The Southern Soul: Kerala
The Southern Soul: Kerala
The Southern Soul: Kerala
Spread out on Indias southernmost tip, the lush, tropical state of Kerala is considered the seat of Ayurveda, and boasts the countrys highest concentration of holistic spas and eco-retreats. The regions healing history is due mainly to its wealth of natural resources, and many of the natural ingredients used in Ayurvedic treatmentsincluding camphor, neem, turmeric and mustard oilare grown here.
Exterior view of the Soukya Yoga Room. Below: turmeric treatment mask.
Bangalore
Vivanta Bekal
Set on 26 seaside acres bordered by Kappil beach, this northern Kerala hideaway features 71 villas built to evoke traditional Kettuvallam backwater house boats. Enjoy kayaking, exploring historic forts, and picnicking on spice plantations before retiring to the spa for signature treatments like Chandana (a cooling sandalwood and aloe vera wrap using organic linens), Abhisheka (a cleansing/ massage ritual using holy Ganges water), and Samattva (a yoga/breathing/chakra balancing combo.) vivantabytaj.com
rejuvenation, is comprised of dozens of organic herbs and takes at least a week to produce. Next is Abhyanga, a vigorous four-handed Ayurvedic massage. Finally, Im ushered to a steam box, and positioned on a stool with my head sticking out. I am then led to a hot shower where Im instructed to exfoliate with a mud-like sandalwood-based scrub. My Soukya experience culminates with an Indian reexology session, beginning with a tulsi (holy basil) footbath. I feel a peculiar sensation on my toes: a wire reex ring, resembling a steel pot scrubber, is put on each digit and rolled up and down, meant to promote circulation. Floating to the car on new feet, Im off to face the chaos that is IT-infused Bangalore city life. soukya.com Kristin Vukovic
Spice Village
From the outdoor check-in, where you customize your welcome tea with local herbs, to the mountain village-inspired cottages (topped with thatched elephant grass roofs), organic gardens and fruit orchards, and extensive sustainability programs, this award-winning eco-resort is the real deal. Spice Village has a small Ayurvedic spa on site, but for a more dedicated wellness experience, head to its sister property, Kalari Kovilakom; the 18-suite spa retreat features 10 treatment rooms, medicinal herb gardens and yoga/meditation/chanting halls. cghearth.com Sandra Ramani
Organic Spa Magazine | MarchApril 2013
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