Ayurveda

ayurvedaSri Lanka has always been a place that refreshes not just the mind and body, but also the soul and spirit. Ayurveda has been the most popular method used to restore and rejuvenate tired bodies and weary soul for thousands of years. Ayurveda is one of the oldest and most historic medical systems available in the world. Beginning of Ayurveda healing method goes to the Pre-Christian era and it is based on indigenous Indian medicine, it draws not only on a deep understanding of philosophy, but also elements of philosophy, psychology and spirituality. The Ayurveda is so influential that other ancient healing method such as Tibetan, Chinese medicine and Greek medicine has adopted many of the concepts found in Ayurveda.

According to the historical evidences that Prince Vijaya, who was banished from his Indian kingdom, in 6th century BC, sailed to Sri Lanka and became the first king of the island. He was skilled of practice Ayurveda, and so together with his personal physician, introduced it to the island. Over the past thousands of years, Ayurveda incorporated the elements from similar indigenous Sri Lankan treatments to become one of the leading healing methods today.

Ayurveda (the science of life) – the name derived from ancient Sanskrit: Ayuh or “life”, and Veda or “science”, so Ayurveda translate as “The science of life”, a fitting name for a system that devotes itself to a truly holistic approach to the ways the body and mind can be treated.

The main principals of Ayurveda is the theory of the Tri Dosha or “Three vital forces” Vata (wind), Pita (fire) and Kapha (earth), in each of us is a unique combination of these forces or Doshas that help define our nature. Vata people are thin and energetic; Pita people are more intense and goal-oriented, while those with a Kapha disposition are methodical and nurturing. When the Doshas are in harmony the body is in good health, but when equilibrium is affected, balance need to be restored – and Ayurveda provides the answer. Ayurveda practitioners will initially meet the patients with the objective of getting to the root of whatever is ailing the patient. Details of diet and lifestyle of the patient, habits (good and bad), and general environment, will be requested from the patient.

Practitioners employ many of the medical herbs and plants native to Sri Lanka, they combine leaves, bark, berries,, roots and flowers to crate bespoke potions, oils and unguents tailor-made for the individual. Incidentally, in Ayurveda there is a belief that it’s not just people but also plants that can get sick – so only ‘healthy’ plants are used.

In Sri Lanka’s villages, Ayurveda is not considered a special treatment as in urban areas but an everyday method of treating aches and pains. In fact, the number of trained ayurvedic practitioners in the island exceeds that of western practitioners. Even those familiar with traditional spa treatments in the west, like aromatherapy and shiatsu, will find Ayurveda a new experience. And it is an experience that’s becoming increasingly sought after. Such seekers will find Sri Lanka a singular destination, for all that collective wisdom regarding Ayurveda can be experienced in stylish and refined spas, with some of the world’s best professional therapists – with that friendly and courteous Sri Lankan manner – to look after your every need.

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