I came to Kerala for my dear ayurvedic doctor friend's wedding, who originally wanted to help me try panchakarma at the ayurvedic government hospital where he used to work. However, having been unwell for several weeks before coming to Kerala and culminating in a sickness, I decided that it may be better to be near the sea air to recuperate. Manaltheeram and Somatheeram group had been also recommended to me by a friend who had come at Christmas, as the oldest ayurvedic research resort winning awards. Manaltheeram therefore is a combination of authentic ayurvedic consultations, prescribed herbal medicine to try to treat the root cause of disease or simply to rejuvenate, alongside massage therapies to detoxify. This, coupled with all the comforts of a fine resort, such as traditional Kerala round cottages set on a hill overlooking the wild Arabian sea; amongst gardens with many herbs used in the treatments, makes Manaltheeram a peaceful place for holistic wellbeing. Whether it be a long term illness that you hope to reverse through naturopath or a diet or anti stress program, the doctors at Manaltheeram treat with an ancient medical system that was born out of the sanskrit teachings 5000 years ago. Scientific research is now looking back to ayurveda as antibiotics stop working and modern lifestyles threaten to cause catastrophe in the western world, especially with auto immune disease and obesity. Moreover, since all medicine originated in plants it makes sense to heal in a way that is more natural to our systems. The doctors here decided to focus on two of my main issues of digestion and insomnia with prescriptions for herbal medicines to continue at home. Massage therapy is authentic ayurveda including herbal pouch 4 hand massage and shirodara oil on forehead for insomnia. Monsoon months are considered the perfect time for ayurveda detoxification, as skin pores are open to receive herbal oils, which should be repeated yearly. May is hot and sunny, although humid the sea makes a refreshing breeze that counteracts. Bear in mind that sea in may is too strong to swim, however there is also a 15% discount and Manaltheeram was 100% full with lots of repeat guests.
Staff are exemplary in hospitality and the resort is run well. Because all staff and management are equally excellent at their roles it is hard to pick out favourites. Food is according to your dosha, fresh healthy vegan and vegetarian. Restaurant staff are particularly attentive and there is an ayurvedic doctor at the restaurant to help you with food choices. There is a small pool to swim and excursions if you wish to experience some culture. Safety is a priority with guards on attendance and all departments are available 24/7 including the doctor. I chose Manaltheeram as smaller and more intimate than next door Somatheeram but my friend enjoyed Somatheeram equally. We both agreed that this is the perfect group of resorts to travel solo as everyone is so friendly and add some new knowledge and another dimension to the wellbeing you are seeking. This somatheeram group of ayurvedic research resorts are very professional. If you are looking for ayurveda from the source, Manaltheeram in Kerala is the place to come for your wellness holiday.