1. Preamble:
This is my second visit to Athreya. I was there last year for a period of four weeks. As I found the treatment very effective, exceptionally so in my case, I returned this year to Athreya, particularly to prepare for a Himalayan trip I was planning in August. So my treatment this time around focused specifically on my Himalayan trip, to help me be better prepared to take on this grueling journey. This is besides the usual detoxification programme that Ayurveda is really good at. This year, I was at Athreya for two weeks.
2. My assessment of the treatment:
(a) Medical
For a brief period of two weeks' treatment, I would say that they have done a remarkable job. I shed 4.5 kg and lost two inches from my waistline in just two weeks, making me much lighter, fitter, and more energetic for the trip. The medical team focused on increasing my lung capacity, strengthening my leg muscles and bones. Frankly, I am unable to evaluate the results of that particular aspect of my treatment in a scientific manner, but I felt much better, lighter, fitter and more energetic after the treatment. Again, the medical expertise of the Chief Physician, Dr Sreejit, was exceptional. I made a similar comment last year. I have yet to find an Ayurvedic doctor so committed in his craft and so knowledgeable. His adorable better half, Dr Jayalakshimi, provided able support in...1. Preamble:
This is my second visit to Athreya. I was there last year for a period of four weeks. As I found the treatment very effective, exceptionally so in my case, I returned this year to Athreya, particularly to prepare for a Himalayan trip I was planning in August. So my treatment this time around focused specifically on my Himalayan trip, to help me be better prepared to take on this grueling journey. This is besides the usual detoxification programme that Ayurveda is really good at. This year, I was at Athreya for two weeks.
2. My assessment of the treatment:
(a) Medical
For a brief period of two weeks' treatment, I would say that they have done a remarkable job. I shed 4.5 kg and lost two inches from my waistline in just two weeks, making me much lighter, fitter, and more energetic for the trip. The medical team focused on increasing my lung capacity, strengthening my leg muscles and bones. Frankly, I am unable to evaluate the results of that particular aspect of my treatment in a scientific manner, but I felt much better, lighter, fitter and more energetic after the treatment. Again, the medical expertise of the Chief Physician, Dr Sreejit, was exceptional. I made a similar comment last year. I have yet to find an Ayurvedic doctor so committed in his craft and so knowledgeable. His adorable better half, Dr Jayalakshimi, provided able support in the treatment process and in ensuring that our stay at Athreya was comfortable. Athreya is fortunate to have a strong support team of therapists, whom we met several times a day. I would consider that I have met my personal goals for the treatment at Athreya.
(b) Facilities
Since my last visit, I saw that construction work was ongoing at Athreya this time. I was pleased to see the management taking concrete steps to further improve comfort levels at some of the chalets and treatment rooms. While this did impose some discomfort to some of us (as our chalets were located near to the construction works), one must excuse this slight discomfort as the objective was to benefit future patients.
(c) Meals
We had great Keralan vegetarian meals. The cook was an old lady, an experienced hand who can whip up a delicious meal. The meals were never boring, as the menu was changed at every meal. For an Asian, the meals were not overly spicy. A point to bear in mind though: during a certain part of the treatment, one takes a very restricted diet, not the normal meals the others take. Another tip: for those who crave salads at every meal, please inform the kitchen staff beforehand. They can cater to your dietary needs with the approval of the medical team.
(d) Yoga
The center has a certified yoga instructor who conducts yoga classes twice daily. He is good.
(e) General Comments
(i) The winter season (November-February) is normally oversubscribed. So book well in advance if you plan to come during that period.
(ii) The rainy season (June-August) is pleasant - not too hot, very green, and not oversubscribed. I was surprised that there weren't many mosquitoes this time around, The center provides a natural mosquito repellent with a strong, pungent smell. You may wish to bring your own repellents, however.
(iii) The downside - it rains, so your excursions (not encouraged during the treatment period) are curtailed.More
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