Digital Detox Day 2024: ELE|NA Leads the Way to Mindful Living

On December 10th, 2024, ELE|NA, the luxury wellness brand known for its transformative spa and wellness experiences, proudly participated in the global celebration of World Digital Detox Day (WDDD). ELE|NA draws inspiration from the five elements of nature—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. By combining ancient healing traditions with modern wellness practices, ELE|NA offers bespoke journeys that rejuvenate both the body and mind. Through personalized treatments, fitness routines, and mindful practices, ELE|NA promotes holistic wellness. This aligns perfectly with WDDD, which encourages digital balance and mindfulness in today’s technology-driven world.

This year’s WDDD theme, “Smartphone-Free Childhood,” highlighted the importance of protecting young minds from overexposure to technology while fostering meaningful human connections and cultivating balance in an increasingly digital world.

ELE|NA’s Day of Wellness and Digital Detox

At ELE|NA, wellness is a shared journey. On World Digital Detox Day, the brand invited both its team members and guests to disconnect from their devices. They were encouraged to reflect on their well-being and engage in activities that promoted holistic health.

Across the eight ELE|NA sanctuaries—located at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, OBLU SELECT Sangeli, OBLU SELECT Lobigili, OBLU NATURE Helengeli, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, VARU by Atmosphere, and RAAYA by Atmosphere—staff and guests participated in a series of curated activities. These activities aimed to create screen-free moments. They included:

Mindfulness Sessions: These sessions encouraged peace, self-awareness, and a deeper connection with the present moment.
Yoga Classes: These focused on balance, strength, and being fully present.
Nature Walks: These provided an opportunity for guests to reconnect with the natural world around them.
Team Wellness Activities: These promoted unity and collective rejuvenation among both team members and guests.

As the day came to a close, the atmosphere at the ELE|NA sanctuaries was filled with inspiration and gratitude. Guests and staff reflected on the importance of mindfulness, the value of human connection, and the impact of stepping away from digital distractions. The day served as a powerful reminder that true wellness begins when we disconnect from our screens and embrace the present moment.

Recognizing Leadership in Digital Mindfulness

In recognition of ELE|NA’s commitment to wellness, Heidi Grimwood, Vice President of ELE|NA, became the official World Digital Detox Day Ambassador for the Maldives. This honor highlights her dedication to promoting digital mindfulness and holistic health across the region. As WDDD Ambassador for the Maldives, Heidi shared her insights on the importance of being fully present:

“World Digital Detox Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of being truly present. Through our philosophy of ‘Wellness Your Way™’ and our belief in ‘Wellness for All,’ we aim to create spaces where everyone—from our guests to our teams—can disconnect, recharge, and rediscover the beauty of the present moment.”

WDDD A Global Movement for Mindful Living

World Digital Detox Day, founded by Dr. Rekha Chaudhari, has grown into a global movement. It is now observed in over 70 countries. Supported by governments, wellness organizations, and experts worldwide, WDDD promotes mindful living and seeks to reduce our dependence on screens. Dr. Chaudhari shared her thoughts on this year’s event:

“This year’s worldwide celebration of World Digital Detox Day has spoken volumes, with wellness experts, educational entities, and global organizations joining hands to advocate for healthier, more mindful living. A significant highlight of our efforts has been the petition advocating for a ban on social media for children under 16 years, which has gained tremendous support. We are also thrilled to announce that we have surpassed our previous milestone of 7,500,000 offline supporters. This remarkable growth reflects the growing global recognition and impact of our mission.”

ELE|NA also expressed its gratitude to Dr. Rekha Chaudhari for her leadership. Her work has inspired millions worldwide to rethink their relationship with technology and embrace the power of offline connection.

ELE|NA’s Continued Commitment to Wellness and Digital Detox

ELE|NA’s involvement in World Digital Detox Day perfectly aligns with its “Wellness Your Way™” philosophy. This philosophy champions personalized wellness journeys. The success of this year’s World Digital Detox Day further strengthens ELE|NA’s commitment to promoting digital wellness. By supporting initiatives like WDDD, ELE|NA continues to reaffirm its dedication to offering personalized wellness experiences and encouraging deeper connections to life beyond the screen.

This September, the Maldives raises a glass once again to Galician wine and sun-drenched celebrations as the Martín Códax Wine Gala returns to three COLOURS OF OBLU resorts. After a warmly received debut last year, the gala brings fresh energy, new vintages, and an expanded lineup of experiences, offering guests a vibrant, sensory journey that blends culture, cuisine, and community.

This time around, the second edition of the wine gala kicks off at OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO on 31 August and 1 September, then moves to OBLU SELECT Sangeli on 3 and 4 September, and finally wraps up at the adults-only OBLU SELECT Lobigili on 6 and 7 September.

Nicolas Laguette, Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core, shares insight into what makes this year’s series even more exciting.

Experience-Led Evenings Bring Joy to the Forefront

To start, Laguette explains that the Martín Códax Wine Gala reflects the way today’s travellers seek authentic, one-of-a-kind moments.

“These aren’t formal tastings,” he says. “The OBLU Wine Galas are a total vibe. Think music, sun-kissed evenings, wine stories from Galicia, and an energy that’s just electric.”

In other words, he describes the event as “Spain’s soulful way of wining and dining – reimagined in paradise,” where guests enjoy good company and storytelling just as much as they enjoy the wine itself.

A New Vintage Adds to the Celebration

This year’s edition also introduces a standout: the Martín Códax Organistrum Albariño, a 2024 award-winning white wine made entirely from Albariño grapes. The winery named the wine after a medieval string instrument celebrated for its harmonious tones. According to Laguette, the wine reflects that same balance — “expressive, elegant, and absolutely divine with seafood.”

On top of that, guests will also get to meet Paula Lobato, the official brand ambassador of Bodegas Martín Códax, who will host the series across all three resorts.

“Her enthusiasm and knowledge will bring the entire experience to life – from grape to glass,” says Laguette.

Each Island Offers Its Own Gala Experience

Each COLOURS OF OBLU resort delivers a unique take on the celebration. While all events are paired thoughtfully with Martín Códax wines, the vibe, cuisine, and setting shift from island to island.

At Helengeli, guests enjoy a two-night experience: first, a progressive Indian feast at Raga Route, and then, a relaxed, barefoot beach dinner at Just Grill the next evening.
At Sangeli, the gala begins with a golden-hour soirée on One Banyan Island, followed by a multi-course, wine-paired dinner split across JustWok and Just Grill.
At Lobigili, often called the “island of love,” the experience takes a more intimate turn. Here, guests gather at Ylang Ylang for a globally inspired tasting menu paired with select wines. All designed to spark connection, romance, and quiet indulgence.

In short, no two gala nights are alike.

The Wines Come with a Story

Behind the scenes, COLOURS OF OBLU partnered with Bodegas Martín Códax after years of research, tastings, and value alignment. The winery, founded in 1985, takes its name from a medieval Galician troubadour who sang of love and coastal life.

Today, more than 600 families in Spain’s Rías Baixas region form the Martín Códax collective. They grow vines using the traditional emparrado trellising system, which lifts the vines off the ground to welcome the Atlantic breeze, a technique that, over time, shapes the bright, mineral-rich flavour of their wines.

According to Laguette, “We look for authenticity, strong family values, and expressive terroir-driven wines that you simply can’t find anywhere else in the Maldives. It’s a beautiful blend of time-honoured techniques and modern innovation that results in vibrant, unmistakably Galician wines.”

Guests of All Backgrounds Can Enjoy It

At its heart, the Martín Códax Wine Gala makes wine culture more approachable. Whether someone’s a wine enthusiast or just wine-curious, the format welcomes all.

“Wine is a universal language,” says Laguette. “When combined with great food, storytelling, music, and meaningful conversation, it becomes something unforgettable.”

More importantly, the gatherings go beyond wine appreciation, they focus on human connection.

“Our guests, our team, and our winemaking partners gather around the table with incredible food, wine stories, and laughter flowing just as freely as the vintages. It is island life, enriched.”

Complimentary for In-Resort Guests

As always, guests staying under COLOURS OF OBLU’s all-inclusive Holiday Plans can attend the Martín Códax Wine Gala at no additional cost. That said, seats fill quickly so advance reservations are highly recommended.

In Laguette’s words, “We’ll bring the wine and the wonder, you bring your appetite and a love for new experiences.”

ELE|NA Celebrates Digital Detox Day with Wellness and Mindful Living

ELE|NA’s Day of Wellness and Digital Detox

Recognizing Leadership in Digital Mindfulness

WDDD A Global Movement for Mindful Living

ELE|NA’s Continued Commitment to Wellness and Digital Detox

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