When most people think of a holiday, they imagine rest, relaxation, and a break from routine. But what if your time away could also be a chance to reconnect with your body and mind—without breaking a sweat at the gym or forcing yourself into high-intensity workouts?
Mind-body movement like yoga, dance, and gentle Pilates offers the perfect middle ground. These low-impact activities are restorative yet effective, helping you stay active, reduce stress, and leave your holiday feeling healthier and more refreshed than when you arrived.
Best of all, they can be enjoyed solo, with a partner, or even as part of a group retreat. Here’s how to make them part of your holiday, whether you’re staying at a luxury resort, enjoying a countryside getaway, or even exploring a coastal village.
Morning Yoga to Set the Tone
Starting your day with a short yoga session is one of the most peaceful—and energising—ways to ease into holiday mode. Just 20 minutes of gentle stretching and breathwork can help release tension, improve flexibility, and increase mindfulness. You don’t need a studio or even a mat; a towel and a quiet corner are more than enough.
Many hotels and resorts now offer outdoor yoga sessions at sunrise or on scenic terraces. The blend of fresh air, natural light, and movement is both calming and invigorating.
If you’re new to yoga, start with beginner poses such as child’s pose, cat-cow stretch, downward dog, and gentle seated twists. The goal isn’t to challenge yourself—it’s to enjoy the rhythm of movement and breathing, free of pressure.
Dance as a Joyful Exercise
Dancing may not always be considered “exercise,” but it ticks every box: it improves coordination, burns calories, boosts cardiovascular health, and uplifts your mood. Whether you’re grooving to Latin beats, following a Zumba class, or enjoying an evening of ballroom or line dancing, it’s one of the most accessible and enjoyable ways to stay active.
What makes dance especially great for holidays is its versatility. You can join a class, dance barefoot on the beach, or have a spontaneous session in your hotel room. It’s free-flowing, joyful, and doesn’t feel like a workout—which is exactly the point.
At Manor & Ashbury Resorts, guests are encouraged to explore different forms of gentle movement and recreational fitness. From relaxed yoga sessions to line dancing events and light-hearted fitness classes, the resort offers a welcoming environment to stay active without ever stepping into a formal gym.
Gentle Pilates for Core Strength and Posture
While Pilates may seem intimidating at first, its gentler forms are incredibly beginner-friendly and ideal for a holiday setting. With a focus on core strength, stability, and posture, it’s a brilliant way to counteract the slouching, lounging, and long travel times that can take a toll on your body.
Mat-based Pilates can be practiced almost anywhere—indoors, outdoors, solo, or with a group. There are countless free online sessions that guide you through low-impact routines, many of which can be completed in under 30 minutes. The slow pace and controlled movements make it both effective and relaxing.
Adding Pilates to your holiday routine doesn’t mean you’re turning your break into a bootcamp. Even a few sessions during the week can help ease stiffness and keep your energy levels high for exploring, sightseeing, or lounging with ease.
The Mental Benefits: Unplug and Recharge
One of the biggest advantages of incorporating mind-body activities into your holiday is the mental reset they provide. Practices like yoga, dance, and Pilates help slow your thoughts, reduce anxiety, and anchor you in the present moment.
This is particularly valuable in a digital age where switching off can be difficult—even while on holiday. Taking time to stretch, breathe deeply, or simply sway to your favourite music can create moments of mindfulness that enhance your overall sense of wellbeing.
If you’re travelling with a partner or friends, invite them to join you. These activities are inclusive and adaptable to all fitness levels, making them perfect for shared relaxation and bonding.
Building a Routine You’ll Want to Keep
One of the hidden benefits of embracing gentle movement on holiday is that you might just fall in love with it. Because these activities are enjoyable and rewarding without being punishing, they’re easier to stick with long after your trip ends.
By establishing a relaxed, no-pressure routine while away, you may discover a new favourite practice—whether it’s a morning yoga stretch, evening dance session, or weekly Pilates flow. Holidays offer the rare chance to slow down, experiment, and listen to your body.
In Conclusion
Movement doesn’t have to be intense to be beneficial. Yoga, dance, and gentle Pilates provide a way to stay active while also promoting mental clarity, emotional balance, and joy. On your next holiday, don’t think of fitness as something to squeeze in—think of it as something that enhances your experience.
So the next time you find yourself on a break, step into a slower rhythm. Stretch on the balcony, sway to your favourite music, or try a guided Pilates session by the pool. You might just return home not only rested, but revitalised.
