Jonathan G. Dungog is the resident holistic wellbeing specialist at Milaidhoo Maldives who is well positioned to guide resort visitors with a penchant for wellbeing. He is a body physique athlete and a certified fitness professional with multiple training specializations, including yoga, sound therapy, aerial yoga, personal training, HIIT, METCON, TRX, SGX. He is a World OCR Level 2 coach, M2T-Blade IASTM practitioner, functional myostretch practitioner, functional Chinese cupping therapist, vigor kinetic tape practitioner, Zumba instructor, deep tissue massage therapist, and Panchakarma therapist. He is also a seasoned triathlete, obstacle course racer, and experienced ultramarathoner who enjoys extreme sports and adventures such as skydiving and scuba diving (PADI Level 1 Certified). Earlier in his career, he left the corporate world to open his own studios and is now utilizing his expertise at Milaidhoo Maldives. Here, he shares his thoughts on health and wellness.
What does wellness mean to you?
Wellness for me is the art of returning people to harmony with themselves, nature, and the present moment. It is about awakening the body’s natural ability to heal through sound, stillness, energy, and cons.
What are your favorite things to do to maintain your personal wellbeing?
At 48 years old, my favorite thing to do is to make sure I practice yoga almost every day. If not every day, then at least three times a week. I also make sure to go to the gym regularly and prioritize my sleep.
Is there a specific fitness activity that you love and why?
I love working out in the gym, not necessarily to grow muscles but to maintain my fitness level. I make sure to do a lot of cardio to keep my endurance up and support my overall health.
What is your favorite healthy food, and do you have a favorite way of preparing it?
My favorite healthy foods are vegetables, whether steamed or boiled. Any kind of vegetables that are available, I always add to my meals as an essential part for vitamins and nutrients.
What is your favorite healthy beverage (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), and do you have any insider tips for preparing it?
My favorite healthy beverage is a creatine supplement. I can skip everything except this—I have to have at least one scoop in my water per day.
What is your greatest wellness achievement?
Being able to set up my own wellness studios and work overseas as a wellness instructor. Having the opportunity to share my passion for wellness with people from different cultures that come to Milaidhoo and see them changed by it is very rewarding. One time a couple visited the island, and they participated in a sound healing experience with me. They were so moved by it that they continue to do sessions with me online after returning home. Being able to remain part of their healing journey is so meaningful and reminds me why I love the work that I do.
What person in wellness do you most admire and why?
Deepak Chopra, he is popular proponent of a holistic approach to wellbeing that includes yoga, meditation, and nutrition, among other new-age therapies. His emphasis these practices encourages people to look at well-being in a more balanced and meaningful way.
What is the best piece of wellness advice you have ever received and from whom?
I got it from my yoga teacher when I was doing my 300-hour Yoga teacher training. He told me, “When you start doing something, no one can stop you.” It reminds me every day that consistency is powerful, and that real progress comes from committing fully to what you start.
What do you think is the most exciting wellness innovation you have recently discovered?
Aqua Sonic, which is sound therapy in the pool. It combines the calming effects of water with sound vibrations to create a deeply relaxing experience unlike any other.
What is your idea of balanced healthy happiness?
When you can do anything you want without sacrificing your health.
What is your favorite place for a healthy vacation or escape?
I love traveling to India. I love joining wellness classes there and visiting historical sites, everything feels truly authentic.
What is your favorite self-care routine?
Going to sleep early and getting 6–8 hours of sleep. Getting enough rest helps me maintain my energy and has a much more powerful impact on your mood everyday than you realize.
What wellness-related books or authors do you recommend, and why?
I have a book I got In India during my visit, it’s all about sound therapy, called Sound Medicine by Kulreet Chaudhary.
How do you celebrate small victories?
I celebrate small victories by enjoying good food, having a nice cocktail, and sharing the moment with others. It’s my way of appreciating the achievement and making the experience more meaningful and joyful.
What brings you joy?
My students bring me joy—seeing them happy after each class makes me feel very accomplished that I was able to bring others a sense of rejuvenation.
