01 Ayurveda in Kerala
Kerala is the land of Ayurveda. The term Ayurveda means the ‘science of life’. Ayurveda, the ancient method of treatment was originated in India in 600 BC. Ayurveda is a unique indispensable branch of medicine that not only cures the disease but also rejuvenates the body by eliminating all the toxic imbalances from the body.
Ayurveda provides good health and immunity to the body. Ayurveda, the science of life tells us the importance of living harmoniously with nature. According to Ayurveda, the health of an individual is based on a perfect harmony between the three doshas, ‘Tridoshas’; Vatha, Pitha and Kapha. An imbalance in any of these doshas due to our diet, lifestyle or any mental strain leads to disease. Ayurveda rectifies these imbalance and help to regain perfect health.
Ayurveda in Kerala is world famous because of the numerous Ayurveda hospitals and resorts providing excellent treatment by well experienced and qualified practitioners. The outstanding treatment, superior facility along with great hospitality made the Ayurveda resorts in Kerala world famous.
The basic principle of Ayurveda is prevention of disease, rejuvenation of body, mind and soul and thus increasing the lifespan of an individual. Ayurveda promotes a healthy lifestyle. Ayurveda treatment is a systematic approach based on diet, massages, herbs, meditation and yoga along with a special therapy called Panchakarma. Ayurveda brings back a perfect balance of the body and helps to stay healthy.
Kerala Ayurvedic treatments are proven for the cure and management of various chronic diseases such as arthritis, paralysis, neurological ailments skin diseases etc. Ayurveda in Kerala also offers various therapeutic treatments, rejuvenation treatments, beauty care, Ayurvedic weight loss etc.
The composed climate, wide variety of herbs and plants in Kerala make it an ideal place for Ayurveda treatment. The ideal time for rejuvenation therapy is monsoon because of the non dusty atmosphere. Ayurveda in Kerala is becoming more and more famous for its effectiveness.
02. Kalaripayattu in Kerala
Kalaripayattu is the ancient and most scientific art form which is originated in Kerala. Kalaripayattu is called the mother of all martial arts. The beauty of this art form lies in the harmonious synergy of art, science and medicine. The various movements in Kalaripayattu are based on animal movements hence its believed to have developed in the forests by hunters observing the fighting techniques of animals.
Kalaripayattu is trained in an enclosure called Kalari. An arc shaped seven stepped platform is constructed in the south west corner in the Kalari called Poothara. This seventh step is used as the platform on which the lotus bud shaped idol is kept. The instructor of the Kalari who is training the warriors was called Gurukkal.
For Kalari trainees a special kind of massage using medicated oil is given by the Guru. This massaging helps to achieve an ease of movement. Discipline is most important in Kalaripayattu. A sense of discipline is instilled in the minds of trainees by virtue of the practice of this art form.
There are many important details of human physiology a Kalaripayattu trainee need to know. They need to know about the vital points in the human body called Marmas. Besides the physical fitness and strength qualities like concentration, confidence, discipline, bravery and fearlessness are attained by the vigorous training. Trainee obey the commands of the guru inside and outside of the Kalari.
In the olden days the person who is practicing Kalaripayattu are supposed to risk even his life for a noble cause. Before start practicing the trainee first worship the deities irrespective of their religion, caste and creed. Kalaripayattu is an amazing and magnificent art of physical culture and self- defense.