An Introduction To Yoga And Ayurveda

Ayurveda Retreat at Goa Yogashala is dedicated to the ‘Science of Life’ – Ayurveda, the oldest health care system in the world. The combination of Yoga in this Ayurveda retreat can make it a complete package for treatment and rejuvenation of mind, body and soul. Located near the best beach of Goa, the Ayurveda and Yoga Retreat of Goa Yogashala is conducted by Ayurveda Doctors and certified experts of the traditional form of Ayurveda.  This specialised wellness retreat has everything ranging from the principles of Ayurveda, understanding the body constitutions, ayurveda diet, quality herbs and oils, personal massages, yoga asanas, meditative sessions, delicious healthy meals, accommodation near beach and excursions to local attractions.

Yoga and Ayurveda are two ancient practices that originated in India thousands of years ago, though they have gained immense popularity beyond boundaries. Today, these ancient disciplines serve as inspiration for people seeking a serene and holistic haven. Yoga and Ayurveda create a tranquil environment to soak in for wellness seekers. So, while in Goa breathing in the serenity of its charm, you can immerse yourself in the transformative power of yoga and restore balance and vitality in life with the help of Ayurveda.

Goa Yogashala is one of the highly-reputed yoga and Ayurveda retreats in India and hosts a wide variety of wellness seekers from all around the world.

Here are the Top Reasons why you must undergo the Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat at Goa Yogashala.

1) Understand the Basic Principles of Ayurveda

Ayurveda is often treated as an alternative medicine system across the world, however, it has been a primary system of medicine in ancient India. The word Ayurveda is derived from two words namely, Ayur, which means life and Veda, which means science; hence, it refers to the science of life.

Ayurveda is based on the fundamental principles of promoting overall well-being and growth and encompasses a holistic approach that looks after your mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects. The program also includes the concept of Panchamahabhutas. These Panchamahabhutas are the five elements of nature that include earth, water, air, fire, and space.

2) Understand the Concepts of Dosha, Dhatu, Mala & Body Constitution

During the program, the focus would also be on learning the concepts of dosha, dhatu, mala, and body constitution also called Prakruti. Doshas refer to the vital energies present in the body of an individual and they are of three types namely, vata, pitta, and kapha. As per Ayurveda, the imbalance in these doshas is the major reason behind health issues.

Dhatu defines the seven building blocks of an individual which include plasma, blood, muscle, bone, marrow, fat, and reproductive tissues. These dhatus are responsible for the proper functioning of your body.

Mala, according to Ayurveda, refers to the wastes your body produces during various activities and metabolic processes. This waste can be in the form of sweat, urine, faeces, etc.

Body constitution, also called Prakruti, is all about the nature of your body and is often responsible for your mental and physical characteristics. Once you have understood your prakruti, it becomes easy for you to lead a happy and balanced life.

3) Understand the Concept of Agni

Agni is a Sanskrit term that simply refers to fire. However, as per Ayurveda, agni is the digestive fire that is responsible for the process of digestion and metabolism in an individual’s body. Learn why this fire is considered the key to maintaining overall health and vitality in a person.

Understand how this digestive fire breaks down your food and turns it into essential nutrients and energy that your body would use for various activities. There are thirteen types of Agni in Ayurveda and each one is responsible for specific digestive functions.

4) Understand the Concept of Biological Toxins called Ama

Ama in Ayurveda refers to the toxins and undigested waste materials that accumulate in your body due to the weak process of digestion. This usually happens when the digestive fire is unable to eliminate toxins from your body in the natural process.

It is important to understand it as this incomplete digestion in your body can lead to various health issues. During the program, you would learn how dietary adjustments, detoxification practices, and various lifestyle changes can help you deal with this accumulation of toxins.

5) Understand the Basic Principles of Ayurvedic Dietetics & Nutrition

Well, the basic principles and the fundamentals of Ayurvedic dietetics are all based on Ahar, which takes care of your mental and physical well-being and growth. Ahar, in general, is the intake of food and nourishing substances for your mind and body and is referred to as one of the significant pillars of life. And that’s why the food in Ayurveda is often recommended on the basis of its utility and function. The factors that determine the utility of food include:

● Prakriti (Nutritious Qualities)
● Karan (Process of preparation)
● Sanyog (Combination)
● Rashi (Quantity)
● Desha (Habitat)
● Kaal (Time of taking the diet)
● Place
● Body Constitution of Consumer

There are also several rules and regulations related to Ahar. As per Ayurveda, you should follow mindful eating practices and hence, it is important to eat in a calm and pleasant environment while adhering to the food combinations that align with your body’s constitution. Once you have learned all these fundamentals of Ayurvedic dietetics, you foster balanced digestion and overall health.

6) Diet & Nutrition According to Your Body Constitution & Dosha Imbalance

As mentioned earlier, the diet or the Ahar you take must be in accordance with your body constitution and the combination of doshas. It is because each individual has a unique balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, and when there is an imbalance in these doshas, it can lead to various health issues.

To tackle it, you must avoid foods that disbalance a particular dosha and include all the foods that pacify and balance it. This personalised approach to diet would not only help you maintain harmony and support digestion but also nurture overall well-being by satisfying your body’s specific needs.

Ayurveda has a wealth of healing herbs and superfoods that can treat your diseases, disorders, and other mental and physical problems. While some of them are quite useful for healthy living, numerous herbs and superfoods can restore your skin and hair. There are also several Ayurveda plants and herbs that can help you anti-age and are useful in rejuvenation. All of these, consequently, play an important role in keeping you healthy and sane physically as well as mentally.

Ayurveda Herbs and Superfoods Useful for Healthy Living

• Amla (Indian Gooseberry) – Boosts immunity and aids digestion as it is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants
• Turmeric: Helps in joint pain, enhances digestion, and promotes healthy skin
• Ginger: Known for its digestion benefits along with several anti-nausea properties
• Ghee: It is actually clarified butter rooted in Indian traditions and is known for nourishing fats and enhancing the absorption of nutrients.
• Triphala: It is a blend of three fruits namely, Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki and helps in detoxification, digestion, and regular bowel movements

Ayurveda Herbs and Superfoods Useful to Restore Beauty

The following herbs and superfoods can enhance your skin and hair health:

• Neem: Helps you fight acne, eczema, and various skin issues
• Rose Petals: Can be used as facemasks and toners and help you get a natural glow on your skin
• Aloevera: Hydrates and soothes your skin, thereby, promoting a radiant complexion
• Brahmi: Supports healthy hair growth, nourishes the scalp, and reduces hair fall
• Sandalwood: Known for cooling and soothing properties and helps in cases of sunburn and rashes.

Ayurveda Herbs and Superfoods Useful in Rejuvenation and Anti-ageing

• Ashwagandha: One of the significant herbs that help you fight stress, enhance energy levels, and support overall rejuvenation.
• Gotu Kola: Quite popular for promoting healthy ageing.
• Amla: As it is a powerful antioxidant, it can help you reduce stress and support cellular rejuvenation
• Shatavari: Known for its nourishing and hormone-balancing properties, it helps in women’s health
• Giloy: It boosts immunity, detoxifies the body, and is considered a significant anti-ageing herb

The Yoga and Ayurveda retreat program at Goa Yogashala would help you create a strategic approach to incorporate herbs and superfoods in your daily life. You would be guided by an Ayurveda professional so that you know what to consider for your body and how to maximise the benefits of these herbs.

Learn the importance of yoga and how understanding various yoga styles, yoga asanas, yoga anatomy, meditation, and breathing techniques can help you deal with stress, anxiety, depression, physical weakness, and other diseases and disorders.

Like Ayurveda, Yoga is also a holistic approach to health that encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. However, unlike Ayurveda, it focuses on meditation, pranayama techniques, and asanas to manage major health issues. Asanas, which are physical poses, can help you with cardiovascular conditions and improve blood circulation. Regular practice of yoga asanas can also reduce blood pressure and strengthen your flexibility.

It also enhances your heart and lung health with the help of several poses. Asanas also aid in improving muscle strength and joint mobility, thereby, making them beneficial for conditions like arthritis and back pain.  On the other hand, breathing exercises, also called pranayama, can help you fight respiratory problems such as asthma.

During the program, you would also learn how yoga helps in maintaining a healthy weight. You would learn how to integrate yoga into your daily routine so that you can foster a balanced approach to health and gain overall vitality and longevity.

While at Goa Yogashala, students would be provided with spacious accommodations with comfortable bedding and modern amenities. You have AC as well as non-AC rooms to opt for wherein you can avail 24*7 water facilities. You also have open areas to practise asanas, libraries to explore your wisdom and expand your knowledge, and green lawns to connect with nature.

The natural ambience of the school would help you deepen your yoga practice in the best ways possible. Goa Yogashala is nestled peacefully on the serene shores of Agonda Beach, and hence, also offers you beautiful vistas to behold.

The food served here is a delightful blend of wellness and nourishment. You have fully vegetarian meals high in nutrition to savour. The menu has been designed in accordance with the sattvic diet to support your yogic lifestyle. And hence, it includes locally-sourced vegetables and fruits. These organic ingredients not only cater to diverse tastes but also help in nurturing a pure connection with nature.

Daily Schedule 

Ayurveda Retreat Dates And Fees

6 Nights, 7 Days 

All packages include:

• Registration Fee
• Program Fee
• Study Material
• Yoga Kit with complimentary T-shirt and stainless-steel water bottle
• Accommodation in a clean and spacious room
• Three nutritious and healthy satvik meals per day from Monday till Saturday Lunch
• Two herbal Tea daily and unlimited filtered drinking water
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Goa is an international destination and hence, is well-connected to other parts of the world via flights. For domestic travellers, people also have the option of taking buses and trains.

By Air

Dabolim International Airport in Goa has flights coming from all around the world. You can book your flight from domestic destinations like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, and international destinations like UK, UAE, Russia, and Qatar, to reach Goa.

By Train

Goa also has a significant railway station that has great connectivity to other cities and towns of India. You can catch direct or connecting trains to Madgaon and Thivim Railway stations to reach Goa by train.

By Road

Travellers can also book sleeper AC and non-buses from nearby cities like Bangalore Mumbai, Pune, Mangalore, Hyderabad, etc. to reach Goa. If convenience and comfort are what you are looking for, then you can also drive on your own or book an outstation cab to reach Goa.

Goa is a lot more than just yoga and Ayurveda retreats for this cute little state of India harbours an ocean of attractions awaiting your exploration. You have natural wonders, ancient marvels, and modern magnificence to look forward to. Here are the major things to do in Goa other than your yoga and Ayurveda retreat at Goa Yogashala.

• Goa is famous for its stunning beaches and hence, you must spare some time to explore its serene beaches like Baga, Calangute, Anjuna, Vagator, Palolem, and more.
• Try your hand at water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, windsurfing, banana boat rides, and scuba diving.
• Explore the rich history and colonial architecture in Old Goa while visiting iconic churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a day outing to Dudhsagar Waterfalls and explore its magnificence of being one of the tallest waterfalls in India.
• Enjoy a relaxing river cruise on the Mandovi River.
• Visit historic forts like Aguada Fort and Chapora Fort, and take a tour back in time.
• Experience Goa’s vibrant nightlife by visiting popular clubs, bars, and beach shacks that host a variety of parties and live music events.
• Shop for souvenirs, clothes, jewellery, and handicrafts at the Anjuna Flea Market.
• Indulge in Goan cuisine known for its spicy and flavorful seafood delicacies.
• Try your luck at the popular casinos of Goa.