Embracing Diversity: A Journey of Self-Discovery at a German Spa
- Kirsty Heap
As I reflected on my experience during the return flight, I realised the impact this experience had on my perception of self.
In a world where social media often dictates how we perceive beauty and perfection, finding solace in our own skin can be a challenging journey. But sometimes, it takes stepping out of our comfort zones and immersing ourselves in unfamiliar cultures to truly appreciate the beauty of diversity. This realisation dawned upon me during a recent trip to Hamburg, when I visited a Vabali spa.
In a world where social media often dictates how we perceive beauty and perfection, finding solace in our own skin can be a challenging journey. But sometimes, it takes stepping out of our comfort zones and immersing ourselves in unfamiliar cultures to truly appreciate the beauty of diversity. This realisation dawned upon me during a recent trip to Hamburg, when I visited a Vabali spa.
It still shocks me to think that the whole trip including flights was more cost-effective than attending a spa in the UK, but I have never found a UK spa that has offered the level of peace and tranquillity that a German spa has.
Our journey to the spa was not without its challenges. When we arrived at our final train station, ready to embark on the final leg of the journey by bus, we found out there was a bus strike. Yes, that makes you think twice about how you will get to your next destination!
Yet, in the spirit of adventure and in a typical Kirsty style, we embraced the opportunity to do the last leg of the journey by foot, enabling us to explore and soak in the culture and picturesque surroundings as we went. I find that it’s these moments of adventure that often leave lasting memories. Like seeing a red squirrel running up a tree and seeing utility boxes decorated with beautiful artwork.
I was aware the spa was a non-fabric environment, but this is still not a concept I would say I am totally at ease with or certainly not for the first few minutes. As a Brit, accustomed to a certain level of modesty, the idea of disrobing in the presence of strangers initially made me tense. But I knew the rules and I knew that after that drop of the robe and when I felt the heat and steam of the sauna, a wave of calm would wash over me, dispelling any reservations I had. In Germany, nudity in spa settings is embraced as natural and liberating, which is different to the self-consciousness that often plagues us elsewhere.
The whole location is filled with peace and calm, especially as there is not talking in the saunas or steam rooms. Throughout the day, we explored an array of saunas and steam rooms, indulging in the therapeutic rituals of different infusions and treatments. There are various rooms where you can sit robed, relax with soft lighting or watch and listen to the crackling of a wood fire. The absence of smartphones forces you to disconnect and enjoy the presence. You can get lost in a book or just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.
As I reflected on my experience during the return flight, I realised the impact this experience had on my perception of self. In a space where bodies of all shapes and sizes coexisted harmoniously, I felt a sense of acceptance and liberation that transcended societal norms. Our bodies do wonderful things every day, yet many of us may not be comfortable in our skin. In a world inundated with unrealistic standards of beauty, the German spa experience served as a powerful reminder of the beauty found in diversity. As I left the sanctuary of the spa, I carried with me a newfound sense of confidence and gratitude for the intricacies that make each of us beautifully unique.
When we consider this in the context of being neurodivergent, just as each individual’s body is unique and has its own story, so does our journey towards self-acceptance and empowerment or our neurodivergent condition.
In the end, it’s not about conforming to society’s ideals, whether it be about our bodies or our neurodivergent condition but rather celebrating the authenticity of our individuality. For that invaluable lesson, I am forever grateful for the transformative power of travel and exploration.
