1. How would you characterize the Divya, the Spa at Kovalam?
The spa at Kovalam, Divya, is a unique Ayurveda spa nicely blended with the traditional knowledge of Ayurveda and modern amenities. Our 8,000 square foot spa is in a separate building on a overlooking the Arabian Sea. Divya was awarded the “GREEN LEAF” -- the highest grade of Ayurveda Center in Kerala. It has 8 treatment rooms, a large lobby and large yoga hall overlooking the Arabian Sea. We have 18 qualified Ayurveda therapists and a yoga master. We focus on rituals and longer programs over 3-28 days rather than just 1 hour treatments.

2. Is there a Dr. on staff and what kinds of diseases does he typically treat there:
We have four Ayurveda doctors who work on shifts. They are experienced in Ayurveda for a period ranging from 3 years to 20 years. The doctors are trained and experienced enough to handle all kinds of medical conditions ranging from skin disorders to autoimmune diseases.

3. Is there a nutritionist on staff who also advises on that side of Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, the nutrition is not a separate science. The doctor provides diet advice after the detailed consultation with the patient according to the body constitution and diseases.

4. What are the spa treatments offered?
We offer all Ayurveda massages like Pizhichil, Shirodhara, kizhi’s, vasti’s etc. We also offer treatment packages like Rasayana therapy, Vajigarana therapy, Panchakarma therapy, stress and strain relief program, spine care program, skin and beauty care program, body slimming
program. Besides this we have specialised curative programs for Diabetes, Hypertension, Allergic disorders, Arthritis, Post pregnancy treatments etc.

5. How is the linen bag filled with steamed rice performed?
The massage specified is called Shashtika pinda swedam or Navarakizhi. This involves fomentation of the body with a bolus of cooked rice. Shashtika or Navara, a particular variety of rice known for its medicinal value, is cooked in milk and a herbal decoction made of Bala (Sida rhombifolia). Four boluses are made of this cooked rice and tied up in linen bags or kizhis.
The fomentation is done in seven positions on the wooden Dhroni (massage bed). The masseurs on either side perform the fomentation in an identical manner. A third attendant supplies new kizhis, which are kept ready in a decoction of warm milk and Bala. It is very important to keep the kizhis at a constant temperature. After the specified duration of treatment, the residual paste on the patient’s skin is removed with palm leaf scrapers. Suitable medicinal oil is applied all over the body before the bath.

6. Ayurveda dates back to when?
Ayurveda is considered by many scholars to be the oldest healing science in the world. Ayurvedic knowledge originated in India more than 5000 years ago. It stems from the ancient Vedic culture and was taught for many thousands of years in oral tradition from accomplished masters to their disciples. It was made into the book form by Agnivesa an ancient sage in the name “Agnivesa tantra”. The book was later revised by Charaka and renamed it to Charaka Samhita around 600-400 BC. Other important books in Ayurveda are Susrutha Samhitha by Susrutha (3-2 BC) and Ashtanga Samgraham by Vagbhata (200 – 400 AD).

Mythological origin
In India the knowledge is considered sacred since it is believed to have emanated from the gods. At the time of creation, Ayurveda is believed to have originated as a ray of enlightenment in the cosmic consciousness of Brahma the Creator. So it can be dated back to the origin of the universe.

Contact:
Lorraine Abelow
LAPR
Lorraine@abelowpr.com
203-226-5390