As the festive season draws near, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the ties that bind us: meals, conversation, shared memories and quality time spent together.
In other words, connection is the thread that weaves through our lives, creating meaning and helping us make sense of the world. Connection can involve relating to ourselves, to each other and to nature. Here are some of our favourite ways to stoke togetherness and give a gift that connects at this special time of year.
It’s easy to fall into the habit of watching TV or catching up over a quick coffee with those we love. Ideally, though, our interactions involve relating on a deeper level. Quality time means time that we spend together in genuine connection, without rushing, and potentially without digital distractions.
Whether you’re carving out time to spend with your significant other, best friend or family, consider connecting with hot springs gifts such as our Bath House Revitalise bathing experience.
While there is a lot to be said for sitting across from a loved one, gazing into their eyes, some relationships call for time spent shoulder to shoulder: for example, going for a walk, cooking a meal, or sitting in a sauna. These kinds of activities allow you to soak up each other’s company in a low-pressure setting.
Our bathing areas offer the perfect opportunity for shoulder-to-shoulder time combined with wellness. With Reset (all of site) bathing, you can spend the whole day exploring our Bath House and Spa Dreaming Centre side-by-side.
We’re often our best selves when relaxed, and catching up in a tranquil environment brimming with natural beauty can work wonders for finding a sense of connection. Our wellness oasis comprises many open-air pools and bathing rituals surrounded by native flora and fauna on the Mornington Peninsula, along with stunning interior facilities that invite in the natural world.
For a meaningful way to reconnect, indulge in a delicious sit-down meal in our Spa Dreaming Centre dining room plus bathing with our Dine and Bathe package — or unwind together with a deeply restorative Tranquillity spa treatment package. These packages make great Christmas gifts, too.
Research shows that long-term relationships — especially romantic ones — thrive when we share new experiences. Psychologist Dr Arthur Aron’s Self-Expansion Model, for example, tells us that including novelty and challenges improves relationship quality. This might involve visiting new places, trying new things or stepping outside your comfort zone together.
An overnight stay at Peninsula Hot Springs is a totally unique experience, whether sleeping in our Glamping tents or Eco Lodges. Accommodation bookings also include your choice of a signature wellness activity: relax through yoga, connect during a Body Clay ritual or challenge yourselves with a Fire & Ice workshop.
Connection is not just about revisiting old memories: it’s also about creating new ones. There’s a special kind of bonding that occurs when we engage in something meaningful or out of the ordinary with loved ones. These experiences are more likely to become a lasting memory and contribute to a sense of shared narrative.
Our private baths are a beautiful opportunity to make new memories while catching up one-on-one or in a small group. Indoor bathing pavilions accommodate two people and can be enhanced with luxurious additives, such as essential oils or lavender milk, while private outdoor baths can accommodate groups of up to five.
For more ideas on how to give a gift that connects and celebrate the common threads between us this season, visit our Christmas gifts page or get in touch with our friendly Reservations team.