Introducing EQ – Melbourne’s Preventative Wellbeing Retreat

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Edited by Travel Weekly


    Wellbeing retreat EQ has launched in Melbourne’s Domain precinct, offering a holistic approach designed to help individuals de-stress, find calm, and regularly optimise their performance.

    EQ is a sanctuary for those seeking to incorporate wellbeing practices into their daily lives and is now officially open to the general public.

    EQ co-founder and director Mia Basic once thrived in the high-stakes world of litigation. However, her transition from the courtroom to motherhood marked the beginning of a journey of self-discovery and wellness. This pivotal experience inspired her to co-found EQ, along with Nicholas Crema and Andrew Barbone.

    “I had been working in a fast-paced industry for years and had neglected my health – which was exacerbated further after I gave birth to my daughter,” Basic said.

    “I lacked tools to fight stress and to provide relief from the sleep deprivation and I found myself reactive, and illiterate about where I should turn for support. Through my own experience, I recognised a gap in preventative, holistic and habitual wellbeing. I created EQ – a place that prioritises preventative wellbeing tools as the foundation for successfully navigating through life.”

    Evidence-based approach

    EQ’s evidence-based approach ensures that guests experience practices backed by science, tailored to help them navigate the challenges of modern work-life. Valued at $150, guests can embark on a 3-hour journey that includes;

    • Hot and Cold Therapy: Experience the benefits of hot and cold therapy with a full spectrum of temperatures
      and sensations. Discover the invigorating Cold Passage for renewal and vitality, and unwind in the Restorative
      Thermae with heat therapy, aromatherapy, and self-restoration.
    • Immersive Light and Sound Therapy Dome: Step into the Immersive Light and Sound Therapy Dome, where the convergence of light and sound creates a multi-layered meditative experience. Each hue carries its own significance, blending harmoniously with the music that fills the room.
    • Meditative Breathwork Retreat: Participate in guided breathwork sessions to enhance relaxation. Harness the
      power of your breath to unlock benefits including stress reduction, enhanced mental clarity, improved
      emotional regulation, and better sleep quality.
    • Educational Theatre: Engage in informative sessions on wellbeing practices. Explore the Educational Theatre, dedicated to inspiration and learning through curated films, and build meaningful relationships in our Community Social Lounge.
    • Community Social Lounge: Connect and share experiences with other guests.

    “We have a vision for the new way of living. That we take conscious moments of pause and respite to invest in our most valuable asset; our health. EQ is more than just a retreat; it’s a movement towards integrating wellbeing into everyday life,” Basic said.

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