In short… The newest outpost of family-owned and -run SHA combines cutting-edge med-tech with holistic healing on a sandy beach north of Cancun.
The background… SHA opened in Alicante, Spain, in 2008 and was at the time a pioneer of integrative detox and anti-aging therapies. The family opened the Mexico clinic in 2024 with programs similar to those of the flagship, but with some therapies rooted in indigenous cultures, like Temazcal ceremonies.
The look & feel… The clinic’s curved, contemporary exterior (the shape was inspired by the DNA double helix) is impressive, topped only by the lobby’s stunning ocean views and cavernous ceiling—it was giving James Bond from the moment I walked in. Overall, the property is sleek and modern with warm touches, like local wicker and ceramics, textiles, furniture made from native woods and an airy central courtyard. The design of the treatment floors is just clean and white enough to feel like a proper medical facility without the sterile hospital vibes.
The rooms….. In the days leading up to my visit, I was able to select my preferred mattress firmness and pillow style (firm, down filling), which was such an unexpected luxury! Like all of the 100 rooms at SHA, mine was a suite with an ocean view and decorated in calming, warm neutrals with an enormous closet and chic pocket doors into the bathroom. The glass doors out to the balcony provided an uninterrupted view of the water—there was even a second outdoor access point from the bathroom shower, providing a gorgeous view if you aren’t shy. Everything from the curtains to the Do Not Disturb sign were digital and operated via several control panels throughout the space.
The Programs…. Since I only had four days to spend at the property, I chose the Rebalance and Energize program, which is the shortest option (though after an over-indulgent December, it sounded perfect to me)—most plans are 7 days, and the longest is 21. My visit started with a general health examination by one of the nurses, including a 3D-body scan, cognitive domain test and nervous system analysis, among others—all were quick, painless and non-invasive. My results were reviewed in a follow-up appointment with one of the doctors, who then recommended additional treatments and classes to my agenda planner (the staff member who organizes and schedules all the guests appointments). Included in the program were acupuncture, IV ozone therapy, a private yoga lesson, and a three-minute cryotherapy session that made the pain of a terrible bruise I’d gotten the previous day vanish. Myriad treatments, both medical and holistic, can be added (at additional cost) to address specific needs, like sleep problems or gut health.
Food & Drink… As someone who’s never been especially mindful of my diet, I admit I was apprehensive and I wondered if I should stock up on contraband snacks at the airport (which I did not). Like all first-time guests, I met with a nutritionist who recommended the “Biolite” menu—of the three set menus, Kushi is the most restrictive, SHA is the least, and Biolite is in between. She personalized it based on my test results (a side of hemp seeds for extra protein, a tablespoon of Umeboshi paste to combat inflammation) and my personal taste (I’m allergic to nuts and intensely dislike cucumbers, two things that seem to be ubiquitous in healthy cuisine). I quickly realized I needn’t have worried—the food was amazing, and inspired me to keep a few habits going at home: miso soup for breakfast, a shot of apple cider vinegar before lunch and dinner, and significantly more vegetables than I had ever included in my daily routine. Although healthy snacks were available during the day, I honestly never felt the need to. One warning: there is no coffee.
The spa/wellness… My favorite way to spend time between appointments was in the Wellness Center’s heated indoor pool, saunas (traditional and infrared), and steam room. The slippers provided in your room are perfect for traversing wet floors. Traditional spa services, like massages – I had a fantastic Shiatsu – are serviced in the clinic’s fourth floor treatment rooms.
Be sure to… Take a private mindfulness class with Isabel—I laughed, I cried, I felt like I’d just had therapy. And attend a cooking class, even just to listen—I was surprised by how much I learned, and I’ve made some of the recipes at home. Also, definitely download the SHA app—it not only gives you your daily schedule, but it also saves your test results and nutritional recommendations. Return guests are able to compare results from previous visits and track their progress.
Parting words… Full disclosure, I have never taken “wellness” very seriously, but I must admit that I felt so good after four days at the clinic that I’ve changed my own eating habits more than I have in living memory. Now I’m thinking that this lifestyle (healthy food, meditation, proper sleep) might actually be a positive mid-life crisis. I am already considering another visit next year and wondering if these visits could replace many of my annual doctor visits.
Date of stay… January 2025
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