Intimate wellness sanctuary, Nova Maldives, is excited to announce the launch of authentic Maldivian medical practice at the island resort this month. From Nova’s tranquil location in the South Ari Atoll, this new offering will give guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the island nation’s rich heritage through traditional medicine. In collaboration with local practitioner, Dr. Ali Rasheed, Nova introduces authentic treatments that harness natural resources found on the island, enhancing the wellness experience for travellers interested in cultural holistic practices.
Dhivehi Beys is a traditional Maldivian practice that utilises native herbs and natural cures for medicinal purposes. Rooted in centuries of knowledge, it emphasises holistic healing and the use of local flora to treat ailments, highlighting the relationship between nature and health in Maldivian wellness.
Dr. Rasheed, a revered figure in traditional medicine, brings over 34 years of experience and extensive medical qualifications from The Maldives National University and the Institute of Health Sciences. Inspired by his family’s legacy in healing, especially his great-uncle, a renowned traditional healer, Dr. Rasheed solidified his passion for the field through personal and lived experiences with traditional remedies. He has since dedicated his life to reviving and promoting traditional Maldivian healing, treating over 25,000 patients and training numerous students in herbal medicine. His contributions have earned him multiple esteemed accolades, including the National Award of Recognition from the Maldivian government.
As a consulting practitioner at Nova, Dr. Rasheed has collaborated with Nova’s Eskape Spa experts to enhance the range of offerings available in the existing spa menu with locally-sourced ingredients and insight from his practise, steeped in heritage. He also trained the team in ensuring guests receive authentic and effective therapies tailored to their needs.
New to the spa menu is Dr Rasheed’s Dhivehi Beys massage for muscle relaxation and pain alleviation. Rooted in traditional Maldivian practices, the treatment involves slow, soothing massage with a blend of locally sourced herbs, spices and coconut oil. Ingredients include Ruggalu Theyo Massage Oil, Herbal Leaf (Hudufuffilaa) Cuscuta, and Fresh Sea Water, for eased tension and aches, as well as refreshed, radiant skin.
“We are thrilled to partner with Dr. Ali Rasheed, whose mission in preserving traditional Maldivian healing practices aligns perfectly with our commitment to conserving our rich cultural heritage. This collaboration comes in response to ever-growing traveller interest in wellness and cultural immersion, offering a unique journey that allows guests to explore the profound practices of the Maldives,” expressed Abdulla Aboobakuru, General Manager Nova Maldives.
Nova’s considered offerings reflect the island resort’s commitment to enhancing travellers’ overall well-being. This serene wellness haven provides a bounty of experiences to help guests rejuvenate both body and spirit, including group sunset yoga sessions on its pristine shores, nourishing dishes and detox juices at Soul Kitchen, and revitalising treatments at Eskape Spa.
For those curious about the connections between marine exploration and wellness, Nova has also launched a year-round wellness diving programme, incorporating innovative meditation workshops to help divers reap the mental health benefits of scuba diving. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant house reef from its situation in the South Ari Marine Park and embark on deeper ocean excursions on the traditional boat ‘Emotion’ to spot manta rays and whale sharks. Participants can also learn visualisation and breathing techniques while earning a ‘Buoyancy Specialty Certification.’
