Health

Wellness Unlimited

As the world battles COVID-19, it is time to renew your vows with wellness and focus on your health at some of India’s best wellness getaways with Bindu Gopal Rao who takes us through some of India’s best wellness centres.

There is probably no better time than now to take a break from the monotony that the pandemic has brought in our lives. And if this break can help you achieve health and wellness goals, with all safety protocols in place, it is like the cherry on the cake. We list five of India’s best wellness destinations that you can check out here. Take a look!

Kairali -The Ayurvedic Healing Village

Part of the Kairali Ayurvedic Group, the Kairali Ayurvedic Healing Village was established on solid grounds of Ayurveda. Since its inception in 1998, by Mr K.V. Ramesh and Mrs Gita Ramesh, Kairali has built on the achievements of its forefathers, developing its overall infrastructure. It is one of the leading Ayurvedic health retreats in Asia and winner of multiple Global awards. Recognised among the best wellness centres in the world, it delivers high quality natural Ayurvedic therapy by providing luxury Ayurvedic spas. Headed and managed by qualified Ayurvedic doctors, The Ayurvedic Healing Village is a hospital built in a resort environment, imparting authentic Ayurveda treatments based on the inherent ability of the human body to rejuvenate, heal and restore its natural balance.

The Ayurvedic Healing Village is a hospital built in a resort environment, imparting authentic Ayurveda treatments based on the inherent ability of the human body to rejuvenate, heal and restore its natural balance.

Based on the basic fact that one heals better if the environment is beautiful from the moment one enters the resort/hospital, the entire environment is nurtured to heal. Kairali’s Preventive and Regenerative program provides relief to an individual suffering from migraine, sinusitis, stress and strain, whereas the detoxification treatments ease hypertension. There are also several other programs like the weight loss program, and Panchkarma therapy, arthritis treatment among other lifestyle-oriented ailments. The centre caters to a varied global audience from countries such as Germany, UK, Middle East, India, Japan, Sweden, America, Canada etc) and has given over two lakh treatments till date.

For more details: https://www.ayurvedichealingvillage.com/

Niraamaya Wellness Retreats

Niraamaya Wellness Retreats has been an embodiment of wellness and luxury, operating in India’s most sought-after destinations. Niraamaya Spa is one of the most luxurious and authentic Ayurveda wellness centres in India offering classical programs meant for those who prefer intensive therapy protocols as well as lifestyle programs for a leisurely wellness experience. They provide elaborate and detailed Ayurveda treatments, traditional Kerala therapies and skincare treatments along with a selection of signature International therapies, integrating various natural therapeutic traditions from all over the world under one roof. “Every Niraamaya guest is handheld by our team of wellness experts to create bespoke wellness immersions that combine personalised sessions, traditional Ayurvedic therapies, healthy movement, and focused diet routines. While our intense 7 to 21-day Ayurveda programs are at the core of our offering, guests can also enjoy short interventional Ayurvedic experiences focused on relaxation and rejuvenation. We have also recently introduced path-breaking functional medicine programs. These programs have been developed to specifically target the four critical lifestyle issues—diabetes, obesity, stress, and hypertension— which are currently afflicting the planet and are the root cause of 90% other morbidities. These programs are meant to specifically reverse and cure rather than just prevent. Our flagship immunity rejuvenation program is a game-changer that will ensure that you are set on the path to true wellness and good health,” avers Allen Machado, COO, Niraamaya Wellness Retreats.

For more details: https://www.niraamaya.com/

Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre

An institute that made a landmark in health sciences, Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre (IVAC) is undeniably the proud possession of the heritage city of Mysore. Today, IVAC has transformed into a dynamic global healthcare centre and a training centre (IVF). Its services are reaching out to clients in over 65 countries. With a dedicated team of doctors and therapists, the centre has helped thousands of people tread the path of holistic health. In the last four to five years, IVAC has reached out to many patients who needed Ayurveda healing and has provided service to heal them. IVAC is well known for treating diseases like PCOS, Tinnitus, Hypothyroidism, Psoriasis, Acne, Digestive issues, Obesity, Fibromyalgia, Diabetes and Disc herniation with a success rate of 70% cases. That’s the reason this KMPEA licensed & ISO certified Ayurveda destination centre receives 70% of its customer as repeat and referrals. IVAC has established an NGO called IVF to train Ayurveda therapy to the needy youth of Karnataka for free along with food and accommodation. This helps to strengthen a weak part of society and caters to the trained manpower needed in this growing wellness industry.

For more details: https://www.ayurindus.com/

Dharana at Shillim

This is one of the foremost eco-wellness retreats nestled in the serene landscape of the Sahyadri mountain range in the Western Ghats. It offers a comprehensive bespoke healing regime focusing on Yoga, Ayurveda, Spirituality, Naturopathy, Environmental Practices, and a Balanced diet. With the world as we know it having changed, Dharana at Shillim introduces two new wellness programs with their Hilton CleanStay™ program to adapt to this ever-changing dynamic. Take a new path towards boosting your immunity by natural methods of adopting the Dharana Way of Life with their five to seven night program—The Dharana Rasayana Retreat. This program will aid your immunity and also mental as well as physical strength, thus preventing the onset of any ailments or diseases. It addresses the detrimental effects of degenerative lifestyle elements such as improper sleep, unhealthy diet and activities through a goal-based integrative program and constant counselling.

Dharana at Shillim offers a comprehensive bespoke healing regime focusing on Yoga, Ayurveda, Spirituality, Naturopathy, Environmental Practices, and a Balanced diet.

It encompasses holistic methodologies of Ayurveda, Dietetics, Conflict Resolution and Exercise Physiology to optimise cell vitality, tissue repair and immune enhancement. The Dharana Resilience Retreat helps you embark on and adopt the transformational Dharana Way of Life which focuses on mindful thinking and encourages healthy eating habits to lead you on the path to optimal stress relief. During the five to seven-night course of the retreat, the Dharana experts guide you through the precise methods and approach to reset your thought process, embrace reality and immerse yourself into both inner and outer nature that is required to combat stress. The program is designed to help you manage your response to the external world, help embrace and cultivate a resilient mindset even after the completion of the program.

For more details: https://www.dharanaretreat.com/

The Tamara

The Elevation Spa at The Tamara Coorg is a place where time comes to a standstill as you are surrounded by the sylvan environs. This is where you will discover an oasis of tranquillity as you soak yourself into the various wellness regimens that include holistic practices. The Elevation Spa implements a concept of wellness called “antar mauna” which means inner silence. During your stay, the retreat invites you to embark on a holistic journey to discover the tranquillity within you. At this award-winning spa and wellness centre they have an exclusive line of spa products that complement the range of treatments and therapies perfectly. Their products offer ultimate relaxation, revitalisation, detoxification, and inner strength. Located ideally in Kodaikanal and Coorg, the properties are ideal for wellness getaways.

December 24, 2020

#Health, #Retreat, #Spa, #wellness

Wedding Wellness with Luke Coutinho: Starting the Journey

Luke Coutinho, India’s leading Integrative Lifestyle Expert, believes that true wedding prep goes far beyond fitting into an outfit or chasing picture-perfect looks. For him, it’s about building strength, balance, and inner calm that lasts well beyond the wedding day. Here, he shares his holistic wellness guide for brides and grooms stepping into this new chapter. From a holistic health perspective, how early should brides and grooms start preparing their bodies for the wedding? I’ve always believed that wedding prep should start with the inside. If we’re talking about sustainable energy, balanced hormones, strong immunity, or calm emotional states it’s not a 15-day crash course. It’s a rhythm you build. Ideally, I encourage couples to begin six to 12 months in advance. That gives us space to work on the deeper layers like gut repair, sleep cycles, metabolic health, and emotional resilience. Even three months can make a real difference if done right. But more than timelines, I believe in intention. Whether you start 12 months or six weeks before, ask yourself: Am I just trying to look good for a day, or do I want to feel well through all the days that follow? How can couples set wellness goals that go beyond just looking good in wedding photos?It’s easy to get caught up in aesthetics wanting to fit into a certain outfit or chase a number on the scale. But real wellness is about how you feel your energy, your digestion, your mood, your ability to stay calm amidst the chaos. I always tell couples: Don’t make the goal about shrinking your body. Make it about strengthening your health, supporting your hormones, and building the emotional resilience to actually enjoy your wedding. When you feel good inside, it shows up outside on your skin, in your eyes, and

Health

Eating Right, Feeling Bright: How to Stay Healthy and Happy This Festive Season

As the festive season arrives, it’s easy to get swept up in the celebration and sometimes, overdo it. Between rich sweets, back-to-back parties, and emotional highs (and lows), maintaining your health both physical and emotional can become challenging. SINDURI VUPPALA speaks to two experts Dietician Vidhi Chawla, Founder of FISICO Diet & Aesthetic Clinic, and Rajvir Kohar, a seasoned Mental Health Clinician to bring you a guide on how to eat mindfully and feel emotionally balanced this season. “It’s okay not to feel festive. Honour your emotions.” – Mental Health Clinician Rajvir Kohar While cultural celebrations and holidays offer opportunities for connections and joy, they also come with increased expectations and responsibilities. Research indicates that mental health symptoms such as stress, anxiety, disrupted sleep, and emotional eating often rise during the festive season. Many individuals experience heightened stress around the holidays, primarily due to factors such as financial strain, time pressures, and family dynamics. Financial challenges can be particularly overwhelming, as people feel the burden of purchasing gifts, hosting gatherings, and keeping up with social expectations. For individuals already managing financial constraints, these demands can deepen feelings of inadequacy or guilt. Additionally, the festive season can bring emotional pain for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Others may experience a profound sense of loneliness, especially if they lack close family or social networks, making the celebratory atmosphere feel isolating rather than inclusive. Common mental health symptoms during this period include disturbed sleep, changes in appetite (either overeating or under-eating), increased irritability, fatigue, and social withdrawal. While these feelings are common, they often go unnoticed amidst societal expectations to “stay cheerful.” Despite these challenges, it is possible to approach the festive season with mindfulness and care. By adopting practical strategies, you can protect your mental health and still engage

Health

Managing Psychological Stress in Marriage in India

Marriage, while often seen as a sacred bond in India, is also a complex partnership that involves emotional investment, societal expectations, and continuous adaptation. In the Indian context, marriage isn’t just a union between two individuals it’s often a confluence of families, traditions, and social norms. While love and companionship are central, psychological stress can quietly build over time due to unmet expectations, communication gaps, external pressures, and the lack of personal space. Managing this stress effectively is crucial for a healthy and fulfilling marital life. Understanding the Sources of Stress Recognizing the Signs of Stress Psychological stress in marriage often doesn’t manifest dramatically. Instead, it appears in small, persistent ways: If left unaddressed, this stress can escalate into anxiety disorders, depression, or even marital breakdown. Strategies to Manage Marital Stress 1. Open, Non-Judgmental Communication The cornerstone of any successful marriage is healthy communication. Couples must learn to express themselves openly, without fear of being judged. Schedule “talk time” to share your thoughts, concerns, or even simple day-to-day feelings. Use “I feel” statements rather than blame-focused language to prevent defensiveness. 2. Set Realistic Expectations Bollywood and societal portrayals of “perfect marriages” create unrealistic standards. Accept that no marriage is without flaws. Understand each other’s limitations and strengths, and be willing to compromise without losing your core identity. 3. Establish Boundaries with Extended Family While respecting elders and family traditions is important, couples must create healthy boundaries. This includes making joint decisions independently, especially on matters like finances, parenting, or living arrangements. A united front reduces external interference and strengthens the couple’s bond. 4. Seek Professional Help Therapy is still stigmatized in parts of India, but counseling individuals or couples can be transformative. A trained therapist helps you identify patterns, improve communication, and resolve conflicts constructively. Many Indian metro cities and

Health

Why Soaking Rice Reduces Glucose: Science, Steps, and Stats

Rice is a staple food for millions across the globe, but it’s also often blamed for raising blood sugar levels—especially white rice due to its high glycemic index (GI). However, a simple, age-old practice can help: soaking rice before cooking. This traditional method doesn’t just make rice softer and faster to cook—it also offers a science-backed way to reduce its glucose content and make it healthier. Hashtag Magazines gives you a lowdown… The Science Behind Soaking Rice When you soak rice, several things happen: Supporting Research and Statistics A study published in Food Chemistry (2015) found: Another study from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition noted: A 2022 clinical trial in India showed: How to Soak Rice to Lower Glucose Step-by-Step Method: Glycemic Index Reduction – Before & After Soaking Type of Rice GI (Unsoaked) GI (After Soaking) White rice 72 60–65 Brown rice 68 55–60 Basmati rice 58 45–50 Red rice 55 40–48 Additional Tips to Reduce Sugar Spike from Rice Why This Matters for Diabetics and Health-Conscious Eaters Blood sugar spikes can lead to fatigue, weight gain, insulin resistance, and long-term complications like diabetes or heart disease. Making simple changes like soaking rice helps: Conclusion Soaking rice is a simple, no-cost step with massive health benefits. Whether you’re managing diabetes, watching your weight, or just aiming for better gut health, soaking rice before cooking can significantly lower its glucose impact. It’s one of the best-kept secrets in Indian kitchens, now backed by science.