How to prepare yourself for an ayurvedic spa treatment

How would you like to seek bliss in an ayurvedic spa to chase away the COVID – 19 blues? After all, the troubling times we live in require us to seek therapeutic care. Ayurvedic treatments work closely with meditation, psychological wellbeing and what you consume. In this guide, we discuss how to prepare for your first (or 15th) ayurvedic spa.

How long should you stay at an ayurvedic spa?

Ayurvedic treatment follows a slow, compote and lingering pace. You need time to let the goodness of the treatment nourish you; detoxify your body and soul. We recommend that you stay at least two weeks at the ayurvedic retreat to truly enjoy the benefits. You could plan other activities parallel to your spa schedule to enjoy a well-balanced holiday. For example, if you book your stay at a Kalutara resort, make plans to enjoy some beach time, explore the surrounding greenery and visit some historical sites.

Why should you plan the visit in advance?

A lot of Ayurvedic retreats offer different programmes. You should carefully pick the treatment that you would enjoy. Try to choose a programme that goes with your goals. Make a list of what you wish to achieve at the end of your spa treatment. Once you know what you want, it will be easier to pick the best treatment options from what is available. A number of hotels such as the Mermaid Hotel & Club offer guests the option of picking their own spa treatment.

Why do you need to keep the Ayurveda therapist informed about your ailments?

Ayurveda is an ancient therapeutic treatment, mastered over centuries. Ayurveda therapists look to address the deep-rooted issues in your body. They will need to know your medical history to design treatment and food that will suit your particular condition and state of health. Some conditions might require herbs that are difficult to source. Most practitioners ask you to bring your medication along with you to the retreat.

Why do you need a digital detox before and during your ayurvedic treatment?

While some retreats restrict guests’ digital intake during their retreat period, some prefer to let guests decide. But it is always a good idea to limit time spent online or staring at a screen during your retreat. The ayurvedic treatment works in tandem with your mind’s wellbeing. A little time away from social media would do you good. Instead of relying on the digital world, you could bring a couple of books to read. A word of warning though; spare yourself some emotional distress by avoiding too heavy subjects.

Why do you need to change your diet before the ayurvedic retreat?

As we discussed earlier, the ayurvedic treatment uses a wholesome approach that includes dietary changes and emotional wellbeing. You could try to reduce or if possible, completely eliminate wheat, fatty oil and even sugar from your diet a week or two before the retreat. This will help your body respond well to the treatment. Otherwise, your body will go through a detoxing period first, before you can experience the benefits of your treatment.

Why do you need to spend quiet time before your treatment?

A relaxed, tranquil mind is essential for your treatment to work well. The treatment itself is relaxing, and you will find yourself moving into a state of bliss as the ayurvedic practitioner treats you. However, it helps to quiet your mind beforehand. You can try meditation, yoga or a simple breathing exercise to let go of the incessant internal chatter of the mind. Some people use body scanning techniques to relax their mind and body before treatment. You don’t have to be a dedicated, serious meditator. A few minutes of meditation or breathing exercises would suffice.