Practiced in India for thousands of years, Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to wellness. In fact, a focus on treating more than just physical issues is built into its name: "Ayurveda" means "science of life" in Sanskrit.
"Ayurveda's basic philosophy is that the mind and the body are not separate," explains naturopathic doctor Pratima Raichur, author of Absolute Beauty and founder of New York City's Pratima Ayurvedic Skincare Spa Clinic, which opened nearly 30 years ago. "Life is a combination of the physical form, mind, breath, and consciousness, and they are all connected. Every thought we have, food we eat, and breath we take affects the body."
According to Ayurvedic teachings, each of the fundamental elements of the universe-ether (space), air, fire, water, and earth-are present in human physiology, and it is the imbalance of these (typically caused by physical, emotional, mental, or environmental stress) that leads to illness. A person's dosha, or constitution, relates to the specific mix of these elements. The three doshas are vata (air and ether), pitta (fire and water), and kapha (earth and water), and most people are a combination of two, with one being dominant.
To bring the elements into optimum balance, traditional Ayurvedic wellness programs target both internal and external health with dosha-specific treatments. Panchakarma, for example, begins with a thorough diagnosis by an Ayurvedic medical practitioner followed by a customized regimen that can include herbal supplements and bodywork.
For long-term results it's important to see a practitioner on a regular basis, but many destination spas offer one- or two-week Ayurvedic intensives focused on weight loss, cleansing, or the treatment of chronic issues like allergies. Several treatments have also been adapted and simplified for day spas, and when done properly these can yield positive results after just one session.
Because Ayurvedic treatments are customized based on a person's dosha, spas that offer them will have clients answer a series of questions to identify whether they are mostly vata, pitta, or kapha. Armed with this information, the therapist will then know which treatments are best for the client and which oils and natural ingredients should be used. Oils nourish the body and rejuvenate it on a cellular level, while herbs, spices, and fruit are tapped for their beauty and healing properties-for example, amla is rich in revitalizing vitamin C, gotu kola stimulates collagen, saffron brightens, and neem leaf fights bacteria.
As the availability of Ayurvedic services becomes more widespread, it's important to keep in mind that this traditional medicine system is an in-depth process (and one best suited to those interested in making permanent lifestyle and diet changes), so for a full, authentic experience you'll need to go to an Ayurvedic clinic.
"Most spas offer treatments inspired by Ayurveda," says Tara Grodjesk, founder of the all-natural spa line Tara, which includes a collection of Ayurvedic products prepared according to traditional methods. "They do not perform clinical Ayurvedic treatments but rather therapies appropriate for spa clientele." However, the good news is that even the occasional spa-goer can benefit from a spa treatment or at-home product that taps into Ayurveda's balancing ingredients and techniques.
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Kama Ayurveda Miraculous Beauty Fluid Formulated in India to exacting Ayurvedic standards, this rejuvenating face oil evens skin tone. ($57) |
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Sundari Neem Night Cream In a four-week trial, this star product increased skin's moisture by 108 percent. ($58) |
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Anokha Skin Care Red Sandalwood & Neem Clarifying Masque Turmeric, red sandalwood, tulsi, and rose petal powder decrease inflammation and boost hydration. ($30) |
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DoshaCare Sakala Ama Release Tonic Ideal for oily kaphas, this clarifying toner busts blemishes and dissolves dead skin with ginger, lime, and salicylic acid. ($32) |
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Tara Ayurveda Balancing Teas These dosha-specific, caffeine-free teas are packed with herbs and spices that aid digestion and balance the constitution. ($8 for 24 bags) |
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Body Bistro Ayurvedic Apothecary Apricot + Lavender Soothing Serum Ayurvedic herbs rejuvenate and soothe-perfect for calming skin after waxing or tweezing. ($41) |
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Pratima Body Balancing Oils Dosha-specific herbs and oils combine to nourish the skin, lift the spirit, and correct any imbalances. ($18) |
California The six-day Perfect Health wellness program offered at The Chopra Center for Well-being includes panchakarma detoxification therapy; daily Ayurvedic spa treatments; a medical consultation; and instruction in meditation, yoga, and Ayurveda. The Chopra Center for Well-being, Carlsbad, California, (888) 736-6895; from $2,875 for six days, not including accommodations
India The Ayurvedic Rejuvenation packages at Ananda in the Himalayas include a consultation, dosha-specific meals, personalized yoga and meditation sessions, Ayurvedic therapies, and massage. Ananda in the Himalayas, Uttaranchal, India, +(91) 1378227500, anandaspa.com; singles from $3,190 for seven nights all inclusive
Iowa The Maharishi Detox Program at The Raj Maharishi Ayurveda Health Spa utilizes yoga, Ayurvedic body treatments, and diet to clear environmental toxins from the body. The Raj Maharishi Ayurveda Health Spa, Maharishi Vedic City, Iowa, (800) 864-8714; singles from $1,980 for three nights all inclusive
Thailand The Sense of Ayurveda retreat at Banyan Tree Phuket includes meals, a wellness consultation, Ayurveda-inspired spa treatments, an Indian head massage lesson, yoga, and more. Banyan Tree Phuket, Banyan Tree Spa Phuket, Cherngtalay, Phuket, Thailand, (800) 591-0439; singles from $1,335 for three nights all inclusive
Try It At A Spa
Shirodhara In this ancient treatment, a stream of warm herbal oil is steadily poured onto the middle of the forehead, helping to dissolve stress, calm the mind, stimulate psychic strength, and unlock the third eye. The therapy is often coupled with an abhyanga massage for further relaxation.
Abhyanga Massage performed with customized herbal oils is the basis for all Ayurvedic programs. Abhyanga, used in panchakarma, is typically performed by two therapists who use long, rhythmic strokes to apply light pressure to marma points-the 107 junction points between the body and mind-to unblock energy.
Udvarthanam Also known as flower petal massage or Ayurvedic powder massage, this treatment involves rubbing a powder derived from finely ground dried flowers onto the skin. The exfoliation, performed by one or two therapists, stimulates the release of toxins, improves circulation, and leaves skin looking refreshed and smooth
Top Image: Luca Tettoni/Corbis
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