2 minutes
I have spent a fair bit of ink writing about the Ayurvedic retreat, but from a particular perspective that is, I have to admit, coloured by a less than conducive emotional and physical state.
What would my verdict be otherwise?
Overall, it was a productive experience. The staff are wonderful — very helpful, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile. The nurses were always willing to have a chat and share a smile. There were a few – who sensed I was struggling – that took it upon themselves to help. There was a guy at the canteen who took it upon himself to take my food orders as he spoke English. He would shoo away the others, and would suggest different things that I might like to eat. It is a very professional outfit. The doctors were very nice though one used to chid me regularly for eating thosai for dinner instead of yavam. When I decided to leave early, there was a lot of concern and visits to make sure I am ok and if they could help in any way. 5 stars for the people there.
About Ayurvedic medicine itself, I don’t know. I don’t think I gave it enough of a try to have a verdict. All I will say is that 1000s of years of indigenous knowledge and practice used by millions daily must mean something. Something that is not for me to judge.
Would I go back? Never say never, but for now — I am going to say never. The two things that I would still struggle with — the laxatives and the curry — are integral to the experience of being at the retreat. So I don’t think I will be in a hurry to head there.
That door on the left was my room door.
Also, I feel that I just had an unlucky experience to an extent. Not only did I fall sick, I also happened to be in the room right next to where they decided to punch a hole in the wall to build a bridge to the next building. This went on for days, and when I left they were still working it though marking less noise.
(Want to hear what that sounds like?)