines yogic and Vedic traditions, and is timed with the phases of the moon

Kamalaya Koh Samui is debuting a new lunar wellness retreat that uses the phases of the moon to structure treatments, rituals and contemplative practices.

Called "Sacred Renewal", the programme will be available at the Thai wellness sanctuary from October 1, 2026, coinciding with Kamalaya's 21st anniversary. Eight, 11 and 15-night retreats will be offered, with prices starting from £2,689 excluding accommodation.

Rather than focusing on fitness or physical optimisation, "Sacred Renewal" is designed around slowing down and restoring balance. Its structure draws on classical yogic and Vedic philosophy, with guests moving through two phases linked to the lunar cycle.

Śukla Pakṣa, or the waxing moon, is associated with clarity, expansion and activation. Kṛṣṇa Pakṣa, the waning moon, focuses on release, purification and reflection. Kamalaya uses these contrasting phases to alternate periods of activity with rest and integration.

The lunar wellness retreat incorporates cleansing rituals, ancient healing practices and one-to-one sessions alongside mindful movement, breath awareness, mantra, meditation and reflection. Therapeutic treatments are also included, with the programme intended to address physical and emotional wellbeing together.

Another element comes from the Pancha Mahābhūtas, five elemental forces in Indian philosophy. Earth represents grounding and stability, water is connected with emotional flow, fire with purification and inner strength, air with movement and inspiration and ether with space and stillness.

"Sacred Renewal" also draws inspiration from the Gurukula tradition, an ancient Indian approach to residential spiritual learning. Kamalaya has adapted elements of this tradition for a contemporary wellness setting, combining them with insights from psychology and neuroscience.

Gopal Kumar, general manager and group director of wellness at Kamalaya, says: “At Kamalaya, our journey has never been shaped by passing influences, but by a deep reverence for ancient wisdom and the natural intelligence within each individual.”

He adds: “Sacred Renewal reflects this philosophy. It is not about striving for change, but about returning to fundamental rhythms of life, simple, sacred practices lived with awareness. Through alignment with the lunar cycle, guests are invited to rediscover a way of being that is grounded, conscious and spiritually attuned, where wellbeing arises naturally from inner coherence.”

The programme expands Kamalaya's existing collection of retreats, which cover areas including detoxification, gut health, sleep, movement and strength, emotional resilience and longevity.

Founded in 2005 on the southern coast of Koh Samui, Kamalaya combines Eastern healing traditions with approaches drawn from Western medicine.