The smell of wood refreshes you as you meditate at the foot of the Himalayas. The hymns floating from the temple sound set the tone as you exercise on the pristine, secluded beaches of Kerala.
The soothing, picturesque ambience of such peaceful places is like a healing balm for the body, mind and soul.
‘Purescapes’ have become a favourite solution for those who want a break from hectic city life. Destinations like Rishikesh and Kerala are popular not just for holidays but as centres for cleansing and refreshing the inner being.
Wellness packages that include yoga, a healthy diet plan, massages, trekking and other treatments are getting popular.
The Himalayas are said to possess positive energy, healing powers and Ayurvedic herbs which are perfect for holistic well-being.
“Exotic therapies like wild rose salt scrub, stress-releasing hot and cold stone therapy, followed by personalised yoga and meditation sessions is what most people ask for,” explains Vandana K., a spokesperson of a wellness spa in the Himalayas.
For the adventurous ones, trekking along the lesser-known paths of Rishikesh is an exciting option. Gaurav Kunj is a fitness enthusiast, who along with celebrity dietitian Rujuta Diwekar, helps people refresh themselves and rejuvenate.
“People enjoy yoga or cycling holidays where they get to visit the not-so-well-known spots,” says Gaurav.
The participants have to be fit before certain treks, so their exercise and diet have to be closely monitored. “Trekkers have to eat healthy and energising food,” she explains. “It is important to detox before commencing any treatment. One must also focus on yoga and meditation. Yoga nidra is an integral part of the yoga therapy here,” explains Cherry Cherian, manager of an Ayurvedic village in Kerala. “Nature is the best healer for any illness and these wellness holidays are essential as it gives the body a break from the pollution and stress of city life. Nothing can come close to the experience of meditating or doing yoga amidst nature. The food provided here is simple and is good for the digestive system. A few days spent in such an environment cools the mind and keeps the body fresh,” says celebrity fitness trainer Harshal Mehta.