SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre
bangalore, india
Holistic healing sanctuary with an exemplary pedigree for medical care
Set amidst a lush 30-acre forest owned by homeopath Dr Isaac Mathai and his wife Dr Suja, this highly nurturing and effective retreat is for anyone who wants to tackle a medical condition, such as arthritis or diabetes, as well as those who want to overhaul their health, detox or lose weight. Staff outnumber patients by at least 2:1 to make you feel supported and secure, whether you choose an integrative ayurveda or naturopathy programme. Between the many treatments, downtime is gentle – go for mindful walks around the sustainable farm, swim, read and relax.
our Reviewer catherine fairweather says:
‘Who wouldn't feel lifted by the gentle charm of a sari-clad gardener, who downs tools, her rake or hosepipe, to wish you namaste, with her palms pressed together in front of her heart, every time you hurry past to your next appointment? ‘
Queen of Retreats says:
‘If you’re visiting for a serious medical condition, be sure to send your doctor’s notes in advance. Ayurveda uses a lot of oil on the body and in the hair – the powders to remove it wash out hair dye so save your next colour until you get home! Lots is provided – flip flops, cloth bags, gowns, silky yoga tunics and T shirts - so pack light. Sunscreen and a book are the two main essentials’
Experiences
This retreat caters for serious medical conditions and has an impressive track record for treating conditions such as neurological, respiratory and inflammatory diseases, including allergies, addictions, asthma, arthritis and diabetes.
Visit if you want to do a cleanse/detox, to destress or revitalise. As well as pulse, tongue and abdomen examinations to determine the state of your health, there will be complimentary blood tests for inflammatory markers. The centre works with the neighbouring (and reputable) Manipal Hospital if more complex scans are needed.
Spend your downtime touring the gardens and smelling the roses, walking in nature, enjoying a cooking demo, bird watching, swimming in the pool, playing badminton, cycling and reading.
Spaces
Based on the outskirts of Bangalore, this retreat is surrounded by organic orchards with more than 800 fruit-bearing trees and herbal gardens, where 150 types of medicinal plants are grown. These include roots, minerals, leaf seeds and bark necessary for the oils and powders that are key components of ayurvedic treatments.
As well as a 2.2km walking track, there’s a pool, library and indoor games room.
The 25 bedrooms have a colonial air – they range from deluxe with a kingsize bed, shower and open garden, to suites with living, dining and sleeping areas, with a shower, outdoor shower and jacuzzi and a spacious garden. Toiletries such as toothpaste, moisturiser, mosquito sprays and conditioners are provided.
Sustenance
There are three spaces where you can eat. Inside, there’s an air-conditioned dining room, while outside you can enjoy a space capped by the seasonal Bangalore Blue grapes and another area covered with traditional Salem Grass umbrellas.
Both egg-based and vegetarian dishes are offered. Meals are sattvic (low fat, salt, spice and carb), personalised, balanced and healthy, and a mix of Indian and continental options. Menus feature the nutritional value of each ingredient.
Breakfast might be omelettes or dosa with sambhar, while lunch could be a traditional Indian thali, with flavours from different states. Dinner also includes a thali, along with continental options like vegetable au gratin. There is a strict no-alcohol policy throughout the retreat.
