Immerse yourself in the world of Ayurveda and learn about the health-promoting effects of the holistic healing art. On this page we present you the most important information about Ayurveda. Learn more about the origin of Ayurveda and the different types of Ayurveda retreats. We also explain the benefits of Ayurveda and help you determine your individual dosha type.
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The most popular hotels for Ayurveda
13 nights from
£3,663
Kunzmann's Hotel | SPA
S
Germany · Rhoen / Vogelsberg · Bad Bocklet
Ayurveda Fountain of Youth
Excellent
4.7
/513 nights from
£3,119
- 40%
Santani Resort
DELUXE
Sri Lanka · Central Sri Lanka · Werapitiya - Kandy
Santani Detox
14 nights from
£719
- 15%
Nikki's Nest
COMFORT
India · South-West India / Kerala · Trivandrum
Classic Ayurveda
Excellent
4.7
/514 nights from
£2,687
- 10%
OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel - Tenerife
Spain · Tenerife · Punta del Hidalgo
OCÉANO Ayurvedic Touch
Excellent
4.7
/514 nights from
£848
- 22%
Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara
FIRST CLASS
Sri Lanka · West Coast Sri Lanka · Beruwala
Ayurveda (1 Pers.) + Accomp. Person without Treatment
Excellent
4.7
/514 nights from
£3,312
Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden
Spain · Tenerife · Puerto de la Cruz
Ayurveda Week
Excellent
4.8
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What is Ayurveda?
The healing art Ayurveda received its designation from the ancient Indian language Sanskrit. The term comes from "Ayus" (translated "life") and "Veda" (translated "knowledge"). In the Ayurvedic teachings, the "knowledge of life", the wholeness of man is in the foreground. During an Ayurveda retreat, body, mind and soul are brought into harmony to strengthen the life energies and to reduce or prevent diseases. Ayurveda is based on the three doshas Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Every person has the three dosha within. However, if there is an imbalance of the doshas, physical and mental diseases can arise. Experienced Ayurvedic doctors examine spa guests extensively to identify possible dominance and imbalances of the doshas. With targeted Ayurvedic treatments such as oil massages, internal cleansing and detoxification as well as the Ayurvedic diet, the doshas are balanced and the physical as well as mental well-being is strengthened in the long term.
The origin and history of Ayurveda
Ayurveda finds its origins in India, where it is estimated that more than 5,000 years ago the holistic art of healing originated. The approx. 3,000 year old records "Agnivesha Tantra" testify to a thousand year old tradition. Over the years, the knowledge of Ayurveda has been further developed. Nowadays Ayurveda in India, Sri Lanka and Nepal is still widely practiced .
In India and Sri Lanka, Ayurveda is taught at state universities. The study of the Ayurvedic healing art is approximately five and a half years and is concluded with a state examination. The trained physicians may subsequently practice as Ayurvedic physicians and are called "Vaidya".
There are also some Ayurvedic institutes in Europe in which Ayurvedic training is offered in accordance with Indian traditions.
Ayurveda retreats for wellness
Panchakarma means "fivefold action" and is based on the five cleansing treatments: enemas (Vasti), purging (Virechana), therapeutic vomiting (Vamana), therapeutic cleansing through the nose (Nasya) and bloodletting (Rakta Moksha). Accompanying the cleansing treatments are external treatments such as massages with Ayurvedic oils, herbal steam baths and forehead casts (Shirodhara). Since a detoxifying Panchakarma therapy is very intensive, you should plan for at least 14-21 days for the retreats.
A Rasayana therapy has the rejuvenation and strengthening of the body as its goal. The Ayurvedic treatments such as oil massages or flower baths are supported by the so-called Rasayanas. Rasayanas are Ayurvedic herbal and mineral mixtures that can be taken in the form of powder, tablet or drink. The active ingredients of rasayanas detoxify the body, strengthen the immune system and slow cell aging. At the same time, rasayanas provide beneficial effects for the skin and hair.
Ayurvedic relaxation retreats are ideal for relaxing and revitalizing. This mild form of Ayurveda retreat is often preferred by guests who want to get to know Ayurveda or wish for a short time out from everyday life . During a relaxation retreat, internal cleansing treatments are usually omitted. The Ayurvedic treatments such as massages and oil treatments invite you to feel good. Ayurvedic relaxation therapies are also possible for short stays, for example over the weekend.
The benefits and goals of Ayurveda
Ayurveda promotes health and can help in the treatment of diseases. Even for people without pre-existing conditions, Ayurveda is ideally suited, as the body detoxifies and stress is reduced. With the help of Ayurvedic treatments in combination with Ayurvedic medicine as well as the Ayurvedic diet body, mind and soul are brought into balance. In addition, the dosha-adjusted diet helps to support a healthy lifestyle and to activate the self-healing powers of the body. Ayurveda retreats usually also include yoga and meditation, which provides additional relaxation. Ayurveda can achieve an improvement especially well with the following complaints:
- skin diseases
- joint problems
- hypertension
- back pain
- digestive disorders
- migraines
- diabetes
- obesity
- allergies
- disorders of sleep
- intolerances
- burn-out
Which dosha type are you?
You want to know which dosha is particularly dominant in you? Below you will find an overview of the characteristics of the three dosha types Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Read through the characteristics of the three dosha types and count in which dosha type you see the most matches to find out your dosha dominance. This overview is of course only for a first impression, we recommend a consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor for the exact classification of your dosha.
Appearance:
- Slim, slender build
- Elongated face
- Veins clearly visible
Character/Psyche:
- Sensitive
- Good short-term memory
- Tendency to worry, nervousness, anxiety
Nutrition:
- Low appetite
- Prefers warm foods
- Tends to lose weight easily
Complaints:
- Disturbed sleep
- Freezing hands and feet
- Constipation and flatulence
Appearance:
- Athletic build
- Precise nose
- Veins visible depending on training level
Character/Psyche:
- Emotional
- Good short and long term memory
- Tendency to be impatient
Nutrition:
- High appetite
- Prefers cold foods
- Can gain and lose weight quickly
Complaints:
- Disposition for inflammation
- Diarrhea
Appearance:
- Stable, broad build
- Round face
- Veins barely visible
Character/Psyche:
- Calm, composed
- Good long-term memory
- Tendency towards melancholy
Nutrition:
- Likes to eat
- Prefers spicy foods
- Gains weight quickly
Complaints:
- Fatigue and listlessness
- Overweight
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Ayurveda
For whom is Ayurveda suitable?
Ayurveda is suitable for anyone who wants to do something good for their body and is looking for a health-conscious lifestyle. People with pre-existing conditions and pregnant women should ask their doctor if Ayurvedic treatments are suitable for them.
Is Ayurveda also possible at home?
You can integrate the Ayurvedic way of life into your everyday life. You can cook dishes of Ayurvedic cuisine at home, use Ayurvedic spices and replace your cosmetic products with Ayurvedic cosmetics. For relaxation, yoga and meditation are good. To get to know Ayurveda holistically, we recommend an Ayurveda retreat.
How much does an Ayurveda retreat cost?
The Ayurveda offers with SpaDreams start at:
- Dheemahi Ayurvedic Centre - from £335
- Villa Velmarie Yoga & Ayurveda Retreat - from £576
- Nikki's Nest - from £719
- Linta's Golden Beach Resort - from £722
- Tree of Life - from £739
- Ypsylon Resort - from £770
- Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions - from £771
- Villa 386 - from £773
- Silent Garden Ayurveda Health Resort - from £804
- Meiveda Ayurveda Beach Resort - from £833
What is the Ayurvedic diet?
In Ayurvedic cuisine, a lot of vegetables, fruits and legumes are used. Care is taken that the ingredients are as fresh, organic and regional where possible. Ayurvedic dishes are mainly vegetarian or vegan. Depending on the dosha type, certain ingredients such as dairy products or wheat should be avoided. Due to the different dietary recommendations for dosha types, meals at Ayurvedic resorts are often prepared individually for guests or served buffet style with dosha labeling. A meal usually includes all six tastes - salty, bitter, spicy, sweet, tart and sour - referred to as "rasa" in Ayurvedic teachings.
Can an Ayurveda retreat be subsidized by the health insurance?
Ayurveda retreats are partially subsidized by private health insurance companies if they are suitable for the respective indication. Possibly, the subsidy by a statutory health insurance is also possible. We recommend asking your health insurance company before booking.
In which countries is Ayurveda offered?
Ayurveda is predominantly found in India and Sri Lanka, where you will find a wide range of traditional Ayurveda resorts. Ayurveda retreats are also offered in other Asian countries such as Nepal, Thailand or Indonesia. Meanwhile, Ayurveda also has gained popularity in Europe, so that there are also Ayurveda offers in Germany, Austria, Spain, Italy, Poland and more.
What is the meaning of Ayurveda?
Ayurveda means "the knowledge of life". It stems from the Sanskrit words "Ayus" (meaing "life") and "Veda" (meaning "knowledge").