Maraikulam......
At Marari in Kerala, Ayurveda is not just a trendy way to relax.
The lotus pond, the bitter smell of herbs leading to the ayurvedashala as
these clinics are called - all tell you that it is also healthy. If you want
a quick massage you should opt for a relaxing general body massage or
Uzhichil. Those staying for 3-6 nights could enroll for special treatments
like Pizhichil, Shirodhara, Nasyam, Njavarakizhi and many more. The one-hour
plus massage is fantastic for stress, exhaustion, poor circulation, migraine
and insomnia. The Ayurvedic doctors are knowledgeable and reliable and
prescribe what your body can easily take. The variations are many like the
panchakarma: simple oil massage, hot poultices of herbs dipped in oil, a
stream of oil or buttermilk poured on the forehead, rice packets dipped in
milk, heated herbal powders or aromatic steam baths.
One place you
can check out is Manaltheeram, a harmonious combination of nature and
excellent hospitality among the palms just 9 km from Kovalam beach. There
are round thatched villas in the traditional styles with a fantastic view of
the sea. It offers a warm relaxed expanse of palm trees hugging the sea. At
Manaltheeram they concentrate on letting you soak in the serene ambience of
nature in the raw. As you prepare for the long hot steam bath your mind will
automatically plunge itself into the whispering sea breeze. As your body
soaks in the specially prepared herbal oils, and your muscles relax under
the even tones of the masseuse hands, your mind will also forget its
worries.
In Somatheertham you can let yourself go with the
complete rejuvenation package that the herbal massages offer, from
energizing with herbs to building immunity. You will feel peppy sipping the
strange smelling herbal infusions and teas and as you look into the mirror
you will find a refreshed skin and toned complexion. Try out medicated steam
baths to reduce even cellulite and adipose. A special medicated ghee is
given to fight obesity.
