Introduction to Ayurveda practices followed in Santani
Sri Lanka’s wellness tradition, rich with over 5,000 years of history, is deeply rooted in the ancient practice of Ayurveda. Regardless of one’s interpretation of the Ramayana, it is undeniable that Sri Lanka is home to unique medicinal plants that grow only here and in the Himalayas. These therapeutic botanicals are the foundation of Ayurveda, a Sanskrit term combining “ayur,” meaning ‘life,’ and “veda,” meaning ‘knowledge.’
At Santani, we honour this timeless tradition through our meticulously crafted Ayurveda programs. Our approach is deeply rooted in the two fundamental forms of Ayurvedic treatment: Shamana and Shodhana.
- Shamana focuses on alleviating symptoms, providing relief and management of health conditions through balanced diet, herbal remedies, and lifestyle adjustments. This form of treatment is ideal for managing chronic conditions and maintaining overall well-being.
- Shodhana, on the other hand, translates to ‘cleansing’ or ‘to wash away.’ This treatment aims to detoxify the body, addressing the root causes of diseases by eliminating accumulated toxins and impurities.
Key uses of Ayurveda include preventive care through healthy living and tailored diets, detoxification techniques like Panchakarma to cleanse the body, and managing chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and digestive disorders by addressing their root causes. Additionally, Ayurveda helps reduce stress with yoga, meditation, and herbal therapies, and it offers natural skincare and beauty treatments for internal and external rejuvenation. By boosting immunity with herbal formulations and improving digestion through dietary adjustments and lifestyle practices, Ayurveda aims to create a harmonious balance between mind, body, and spirit, leading to long-term health and vitality.
What you do at a wellness retreat
At a wellness retreat, you’ll engage in a variety of activities designed to promote holistic well-being. Your days are filled with activities designed to enhance your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
- You start with invigorating yoga sessions or calming meditation practices to centre your mind and body.
- Participate in expert-led workshops, seminars and individual consultations that focus on personal development, nutrition, and mindfulness.
- Enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, therapeutic massages, and soothing aromatherapy sessions.
- Connect with nature through guided hikes, nature walks, or simply relaxing in serene surroundings.
- Nourish yourself with wholesome meals crafted to fuel your body and elevate your spirits.
Throughout your stay, you’ll have the opportunity to relax, heal, and go through personal transformation. A wellness retreat provides the perfect environment to focus on your well-being and rediscover balance in your life.
The professional Ayurvedic doctors we have on board
Dr. Nimesha Ruwanthi Dissanayake
Senior Ayurveda Consultant and Wellness Manager at Santani
Dr. Nimesha Ruwanthi Dissanayake is a licensed senior Ayurvedic doctor specialising in general medicine, surgery, and Panchakarma. With over six years of clinical experience in Sri Lanka, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. She is actively involved in nutrition research as part of her postgraduate studies, with a focus on diet and weight management, as well as diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Qualifications:
- BAMS – University of Colombo
- MSc in Food and Nutrition (Reading) – University of Peradeniya
Professional Experience:
- Factory Medical Officer – Local Pharmaceutical Company
- Teaching Assistant – Clinical Training to Undergraduate Students, Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo
- Researcher – Food and Nutrition Program, University of Peradeniya and World Food Program, Sri Lanka
- Volunteer – Community Health Rehabilitation Programs
Dr. Sachini Lakshmi Kadahetti
Ayurvedic Doctor, In-House Ayurveda Consultant at Santani
Dr. Sachini Lakshmi Kadahetti is a licensed Ayurvedic doctor with a solid track record in Ayurveda, with training in Panchakarma, massage therapy, and Ayurvedic beauty culture. Dr. Kadahetti has also contributed to research with a publication on the influence of food habits on Kushta Roga (skin disease).
Qualifications:
- BAMS – University of Colombo
- Diploma in Psychology & Counselling – IMBS Green Campus
- Certificate in Traditional Orthopedics – F-Care Medical Academy
Specialisations:
- Traditional Orthopaedics: Trained practitioner under Ayurveda professionals
- Minor Surgery: Experienced in orthopaedic rehabilitation of fractures and dislocations
Both Dr. Dissanayake and Dr. Kadahetti are dedicated to providing exceptional Ayurvedic care and wellness services, ensuring our guests receive the best possible treatment and guidance on their path to health and well-being.
The usual consultation process when receiving an Ayurveda guest
The usual consultation process for wellness and Ayurveda guests at Santani is based on the specific wellness program chosen. All consultations are grounded in Ayurveda philosophy, as Ayurveda therapies form the core of Santani’s wellness approach.
- Pre-Arrival Online Consultation Form
When guests book a wellness program, they receive a link to an online consultation form to be completed and submitted before arrival. This form allows the consulting doctors at the Santani Wellness Center to assess the guest’s health history and unique body constitution in advance.
- On-Arrival Consultation
Upon arrival at the resort, guests have an in-person consultation with our in-house Ayurvedic doctor. The goal of this consultation aims to create a personalised wellness treatment and diet plan. The examination methods used include:
- Observation
- Palpation
- Questioning
- Auscultation
These methods help identify the root causes and diagnose any physical, mental, or spiritual imbalances. If guests have any medical records or clinical findings, these are also considered to understand their biochemical and physiological conditions. This information is crucial for prescribing medications and evaluating the progress of wellness treatments.
These methods help identify the root causes and diagnose any physical, mental, or spiritual imbalances. If guests have any medical records or clinical findings, these are also considered to understand their biochemical and physiological conditions. This information is crucial for prescribing medications and evaluating the progress of wellness treatments.
- Informative and Explanatory Sessions
After the initial consultation, an informative session is held where the consulting Ayurveda doctor explains the procedures the guest will follow during their stay, along with any special instructions regarding dos and don’ts.
- Personalized Treatment and Diet Plan
A suitable diet plan is prepared according to the selected wellness program, and a treatment plan is finalised. This plan typically includes activities like yoga, meditation, and other wellness therapies.
Program Selection for New Guests
If a guest arrives without having selected a wellness package, the consulting doctor will briefly discuss the available wellness packages and help the guest choose a suitable program.
End of a Wellness Program
At the end of a wellness program, guests have a final consultation with the in-house doctor to evaluate their progress and receive follow-up instructions and suggestions for lifestyle modifications.
Introduction to Wellness Package
For guests choosing the “Introduction to Wellness” package, the consultation process is slightly different. This package, designed for beginners, does not include advanced therapies or detailed diet planning. Instead, the consultation focuses on diagnosing body and mind imbalances according to Ayurveda principles and broadly discussing lifestyle modifications to prepare guests for more advanced wellness programs in the future.
This comprehensive consultation process ensures that each guest receives personalised care and guidance tailored to their specific wellness needs, fostering a holistic and rejuvenating experience at Santani.
The new offering of a pre-consultation!
Book a Wellness Consultation
At Santani, we believe that your wellness journey should be as unique as you are. That’s why we offer an exclusive wellness consultation with our Ayurvedic doctor prior to your booking. This essential first step ensures that your wellness package is perfectly customised to your individual goals and needs, setting the stage for a truly transformative experience.
What to Expect from Your Consultation
- Comprehensive Health Assessment: Our Ayurvedic doctor will conduct a thorough assessment of your current health status, lifestyle, and wellness goals.
- Customised Wellness Plan: Based on the assessment, you’ll receive a wellness plan that integrates traditional Ayurvedic treatments with modern wellness practices.
- Expert Guidance: Receive professional advice and support from our experienced Ayurvedic doctor, who will guide you through every step of your journey.
Book your Wellness Consultation!
- Book a wellness package for 5 nights or more and receive:
- Two (2) complimentary nights on us
- Complimentary airport transfers
- Book a leisure stay, All-Inclusive or Full-board and receive a complementary 90-minute rejuvenating spa treatment per person for each booking.
Wellness Early Bird Offer – Save 35%
- Book Before 15th June 2024
- Valid for Stays between now and 31st March 2025
- Valid Only for Direct Bookings
