FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Kerala, India, Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach, Divya Ayurveda Wellness Spa

Dec 1, 2007
2007 / December 2007

As the birthplace of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian spa tradition, India’s Kerala region is known to spa-goers across the globe as a haven for tranquility and relaxation. So when I arrived at the Divya Ayurveda Wellness Spa at the Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach, Kerala, I knew I was in for a treat.

The ancient practice of Ayurveda is intended to prevent disease and help the body maintain a balanced state of well-being. Regular courses of treatments — usually lasting about 40 days — are believed to ward off infections and illness, and to create physical and mental balance that ensure a long life.

Since I did not have 40 days, I made the most of my time by experiencing two unique treatments during my stay at the resort.

I had my first treatment the night I arrived in Kovalam. Between jet lag and the constant travel and full schedule of the previous few days, I was exhausted and eager to kick back and relax. So I made an early evening appointment for a 90-minute Shirodhara therapy session.

A smiling attendant greeted me, led me to a comfortable chair and offered me a drink of fresh coconut water directly from the shell. (Coconuts are an important agricultural product in Kerala.) While I sipped, my shoes were exchanged for spa sandals, and when I finished my drink I had a brief consultation with the Ayurvedic doctor to assess my health and to note if I had any allergies or medical conditions.

Inside the treatment rooms, the wooden furnishings were sparse and simple. The ambience was dark, yet warm. The centerpiece of the room was a large wooden massage table. (I must admit, upon first glance, it looked very uncomfortable.) Every room is equipped with a shower with two massaging showerheads. Before my treatment, the therapist asked me to choose a type of music from a menu of about 10 selections, each aimed toward a specific type of relaxation.

The Shirodhara massage begins with a head, neck and shoulder massage using the medicinal herbal oils unique to Ayurveda. After the massage, I was laid on my back and a large wooden structure was wheeled over me. Attached to the structure was an urn of the herbal oils, which were warmed, and then slowly dripped over my forehead for about 40 minutes, all followed by a gentle scalp massage.

This massage is designed to fight insomnia, stress, anger and headaches. It certainly was different from any spa treatment I had ever experienced, but it was truly relaxing. As the warm oil dripped over my head, I quickly drifted off into a blissful state, somewhere between sleep and reality. And I experienced a deep sense of disappointment when I realized the massage was over.

When I returned to my room after the treatment I had the best night of rest that I experienced during my entire trip — even though it took a number of shampoos and some scrubbing to remove all the oil from my hair!

On my third and final day in Kovalam, I returned to the spa for the pathra podala swedam treatment. It began with a full body massage, once again using the medicinal oils. After the massage, the therapist applied warm bags of medicinal herbs, leaves and powders (cooked together) all over my body, patting them up and down. While not as relaxing as Shirodhara, this treatment was therapeutic in its own manner. The heat from the herbs felt wonderful as the pouches went up and down my body, although the medicinal oils and herbs used during the treatment are not known for their pleasant fragrance.

The spa offers a wide variety of treatments and therapies. Among the selections are eye therapies that include washing the eye; the kalari massage, performed by two therapists using only their feet (this particular massage is only offered to male patrons); and other massages tailored specifically to treat certain body ailments such as muscle pain, asthma complications, jet lag and cataracts, among others. The typical treatment lasts 60 minutes and all treatments are performed by a therapist of the same gender as the client.

I must issue a warning to the more modest readers (I consider myself a part of this group): The Ayurveda massages are characterized by long strokes, up and down the body. Some patrons may be uncomfortable with this spa’s no-limits approach to all areas of the anatomy. Most of the treatments are performed entirely in the buff. I was quite taken aback at first, but I eased into the treatments as December as I realized that I needed to embrace cultural differences in order to truly enjoy and benefit from the therapeutic qualities of an Ayurvedic spa experience.

Not only does Divya relax and calm patrons, but the beautiful and tranquil location of the Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach enhances the experience. Without a doubt, one of the most relaxing moments of my life was the Shirodhara massage, followed by falling asleep to the sounds of the Arabian Sea’s waves crashing onto the cliffs outside my room. Divya and the Leela resort, much like Ayurveda, are designed to relax, rejuvenate and purify the mind, body and soul.


LEELA KEMPINSKI KOVALAM BEACH, KERALA
Kerala 695 627, India
tel 91 471 248 0101
http://www.kempinski-kovalam.com

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
December 2024
Dec 3, 2024

Global Traveler Sings the Praises of the 21st Annual GT Tested Reader Survey Award Winners

Our GT Tested Reader Survey awards has reached its 21st birthday — let’s raise a glass and say cheers as another year of travel comes to a close and it’s time for Global Traveler to announce the 2024 winners of its reader-voted survey. For 21 years, our readers — a group of intrepid, frequent, luxury travelers — have voted for their favorites in our annual survey, from airlines and airports to hotels and credit cards.

Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet

Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.

Daily
Dec 3, 2024

New Hotel Opens in Marylebone, London, Next January

In two months, London will welcome its newest luxury hotel, The Welbeck Hotel. Set to debut in the heart of Marylebone, this property blends modern elegance with historic charm across 164 guestrooms and suites. In fact, wellness lies at the forefront of the hotel, allowing guests to relax and rejuvenate.

Daily
Dec 2, 2024

Holiday Happenings at National Harbor, Maryland

This holiday season, the 350-acre site at National Harbor transforms into a winter wonderland, replete with an estimated 2 million sparkling lights and decorations, and plenty of themed activities. You can make it a destination visit thanks to eight hotels, more than 40 restaurants and a wide range of activities. A schedule of holiday shows at Theater at MGM National Harbor includes Mannheim Steamroller Christmas on Dec. 7; The Temptations & The Four Tops on Dec. 8; and Leslie Odom, Jr. The Christmas Tour on Dec. 15.

Royal Air Maroc Relaunches Direct Casablanca–Beijing Route, Debuts Toronto Flight

As part of its international network expansion, Royal Air Maroc will reinstate the direct Casablanca–Beijing route initially launched in January 2020 and suspended just a few weeks later due to the health crisis.

Daily
Dec 2, 2024

2024/2025 Winter Happenings in New York State

New York state beckons travelers this winter with a host of cozy offerings.

Daily
Nov 29, 2024

See How Wellness Becomes Way of Life at Newly Renovated Six Senses Spa Con Dao

Six Senses Con Dao invites travelers to its newly transformed spa to embark on a personalized wellness journey.

Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands

Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.

Daily
Nov 29, 2024

The Rittenhouse Partners with Bario Neal

Philadelphia’s The Rittenhouse hotel recently announced a partnership with Bario Neal, a Philadelphia-based and women-owned sustainable jewelry brand.