Sam Kankanamge BSc (Hons) Osteo, DPO, Dip.Acu is a world-renowned healthcare professional and leader in the international wellness movement. With over 25 years of experience transforming patients’ health, he has been called ‘the best back specialist in the country (UK)’ by The Times (2014).
Sam believes that helping people change their way of life is his skill and life journey. His healing philosophy, which blends ancient wisdom with science, is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Sri Lanka, surrounded by the natural world, his greatest teacher. His professional training as an osteopath and postgraduate work in neonatal medicine gave him a profound understanding of human nature, transforming his approach to healing.
In 2005, Sam founded the Sen Wellness Clinic, a holistic healthcare centre in London’s prestigious medical district, offering osteopathy, acupuncture, yoga, meditation and community events. The same year, he set up the Sen Wellness Foundation, a registered UK charity which has funded treatments for hundreds of children and their families. In recent years, the Foundation’s work has expanded to environmental conservation to preserve the land and promote biodiversity in Sri Lanka.
To support people in an even deeper way, in 2014, Sam established the Sen Wellness Sanctuary, an authentic retreat centre rooted in Ayurvedic traditions.
Dedicated to empowering others on their personal journeys, Sam embraces ancient healing technologies as a means to heal and connect and seeks to bridge the gap between science and mysticism. He is deeply fascinated by expanding the collective consciousness and how we can heal our relationship with Mother Earth.
The staff helped us arrange safaris and day trips to mirisa beach, and tangelle town.
The staff of the hotel is wonderful, they make you feel welcomed from the moment you put your foot on the ground when they ask to leave your shoes at the entrance of the Sanctuary and you do not need it anymore for the rest of the stay inside the hotel.
The women doing the massages are without any doubt the best part of the staff in this place, the doctors are very nice also but they might be slightly unexperienced at times.
Antonio the manager is friendly although sometimes a bit inefficient.
The rooms are cozy and comfortable and the food is very good.
Sam the owner of the place knows a lot about his work and practices although I find he runs the place with a focus on making business, which in a way makes sense but sometimes made me feel uncomfortable. For example if you want an appointment with him, or even a short talk, you will be charged extra even though you have already paid a lot of money to stay there.
Still I would go back as the place is wonderful.
The traditional treatments were excellent, offering a deep sense of rejuvenation. But what truly made my stay unforgettable was the people. From Tharu, the kind and reliable driver, to the wonderful wellness managers, Candice and Tania, and the inspiring yoga teacher, Kamila—every member of the team contributed to a warm and welcoming experience. Their care and dedication made all the difference.
Just a few constructive comments—it would be great to have new lily pads and bolster cushions, as the current ones were not in the best condition. Also, more yoga blocks would be helpful, as there weren’t always enough for everyone.
Overall, I had an amazing time, and if you’re looking for a place to unwind, heal, and be surrounded by positive energy, I highly recommend Sen Wellness Sanctuary!
It was lovely to meet and connect with both the staff and the other guests to have a very memorable experience of pure relaxation and reset.
My yoga retreat truly exceeded all my expectations. The location was breathtaking, with beautiful beaches and a peaceful atmosphere that helped me truly relax. The yoga sessions were perfect for my body and mind, and I felt stronger and more relaxed every day.
Tania was incredibly kind. The staff was always lovely and helpful, which made the experience even more special. The doctors were very professional, the kitchen staff cooked delicious meals, and the massagers were top-notch! Everything contributed to an unforgettable experience.
It was truly a memorable experience, and I hope to come back someday. I love this place!
The evening meditation and gong sessions are wonderful. I enjoyed massively the cacao session but all the others are amazing too. The 1 to 1 conversation with the monk gave me amazing insights on how to bring back the healthy routine in my daily life. Final shoutout goes to the doctors, the treatment staff, the housekeeping, the driver and the general management staff for making my stay at Sen unforgettable. For those considering to go, even solo, please have this place highly recommended.
One final remark for coffee lovers; since it is a no meat, no wheat no caffeine experience I do recommend taking the coffee at the stop on the way from the airport, the driver will point it out, as the dreaming of coffee conversations during the retreat are wholesome and somehow funny as well.
The staff is amazing, everyone is super friendly and has a smile on their face whenever you see them. The whole vibe of this beautiful place feels just health - the food is amazing, the doctors care and the treatments bring you to a deep relaxation very fast.
We loved the chats with likeminded guests as well as the yoga & meditations, the daily rituals and the nature around. We will definitely try to come back, then for a longer time!