Ayurveda, which means ‘knowledge of life’ in Sanskrit, is a holistic medical system developed in India over 5,000 years ago. It is known as the world’s oldest accepted traditional medical system and is often called the ‘Mother of All Healing’. More than just the mere absence of disease, Ayurveda views health as a state of vibrant well-being, one of complete balance between body, mind and spirit. The Ayurvedic cure aims to balance the body’s vital energies, known as doshas, through individualised therapies such as herbal medicines, treatments, diets, yoga and meditation.
We use plenty of Sri Lankan ingredients, herbs, and spices for your Ayurvedic curry. For example, Sri Lanka is the origin of Cinnamon and Lemongrass, one of the most famous herbs in the world. You can feel how spices are the “foundation” of this country’s culture.
We use coconut oil(Produce by EOAS Herbals) for our meals. Coconut oil has a mild taste, and our curry is spicy(Produce by EOAS Herbals), so some of our guests say, “I have never had a curry that is so tender”
And, the fresh and colorful fruits of the tropical island, such as mango and papaya, will be also the highlights of your Ayurvedic journey.
Ayurveda retreats approach health holistically, addressing physical ailments and emotional and spiritual imbalances. An important component of the Ayurveda experience is yoga, meditation and breathwork, which most retreats offer as part of the daily routine. The programme may also feature more esoteric healing modalities, ceremonial activities that unite the community, and educational workshops to guide your spiritual practice.
While a spiritual programme may not be the focus of an Ayurvedic hotel’s services, many offer optional classes of yoga, meditation and breathwork to fit around your schedule – an excellent option for those seeking a moment of stillness or an introduction to spiritual practices.
Both Ayurvedic retreats and hotels offer highly nutritious meals that adhere to the principles of Ayurveda – some may follow the strict traditional dosha-specific diet while others may follow the broader guidance on plant-based, seasonal and organic nourishment.
A key difference, however, is that retreats have certain dietary restrictions, including abstinence from alcohol, coffee, and processed foods, to promote the body’s natural detoxing capacities. Meals are also enjoyed at a fixed time each day to restore the body’s digestive rhythm. Hotels, on the other hand, offer more flexibility and often serve a diverse culinary experience with the option to experience the Ayurvedic diet.
Those joining Ayurvedic retreats often commit to longer stays, ranging from a few weeks to several months, to fully immerse in the experience and feel lasting benefits. Days are structured in a way that aligns with nature’s cycles, rising with the sun and falling asleep as night falls, with scheduled programmes during the day that incorporate therapies, yoga, meditation, and educational workshops.
Guests may frequent Ayurvedic hotels for shorter durations, perhaps a one-night stay, weekend getaway or week-long vacation. Such establishments offer guests a lot of flexibility – with no fixed daily routines, you can engage in treatments and activities to suit your schedule, which is ideal for those seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration.
