Ayurveda therapist Jeroen Mei's Ayurveda retreat in India

Relax and reset

‘I had a few tough years behind me,’ Jeroen says. ‘My father passed away, followed by a difficult period with family issues. I was involved in the sale and purchase of a new house, which took a toll on me, and meanwhile there was also my work that added the necessary pressure. There was stress for quite some time, which resulted in various health issues. My battery just didn't fully charge anymore. I needed a break and wanted to relax, reset and recharge my body with new energy.' Ayurveda offers solutions for physical issues such as diabetes, obesity or digestive problems. The ayurveda doctor at the resort recommended Jeroen to do a rejuvenation program after his consultation.

Rasayana and detox programme

Ayurveda is fundamentally about resetting your system—restoring balance in the body, mind, and soul according to your unique dosha composition. Jeroen explains: 'After a physical examination, including an inspection of my tongue, a pulse diagnosis, and an extensive questionnaire, the doctor identified my dosha as Vata-Pitta. Based on this, he designed a personalized treatment plan for my rasayana chikitsa, a five-day rejuvenation and detox program. The core elements of the treatment are relaxation, detoxification, and rejuvenation, which are integrated through therapies, diet, and activities such as yoga and meditation.'

Inspiriational food

Right after his initial consultation, Jeroen received a four-hand massage, followed by a shirodhara treatment, where a stream of warm medicated oil was poured onto his third eye (forehead).'It's especially effective for headaches, sleep issues, and mental tension,' he says. 'Since I have a mild form of migraines, I felt like a completely different person afterward.' His treatment also included steam baths, herbal stamp massages, sweat cabins, and various body and head massages. 'It felt like I had reconnected with my own body. But be prepared—they use a lot of (herbal) oil!' In addition to the treatments, herbal supplements were prescribed as part of his personalized plan, and even his meals were carefully adapted to his specific constitution. Jeroen: 'The food was amazing—plenty of it, nutritious, and full of flavor. There was never a moment where I felt hungry.'

Perfect combination

‘Two hours of massages and treatments every day—what a luxury! Nutritious and delicious Ayurvedic meals. Daily sessions of breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga.’ Jeroen: ‘You have complete freedom to choose what you want to do each day—nothing is mandatory. You can join any class that interests you. Normally, when we go on holiday, it's to escape daily stress. But following a health and wellness program while on holiday is truly a gift to yourself, both physically and mentally. After five days, I could feel the difference—my mind was clearer, I felt more connected to my body, and my skin had regained its glow. I left feeling inspired to continue this healthy lifestyle at home, using the tools and advice provided at the hotel. Ayurveda just for women? Not at all! It’s about health, energy, and overall well-being. There were plenty of men there too. An Ayurvedic program is for anyone seeking deep rest and a healthier way of living.’

Jeroen stayed at these Ayurvedic resorts

Somatheeram Ayurveda Village, Kerala (Fly to Trivandrum)

Location: "In the lush greenery of Kerala, on a cliff by the sea."

Atmosphere: "Charming and authentic without too much frills."

Programme: "Intro to Ayurveda"

Food: 'Extensive, purely Ayurvedic buffet with choice dishes for the different doshas. Really delicious!'

Audience: "Single Travelers, maybe a little more women, families and couples."

Activities: "Mainly yoga and meditation."

Atmantan Wellness Resort, Pune (Fly via Mumbai / Pune)

Location: "On a lake with a view of the mountains, not far from the city of Pune."

Atmosphere: "Luxurious, comfortable and elegant."

Programme: 'Holistic Ayurveda.'

Food: 'A la carte on a beautifully situated terrace, with various options for the different doshas'

Audience: "Couples and solo Travelers"

Activities: 'Except yoga and meditation walks, fitness and lectures. There is also a swimming pool.'