Ancient secrets in Sri Lanka have always been guarded for generations, refreshing the mind, the body, the soul, and the spirit for many thousand years.
A Holistic Approach
Ayurveda is one of the most holistic medical methods available in the world.
Based on indigenous Indian medicine, it draws on a deep understanding of physiology, philosophy, psychology, and spirituality.
Tibetan Chinese medicine and Greek medicine has embraced many of the Ayurvedic concepts.
History of Ayurveda in Sri Lanka
When Prince Vijaya was banished from his Indian kingdom in the 6th century BC, he sailed to Sri Lanka, and become the first king of Sri Lanka.
He was a skilled Ayurvedic practitioner. Together with his physician, King Vijaya introduced it to his new kingdom. Over the years, elements from indigenous Sri Lankan treatments were incorporated to Ayurveda, forming a fusion of Sri Lankan Ayurveda that is popular now.
Ayurveda is very popular in Sri Lanka and is used for treating everyday aches and pains.
You will find Ayurveda a new experience, unlike shiatsu, aromatherapy, and other western natural treatments.
Ayurvedic treatments are becoming increasingly popular, not only in Sri Lanka but around the world. Sri Lanka has many excellent Ayurveda spas and clinics with friendly Sri Lankan traditions.
Ayurveda means “The Science of Life.” It is derived from the Sanskrit: Ayuh meaning “life,” and Veda meaning “science.”
Ayurveda is based on the theory of Wind, Fire, and Earth.
Vata: Wind
Pita: Fire
Kapha: Earth
In Ayurveda, it is believed that each of us has a unique combination of Vata, Pita, and Kapha. These forces are referred to as “Doshas,” and they define our nature.
People with Vata are believed to thin and energetic.
People with Pita are goal-oriented and more intense. People with Kapha are nurturing and methodical.
When these Doshas are disrupted, the balance is affected. Doshas, in harmony, creates good health.
To restore this balance, Ayurveda provides the right natural medicinal approach.
Ayurvedic medical practitioners will consult you to understand the root cause of your ailment. He or she will discuss your habits, your lifestyle, and your environment, followed by a physical examination of your body with your medical history.
In Sri Lanka, the Ayurveda practitioners use medical herbs and plants that are native to Sri Lanka. A unique combination of berries, bark, leaves, flowers, and roots are used to create these exquisite potions and oils. Some are tailor-made based on an individual’s Doshas.
Only healthy plants are used because it is believed the plants can get sick too.
You will find a range of therapies where you will be placed on a wooden bath with boiled herbs. The stean will be escaping through holes of the tub and will embrace your body and help you to extricate impurities.
Shirodhara
Shirodhara (“Third Eye Drip”): warm oils and other liquids are gently poured from a vessel onto your forehead, which is known as the ‘third eye’. This treatment is used to treat mental tension and headaches.
Ayurvedic Flower Bath
Indulge in an Ayurvedic flower bath where your body is submerged in a warm pool of exotic flowers and sandalwood. An experience like no other bath.
Other Ayurvedic treatments to reset your body and soul.
Gandusha: Herbal gargling
Akshitarpana: Eye-care
Karnapurna: Ear -care
Shirovasthi: Head oil treatment
Kati Vasti: Oil treatment for your back
Ayurvedic Food
In Sri Lanka, you will find food is classified with Ayurveda in mind. Enjoy Sri Lanka’s delicious foods prepared in an Ayurvedic style, grown in the field, and freshly prepared using Sri Lankan herbs and spices.
Six categories of food in Ayurveda:
sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent.
Ayurvedic recommends you enjoy these food categories in every meal for nutritional balance.
Eating Right Proportions
Over-eating is believed to be a reason for the imbalance of the Doshas.
Eating at the correct time and in moderation is important in an Ayurvedic daily diet.
Many Sri Lankan Ayurvedic centers offer yoga, reflexology, and meditation, under one roof.
Visit an Ayurvedic spa and leave Sri Lanka feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. Truly a wonderful “So Sri Lanka” experience indeed.