Photographs: Unsplash
Text: Ophelia Wu
The New Year always brings a sense of renewal and a perfect excuse to kickstart new resolutions, habits, or hobbies. After the challenges of 2024, prioritising wellness in 2025 could be one of the most valuable commitments you make to yourself.
I firmly believe that everything is interconnected: nurture your mind, and your body will respond with vitality; care for your physical health, and your mental and emotional well-being will flourish; protect your emotional state, and your mind and body will find peace. As internationals, we often push ourselves harder to prove our capabilities, which can easily disrupt our inner balance. So why not embrace something that nurtures your well-being as you step into the New Year? It's also a wonderful way to explore new interests, develop hobbies, and expand your community and network.
Copenhagen offers a diverse range of wellness options, including several owned or run by expats, catering to a variety of interests and needs. Here are a few to consider:
Sound bath and meditation
Ara'kai Beauty hosts sound bath sessions led by Yulianna Sardar, a dedicated sound therapy practitioner who has called Copenhagen home for the past decade. These sessions use Tibetan singing bowls, rattles, ocean drums, and chimes to create vibrations that relax the body and mind. It's a unique opportunity to find grounding and peace amidst the busyness of life.
Yoga, pilates, and fitness
Rive Gauche, located in Nørreport, offers rhythm-based yoga classes in a blue-lit studio, where you can flow to the beat and immerse yourself in an uplifting atmosphere. For those seeking a more boutique experience, Studio41 Pilates in Vesterbro provides small, intimate classes focused on classical Pilates. It's the ideal spot for building a long, lean, and strong body. If you're looking for something more high-energy, Hollywood-originated Barry's brings its intense workouts to Copenhagen. It's the perfect place for a challenging and energising fitness experience and meet some fellow expats, perhaps?
"As internationals, we often push ourselves harder to prove our capabilities, which can easily disrupt our inner balance."
Wellness centres
Float Studio brings the concept of floating—popular in Australia and the USA—to Copenhagen, offering a serene escape from daily stress. Floating allows you to relax in the water without swimming, creating a tranquil experience that promotes deep relaxation and mental clarity.
For those keen on cutting-edge wellness technology, One Thirty Labs offers a range of premium treatments, including cryotherapy. Their Cryo Body Contouring treatment combines heat and cold therapy (ranging from -18°C to +45°C) to target cellulite, fine lines, and body sculpting. Additionally, they offer infrared saunas, EMS training, and LED light therapy—ideal for anyone wanting to invest in rejuvenation and recovery.
Social clubs
If you're more of a social butterfly, why not join or start a wellness-oriented social club? Copenhagen is home to a variety of options, from running clubs and winter bathing groups to padel tennis teams. Alternatively, gather a few friends to create your own club centred around a shared interest, like ceramics Saturdays or art workshops. Let your creativity guide you in building a wellness habit that aligns with your passions.
Building community through wellness
Engaging in wellness activities is not just about improving your physical and mental health—it's also an excellent way to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. For expats, this can be particularly meaningful as you navigate life in a new country. A supportive community can be instrumental in fostering a sense of belonging and stability.
Wellness is a deeply personal journey, and the key is to find activities and practices that resonate with you. Copenhagen's international wellness scene provides the perfect playground to explore and discover what works best for your body and mind. As you embark on your wellness journey this year, take the time to prioritise yourself and embrace the opportunities around you. You deserve it.