Ayurvedic Wellness Experience - Rishikesh, India
Known for ancient Ayurvedic therapies, serene surroundings, and holistic wellness experiences, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Rishikesh and India, whilst also nurturing your body, mind, and spirit.
What to expect and who is this retreat for?
Have you always been fascinated by India and Indian culture, but been too concerned to go alone?
Have you wanted to experience the rich culture, spiritual devotion, food and people of India in a safe and supported environment? Have you been on a spiritual and self expressive journey and are ready for the next step?
Are you ready to have experiences at the birthplace of the Vedas? Are you ready to be nurtured inside and out and go on a journey of self exploration and discovery? Are you ready to heal?
This Ayurvedic wellness experience will encompass healing of the body through 14 days of Panchakarma.
Allowing the body and mind to rest and rejuvenate through a combination of daily Vedic Meditation and Yoga; as well as spiritual practices, spiritual experiences, great conversation, laughs, tears and a lot of joy!
What is Panchakarma?
Panchakarma, a holistic Ayurvedic wellness practice, designed to enhance your health and vitality by cleansing the body and clearing the mind.
The ‘five actions’ (Pancha – karma) helps to detoxify the body and strengthen the immune system, restore balance and well-being using the traditional five-fold therapy.
The objective of Panchakarma is to promote a feeling of health and vitality by means of cleansing the body, clearing the mind and allowing the consciousness to take its rightful place in your life.
Your Panchakarma programme will start with an Ayurvedic consultation with the Vaidya (Ayurvedic Doctor). This is designed to determine your state of health and well-being, assess any areas of concern, and to investigate your dosha (Kapha, Pitta or Vata or a combination). Following this, a personalised Panchakarma treatment plan is devised for the period of your stay.
Panchakarma treatments place a heavy emphasis on massage of the body using specially prescribed medicated oils. An Abhyanga massage is not invasive and consists of long fluid strokes to encourage the expulsion of toxins from the body. The massage is followed by a ‘steam bath’ to encourage the pores of the skin to open and to release toxins.
The Location
Our home for the 15 days will be at Shanti Makaan (House of Peace), located in Jonk village, halfway between the two famous suspension bridges (Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula) that span the Ganges River in Rishikesh.
This is the ideal place to experience, learn and receive the benefits of the 5000 year old Ayurvedic Panchakarma principles of natural detox and healing.
Shanti Makaan is the inspiration of` Dr M. L. Maurya who had a clear vision of creating a wellness centre where the natural and peaceful atmosphere - rarely found in the ‘hectic’ present day - would complement and enhance these ancient Ayurvedic therapies.
The Shanti Makaan is approximately 10 mins walk from the Ganges, shops and cafes; and backs onto a Mango orchid that provides a calming ‘green-ness’ throughout the property.
The rooms at Shanti Makaan are basic and comfortable and all are equipped with ensuites. I have booked single rooms, however if a twin share room is desired please let me know.
What’s included?
Group taxi car transportation to Rishikesh from Delhi (approximately 6 hours) on the 1st September.
15 days and nights at Shanti Makaan Ayurvedic Retreat Centre, Rishikesh – all rooms have ensuites
3 Delicious Ayurvedic Meals (vegetarian and mostly gluten free)
Unlimited Herbal Teas
Comprehensive Ayurvedic consultation with Ayurvedic Doctor, allowing for individualised care and attention to address your specific needs and concerns; along with regular consultations throughout the retreat.
Experience daily Ayurvedic treatments for 14 days, administered by skilled therapists who will guide you towards rejuvenation and profound transformation.
Start each day on a serene note with morning Puja followed by Sun Salutations to the Gayatri Mantra and a morning meditation, facilitated by Krista; enabling you to find inner calm and connect with your deeper self and with nature.
Daily Yoga sessions led by Krista, as well as practitioners based at Shanti Makaan.
Evening Yoga Nidra sessions guided by Sri Swami Atma, an experienced meditation & Yoga Nidra instructor. Delve into the realms of deep relaxation, cultivating inner peace and harmony.
Ayurvedic Talks with Dr Maurya, a expert in panchakarma, detoxification and rejuvenation.
Activities during the stay
While honouring the need for ample rest and relaxation during your Panchakarma, there will be opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Rishikesh, including:
Aarti at Parmarth Niketan and other Ghats, on the Ganges in the Rishikesh and surrounding area, where you can witness captivating spiritual and devotional ceremonies.
Shopping trips to local markets within Rishikesh, where you can explore the vibrant tapestry of Indian handicrafts, textiles, clothes and jewellery. Any purchases made are not included in the investment price.
Explore the mystical wonders of Rishikesh through excursions to sacred temples, Vashistha’s Cave, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s famous Beatles Ashram, and allow you to connect with the spiritual essence of this glorious city.
Kirtan session, experiencing the joy and unity of devotional chanting.
Walks along the banks of the revered Ganges River, absorbing the serenity and tranquility that surrounds you.
Cooking Class with the fabulous chef at Shanti Makaan.
What’s not included?
Flights to and from Delhi.
Transportation from Rishikesh after the retreat closes.
Sundry expenses incurred at Shanti Makaan (additional treatments, food, beverages etc).
Sundry expenses incurred before the retreat (commencing the 1st Sept from Delhi), in Rishikesh (e.g food, accommodation, clothes etc), entrances to temples/exhibits etc beyond what is included above in ‘what is included’. Any sundry expenses following the conclusion of the retreat.
Visa for India and any related travel insurances or expenses.
Additional experiences, consultations, treatments, transport or herbs/medications, beyond what is included above.
You don’t have to be a Vedic Meditator to come on this retreat, however it will definitely elevate your experience. I will be teaching the Four Day Vedic Meditation course at the start of the retreat, so you will have this profound practice for the duration of the retreat and for the rest of your life. To learn this technique at the birthplace of the Veda will be a phenomenal experience. This will be an additional $450.
Single or Share Room with ensuite - $3,100pp AUD
Retreat payment:
Upon registration for the retreat, I will email you a letter, containing information about the retreat along with payment options.
Deposit & Full Payment:
A deposit of AUD $500 is required to confirm a booking.
Full payment is due 5 weeks before the retreat commences.
There will be a maximum of people on this retreat.