Wanderlust Wellness interview with Luuk Melisse of Sanctum
Photo: Lighuen Desanto
EVERY DANCE IS A KIND OF FEVER CHART, A GRAPH OF THE HEART- MARTHA GRAHAM
Dance and music can move us deeply and combined together they can offer deep healing and self discovery allowing us to be fully present in the moment.
I love what Sanctum are doing and first came across their dance class after reading an article from a guest attendee in Ibiza at Six Senses Hotel. Sanctum is a nomadic, global community founded by Luuk Melisse and Gabriel Olszewski in 2020.
The images and article moved me and I can only imagine how powerful an in person experience would be. I was delighted to interview Co- Founder Luuk Melisse of Sanctum for my new series of Wanderlust Travel inspiration interviews. A short series of interviews of dynamic individuals doing great things in Wellness and finding inspiration in travel. Individuals who creating Community and like us at the Wellness circle finding inspiration in travel journeys through Wellness experiences, culture, learning and helping to build community.
Enjoy.
Photo: Lighuen Desanto
A little bit more about Sanctum
Sanctum signature sequence is an unmatched moving sequence to empower the body and expand the mind.
Classes are hosted at some of the most iconic locations in Amsterdam and now in London too. Within a class the power of repetition and breathwork is used combined with dynamic music to restore balance and to release and let go.
The Sanctum class is a multi-sensorial experience that will trigger hidden parts of your personality, enabling self discovery and deeper connection. Within a class guests are directed via story telling into a purpose-filled, present moment.
Luuk mentions the community aspect is the most important thing, where people stay after class to share their feelings and the joy of celebrating with each other. He highlights the importance of the art of ‘letting go’ where you in the moment. Following huge investment in his personal spiritual development Luuk conceptualised the Sanctum sequence which is designed to push physical, mental and spiritual boundaries.
Photo: Lighuen Desanto
Wanderlust Wellness Interview with Luuk Melisse
Co-Founder of Sanctum
Hi Luuk, thanks for joining me! Can you introduce yourself and share what inspires you in Travel and Wellness.
My name is Luuk, based in Amsterdam and I travel around the world. My two biggest reasons to travel are: Inspiring other cultures with the Sanctum mindful movement and to get inspired by other cultures, traditions and values.
What is your earliest childhood travel memory?
My parents used to take my brother and I to trips in Europe by car. We would leave in the middle of the night with our pyjama’s on. The idea was for me and my brother to sleep in the car, but we were too excited and annoyed our parents for the entire car trip.
Can you share with us a place you visited that remains etched in your memory forever. What was it that made the place so memorable and did you avail of Wellness services there
For me Six Senses Ibiza stays one of the most special places. We are fortunate enough to host our Sanctum experiences and retreats there on a regular bases. For me it’s the combination of stunning nature, a groundbreaking wellness program, artistic design and the most friendly team.
Photo: Lighuen Desanto
What needs are important for you when deciding on where to stay and visit?
For me it’s a combination of 2 things: Nature and a personal approach from the team. I would love to feel at home if I arrive at a destination.
What is your favourite Wellness treatment/ movement and have you ever enjoyed a Wellness Treatment abroad for the 1st time and thought WOW, I need more of this?
I did once a energetic healing session in Tulum, life changing!
Do you believe one country offers Wellness and services really well?
Asia in general
What country would you like to visit next and any wish list Hotels you would like to stay at?
I would love to visit the Amazones, and Zunya in Costa Rica
What daily self-care rituals do you enjoy that you can take on holidays with you?
Every morning I meditate, perform breathing exercises, practice gratitude and take a cold shower. It’s a non negotiable!
Thanks so much for taking part Luuk! I very much enjoyed learning more about Sanctum and about you. I look forward to joining a real live class soon! I feel this dance movement couldn’t be more timely with people seeking deeper connection for themselves and ‘finding a purpose’ in Wellness service offerings today.
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