Wellness Spotlight: Cambodia

During our Southeast Asia trip, we made a stop in Cambodia where we chose to stay in Phnom Penh, the country's capital. One of our most memorable experiences was taking a day trip to Mekong island, a charming little oasis located a quick 10-minute ferry ride away from the city. While Mekong island is famous for its traditional silk production, it also provided us with a glimpse into rural Cambodian life.

Stepping off the ferry, I was struck by a sense of peace and quiet, in stark contrast to the bustling city. On this tiny island, cars were a rarity, and instead, people got around on foot, bicycles, or mopeds, adding to the idyllic charm. As we biked along, we were greeted by the sight of fruits hanging from trees and animals grazing and frolicking on the side of the road.

We made our way to the market which was a tad overwhelming. We were met with a sensory overload of sights, smells, and sounds, from rows of fresh fish to the intricate weaves of handcrafted baskets to even live frogs - a local delicacy that we mustered up the courage to try. Everything at the market was grown, caught, or made on the island thanks to the Mekong river serving as an abundant resource.

One of the highlights of the day was visiting a Buddhist pagoda that was connected to a school. It was recess and all the kids were playing barefoot outside. It was refreshing to see children running around, playing tug of war and not staring at an iPad. The pagoda itself was a true masterpiece of architecture and craftsmanship, with intricate carvings and vibrant colors that seemed to radiate an aura of serenity and peace. Learning about the daily routine of the resident monks was an enlightening experience, and we left with a renewed sense of appreciation for their simple and disciplined way of life.