The Stressed South African’s Guide to the Ultimate Mental Health Getaway

If you’re feeling more stressed, angry, and sad than you were a year ago, you’re not alone. It’s a national mood, according to the latest State of the Global Workplace report. With World Mental Health Day (10 October) on the horizon, many are realising the antidote isn’t to simply endure until December, but to actively restore through intentional getaways.

The benefits are backed by research. Taking time away from daily pressures has been proven to lower stress, alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, and sharpen creativity. Unlike an ordinary vacation, a wellness trip is designed to foster healthier habits, from mindful movement to better eating, that sustain mental well-being long after you’ve returned home.

“Wellness is no longer a niche amenity; it’s woven into the fabric of the travel experience,” says Themba Mpofu, General Manager at Radisson Blu Hotel, Durban Umhlanga. “Today’s traveller is seeking meaningful experiences that offer a genuine sense of place and rejuvenation, whether that’s in the heart of a bustling city or the tranquillity of the bush. In 2025, a mental health holiday is about more than a simple spa visit; it’s about finding your own wellness base – places and moments that allow you to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with yourself.”

Here are his top five tips for a mental health-boosting break:

Immersive Nature Escapes – The idea of “touching grass”, internet slang for stepping away from screens to reconnect with the real world, has evolved into a craving for truly immersive nature experiences. Choose stays where the natural environment isn’t just a backdrop, but an essential part of the journey. Start your morning with a sunrise hike up Lion’s Head or wind down with a stroll along the Umhlanga promenade. Immersing yourself in the outdoors is a powerful way to restore both mind and mood.

Finding Calm in the City – A wellness break doesn’t always require a remote location. Seek out urban sanctuaries offering state-of-the-art facilities that provide a complete escape from the city’s hustle. This is about discovering elevated moments of peace amid the energy of the metropolis, such as a mindful workout in a rooftop gym with panoramic views of the city – an experience offered at Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton, Johannesburg.

You Are What You Eat, So Eat Well! – Mindful eating has moved beyond restrictive diets and is now about celebrating fresh, local, and seasonal produce. Start your day with a colourful, nutrient-rich breakfast, seek out farm-to-table dining, or try dishes made with unique, locally sourced ingredients. Eating mindfully is about nourishing your body and connecting with your destination through food.

Find Your Sanctuary – Look for wellness spaces that offer more than just treatments. Opt for spas that create a true sense of sanctuary through calming design, thoughtful rituals, and a welcoming atmosphere. The best escapes help you feel grounded and present. At Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, for example, the wild beauty of the bushveld is woven into the wellness journey, where the sounds of nature and the vast grasslands become as restorative as the treatments themselves.

The Road to Wellness Is Paved with Intention – Being intentional about your getaway, whether your goal is to rest, reconnect, or try something new, sets the tone for the experience. The space you choose to stay in can either amplify or distract from that intention. This is where the psychology of space comes in: design directly influences how we feel and behave. A minimalist room with natural light and uncluttered surfaces encourages calm and clarity, while vibrant, art-filled social spaces inspire energy and connection. By aligning your personal goals with the environment around you, your stay becomes more than just time away; it becomes a haven that helps you return home truly restored.

Make time for yourself – you deserve it and your mind will thank you.