Ayurveda therapist Jeroen Mei on his own Ayurveda adventure 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.'

Ontspannen, ontgiften, verjongen

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. Nothing to do with creams or getting rid of your wrinkles, but a way to fully reset your system. To restore balance to body, mind and soul, according to the balance in your dosha types. Jeroen: 'After a physical examination, inspection of the tongue and a pulse diagnosis, plus answering a long questionnaire, the doctor determined my dosha as Vata-Pitta. Based on that, he established a treatment plan for my rasayana chikitsa, the rejuvenation and detox program I would follow for the next five days. The three main elements are relaxing, detoxifying and rejuvenating, which take shape in therapies, eating and activities such as yoga and meditation.'

No hunger

Immediately after his first consultation, Jeroen received his first four-hand massage, followed by a shirodhara treatment, where warm medicated oil is poured on your third eye. 'It is especially effective for headaches, sleeping disorders and mental tension', he says, 'and since I have a mild form of migraine, I felt like a different person afterwards'. Other treatments he received where steam baths, herbal stamp massages, sweat cabins and other body and head massages. 'It felt like I came home in my own body again. Be aware of the use of lot's and lot's of (herbal) oil. Herbal supplements were also part of my tailor-made treatment plan. Just like the food, which were tailored to my specific constitution.' Jeroen: 'the food was fantastic. More than enough in quantity, nutritious and tasty. There was really no question of starving.'

Perfect combination

'Two hours of massages and treatments each day, what a joy! Healthy and delicious ayurveda food. Each day breathing, meditation and yoga classes.' Jeroen: ‘you can decide yourself each day what you like to do, no must or need. You can go to any class you'd like. Normally, when we go on holiday, we want to get away from our day to day stress. Following a health and wellbeing program on holiday is such a gift for yourself, both physically and mentally. After five days I noticed a difference: my mind was clear, I felt more grounded in my body and my skin got it's glow back. I felt inspired to continue this healthy lifestyle at home, with the tools and advice you receive in the hotel. Ayurveda only for women? Absolutely not! It's about your health, your energy, about you. There were quite some men around. An Ayurveda program is for everyone aiming for a healthy lifestyle and deep rest.'

This is where Jeroen stayed: Somatheeram Ayurveda Village

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

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

Cure: "Based on pure 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."

This is where Jeroen stayed: Atmantan Wellness Resort

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

Atmosphere: "Luxurious, comfortable and elegant."

Cure: 'Based on holistic wellness, with Ayurveda as part of it.'

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

Audience: "Couples, single Travelers and groups"

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