WHIS Leadership & Wellbeing Retreats
WHIS Leadership & Wellbeing Retreats
Empowering People to Thrive – At Work, At Home, and In Life
These exclusive global retreats are designed to inspire transformation through the power of nature, innovation, and holistic wellbeing.
Set in some of the world's most stunning natural settings from the African savannas and South American rainforests to the mountains of
Asia and Europe’s coastal sanctuaries this immersive experience supports individuals, teams, and communities to reconnect, recharge, and thrive.
Whether you're a healthcare leader, professional, or someone passionate about wellbeing, these retreats offer a unique blend of personal development, lifestyle medicine, and health system innovation. Through expert-led sessions, participants will explore practical strategies for stress management, mental resilience, sleep optimisation, nutrition, movement, and mindfulness—tools to help you flourish both professionally and personally.
Engage in meaningful conversations on sustainable health, social prescribing, and preventative care while experiencing
nature treks, cultural immersions, and wildlife encounters that highlight the vital link between our environment, community, and health.
These retreats are designed to be shared. Bring a friend, partner, or colleague—even if they're not in healthcare—and create lasting memories together.
Choose from a range of experiences including:
- Corporate retreats
- Spa & wellbeing getaways
- Fitness and health journeys
- Solo escapes to reconnect with yourself
Join WHIS for a transformative journey where leadership, wellbeing, and nature unite to build a healthier, more balanced world.
Full details coming soon!
For more information, contact: info@whis.world
Welcome to an unforgettable wellness week in 2025/26
Welcome to an unforgettable wellness week in 2024 at Vaikko!
We offer you a unique opportunity to relax in the wilderness amid the scenic rapids, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This week is dedicated to well-being, nature, and peace of mind.
Destination Details:
- Ecological and Responsible: Vaikon Loma ja Lohi is committed to environmental responsibility. We hold the Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) certificate, Green Key certificate, and Responsible Travel certificate from Visit Finland.
- Surrounding Nature: Our location is in an FSC-certified forest with a conservation program covering over 10-15% of our forest.
- Organic Farm: We have been operating as an EU organic farm since the 1990s.
- Accommodation: Comfortably equipped wilderness cabins (8 cabins) in a beautiful environment.
- Diverse Activities: Throughout the weekend, you can participate in various activities such as forest innovation camps, river floating, river rafting, canoeing, bicycling, forest hiking, forest yoga, hugging trees, have a nap at hammock and relax in sauna and hot tub by the lake and white water rapids.
Year-Round Experiences: We are ready to offer unforgettable experiences throughout the year, including stargazing, Northern Lights observation, moments of light and darkness, exploration of Kalevala roots and traditions, and local cuisine.
Forest yoga/tree hugging, which is suitable for everyone and can include a 10-minute nap in a hammock. It's a delightful activity – in fact, almost magical.
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and connection with nature in our Nature Retreat package. Book now for a day of serenity and rejuvenation!
These weeks provide an opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature combined with diverse activities and well-being. Join us in creating unforgettable memories in 2025/26 at Vaikon!
(Brochure) - Vat applicable @20%
*Dates will be announced 2nd week in July 2025 - Subject to change.
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TEAM
Dr. Melissa Sundermann
Dr. Melissa Sundermann
Dr. Melissa Sundermann
Dr. Melissa Sundermann, also known as Doctor Outdoors — a double board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine, adventure-seeker, plant-powered athlete, and passionate advocate for the healing power of nature.
With over 25 years of clinical experience and advanced training in Integrative and Mind-Body Medicine, I'v
Dr. Melissa Sundermann, also known as Doctor Outdoors — a double board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine, adventure-seeker, plant-powered athlete, and passionate advocate for the healing power of nature.
With over 25 years of clinical experience and advanced training in Integrative and Mind-Body Medicine, I've seen firsthand how lifestyle — not just prescriptions — transforms lives. My mission is to inspire and empower individuals to embrace vitality, prevent disease, and reconnect with what truly matters: nature, purpose, movement, nourishment, and human connection.
I currently serve as the Founding Chair of the Nature as Medicine Subcommittee for the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) and lead the Lifestyle Medicine Initiative for the Global Wellness Institute, collaborating with thought leaders worldwide to revolutionize healthcare through lifestyle medicine.
Gareth Presch
Dr. Melissa Sundermann
Dr. Melissa Sundermann
Gareth Presch is a renowned voice in the healthcare sector, celebrated for his leadership in transforming global care models through insight-driven strategy, innovation, and policy influence. With extensive experience consulting major international organizations and presenting at conferences worldwide, Gareth has been recognized as a glob
Gareth Presch is a renowned voice in the healthcare sector, celebrated for his leadership in transforming global care models through insight-driven strategy, innovation, and policy influence. With extensive experience consulting major international organizations and presenting at conferences worldwide, Gareth has been recognized as a global thought leader in driving healthcare excellence.
Away from professional commitments, Gareth is a passionate endurance sports enthusiast. He’s completed three Ironman Triathlons, conquered multiple ultramarathons, and participated in numerous charity athletic events, channeling his love for endurance sport into impactful fundraising and community initiatives.
His unique profile—bridging healthcare innovation and elite endurance sport—exemplifies the synergy of mental resilience, rigorous preparation, and both physical and strategic stamina.
