Ayurveda

Kerala is known for the holistic practice of Ayurveda; you can choose to centre your trip on the Ayurvedic experience or book a consultation as part of your Kerala holiday.  Ayurveda means the science of life and consists of a number of disciplines, including aromatherapy, diet, herbal medicine, acupuncture, yoga, massage, meditation and balancing of energies. It is an Indian health practice believed to be over 5000 years old using natural and herbal remedies.

Ayurveda practitioners believe that air, earth, water, space and fire make up the body elements and that our body type determines the treatments and diet you should follow.  The three body types are Kappa, Vata and Pitta.   Kappa types have broad frames, long limbs and are calm and patient, Vata types are said to be thin and bony with restless minds whilst Pitta have a moderate physique with muscular limbs and an alert mind.  Treatments include deep whole body massage using botanicals and herb infused oils; this deep relaxing muscle massage induces calmness to the nervous system and meditation is used to refresh the mind and restore balance.

The principles of Ayurveda are that the mind and the body are connected and that nothing has more power to heal the body than the mind, also that good health is dependent on expanding our own self-awareness. This then brings balance to the mind which is then channelled to balance the body. There are wellness centres and clinics throughout India to help with this and they have trained consultants and doctors on standby. Short and long term stays are available for those who are interested. Here is some more information on a Kerala Tour with Ayurveda Therapy.