01/02/2026

ON SUNDAY February 1, 2026 theSunday Special XI

5. Kebun Rimba, Janda Baik If your burnout stems from too much screen time and too little creative inspira tion, Kebun Rimba might be the perfect spot. Another retreat tucked away in -DQGD %DLN .HEXQ 5LPED R̆ HUV VSDFLRXV villas surrounded by forest, ideal for hosting group activities, brainstorming sessions or simply engaging in creative hobbies such as painting or journaling.

Psychologists suggest that creative activities can help with emotional regula tion and reduce stress. Being in a peaceful green space like Kebun Rimba gives you the freedom to explore these activities without distraction. Address: PT 12391 Lorong Cheringin 1, Kampung Cheringin, 28750 Bentong, Pahang

8. Rimba Mama Farm, Bentong For a more hands-on, back-to-basics experience, Rimba Mama Farm combines nature with a working organic farm. Visitors can participate in farming activities, learn about sustainable agriculture and enjoy fresh farm-to-table meals. Research has linked spending time in gardens and engaging in horticultural activities to lower levels of anxiety and depression. For urban dwellers whose burnout stems from feeling disconnected from the natural world, this farm VWD\ R̆ HUV JURXQGLQJ DQG D VHQVH RI accomplishment. Address: C19, Lorong Enderong, Kampung Janda Baik, 28750 Ben tong, Pahang Malaysia’s nature retreats are not only scenic getaways but also powerful antidotes to the pressures of modern life. When we spend time in nature, our bodies switch from the sympathetic nervous V\VWHP ± UHVSRQVLEOH IRU WKH µ¿JKW RU ÀLJKW¶ stress response – to the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relax ation and recovery. Moreover, a study by the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that people who spend time in natural environ ments report higher levels of vitality and energy. This means even a short retreat can leave you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle daily life. Making time for yourself Taking time off for a retreat can feel GL̇ FXOW HVSHFLDOO\ ZKHQ ZRUN GHPDQGV are high. But addressing burnout early is crucial. Chronic burnout can lead to long-term health problems, including insomnia, heart disease and depression. Even if you cannot take an extended leave, a weekend away can make a dif ference. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the rainforest, enjoy the cool air or treat yourself to a spa experience, the key is to disconnect, slow down and allow yourself to heal. Your well-being is an investment – not a luxury. With Malaysia’s abundance of green getaways, relief from burnout might MXVW EH D VKRUW GULYH RU ÀLJKW DZD\

6. Cyberview Resort & Spa, Cyberjaya If you cannot travel far but still need a change of scenery, Cyberview Resort & Spa provides a garden oasis just outside Kuala Lumpur. Its sprawling gardens, koi ponds and Balinese-inspired villas make it easy to forget you are just minutes away from the city. Its DZDUG ZLQQLQJ VSD R̆ HUV PDVVDJHV DQG wellness treatments designed to release tension and restore energy. Burnout often manifests physically as muscle tension and fatigue, so indulging in a therapeutic massage can be more than just a luxury – it can be part of your recovery plan. Address: The Lodge, Persiaran Multimedia, Cyber 7, 63000 Cyberjaya, Selangor

7. Ambong-Ambong, Langkawi If you crave the sound of the sea as part of your healing process, Ambong-Ambong in /DQJNDZL R̆ HUV D EOHQG RI UDLQIRUHVW DQG ocean views. Its villas are nestled into the hillside, with private decks overlooking the Andaman Sea. The retreat also has a ZHOOQHVV FHQWUH R̆ HULQJ \RJD VSD WUHDW ments and wellness programmes tailored to individual needs. According to a study published in Health & Place , being near blue spaces – lakes, rivers and oceans is associated with lower stress and better mental health. $PERQJ $PERQJ R̆ HUV WKH EHVW RI ERWK worlds: Calming ocean horizons and lush green surroundings. Address: Jalan Pantai Tengah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah