On October 29, the Spirit Guided Journeys group traveled the short distance from our hotel to AyurvedaGram, but it was as if we’d been transported to Kerala for the day.
Entrance Hall, Ayurvedagram
AyurvedaGram is an Ayurvedic wellness retreat on the outskirts of Bangalore, India. Each building on the property has been lovingly and painstakingly transported from Kerala to Whitefield and reconstructed. Guests stay in antique cottages from the 18th and 19th centuries, also relocated from Kerala to the nine acre property. Each bungalow is built in a specific style depending upon whether the family living in the dwelling was Hindu, Muslim or Christian. Our group learned a great deal about Ayurvedagram, the science of Ayurveda, and our own individual selves during our day-long stay.
Vinay, our host and guide, at the entrance to AyurvedaGram
When we arrived, we were greeted by Vinay, our guide and host for the day. Our first stop was at the restaurant, Suruchi, for a cup of herbal tea before heading to Yoga class.
Tea at Suruchi
After Yoga we each had an individual consultation with an Ayurvedic physician where we learned our predominate doshas, or body types according to Ayurveda, and received specific recommendations for lifestyle modifications to support our health and well-being.
The day also allowed for some quiet reflection time, a chance for group meditation and pranayama, an informative tour of the property with Vinay, and a short presentation about the science of Ayurveda. We also enjoyed tasty vegetarian food cooked according to Ayurvedic principles for lunch and dinner. And each of us received an Ayurvedic massage with herbs prescribed for us by the doctor based on the needs of our individual constitutions.
Antique horse or ox drawn wagon on the grounds, AyurvedaGram
I think I can safely say that the day was a success. This was my third visit to the peaceful environs of AyurvedaGram and, as always, it was a very special and rejuvenating experience. I will definitely be going again, and taking a new group of Spirit Guided Journeys travelers with me when I next sojourn to southern India.
Blessings and Namaste,
Kelley