It's no secret that yoga brings many benefits - but what if it could help you when scuba diving? Flexibility, strength and balance are not just useful in daily life; they're all crucial components of hoisting on a wetsuit and dive gear (trust us). Just like physical control, breathing drives a yogi's practice, just as it does a diver's buoyancy. Yoga is also all about mindfulness, and this pairs perfectly with appreciating the underwater world when you dive. Even better, a calm mind will help you respond better to hazards beneath the waves. Feeling inspired? Read on to discover our top yoga and scuba diving destinations around the world…
Siddhartha, Indonesia
First up on our list of the top yoga and scuba diving destinations is Siddhartha in northeast Bali, the 'Island of the Gods'. Bali is renowned for its spiritual culture, and Siddhartha is perfectly placed to provide visitors with an authentic experience away from the tourist-swamped south. Take your pick from over 50 dive sites, including wrecks (the coral-clad USAT Liberty Wreck is five minutes from the resort) and kaleidoscopic reefs, or see conservation in action at the Kubu Marine Park. Fancy heading further afield? Join excursions to Amed or Nusa Penida to dive with majestic manta rays year-round and mola molas between July and October. Back on land, unwind with daily yoga classes in the tranquil open-air yoga pavilion. Find your zen and perfect postures to the sounds of the ocean lapping the shore less than 200ft away…
Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman
Tucked away in Oman's secluded Musandam Peninsula, Six Senses Zighy Bay is our next pick. Set against a stunning mountain backdrop, the peninsula is referred to as the 'Norway of Arabia' thanks to its fjord-like scenery - think pink-hued cliffs dropping directly into the sea. What makes diving special here? Well, it'll just be you and the deep blue. Divers can experience the same quality of diving in the Gulf of Oman as in the Red Sea - minus the overcrowded waters. Scuba fans will discover the myriad marine life that thrives in the plankton-rich waters; expect to see colourful reef fish flitting among hard and soft corals, as well as turtles and whale sharks (if you're lucky). Post-dive, both seasoned yogis and novices can hone their practice in daily hatha yoga and guided meditation sessions in the outdoor pavilion. Learn to calm your mind and build your strength with a personalised yoga programme that includes one-on-one tuition and a massage.
COMO Maalifushi, Maldives
Next up on our list of dreamy yoga and scuba diving destinations is the luxurious COMO Maalifushi in the Maldives. This private island resort is in the remote Thaa Atoll and has wellness at its core (as well as incredible diving opportunities). From sunrise yoga classes in the ocean-facing outdoor pavilion to daily pranayama (breathwork) classes and diving-specific yoga, there are plenty of holistic happenings to get involved with. Private sessions are also available on request, and there are steam rooms, saunas and Jacuzzis to indulge in after calming your body and mind. In the pristine underwater world, get acquainted with reef sharks, barracuda, turtles, manta rays and whale sharks (when in season) at over 30 otherworldly dive sites. Whether exploring rainbow-coloured reefs at Kolhufushi, wall diving at Devil's Cave or discovering the magical macro marine life at Kuda Haa, there's something to suit every diver.
Amanpulo, Philippines
The clue's in the name of this next one. 'Aman' means peace in Sanskrit, and 'pulo' means island in Filipino, making Amanpulo quite literally a 'peace island'. Located on Pamalican Island in the scattered Cuyo Archipelago in northern Palawan, Philippines, this property sounds like the perfect place to focus on your body and mind. And as tempting as it might be to stay above the waves (jungle-draped, caster sugar beaches, anyone?), world-class dive sites entice below the sparkling surface. Discover the winning combination of unspoilt coral reefs and crystal-clear, warm waters as you swim alongside green and hawksbill turtles. Intricate hard and soft corals provide a home for diverse marine life, from parrotfish and wrasses to jackfish and trevallies. At the hilltop-perched Aman Spa, channel your inner yogi during daily group yoga and meditation classes in the tranquil healing garden. Where better to practice your warrior poses than in front of the waves?
Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada
Last but by no means least on our roundup of yoga and scuba diving destinations is Spice Island Beach Resort in Grenada. This idyllic island resort is set upon the shores of one of the best beaches in the world - Grand Anse - so make a beeline for its beachside yoga classes, which range from Hatha to Vinyasa and Yin. On a romantic getaway? Sign up for a private couple's yoga class for the ultimate intimate experience. Underwater, gorgeous Grenada is best known for its colourful coral gardens and deep wreck diving (the Bianca C shipwreck is just over a mile from Grand Anse's shores). There's even Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park for culture and coral enthusiasts to get their fix. Don your scuba set and head to the resort's dive centre to begin your adventure…
