Friday 14 December 2012

Holiday packages with Ayurveda Treatments in India


Off-the-beaten track holidays and holidays for well-being are steadily becoming more popular with travellers across the world. Increasingly, the travellers want to visit a serene location for some peaceful time, away from the stresses of routine life as also they want to regain their vigour and spirit to prepare for a right start to their lives with a fresh perspective.

India, the culture rich land of eclectic colours with its vast expanse offers satisfying experiences to all types of travellers. Especially, the rich flora and fauna and the traditional Ayurveda treatments are generating a lot of interest with the globe-trotters in recent years. Almost 10% of all travellers to India experience Ayurveda treatments for beauty, recharging their bodies, detoxification through Panchakarma or for alleviating the impact of lifestyle and health issues.

Understanding the need to regulate the quality of ingredients and services, the government of India has started a certification process for Ayurveda Resorts and Hospitals. This becomes especially important in Kerala, where the tourist boom has also resulted in many falsely claiming to be proponents of original Kerala Ayurveda. However, the guests should be cautious when selecting a Resort or Hospital. It is highly recommended that the services of a focused Tour Operator be hired to select and book the right resort for the experience that you seek. A complete holistic experience in Ayurveda is never complete without proper guidance on Food, Yoga and Meditation. Therefore, someone simply claiming to be a great Ayurveda expert may not be able to give you a holistic experience. At the end of the day, it is a complete hospitality experience that most guests want and the knowledgeable Tour operators address this demand expertly.
  
The issues are similar if not same when a domestic traveller wants to visit an Ayurveda facility for a staycation, i.e., short stay in the nearby region of home. The effort is to gain the best experience at the smallest expense. Unfortunately, all Ayurveda treatment centres displaying Hindu gods and mythical figures with a 24x7 lit-lamp are not equipped to give the authentic experience. The subject is also important for foreign travellers away from Kerala but who yearn for the authentic Ayurveda experience. It is for this reason that a certain degree of expertise is required to recommend the right Ayurveda treatment centre for travellers. A select group of practitioners are famous for the authentic Delhi Ayurveda. From 5star luxury to an actual Ashram like setting, some of the Delhi and North Indian centres actually excel at providing the authentic Ayurvedic treatments.


Of course, there are providers of Holidays packages in India who shall claim to be able to cater to all your needs. It is therefore important to visit their websites to check out their area of expertise. Whether they have the range of Ayurveda packages that an expert should have will be a good starting point. Same goes for vacations with nature or in serene locations. One needs to be cautious when dealing with a generalist because even if they may succeed at giving you the right experience, the price shall not be right.

In light of above, it is highly recommended that hiring the right tour operator should be your choice. I.B.M. Institute for Business Value, set out to answer the very question of whether hiring a Tour operator made sense? In a survey of more than 2,000 travellers worldwide, 20 percent said it took them more than five hours to search and book travel online. Nearly half said it required more than two hours. It is also established that the right tour operators and agents win “nearly every time,” “on both price and service. In other words, the agents suggested alternate routes, gave advice on visas and just generally acted, well, more human than their computer counterparts.”

Saturday 10 November 2012

Spa Packages Galore

The spa culture has been making quiet but deep inroads in the lifestyles of the wellness conscious and well-to-do. Before many from this group realize they subconsciously start accepting the fact that a great skin to go with a great body shall really be thrilling. The availability of choices and in almost all major neighbourhoods does the rest. Today finding a suitable Spa package in Delhi is easier than one would imagine. Not only is the media full of options but the online space is competing to offer the cheapest experience of spa in Delhi.

Today there are over 2300 recognized spas in the country and the number is increasing rapidly. Almost all major starred hospitality properties also have their top of the line Spa in Delhi and other parts of the country. The treatments offered are a fusion of modern and traditional techniques for rejuvenation and beauty care and some of the spas have evolved to have widely acknowledged signature treatments. The choices of spa packages are expanding and now regular events are also being organised in spa Delhi circuit to recognize and award those who stand out from the crowd.

As expected the growth is not limited to Delhi but across the length and breadth of the country one can notice new brands and franchises launching spas. Some brands make that extra effort to enhance the customer experience of a destination by bringing in unique and larger than life facilities for spa. Spa in Agra is one such example where one of the leading hotels of the country is offering luxurious treatments at probably the largest spa in the country. At 100,000square feet, the spa is enormous and the range of treatments offered there is truly regal in scale. One can enjoy a visit to the Tajmahal and then relax in the comfort of 5star luxury while enjoying the Agra spa package. This and many other such experiences are carving out a new meaning to experiential luxury and pampering in india.

It is important to mention here that a person seeking spa treatments in India can pick from a whole range of options. One can find spa treatment starting from US$10 and going on to US$200 per treatment but the ambience, the quality of ingredients, the staff, the level of service and the overall experience is what sets one apart from the other. However, the major challenge which this growth industry is facing is the availability of trained manpower. It is said that the spa and wellness business is going to add over 3 million jobs to the Indian economy. If the projected turnover of 30,000crore(US$6bn approximately) in services is to be achieved over the next 4years then this manpower is absolutely essential and many institutes are churning out numbers in that pursuit. However, it is the top end establishments which shall mop-up all the early supplies of trained manpower. This opens up a unique opportunity for expat workers from developed world which can take leadership positions in the Indian market and use their years of experience and superior knowledge to everyone’s benefit.

Friday 17 August 2012

Holidays in India


A trip to India is always special because you will find diverse landscapes, history, culture and a lot more to gain experience of a lifetime. People from all over the world visit the country and are often amazed at the diversity. India is a vast country and the tourists can visit a number of places depending upon their choice. You can try the north east or head to historical places on the west. Thespecial holiday deals will ensure that you get maximum benefits from your trip.
The Kerala destination which has recently gained a lot of popularity from tourist’s world over is Kerala. Every year tourists throng Kerala, which has something to offer for everyone. Ayurveda is being practiced in Kerala for a very long time. It offers various packages from rejuvenation to lifestyle diseases, joint care, skin care, beauty treatments, spine care, old age care and much more. Kerala Ayurveda is one of the most popular form of alternative medicine. You can also holiday in Kovalam, Alleppey, Munnar, Kollam and Kochi. The Backwaters of Kerala offers the best visual experience and attracts lots of visitors.

Goa is a desirable place to visit and there are different Goa holiday packages. The extended beach is the place where you can spend quality time with your partner. Swimming, scuba diving and water scooting are some of the water sports which will keep you entertained. Goa is famous for its nightlife, especially night parties at the beaches. Goa cuisine is also a hit with the tourists who cannot have enough of it.

If you are on a honeymoon trip to India then don’t miss the Nagoa beach in Daman and Diu which is famous for the atmosphere. The scenic beauty is astonishingand leaves you spell bound. You can get a feel of the tribal life while visiting Bucharwada village to have a taste of tribal life. Damanganga and the Moti Darman Fort are important tourist centers.
Karnataka is a special place among visitors who opt for holidays in India. The temples and pilgrimage centers along with places like Agumbe, Madkeri, Kudremukh, Karwar and Gokarna are notable among tourists. The Bannerghatta and Nagarhole national parks have rare animals.
If you are fond of history, then there are holiday deals which will take you to Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Mount Abu, etc.There are various forts and tombs which describe the history of the country well.Gujarat is famous for various pilgrim centers and temples. The national forests, sanctuaries, kite festival and book fairs are famous among tourists.
The holidays in India can well be stretched to the Far Eastwherebeaches of Digha, Mondarmoni, Puri are prominent. Ratha Yatra in Orissa is an important event and can be opted through holiday deals. Darjeeling,Sunderbans, Assam, and other north eastern states are importanttourist destinations.
There are plenty of holiday deals which will take you to some of the important reserve forest and sanctuaries in India. These are Gir Tiger Reserve, Corbett National Park, Chilka Bird Sanctuary, Ranthambore national Park, etc. Thehill stations in north India like Shimla & Manali, Nainital, and Dehradun offer scenic beauty and pleasant ambience. The temples of Kedarnath and Badrinath are world famous along with Gongotri and Yamunotri which you can choose for holidays in India. Choose your packages wisely. Don’t fall for ‘cheap’ packages. Check the website of the service provider, get complete information about the package and then decide.

Tuesday 24 July 2012

Destination Kerala


The God’s own country or Kerala is one of the most beautiful states in India. Being situated at the southernmost tip of the country, it has the bestenvironmentalextravaganza one can imagine. Tall mountains, green valleys and deep sea can be found here.When you travel to Kerala, you will have an experience like never before.Kerala provides every element of a complete holiday; leisure, relaxation, fun, rejuvenation, health and peace. 

The place has an incredible charm of its own which makes it one of the most popular state with tourists. The backwaters,villages, green fields, beaches and the atmosphere attract thousands of visitor severy year. Some of the famous tourpackages of Kerala are Enjoy Kerala Backwaters, Kerala Escape and Kerala Ayurveda.These offerstravelers a great experience. The Kerala Ayurveda package offers the authentic Ayurveda treatments and therapies for rejuvenation and/or any specific ailments. Enjoy Kerala Backwaters package offers accommodation in a luxury Resort & Spa, spa treatments, sunset cruise and much more.

The backwaters are parallel to the Malabar Coast and consist of different lakes including the Vembanand and Ashtamudi Lakes. The numerous canals are used for traveling through houseboats. The snake boat contest is famous which is conducted during August and September.

There are plenty of beaches in Kerala and the Kovalam, Alappuzha, Nattika, Varkala, Cherai, Kappad beachesarenotable.You can spend the leisure time on the beach or take part in various adventure sports held there.Scuba diving, beach volleyball and Paragliding are very popular among the visitors.

Houseboat rides are an experience one must have while visiting Kerala. These houseboats ply on various routes in Kerala. Kochi, Kumarakom, Kuttanad, Kottayam, Kollam, Kasargod, Alappuzha are famous backwater destinations in Kerala.

Kerala also offers various hill stations.The Munnar, Ponmudi, Thekkady, Vagamonand Wayanad are popularhill stations in Kerala. You will be amazed to see the natural beauty, misty mountain peaks, green valleys, scenic landscapes and lots more.The Eastern part of Kerala, the Nilgiris, is famous for the dense forests,gorges and valleys. The national parks here attract lots of visitors.

Being a place with richcustoms and traditions, thefestivals of Onam, Thrissur, Pooram and Vishu attracts lots of visitors from around the world. Also Id and Christmas along with other festivals are celebrated by the residents. People of all religions stay in Kerala and celebrate their festivals together. Most of the people take part in all the festivals irrespective of the religion they belong to. No discrimination takes place on the basis of religion in Kerala.

Kerala is very well connected with all the major states in India by roadways, railways and airways. Kerala has three international airports of Thiruvanathapuram, Cochin and Kozhikode and many domestic and international airlines have direct fights to Kerala.

Although one may find many hotels and tour operators for Kerala, one must be cautious to choose the right tour operator, who would understand what you want and create a special customized package for you. Why wait? Gograb a ticket and head out to Kerala.

Tuesday 17 July 2012

Go for Ayurveda in Kerala


Ayurveda is anancient form of Hindu medicine which was first used during the Vedic age. The significance of Ayurveda lies in ‘Science of Life’. This is asubstitute to other forms of treatment and remained the primary system of medicine for decades. However with the introduction of western medicines in India from the last century, Ayurveda took a backseat. Slowly things are changing andthis is now the most accepted form of natural therapy. The Ayurveda is now being accepted in many countries across the world as the alternative form of treatment.
Ayurveda is more related to the body’s constitution. It improves the physical, mental and spiritual balance of a person’s body. There are three different qualities in Ayurveda which are Vata, Pitta and Kapha, also known as Doshas. Kapha is the balance of water and earth while Pitta describes fire and water. Vata offersasense of balance of air and water.  All these three are related with digestion, breath and the way a person moves or talks. As a result the composition of Dosha is different for every individual. In case there is an imbalance of the three the same can be treatedwith therapies, physical activities andby eating foods and herbs. These provide energy to the mind and soul. Any imbalance causes various problems to the body.
Ayurveda in Kerala is very popular becauseof different reasons. The primaryreason is the availability of natural elements like herbs, minerals, oils, etc. used by the practitioners in ayurveda. Along with thebeautiful environment, the state acts as a wonderful platform to offer the ultimate experience tothe patients. With the abundant natural sources, it is easy for the state to practice this form of treatment. Since Ayurveda is all about mind, body and soul, the focus is always to treat all three rather than concentrating on only one part.
For centauries, Ayurveda is being practiced in Kerala. In Kerala, Ayurveda has been the mainstream of medicine unlike some other states where it is being used as an alternate form of medicine. Kerala has been practicing Ayurveda with utmost dedication for decades. Kerala has eight legendary vaidyas and their successors who have treated people of Kerala and other states for the longest time.

The natural beauty of Kerala works wonders for Ayurveda. The calm and serene surroundings work wonders for the treatment.Take Kerala Tour Packages For More Experience.
In Ayurveda along with the herbal medicines, the patientsare provided with body massages which make the mind and soul energetic and stronger. This also releases tension from the mind.The availability of the traditionalvegetarian food makes a big impact as well. The food is specially cooked as per ayurvedic traditions and ways to keep its nutrients intact.
Ayurveda in Kerala offers a whole range of treatments, right from Weight-loss, Lifestyle diseases management, Panchakarma, Nervous disability, chronic back pain, slip-disc, facial paralysis, bronchial diseases, remove stress and strain, detox, regenerative packages, rejuvenation and detoxification and much more. Visit Kerala for a great experience in Ayurveda.  

Wednesday 11 July 2012

Quality of Spa


In today’s fast paced world, one has to slow down once in a while for restoration and rejuvenation. A spa is a lovely place for such a break with the magic and goodness of nature to help revitalize you. Thespas in Himalayas are just as wonderful and healing as the spas along the coast or around the cities.The term spa is derived from the town Spa in Belgium and going back to the Roman times, it was called AquaeSpadane. A parallel connection to the word Spa is the Latin ‘spargere’, which means to scatter, sprinkle or moisten.Spas are getaway locations offering various treatments to heal, de-stress, cleanse or to simply enhance the wellness of body, mind and soul.

Travelling for wellness along with a fun packed holiday is trending today. Spa resorts are popular holiday attractions and form an integral part of holiday plans and itineraries as the benefits from spa treatments are holistic in nature. Stress, anxiety and pollution are stated to be the major causes for illness and Spas tackle these health ailments with their treatments. Spas located in places with scenic beauty and serene surroundings, like the spa resorts of the Himalayas,have asoothing effect and naturally contributeto the benefits of thevarious treatments. Spa treatments provide natural loving care with various services like massages, therapies, wraps, masks, manicure, pedicure, and healing with hot spring water; especially true for spas in the Himalayan range.Listed below are some of the spa benefits of spa treatments:

  • Provides immense relaxation to the body, mind and soul – this holistic approach makes it very appealing to all
  • Helps to dealwith emotional stress by comforting the individual undergoing the treatment
  • Tones, nourishes and rejuvenatesthe body
  • Detoxifies and cleanses the body from the ill effects of pollution, stress and bad food habits
  • Deals with weight related problems
  • Handles insomnia, stress and fatigue
  • Improves flexibility of the body
  • Soothes tired and sore muscles
  • Improvesblood circulation
  • Increases the body energy flow
  • Reduces high blood pressure and hypertension
  • Enhances spiritual awareness
  • Reduce the effects of aging
Apart from the mentioned benefits, spas help us disconnect from our hectic lifestyles and humdrum existence..

Spa industry is thriving in India and the spa communities have high commitment levels to ensure that the guests consistently receive the best services. The passion that drives the spa industry is overwhelming and it aimsto improve the overall quality of spas.

As per the latest reports by global hospitality consultants, India is listed as one of the top 20 spa countries worldwide. With its rich culture, ancient wellness therapies and spiritual practices, India attracts tourists from within and outside. The Indian spa industry also provides a healthy blend of Chinese, Thai and Swedish healing techniques along with the traditional Indian Ayurvedic treatments, making it extra attractive to the tourist with varied treatment options.

The Spa resorts have  spread over most of theIndian sub-continent. Some of the most popular spa destinations in the North are tucked away in quaint little Himalayan towns like Shimla, Rishikesh, Parwanoo and Kasauli. The big cities like Delhi, Amritsar, Jaipur, Bangalore, Chennai and Ranthambore also attract significant spa tourism. Goa and Kerala, along the backwaters and Kovalam,Cochin, Trivandrum and Thekkady, are also popular spa destinations.

Spa Tourism in India is growing and has a bright future withand more people making a conscious shift towards healthier lifestyles and wellness.


Tuesday 3 July 2012

The Goodness of Ayurveda


Ayurveda is a traditional Hindusystem of medicine of India known from the Vedic age.Before we start, let us know ‘what is Ayurveda?’The meaning of Ayurveda can be described as ‘Science of Life’. This is an alternative to other forms of treatment andfirst appeared several thousand years ago.Various notable practitionershave offered valuable information regarding the treatment including numbers of medicalpreparations and surgical procedures.

The ShushrutaSamhitaand Charaka Samhita give details of this treatment.Ayurveda actually consists of numbers of core ideas which are constantlyconverted into practices over the years.Some came from India itself while others came from countries like Persia. This has been the primary system of medicine for decades until the westernformat started to enter India fromthe last century.Ayurveda took a backstage for numbers of years but now has managed to grow again slowly and help peoplecure problems.

This form of treatment is more relatedto the body’s constitution.It ensures that a person’sbody heals by its inner ways. This can only happenwhen the physical, mental and spiritual balance of the body is well maintained. There are three different qualities in Ayurveda – Vata, Pitta and Kapha, also known as Doshas. Kapha is the balance of water and earth. Pitta definesfire and water. Vata is the balance of airand water. These are related with the digestion, breath and the way a person moves. Thus it becomes clear that the composition of Dosha is different for each individual. In case there is an imbalance,which causes various health problems,the same can be balanced through therapies,physical activities,consumption of foods and herbs, etc. These provide energy to the mind and soul.

As the origin of Ayurveda is from India, a larger percentage of the population used to depend on Ayurveda for treatments.The Indian Medical Central Council Act has recognized this form of treatment. In India there arenumber of colleges which offer various degrees in this subject.

Ayurveda in India  is spreading rapidly mainly through towns and cities.Thereis a also a state sponsored council known as the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences which helps students and researches to research on this subject matter. Again, there is another Traditional Knowledge Digital Library which contains thousands of books on Indian medicine.Thus Ayurveda in India is growing at a fast pace.

Although one may find many Ayurveda centers in Delhi, but finding the authentic Ayurveda center is very difficult. The popularity of Ayurveda has lured many massage centers who are calling themselves Ayurveda centers. One should be careful while selecting the authentic Ayurveda center in Delhi. A few websites are well known in this field who are offering Ayurveda packages in India. The primary focus of these websites is to promote traditional Ayurveda treatments. The online business in Ayurveda has resulted in many websites boosting about the Ayurveda packages. One has to ensure to rely only on the people whose focus is to promote wellness through Ayurveda. Select the right provider of Ayurveda in india to get reliable good packages.

Tuesday 19 June 2012

Destination India can be a great experience


India is a diverse country and has tremendous promise both as a business as well as a tourist destination. The country is a tourist magnet where tourists from all over the world throng to check out the innumerable options that are available to them in terms of culture, diversity, heritage, nature and India’s own holistic health practices of Yoga, Meditation and Ayurveda. A holiday in India is all about an enriching experience that you will cherish for the rest of your life. You can never run out of holiday destinations in the country and there are many things to do and diverse cuisine to enjoy.

A trip to India would present in front of you the opportunity to experience the heady cocktail of many religions, cultures, festivals, customs, colors, sights and sounds. From the tip of Kashmir up North to Kanyakumari in the south, the country offers many awe-inspiring experiences. From Arunachal Pradesh in the east to Gujarat in the west, the miscellany can be felt across the nation. The majestic mountains, the meandering rivers, beaches, coasts, deserts, forests, seas, sanctuaries, national parks and regional diversity are sure to astound you. On top of that, numerous temples, palaces, forts, mosques, museums and above all the warm people are what make the country so unique.

If you are planning on a trip to India then getting International Flights at cheapest airfare can be ensured by making your flight bookings in advance. The same way, choosing the best holiday deal would mean your writing down the exact experience you seek from this diverse land and at least a month in advance. While travelling across a vast country, it is important to plan as much as possible and ideally by hiring the services of a travel and tour operator to have a pleasant and satisfying holiday trip. India is a land that represents different things to different people visiting the country. India can provide you a unique experience and you need an experienced trip advisor to guide you through this exciting country. If the itinerary is not planned ahead, getting the most suitable domestic flight tickets can be a bit of an exercise. The tour operator also ensures that minimum wastage of time happens and you get your money’s worth everywhere that he has made a booking. The Knowledge of local customs and tourist traps that a good Tour operator shares with guests guarantees that you have that expected great experience.

As a holiday destination India is a bit of an enigma to many. No two places in the country appear to be the same but the cultural heritage binds people in unity. The richness in the cultural heritage of an ancient civilization along with the modern layout makes the country an amalgamation of the old with a touch of the new. The cuisine is excellent which can be best enjoyed through the knowledge of the finest hotels and restaurants around the country. From the wonders of the world to the simplicity of a beach, India is where you would want to return every time. Sometimes, the poverty of some of the people can cause you mental turmoil but as many travellers have put ‘the smiles never fade away’ from those poor people’s face. Believe it or not, they live on hope and the culture takes care of the downtrodden and they are happy for that moment. The memories shall be enough to fill a thousand family albums. Embrace the colors and the sounds of the country to make your holiday trip worth the while.

The holiday destinations in the country are never ending and a trip to the exotic land would be a highlight of your life. Take a decision for your life changing vacation now.

Monday 18 June 2012

Ayurvedic treatment in India and other countries


Based on research published by KPMG and other agencies, Ayurvedic treatment market (which is a part of the Beauty and Rejuvenation market) in India is estimated at INR 50 Billion / approx.US$ 1bn on date. India is a popular destination for ayurvedic therapies leading to a large number of foreign tourists visiting local spas and ayurvedic treatment centres. Inbound medical tourism in India is therefore growing at a 12 percent CAGR.

In a welcome development, the Ayurvedic treatment spas are re-gaining popularity even within India and are now visited for wellness as well as curative treatment for various kind of disease. While all major 5star properties in India boast of an Ayurvedic spa, the spa has moved from a mere luxury and is now moving to a different level being looked at as a place for healing the mind, body and soul. With over 2300 spas(IMF data) operating in India and many of those already offering Ayurvedic therapies, the market is projecting big growth numbers. Such development has also opened up a fresh opportunity for Ayurvedic medicine manufacturers. In addition to the India clientele even the foreigners are now starting to follow this line of medicine for various cures. According to a report by FICCI and PWC released
in 2011, wellness services employ around one million people. By 2015, the total employment potential of wellness services in India is expected to touch around the Ayurvedic treatment.

Ayurvedic treatments in other countries
Dr. Marc Halpern, the founder and President of the California College of Ayurveda noted in his work “Status & Development of Ayurveda in the United States” that interest in Ayurveda in US started in 1970′s due to the contribution of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi organization of Transcendental Meditation and later through the work of Dr. Vasant Lad, Dr. Sunil Joshi and Dr. B.D. Triguna. In the late 1980′s Dr. Deepak Chopra wrote “Perfect Health”, his famous introductory book on Ayurveda for the general public.
Today the acceptance and growth of Yoga and Ayurvedic treatments across the world is such that you can find at least 1 Yoga studio and Ayurveda centre in almost all major areas of US and Europe. However, the style of Yoga and treatment may have been adapted by the local practitioner to suit the
population or socio-cultural impacts. The fact remains that there are institutions imparting training of Ayurveda and training professionals all over US and Europe. Regular events organised by many associations and universities are aiding the growth of Ayurveda in these countries.

While in those countries, the number of institutions in comparison with India may be far less the regulatory framework ensures delivery of quality service (only) by trained professionals. The prices, however, are not really as competitive as those in India. A panchakarma treatment can mean investing
3 to 4 thousand dollars easily and a consultation with Ayurveda doctor can set you back by an average 75US$.

Summing up
For reasons mentioned above, it makes a lot of sense to plan a Well-being trip in India and make use of numerous Ayurvedic packages being offered by renowned Resorts and centres. If you want a consultative selection then a specialist in Ayurveda and spa wellness tourism to india may be a good
choice. They not only offer a range of Ayurvedic packages but are also helpful to match your budget with the best available facility in the region that you want to visit.

Tuesday 31 January 2012

Spa Benefits



The idiom ‘Spa’ was taken from the name of ‘Spa’ municipality of Belgium, which is famous for its healing hot springs. Although hot springs can be found in many countries all over the world, but the hot springs of Spa, Belgium are believed to have special health giving and healing powers. Dating back from the pre-historic times, people have been travelling to far-off and famous places having hot or cold springs with the hope of getting cure of different ailments. Even in the modern world, the purification through water ritual is followed in religious ceremonies of Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, Christians, etc.

In recent times, due to various constraints and factors like time and money which prevent people from visiting these far-off springs, various Day Spa and Spa resorts have come up in most of the cities. India is fast emerging as one of the popular spa destination. There are various famous Spa resorts in India. The Spa resorts in Himalayas top the list of famous Spas in India. The Spa in Himalayas are famous for their world class treatments. Most of the major cities in India have a few renowned Spa centres. Most of the ingredients used in the spa treatments are based on natural products, hence very popular among the health conscious.

The Spas offers various non-medical procedures and treatments to cure ailments and rejuvenate the body. The most popular treatments offered by Spas are Aromatherapy, different kind of Baths, various kind of massages, skin exfoliation, etc. The therapies offered are Ayurveda, Oriental and Western style. The Exfoliating body treatments result in stimulating circulation, lifts away dead skin and boosts absorption of other treatments. The steam therapies result in increased metabolic rates, helps in burning calories thereby resulting in water-weight loss & reduction of cellulite and hydrates the skin. Regular spa therapies enhances spiritual awareness, increases body’s energy flow, soothes the muscles and body joints, reduces the ageing effects, detoxifies the body and heals emotional stress.

Depending upon one’s requirement and the body type, the Spas offer customized treatments. Although the therapy procedures do not change generally, but the therapies given are often based on individual needs, which are given separate or combined with other therapies for better results, for example, exfoliating body treatments, when combined with steam baths results in more calorie and weight loss.

Depending upon their area of expertise, Spas offers various kinds of massages. Some of the very popular massages are deep tissue massage, concentrated reflexology, scalp and face massage, Swedish massage, hot stone therapy massage, hot oil massage and medicated massages. Massages have been a part of our health routine for a very long time. It calms the nervous system, thereby promoting relaxation and well being. It improves blood circulation, reduces tension and anxiety and stimulates the lymphatic system. Various Ayurvedic spas offer special medicated massages and treatments like Shiro-dhara, Abhyangam, Hot Herbal Poultice therapy, Padabhyanga, Shirodhara and Shirobhyanga. Also on offer are various Revitalizing body therapies, Skin & Nail care, Speciality baths and various other skin and beauty treatments and massages, which result in relaxation and rejuvenation.



Friday 13 January 2012

Benefit Of Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word, which means the ‘Knowledge of Life’ (‘Ayu’ means ‘life’ and ‘Veda’ means ‘knowledge’). Ayurveda and Ayurvedic medicines were created by God Dhanvantri, an Avatar of Indian god ‘Lord Vishnu’, also known as the physician of Gods. Ayurveda is one of the most ancient holistic medical systems. It has extensive documentation and is considered safe and efficient.
 Ayurveda can be defined as a system, which uses the inherent principles of nature, to keep a person’s body, mind and spirit in perfect equilibrium. To create a state of holistic health for every individual, thereby creating a healthy society is the eventual goal of Ayurveda. Ayurveda considers that there are three Doshas of Vata, Pitta and Kapha and every individual is either a combination of these three or one dosha. All the metabolic activities of an individual are governed by these three doshas, which keeps adjusting with the changes of nature. 
 The most beneficial aspect of Ayurveda is that it focuses on the causes rather than the symptoms of the problem/illness. The study before administering medicine takes into account the individual’s daily routine, diet, different body parts such as nails, tongue, face, eye, etc. as well, rather than just looking at the visible symptoms. To heal the body and augment the mind & soul, treatments are precisely planned and  include various Ayurvedic medicines, diet and lifestyle changes. The unique rejuvenating and longevity enhancing method of ‘rasayana’ was born out of Ayurveda to take mankind on the path of spirituality.
 Ayurveda is being widely recognized as an alternate of modern medicine. More and more people from all over the world are looking for various Ayurveda packages in India. In the recent years, there has been a tremendous increase in the number of tourists coming to India for various Ayurvedic treatments. There are various Ayurvedic centres all over India, which offer Ayurveda packages for rejuvenation and various treatments.
 The Ayurveda packages in India are customized for every individual, based on their dosha, requirements and needs. For rejuvenation and illnesses, Abhyanga, Shiro-dhara, Navarakizhi, Panchakarma etc. are offered. Abhyanga improves concentration, intelligence, confidence and youthfulness. It increases the metabolism, which leads to better tissue respiration and circulation, causing the body to flush out its waste products more efficiently. It helps in alleviating rheumatic disorders and provides comfort to the eyes, sound sleep, and tones up the body, improves flexibility, softness and firmness of the skin and for long life.  Navarakizhi (Rice pudding massage) is the most rejuvenating and relaxing treatment in which the patient is anointed with suitable medicated oil all over the body and is massaged with boluses of Navara in seven different postures. This treatment is useful in all kinds of rheumatism, paralysis, polio congenital deformity of limbs, dislocation of bones and joints etc. The main indications are all types of diseases of nervous system, chronic rheumatic diseases, pain in  joints, emaciation of limbs and diseases borne of vitiated blood. It also makes the body strong and sturdy with well developed musculature.
 Panchakarma (Detoxification, Cleansing & Body Purification) is considered very useful for rejuvenation.  The constant metabolic activities in the body result in toxins/free radicals which damage the body cells resulting in wear and tear of the body leading to aging. The process of aging is further accelerated by prolonged stress and strain, irregular life style and unhealthy food habits. The Panchakarma package generally includes various rejuvenation therapies, such as Kayaseka, Shirodhara, Abhyanga, Synchronized massage, Medicated steam bath, Navarakizhi, etc. and is most beneficial when taken over a span of 3-4 weeks.
Yoga, Meditation, Ayurveda Massage therapies and Ayurvedic herbal medicines are generally a component of all the Ayurveda packages in India.
                   

Sunday 8 January 2012

Travel With Health and Peace Packages


In recent times, there has been a phenomenal growth in wellness tourism. One of the main reasons for this growth is the modern day lifestyle and that the life has become very hectic due to social and economic compulsions. Managing both professional and personal fronts together with additional alarming factors like air and water pollution, quality of food, general illness or disease, lack of exercise, substance abuse, smoking, etc. are some of the main factors causing stress at all levels and for all age groups. This scenario is forcing people to look for ways to rejuvenate their body and soul after regular intervals. The importance of rejuvenation is being felt as people have become more aware of their wellness and well being. They know that ‘sound mind in a sound body’ is the need of the day.

According to the Wellness Tourism Worldwide, wellness industry is a multi-trillion dollar industry. They also conducted a market study on this industry and prepared a report titled 4WR: Wellness for Whom, Where and What? Wellness Tourism 2020. As per the report, “Wellness is a state of health which comprises an overall sense of well being and sees a person as consisting of body, mind and spirit. Lifestyle and self-responsibility for health are paramount in the quest for a better quality of life. Wellness is the optimal state of health of individuals and groups.”

India has been associated with wellness or holistic-health since ancient times. More and more people are exploring and returning to experience wellness packages in India. India is known for its various ancient holistic and spiritual well being treatments. The wellness packages in India not only target the physical but the rejuvenation and healing of the mind and soul as well.

Ministry of Tourism in association with National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) and the Department of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) has been working on the strategies to promote wellness tourism in India.

There are various Spas and Ayurveda centers that are promoting Rejuvenation packages in India and then the other specialized ones focused on holistic health or wellness. As an outcome, the number of tourists visiting India for wellness has increased remarkably. Wellness packages being offered in India involve various treatments involving Ayurveda, Western, Oriental treatments to Yoga and Meditation. The wellness packages in India are being tailor made taking into consideration the needs and requirements of the individuals. There are various Ayurveda centers in India, which are promoting wellness through Ayurveda. In these centers  a day schedule is generally packed with treatments, yoga, meditation, organic food, herbal health drinks, herbal medications and nature walk. Various Spas are also offering wellness packages involving Ayurveda Inspired Rituals, Revitalizing body therapies, Skin & Nail care, Specialty baths and various other skin and beauty treatments and massages.

In a recent study of foreign tourist arrivals in India, it was found that almost 15% of tourists engaged in wellness related pursuits in India. This number is expected to grow substantially over the next 3 years.