“The reason why love and
compassion bring the greatest happiness is simply that our nature
cherishes them above all else. The need for love lies at the very
foundation of human existence. It results from the profound
interdependence we all share with one another”
His Holiness, Dalai Lama
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is the traditional system of healing practiced in India and Sri
Lanka, dating back to the ancient times of the Buddha. Ayurveda
literally means science of life and is a holistic approach to health,
fusing the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual elements of the
individual. The practice of Ayurveda is divided into many different
fields: yoga, astrology, meditation, massage, sound and music therapy,
breathing, cleansing techniques and medicinal herbs.
Ayurvedic Treatments
We offer a 10 day course in Ayurvedic treatments which are centred
around four main massage techniques. The course teaches the techniques
for each treatment and includes Ayurvedic theory, history, lifestyle and
information on main Ayurvedic medicines.
Abhyangam
This full-body massage focuses on maximum penetration of herbal oils and
release of muscular tension. It is usually followed by a steam bath and
a hot shower.
Abhyangam is a basic step that stimulates and rejuvenates various body
systems. This increases the effectiveness of any other treatment taken
as part of an overall programme.
It has more enduring effects than a massage using mineral oils and
lotions. Abhyangam heals by harmonizing body, mind and spirit.
Shirodara
Oil or other liquids are poured in a continuous stream onto the forehead
from a hanging vessel, while a gentle massage is given on the face and
head. This treatment is quite powerful in its ability to relieve
emotional and physical tension by working on the ‘Third eye’ (the center
of the forehead and window to the soul). This procedure often induces a
mental state similar to a trance, which creates deep relaxation of the
mind and body.
Relieves stress and strain related problems, slows aging, improves
memory and nourishes the hair/scalp. Also prevents and cures paralysis,
insomnia, nervous disorders and certain psychiatric diseases.
Nasym
Nose is an easy entrance to the head. Medicine is poured into the
nostrils for inhalation. This cleanses accumulated toxins in the head
and neck region.
Highly effective for asthma, sinusitis, migraine and loss of
smell/taste.
Chavutti Thirumal
This technique involves massaging specially prepared healing oils into
the body with the foot and is administered with the masseur holding onto
a long, strong rope for balance. The weight and pressure of the foot are
used to press and relax the muscles and work the energy lines, as in
Thai massage. By using the heel, ball, instep and toes the masseur works
with flowing, deep strokes over the whole body and is able to go deep
into muscle and bone alignment, increase circulation of blood and lymph
glands, regulate digestive system and can release deep rooted blockages
both emotionally and physically.
Atypical daily schedule of this course looks something like this:
06:00 – 6:45 Morning Meditation / Chanting
07:00 – 9:00 Sunrise Yoga / Qi Gong
09:00 – 11:00 Breakfast, Swim and Shower time
11:00 – 14:00 Treatments demonstration and practice
14:00 – 16:00 Lunch and siesta
16:00 – 19:00 Treatments practice
19:00 – 20:00 Ayurveda Theory
20:00 – 21:00 Dinner
