* WELCOME TO SUGATI – WHERE ANCIENT WISDOM MEETS MODERN COMFORT. LET US ILLUMINATE YOUR PATH TO WELLNESS AND RENEWAL.

* WELCOME TO SUGATI – WHERE ANCIENT WISDOM MEETS MODERN COMFORT. LET US ILLUMINATE YOUR PATH TO WELLNESS AND RENEWAL.

FAQ

Things to bring with you when you come for treatment to SUGATI

  • All relevant medical reports
  • Personal yoga mat
  • 2-3 scarves for head and neck protection
  • Comfortable non-slippery footwear and 2-3 pairs of socks
  • Herbal mosquito repellent if sensitive to mosquitoes
  • Your music system with calming music, mantras, instrumental tunes, or motivational talks
  • 1 light sweater or shawl (check weather for additional warmth needs)
  • Essential reading material (although reading is not advised during treatment)
  • Hair and nail cuts before arrival, as cutting or shaving is not recommended during treatment
  • Any current medications, including allopathic ones, that cannot be immediately discontinued (bring enough to last your stay)
  • Simple, comfortable, and modest cotton clothing suitable for the season (consider bringing old clothing that can be discarded if necessary due to oil stains)

Note: Due to oil-based treatments, mild oil stains or odors may remain on bedding even after laundry. If uncomfortable, bring three sets of bedding exclusively for personal use.

An international patient should also bring

  • 3 copies of the passport page with your photo
  • 3 copies of the passport page with the visa stamp
  • Bank notification or copy of the endorsement on the passport for travellers’ checks if preferred

Things NOT to bring with you

  • Any snacks, chocolates, sweets, etc.
  • Excessive reading material
  • Video DVDs
  • Makeup kit, hair dye, nail polish, other cosmetics, etc.
  • Additives such as cigarettes, alcohol, narcotic drugs, coffee, tea, etc.

Some Advice

Traditional attire for women includes clothing that covers legs completely and upper clothing with sleeves, to align with the local culture.

During treatment, it’s necessary to remain completely covered throughout the day to prevent illness.

If choosing minimal clothing within your room, ensure the door is locked to avoid embarrassment as staff may enter for various reasons.

Typically, staff at SUGATI knock on the room door once and then enter, unless instructed otherwise by the patient. 

FAQ

FAQ on Ayurveda treatments

Can you briefly describe to me the concept of treatment according to Ayurveda?

Imagine your body as a finely tuned instrument, with different elements playing in harmony to keep you feeling your best. But sometimes, life throws things off balance, and that’s where Ayurveda steps in with its time-tested wisdom.

In Ayurvedic tradition, there are two main approaches to treatment: the gentle soothe and the deep cleanse.

First, let’s talk about the gentle soothe, known as “samana.” It’s like giving your body a warm hug. When your doshas, or the elemental forces within you, get out of whack, samana treatment comes to the rescue. Through carefully chosen medicines and soothing external therapies like oil massages, it gently coaxes those aggravated doshas back into their happy place. It’s all about finding balance, letting your body naturally release any excesses through its own channels.

Then, there’s the deep cleanse, or “sodhana.” Think of it as a thorough spring cleaning for your insides. When the imbalance runs deep, sodhana steps up to the plate. Here’s where things get interesting: the vitiated doshas are called out of hiding and escorted to the digestive tract. From there, they’re escorted out through methods like vomiting, purging, or enemas, depending on the dosha at play. It’s like hitting the reset button on your health, addressing the root cause head-on.

Now, both of these treatments are serious business, requiring careful attention and respect. Sodhana, in particular, demands a certain level of commitment and caution due to its intensity. That’s why, in today’s world, many prefer the gentler approach of samana. It’s like opting for a soothing massage over a rigorous workout – both have their place, but one might be more suited to your needs and lifestyle.

In the end, whether you’re embracing the comforting embrace of samana or diving deep into the transformative waters of sodhana, Ayurveda offers a holistic path to wellness that honors the intricate dance of body, mind, and spirit.

Can the effect of these treatments be measured by modern scientific methods?

Imagine two worlds, each with its own language, its own rules, and its own way of seeing the world. On one side of the river, you have the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, a holistic system of healing that’s been around for thousands of years. On the other side, you have the modern marvels of Western science, with its precise measurements and rigorous experiments.

But what if these two worlds could come together, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation? That’s exactly what some pioneering scientists are trying to do.

Take, for example, the groundbreaking research by Hari M. Sharma and his team in the USA. They set out to explore the effects of Ayurvedic purification procedures on cardiovascular health. They took 31 patients on a journey through snehapana (internal oleation), virechana (purgation), abhyanga (whole body oil application), and other treatments. What they found was astonishing: significant improvements in cardiovascular risk factors. Cholesterol levels dropped, blood pressure normalized, and even anxiety levels decreased.

Across the ocean in Germany, Rainer Waldschutz embarked on a similar quest. With 93 patients in tow, he delved into the physiological and psychological benefits of Ayurvedic purification. Through a two-week course of treatments like snehapana and swedana, they witnessed remarkable transformations. Not only did cholesterol levels decrease, but psychological well-being soared. Irritability melted away, stress levels plummeted, and emotional stability blossomed.

These studies are just the tip of the iceberg, glimpses into a future where ancient wisdom and modern science join hands to unlock the secrets of wellness. It’s an exciting journey, full of promise and possibility. And while there’s still much to learn and discover, one thing is clear: the potential for healing knows no bounds when we dare to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation.

How long will the treatment normally take to show full effect?

In the realm of healing, where ancient wisdom meets the dance of stars and the rhythms of the body, each individual embarks on a unique journey towards wellness. Picture it as a delicate interplay of celestial forces, the patient’s commitment, and the guidance of a skilled physician, all weaving together to sculpt a path towards vibrant health.

As the treatment unfolds, like a symphony of rejuvenation, it’s essential to honor the body’s natural rhythm. Just as the moon waxes and wanes, so too does the healing process take time to unfold. Within the gentle embrace of three lunar cycles, or roughly three months, the body finds its equilibrium once more. It’s a sacred dance, a harmonious cadence where every step is imbued with purpose.

In this intricate tapestry of healing, each patient is a masterpiece, uniquely crafted by the hands of fate and circumstance. Some find solace and renewal within this sacred window, their spirits lifted, their hearts alight with newfound vitality. Like the rising tide, the vasoactive intestinal peptide, a beacon of cardiac wellness, soars to new heights, illuminating the path towards wholeness.

Yet, amidst the celestial ballet, there are those whose journey takes a different turn. Perhaps the stars have aligned in a different configuration, or the winds of change blow against the tide of healing. It’s a reminder that healing is not just a destination but a sacred pilgrimage, requiring steadfast dedication and unwavering trust in the wisdom of the ancients.

So, dear traveller on the path of wellness, heed the whispers of your inner healer and the guidance of your earthly guide. For within the embrace of tradition and the alchemy of modern science lies the key to unlocking the treasures of health and vitality. May your journey be blessed with grace, and may the light of healing illuminate your path now and always.

Why is the course of treatment of such a long duration – can’t the duration be cut down considerably? This will also make it more accessible to a greater number of people.

Imagine your home, untouched by cleaning for months or even years. Dust coats every surface, cobwebs stretch across corners, and the paint on the walls peels away. In the dark recesses, insects make their home, and plumbing lines threaten to clog from neglect.

Now, picture yourself determined to restore your home to its former glory. You roll up your sleeves, ready to tackle the task at hand. But as you begin, you realize that a quick once-over won’t suffice. It’s a daunting task that requires time, effort, and a systematic approach.

 Just like your home, your body can accumulate toxins and neglect over time. A course of treatment becomes a journey of uncovering and cleansing, much like restoring a neglected home. It’s not a quick fix but a deliberate process that demands patience and commitment.

First, preparation is key. Just as you would gather your cleaning supplies before tackling your home, your body must be primed for the cleansing process. Then, the actual cleansing begins, addressing the accumulated toxins based on individual needs.

But here’s the crucial part: after the cleansing, time is needed for the effects to be felt. It’s like waiting for the paint to dry after a fresh coat, allowing the body to settle into its newfound balance. Neglect during this crucial phase can undo all the hard work.

That’s why it’s imperative to heed the advice of your physician, just as you would listen to a seasoned home restoration expert. Their guidance ensures that the journey towards wellness is undertaken with care and precision, leaving you feeling renewed and revitalized, both inside and out.

I have heard of treatments like dhara and panchakarma – why am I not able to get those in a duration of time like 7 or 14 days or 1 day?

Imagine your body as a finely tuned instrument, with its own natural rhythms and cycles. Just as the seasons change and the tides ebb and flow, our bodies too follow a rhythm that is deeply connected to nature.

In the world of Ayurveda, this rhythm is honored and harnessed through the concept of panchakarmas and intensive oil therapies. These treatments, like choreographed dances with time itself, are typically structured in multiples of 7 days, with the optimal duration being 35 days – all carefully tailored to the unique needs of each individual.

But here’s the thing: these treatments aren’t just a quick fix. They work at a profound level, delving deep into the body and psyche to promote healing and rejuvenation. It’s like embarking on a journey where each phase – the preparatory stage, the main treatment, and the post-treatment recovery – is as vital as the next.

Just as a skilled surgeon prepares meticulously before a major operation and guides the patient through a careful recovery process, so too do Ayurvedic practitioners guide their patients through each phase of treatment. It’s a holistic approach that demands patience, commitment, and a willingness to honor the natural rhythms of the body.

So, if you’re considering these intensive treatments, remember to trust in the wisdom of the time cycles prescribed by your physician. Embrace the dietary and lifestyle restrictions as essential companions on your journey to wellness. By honoring these rhythms and following the prescribed path without compromise, you pave the way for true healing and lasting benefits.

Why are you not doing hard massage?

Imagine sinking into a state of deep relaxation as warm, medicated oil envelops your body, soothing away tension and stress. In the world of Ayurveda, it’s not just about the massage itself, but the transformative power of specially prescribed oils infused with healing herbs.

Unlike the typical massage experience focused on firm pressure and immediate gratification, Ayurvedic oil therapies take a different approach. It’s less about the physical act of rubbing and more about allowing the potent blend of oils and herbs to work their magic. This isn’t just a temporary fix; it’s a deep, long-lasting journey towards wellness.

But there’s more to Ayurvedic treatments than just relaxation. Enter the world of marma points – 108 vital energy centers scattered across the body like hidden treasures. Here, skilled physicians delicately manipulate these points, unlocking their potential to influence a wide range of bodily functions.

Now, don’t be fooled – marma treatments aren’t for the faint of heart. Unlike the gentle oil therapies, this is where things get intense. Firm pressure may be applied, but only by those with the knowledge and experience to do so safely. In the hands of an inexperienced practitioner, it can be downright dangerous.

So, whether you’re luxuriating in the soothing embrace of Ayurvedic oils or exploring the intricate world of marma points, trust in the expertise of those guiding your journey. It’s not just about relaxation – it’s about unlocking the body’s innate ability to heal and thrive.

Why are you not putting more Therapists to work on me for a single session of treatment rather than just 1 Therapist?

Imagine stepping into a world where healing isn’t just a solitary endeavor, but a symphony of hands working in perfect harmony. In Ayurveda, the number of therapists for a treatment session isn’t just a random choice – it’s a carefully considered decision made by the physician, tailored to your unique needs.

Let’s start with abhyanga, a blissful session where warm, herb-infused oil is gently applied to your body. Here, one therapist is all you need, as the focus is on the oil itself, rather than the act of massage. It’s like being cocooned in a blanket of nourishing goodness, each drop of oil working its magic.

Now, picture pizhichil, where things get a little more dynamic. More than 2 therapists surround you, each focusing on a specific part of your body. Together, they squeeze warm, medicated oil onto your skin, creating a rhythmic dance of healing. It’s a coordinated effort, with each therapist playing their part in orchestrating your wellness.

And then there’s sirodhara, a mesmerizing treatment for the mind and soul. Two therapists work in tandem – one gently swaying a pot of warm oil over your forehead, while the other collects and replenishes the oil. It’s a delicate ballet, synchronized to perfection to induce deep relaxation and tranquillity.

But here’s the beauty of it all: your physician knows exactly what you need. Whether it’s a solo abhyanga session or a team of therapists for a more intensive treatment, every decision is made with your well-being in mind. So, relax and surrender to the healing hands of Ayurveda – where every touch is tailored to restore balance and rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit.

Can I not be given two treatments every day and thus reduce the prescribed time period by half? In this way, I will also be able to get over my boredom to some extent. Further will I not get additional benefit by going through two treatment sessions every day?

Imagine if every time you sat down for a meal, you tried to cram in more food than your stomach could handle. Instead of feeling energized and nourished, you’d likely end up feeling sluggish and uncomfortable. Just like your body needs time to digest and absorb nutrients, it also needs time to absorb the therapeutic benefits of treatment.

Think of it like driving a car – there’s only so fast you can go before you hit a limit. Your body operates on its own natural rhythm, and trying to rush the treatment by scheduling multiple sessions a day might actually have the opposite effect. It’s like trying to push your car beyond its limits – it’s just not sustainable.

So, instead of trying to accelerate the healing process, trust in the wisdom of your body’s natural cycles. Treatments are designed to work in harmony with your body, gently guiding it back to its natural state of balance and harmony. By giving your body the time, it needs to absorb and integrate the therapeutic effects, you’re allowing yourself to truly reap the benefits of the treatment in the long run.

Why are you telling me that my immunity power decreases during the course of the treatment?

Imagine your body as a delicate machine undergoing a major overhaul. Just like a computer system undergoing maintenance, or a finely tuned engine being serviced, Ayurvedic treatments require careful attention and gentle handling to ensure optimal results.

During the treatment process, your body is in a state of deep cleansing and rejuvenation, much like a machine undergoing a thorough cleaning. Just as you wouldn’t expect a computer to function at full capacity while undergoing maintenance, your body needs time to rest and recuperate.

Think of it like protecting a fragile egg or a vessel filled to the brim with oil, shielding it from any potential hazards or risks. It’s about nurturing and safeguarding your body during this crucial time.

After the treatment, it’s important to proceed with caution, gradually building up your strength and functioning capacity. Much like easing a machine back into operation after maintenance, your body needs time to adjust and regain its full vitality.

So, embrace the journey of healing with patience and care, honoring your body’s need for rest and restoration. By following the guidance of your physician and embracing a strict diet and lifestyle regimen, you pave the way for a gradual return to full functioning and vibrant health over time.

FAQ

FAQ on Advice During Treatment

Why does Ayurveda place so much emphasis on factors like diet and lifestyle in treatment?

The individual’s active participation is crucial in the healing journey, as their cooperation significantly impacts treatment outcomes. Disease often arises from disregarding the body and mind’s natural needs over time.

Just as a car breaks down with neglect, the body also suffers from prolonged stress and strain. Regular maintenance, both daily and periodic, is essential for optimal health. Similarly, just as a car requires specific fuel for efficient operation, the body thrives on a balanced diet, not excessive junk food.

Continual use without rest leads to overheating, both in cars and bodies. Thus, prioritizing regulated diet and lifestyle ensures inner and outer harmony, promoting overall well-being.

What is the relevance of restrictions like total abstinence from exercise, talking, walking, cohabitation, exposure to sun, wind etc. – how important is this during the treatment process?

Dietary and lifestyle regimens serve as cornerstone elements in the comprehensive treatment process. Ayurveda unequivocally emphasizes the imperative for all patients undergoing treatment to meticulously adhere to prescribed regimens to optimize therapeutic outcomes. The rationale behind these regimens is multifaceted, with paramount importance placed on attaining complete physical and mental repose – a facet often neglected in our modern lifestyles.

Even during leisure pursuits like vacations, individuals tend to engage in activities that exacerbate rather than alleviate stress, perpetuating a cycle of exhaustion. Thus, granting respite to both body and mind becomes imperative for restoring natural equilibrium. It’s crucial to recognize that the treatments undergone are akin to major surgical interventions, necessitating uninterrupted adherence to prescribed timelines to avert potential complications.

In light of this, seclusion during treatment is advised to mitigate the risk of infections or other disruptions, ensuring an environment conducive to healing and recuperation.

Why is “pathya” (or regulated diet and lifestyle) given so much importance in Ayurveda – isn’t it very difficult to stick to an Ayurveda diet?

The significance of “pathya” has been delineated in the preceding explanation. It is pertinent to underscore that the notion of an “Ayurveda diet” can be misleading. Ayurveda posits that everything in the world, including food, has medicinal properties. Additionally, Ayurveda recognizes that no substance is inherently good or bad; its appropriateness depends on various factors such as location, climate, and individual digestive capacity.

It is imperative to discern one’s specific dietary needs considering these variables. While certain foods may be generally considered difficult to digest and are typically avoided, individual digestive prowess can render them beneficial. Thus, there is no rigid “Ayurveda diet,” and dietary adjustments are made judiciously based on individual requirements.

During treatment or illness, adherence to “pathya” may be stricter, prioritizing the effectiveness of treatment over dietary preferences. It is noteworthy that a significant portion of nutritional needs is met through treatment and medications, ensuring adequate nourishment despite dietary modifications.

Despite the perception of dietary insufficiency, prescribed foods complement treatment and medications, providing holistic care for the body’s well-being.

Please specify each of the restrictions and the side effects that can occur by violation of the restrictions.

The Ayurvedic texts delineate the potential side effects incurred by deviating from prescribed regimens. While not all individuals may experience these effects, there exists a heightened likelihood for those who disregard dietary and lifestyle guidelines. Thus, adherence to these restrictions is paramount to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and maximal benefits. Succinctly summarized:

– Excessive talking may lead to insomnia, headache, ear and throat dryness, vision defects, and respiratory distress.

– Overindulgence in sleep or travel can result in joint laxity, abdominal discomfort, and weakness.

– Prolonged walking may induce leg pain, cramps, and breathlessness.

– Extended periods of sitting may cause dizziness, nausea, and immobility.

– Eating during indigestion or before digestion completion may provoke flatulence, vomiting, and food poisoning.

– Irregular or unhealthy diet can lead to loss of appetite, debility, and digestive disorders.

– Consumption of uncooked food may induce toxin production and fever.

– Daytime sleeping may exacerbate kapha-related complications such as anaemia and oedema.

– Excessive copulation may result in physical weakness, pain, and even life-threatening conditions.

– Suppressing natural urges can disrupt bodily functions and cause overall discomfort.

– Emotional turmoil can manifest in pitta-related symptoms like thirst and burning sensation.

– Exposure to cold elements may agitate vata, leading to limb pain and abdominal discomfort.

– Overexposure to sun and wind can trigger fever and skin discoloration.

These restrictions are not limited to the treatment duration but extend to double the treatment period or until complete recovery, whichever is later.

Will not the sudden shift from the active to the passive mode create agitation and emotional turmoil which would then lead to the side effects of mental turmoil as described above?

During prolonged periods of inactivity, some patients may experience heightened restlessness, leading to various emotional upheavals, perhaps for the first time in their lives. To address this, it is vital to have a physician readily available throughout the treatment period. This allows for continuous monitoring and affords the physician the opportunity to provide necessary support, aiding patients in acclimating to the enforced inactivity while ensuring emotional release remains unobstructed.

Maintaining unwavering trust in the physician’s healing capabilities, both on a physical and emotional level, is paramount. Doing so can significantly alleviate distress and turmoil experienced by patients, fostering a sense of comfort and reassurance throughout their healing journey.

Does Ayurveda say NO to non-vegetarian food and alcohol?

In Ayurveda, there exists no outright prohibition against non-vegetarian food and alcohol. Rather, their nutritional and therapeutic properties are meticulously detailed in ancient texts, sometimes even prescribed as medicinal remedies for specific ailments. However, owing to their classification as “difficult to digest” substances, they are typically not recommended, especially during treatment.

Ayurveda delves into the intricacies of the mind, categorizing mental states into three: sattva (pure), rajas (pro-active), and tamas (indolent). It emphasizes that the essence of ingested food shapes the mind post-digestion. Non-vegetarian fare and alcohol often align with rajas and tamas, potentially diminishing the purity of the mind. This can manifest as cognitive disturbances, heightened tension, emotional volatility, and disrupted sleep patterns, reflecting the intimate connection between mind and body in Ayurvedic philosophy.

As a guiding principle, Ayurveda advocates vegetarianism and moderation in alcohol consumption. While occasional indulgence is permissible, it must be in moderation and mindful of individual digestive capacities. During treatment at SUGATI and the recommended recovery period, thereafter, abstaining from non-vegetarian fare and alcohol is strongly advised to optimize healing outcomes.

FAQ

FAQ on Lifestyle and Diet after Treatment

How effective will it be for me to continue my treatments back home and without someone like a therapist to apply the oils for me?

Ayurveda places immense value on individual responsibility for one’s health. A fundamental aspect of daily self-care is the regular application of oil, considered one of the most effective methods for maintaining well-being. Self-application is encouraged whenever possible, eliminating the need for a therapist. Simply take a suitable quantity of oil, gently warm it, and generously apply it across the body, paying particular attention to any affected joints.

There’s no requirement for vigorous massage; instead, gently move your hands over the body to ensure the oil is evenly distributed. Alternatively, take a serene moment to let the oil penetrate the skin for 20-45 minutes, depending on your schedule. When ready, rinse off the oil using warm water, avoiding hot water on the head to protect the eyes.

Embrace this daily ritual as a lifelong practice, and share its benefits with loved ones. Encourage them to incorporate self-oil application into their daily routines for preventive and holistic health benefits.

How do I deal with factors like pollution and stress which contribute to my ill-health and over which I have absolutely no control?

External factors play a limited role in shaping our health, much like raindrops gliding off a well-protected surface. By nurturing our immune system and prioritizing daily well-being, we construct an invisible shield against the onslaught of external pollutants. While pollution may surround us, only those with a fortified internal fortress remain unscathed.

Similarly, stress, often perceived as an inevitable consequence of modern living, is largely self-created. Our internal landscape, not external circumstances, dictates its presence. Recognizing our priorities and aligning our actions accordingly is pivotal in mitigating stress’s grip on our lives. Through practices like Yoga and meditation, we unveil the transformative power within, forging a path to serenity amid life’s chaos.

How long will the treatment normally take to show full effect?

The timeframe for experiencing the full benefits of treatment varies greatly among individuals, influenced by factors ranging from the nature and chronicity of the ailment to adherence to medical guidance and even astrological influences.

Typically, positive responses manifest within three months post-treatment completion. This period allows the body to acclimate to the comprehensive cleansing process and return to its natural equilibrium. Research has shown significant improvements in key physiological markers, such as the vasoactive intestinal peptide, indicating enhanced coronary function.

However, individual responses may differ, with some requiring longer durations for observable benefits. Factors like the extent of damage and compliance with dietary and lifestyle recommendations play crucial roles in determining outcomes.

Adherence to prescribed internal medications, external therapies, and lifestyle modifications is paramount for maximizing therapeutic gains. In cases where expected improvements are not realized, consultation with the physician is advised to ensure the best course of action for overall health and well-being.

How am I expected to follow the lifestyle, diet and other routines that you tell me are useful for maintaining my health in today’s world where I am a working person and have very little time to spare?

“Where there is a will, there is a way.” This timeless adage resonates deeply within the principles of Ayurveda, emphasizing the power of self-empowerment for personal transformation. While physicians and medicines offer valuable support, true healing requires active participation from the individual.

In our pursuit of worldly achievements, we often overlook the importance of nurturing our health. Yet, without vitality and well-being, the pleasures of life remain out of reach. It is essential to prioritize health above all else, embracing any necessary measures to cultivate and preserve it.

In this journey towards holistic wellness, each individual holds the key to their own healing. By nurturing a steadfast commitment to self-care and embracing Ayurvedic principles, we unlock the path to lasting vitality and fulfilment.