Embracing the Sensei Way
Immediately upon stepping foot onto Hawaiian soil one’s breath deepens, shoulders loosen and tension melts. Visions of quotidian routines and responsibilities fade into a backdrop of swaying palms, technicolor flora and a slower pace.
As my tiny charter plane coasted over turquoise waters from Honolulu to Lāna‘i, Hawai‘i’s smallest inhabited island, I knew I was in for something special. A six-day, five-night, adults-only curated hiking retreat lay before me—punctuated by activity and stillness, solitude and connection—from the luxurious, tranquil Sensei Lāna‘i, a Four Seasons Resort.
Established by Oracle cofounder Larry Ellison and physician-author Dr. David Agus, Sensei hiking retreats aim to “help people live longer, healthier lives through current, evidence-led knowledge combined with a fresh philosophy on food, health and lifestyle.” Or, as they call it, “the Sensei Way,” which is based on movement, nourishment and rest to foster well-being.
The gatherings include a mix of wellness activities—treatments in private, Japanese-inspired spa hales; one-on-one yoga and meditation classes; ethereal sound baths; fresh meals from on-site restaurant Sensei by Nobu; and a deep dive into Hawai‘i’s culture. The program follows a cohort method that inspires guests to build community with other participants while Sensei guides lead the way. “Throughout the week, [the guides] offer experiences designed to foster self-reflection, awareness and insight into behaviors, priorities and actions that impact well-being, both positively and negatively,” says Mindset Guide Lydia Moran.
Situated on 90,000 acres in the verdant uplands of Kō‘ele, Sensei Lāna‘i encompasses mystical Cook pine forests, dramatic seaside cliffs and white sand beaches. “We feel very lucky to be able to incorporate the island’s diverse natural landscapes into this retreat and worked closely with multiple on-island entities to clear access for these trails for both the guests and locals alike,” says Meaghan Carlson, a Portland native and vice president of brand and marketing at Sensei. Incorporate it does. Open-air walkways lead to light-filled guest rooms in soothing neutral hues and furnished lanais. The enchanted grounds feature gardens and a curvy pool surreptitiously tucked into the rich greenery.
There’s an ease to unplugging here, says Edwardo Williams, the exercise physiology guide. “It happens so seamlessly, without the feeling of having to actually rough it.”
On the morning of my first hike, I paused to watch lizards lounging in the sun and to revel in birdsong drifting down from the forest canopy. Already I was feeling more present than I had in months.
That day our cohort got acquainted over a misty, 5.3-mile ascent above the tree line of Cook pines to Kaiholena Ridge, where bento boxes were delivered for a memorable picnic lunch. Another day, a guided planting activity took us deep into the woods to learn about the Ti leaf, a native plant currently being restored to a culturally significant part of the island.
The afternoons brought spa offerings that soothed sore muscles. One day I luxuriated in a sensational lomi lomi massage in a light-streaked hale, followed by a sauna and private outdoor shower. Another afternoon, I enjoyed healthy poolside snacks and blissful solitude. I followed a dip-dry-repeat cycle until the island sun cured my every worry and woe.
Carlson believes that the power of these retreats lies in the guests’ chance to connect with themselves and others, on and off the trails. “I think the balance of quiet, solo reflection time and time on the trails or in wellness classes with others provides the ideal mindset refresh,” she says.
Before departure we gathered for a closing ceremony where everyone—once strangers who now felt like longtime friends—shared what stood out from the retreat, and what we’d like to hold on to a while longer. In these final sessions, Nutrition Guide Danielle Hildreth appreciates seeing common threads that inevitably arise. Moran likes hearing how participants will incorporate this newfound relaxation back home. Williams cherishes the transition he sees from arrival through to the final day. “It is incredible to witness [guests] go from go-go-go to island-slow,” he says. I certainly noted this change within myself as I took one final lap around the property, immersed in the aliveness of this place.
No matter what folks get from their time on Lāna‘i, it’s clear that the most valuable takeaways will never fit in a suitcase. It’s also abundantly clear that slowing down—and reconnecting with our truest essence—is something we should all do every lucky chance we get.
The next Sensei Lāna‘i hiking retreat is June 2-7, 2025. Visit fourseasons.com/sensei for more information.