My experience + journey with an ayurvedic panchakarma (Detox)
This is going to be a long post because I have 14 days / treatments to document + my experience and progress along the way.
Ayurveda In Sanskrit, Ayurveda means “The Science of Life" Or “Ayurveda” is derived from two words in Sanskrit, “ayuh” meaning “life” or “longevity” and “veda” meaning “science” or “sacred knowledge.
The junction of the rich knowledge from different traditional systems of medicine can lead to new avenues in herbal drug discovery process. The lack of the understanding of the differences and similarities between the theoretical doctrines of these systems is the major hurdle towards their convergence and
global acceptance and harmonization. If the global (western accepted systems) accepted and tried to understand this avenue of healing and understanding the human body as Mind, Body + Spirit, then we would have a well rounded medical system. Unfortunately we are still stuck in allopathic medicine [a system in which medical doctors and other healthcare professionals (such as nurses, pharmacists, and therapists) treat symptoms and diseases using drugs, radiation, or surgery.] Where this falls short is that Allopathic medicine only looks for and treats symptoms (often creating a slew of other symptoms while solving one) instead of looking for root causes and harmonizing the body, mind and innate nature (or spirit).
Ayurveda has its foundations laid by the ancient schools of Hindu Philosophical teachings ( 600 BCE) named Vaisheshika and the school of logic named as Nyaya
Ayurveda believes that the entire universe is composed of five elements: Vayu (Air), Jala (Water), Aakash (Space or ether), Prithvi (Earth) and Teja (Fire). These five elements (referred to as Pancha Mahabhoota in Ayurveda) are believed to form the three basic humors of human body in varying combinations. The three humors; Vata dosha (Air), Pitta dosha (Fire) and Kapha dosha (earth) are collectively called as “Tridoshas” and they control the basic physiological functions of the body along with five sub-doshas for each of the principal doshas.
Why am I doing this?
After a lifetime of tummy troubles and mental health issues, and within the last decade battling mystery symptoms it was time to do something a bit more drastic and serious to get my health back on track.
I know that there are hundreds and thousands of people out there with mysterious illnesses and symptoms and are steadily becoming disillusioned by the mainstream healthcare systems. I love how we have access to quality emergency and healthcare but it can only do so much. They aren't trained in integrative or whole body medicine. I wish that each system talked to each other. In fact, my wish is that before I die, the Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic, Indigenous Wisdom, Herbalists and Western Medicine will talk to each other and complement each others services. This is the way forward. For now, we have to do these separate and what I am investing in is completely out of reach for so many and that really, really sucks! I am documenting this so that it may help someone, or multiple people in a similar situation and if you are in a place to invest in your health, do so. Stop doing the headless chicken run in the western system. They will just give you another cream or anti-depressants (true story). I am also in this stage of consciousness and awareness that I need to let go of control (fear of spending money on extravagant things) and when I continue to be met with resistance that I will actually take the loud and clear message instead of continuing to ignore it and hope my symptoms will magically disappear.
A bit of history for context.
I remember always having a bit of tummy trouble and health issues as a kid. I remember having crash hunger and feeling hungry all the time even though I just ate, or after eating I would have a sore tummy. I remember being told it was just growing pains. I had fainting spells as a kid, where I just couldn't run too long, or too hard, and drastic temperature changes from cold to hot made me faint. The earliest memory of this was in year 2. I was lining up outside in the schoolyard, it was snowing and there was lots of snow on the ground - we were all in full snowsuits to play at recess. I remember looking at my mittens which were orange and white striped (a home made knitted pair from gramma) and the lines went blurry. Next minute, I am laying in the sick bed with no idea how I got there or why. I don't remember what happened after but I don't remember this being looked into. It wasn't until high school that I was confirmed to have anemia, my hair went prematurely gray (really awful for a 13 year old girl) and the hunger crashes and fainting spells continued. Without going into too much detail for the next part, I will skim quite a bit. I was bullied from years 6-9 and it was really terrible. By the time I was 15, I had re invented myself after a summer off of school. All of a sudden boys took interest and I made bad relationship decisions until my 20's. That was really sucky. I abused alcohol and drugs in my 20's and that definitely added to my gut problems that became worse in my late 20's and early 30's. (Does this sound familiar to anyone - is it no surprise that drugs and alcohol are readily available for a slew of depressed citizens trying to cope - with little to no education or support through the school system except fear mongering and scare tactics -- guess what though -- change is coming!) The bullying caused enormous mental strain for me. Every day I had to endure censorship, feeling left out and verbal attacks from peers. It made me terrified and riddled with anxiety. Before I met my husband I was in a toxic abusive relationship and this added to my state of fight or flight and anxiety.
Next Steps
Now that I am a Holistic Practitioner, I fully understand the Whole Person medicine. We look at Mind, Body and Spirit (or Soul). You cannot have a healthy body if your mind is toxic and negative, you cannot have a healthy mind if your soul/ spirit is crushed. Because of my pre-teen years all the way to adulthood, my spirit was crushed unequivocally, my body was screaming for help and my mind was just as toxic; alternating between negativity, anxiety spirals and depressive states or just apathy. My Wild Woman psyche was injured severely.
Once I met my husband, I was little more than a poorly bandaged up feral creature (at least that's how I felt). I couldn't believe that he crossed my path. Why now. Why not 2 years later after I have time to properly heal. But love doesn't really choose the 'right' time and I had to get my shit together.
We took a trip to Mexico and I got sick there - the classic food poisoning scenario but after that trip, about 12 years ago, I haven't been the same. When I moved to Australia in 2012, I was sick every 5 weeks with some sort of virus. This went on for the first year and a bit. It really took a toll on my body. I just kept saying it is new germs and once I get accustomed to this it will get better. It didn't.
It just changed tactics and disguises.
I started to get really bloated. Like I can count beyond both hands the amount of people asked me when my baby is due (no baby - just awkwardly bloated!). I am a fairly skinny person, so the gut bloat was an issue. So much pain with this too. I started seeing my Doctor about it. A few were totally unbelievably useless. One even said it was all in my head. I saw naturopaths, which helped a little but didn't address the root cause. I saw more doctors, who referred me to more specialists and they referred me to other specialists.
I have done almost all available medical screening tests from copious amounts of blood work, MRI, brain scans, heart scans, Ultrasounds, colonoscopies, endoscopies, other lab tests, you name it, I have done it.
Nothing came back abnormal. Yet the symptoms persisted and they were getting worse.
I saw nutritionists, dieticians. More naturopaths. I saw Acupuncturists. Colonic Cleansing. Yoga. Gym Membership. Fad diets. Probiotics. Elimination diets. Allergy tests. Intolerance tests. All the things. in 10 years I reckon I have spent many several thousands of dollars on all of the above. I found out that I am low in iron. Ok - why? No one could tell me. I have a persistent parasite.....the alternative medicine folk are really concerned about this, the western mainstream doctors and practitioners tell me its nothing of concern. Who do I believe?
I have candida + aspergillus mold (from a naturopath test). ok - I am getting more answers but still no solid treatment plan or path or answers.
I saw some homeopaths which help with acute symptoms when I have flare ups but still not solving anything.
I finally found an integrated doctor (warning, bad language ahead), who did more tests and we finally found some more evidence.
Good news is my aspergillus mould levels are down (but that test was done before the mould in Brisbane this year so who knows where I'm at now).
We also found that my candida is not only present, it is systemic and quite serious. Ok that explains a lot of symptoms but how to treat it?
I am allergic to wheat, dairy, prawn and a few other random things. Well fuck. That sucks. I always snuck a bit of gluten or some cheeky cheese tastes once in awhile but thats off the cards now too.
I am allergic to Fructose. Fucking hell! So wine, alcohol, honey, and fruit - see ya! It's been fun.
We also find that I have Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. Basically my cells that are meant to ward off nasty things like candida and other uninvited guests are attacking and inflaming my body. I have a perfect inflammation storm happening inside me. Next stop, cancer - great, can't wait! So shit is getting real and I need it to stop before it gets worse. My Holistic training is whispering to me that I need to let some things go and pronto - so I cut some things loose in my life. The volunteer gig which I love and lots of area's of my business that were dead weight anyway. Studies are done so I can just chill out a bit and heal.
I studied
Almost completely disillusioned with the western medical system, I needed to research some other ways. I found Holistic knowledge and creative therapies and studied this. This was a game changer. I was already an artist and I knew when I created art, my anxiety lessened and I was able to get grounded and into a calm headspace. But when I learned about Holistic practice and applying art with creative therapies, I unraveled 20 years worth of trauma, triggers and mental health issues in 2 years. It was incredible! Whilst this help heal my 'mind' and my spirit, my physical symptoms still persisted and I suspect that this portion wasn't going to be an overnight fix. I understand that when doing something physical to support your health ( Yoga, Gym, Running, Lifestyle Diet, any or all) you need to support your mental health. This is where creative therapies come in and I practice this in some form everyday (If you would like support with this, give me a message)
I met a Kundalini Yoga Teacher
So I search google maps for different services -- weird maybe? I think other people use instagram but I like to be different. I find this amazing woman who is just 3 minutes down the road from my daughters school. I have no idea what Kundalini Yoga is but I give it a go. If you haven't tried it, I can't really put it to words. You just have to try it. It is all about breathing and healing through mantras and postures. And the Kundalini Gong sound bath is other-wordly!
Anyways, she kind of looks at me while we are on the subject of food and she says that I would really benefit from an Ayurvedic diet for my Dosha. I have heard of Ayurveda quite a few times but this was obviously a clear message because of the timing of it. So I bought a Ayurvedic Cookbook written by a fellow Millennial as I knew it would be easy to read. It took 6 weeks to arrive from the UK but once it arrived I poured over the pages. Definitely gave me a good scope of what Ayurveda is, and I suspected my Dosha is Vata.
If you don't know what Ayurveda is, read about it here
and here Or google it and read up on it. So I started to eat vegetarian 4 weeks ago now, and not just salads. In fact, if I am truly Vata, the worst thing I could do is eat raw veggies and a plate of salad. It would simply putrefy in my guts because I don't have enough agni (fire) in my guts to digest it. Wow. This makes so much sense and a game changer for knowledge for me!
My Neighbour who seems to know every complimentary medical professional in SEQ. My next steps was to ask my incredible ancient wisdom neighbor. An absolute ray of light in her late 70's. She is well known in the alternative medicine scene here in Queensland, having written many medical journals on Naturopathy, herbalism, homeopathy - she knows her stuff and has been organic for over 30 years. I am so blessed to have this neighbour! I adore our conversations and listening to all of her stories, she has lived such a rich and diverse life of study, experiences and living life to its fullest and most vibrant. She is like an adopted grandmother which is so special to have here in Australia. When I asked her about Ayurveda, she laughed because she said she has just brought out all her books to restudy them (at nearly 80 years young - I love how she is always studying and learning!) She lent me her favourite cookbook and gave me a contact of one of the best Ayurvedic doctor's in Australia. With no time to waste, I booked in for an initial consultation that week. You can take a Dosha test, which are pretty accurate, however there is no better way to be certain than to see a practitioner. They will take your pulse and they will know your entire medical history and symptoms within 30 seconds. Yeah. Its pretty crazy!
Astrology
My friend who is an amazing astrologer, put it in good words today regarding the Neptune transit.
"Neptune, dissolves whatever he touches. He is the ocean, and the fog that surrounds the ocean. It's about psychic visions, spirituality, transcendence, dreams, and complete dissolution and letting go. There is no clarity with Neptune! "Faith" and “Trust" are the salves, or the balms here, with the only relentless activity allowed being that of surrender and letting go of all expectation and control"
That pretty much sums it up for me. I have been holding on and resisting so much, feeling like a control freak, only total surrender to receiving specialized care that I intuitively know will be healing will be my salve and balm moving forward.
psstt..if you want to know what your Neptune transit is up to in this crazy timestamp of current life, check in with Nicola here.
My Investment in Health
Today's Date: Thursday, June 23rd, 2022
After the initial consultation, he offered me some treatment options. I opted for a 14 day cleanse. He said that eating Ayurvedic will absolutely help, but the state that my body is in, there is only so much good nutrition can do - you have to clear the toxic waste that has been accumulating in my bloodstream / guts and intestines for likely years. He discovered my liver is not healthy or happy and I know that my kidneys were aching (after I was recovering from covid) so this definitely concerned me and I knew this was now or never.
I called my husband to let him know that our savings is going to take a hit and he is so lovely and supportive and just said you can't put a price on life or health and after so many years of feeling rubbish and sick all the time, lets just do this.
So for $3,500 it begins. What I love about this detox program is that they not only provide recipes for my Dosha type, plus herbs to prep you and also herbs for maintenance and recovery, you also get 14 treatments. Like a proper detox retreat. I am going to have 14 days of specialized massages and treatments so to me, this is worth it.
Day 1:
Treatment 1: Abhyanga (Traditional Ayurvedic Treatment – Therapeutic Massage)
Abhyanga is the traditional ayurvedic full body massage using herbal oils selected to suit your mind-body constitution (dosha) and any presenting symptoms or imbalances. The therapist practices abhyanga with an acute awareness of the energy points in the body (marmas and chakras).
The massage moves energy into your body at the same time it loosens toxins from your tissues and stimulates your body’s natural ability to heal.
The treatment may benefit both your nervous and endocrine systems, enhances blood and
lymphatic circulation, improves muscle tone, and reduces free radical activity within your body.
In a word, this massage was DIVINE. I had 2 massage practitioners and they poured so much warm oil on me. It wasn't just a little oil, it felt like a whole bottle. Totally warmed up and beautifully relaxing. If you have ever had a Lomi Lomi massage, it was kind of like this. Flowing and repeated motions. I knew that this massage was not only relaxing, it had a clinical purpose which will help detoxify my body.
Treatment 2: Herbal Paste Detox Massage (Udvertana)
Herbal Paste Detox Massage “Udvartana” is a special ayurvedic body therapy that involves two therapists massaging a person’s body using a unique herbal paste. The herbal paste consists of herbal powders and oils designed to provide maximum therapeutic benefit for your body type and health condition/s.
The treatment is performed on a traditional wooden table made from the neem tree, which enhances the healing and detoxifying effect of the treatment.
Udvartana paste uses sesame oil, which is hot in potency, infused with herbs to create lightness, dryness, and roughness. The friction of the paste on the skin during the massage opens the pores, removes blockages in the blood vessels, increases the heat in the tissues, and stimulates fat metabolism. The oil base of the paste also protects the skin from becoming superficially dry so it remains soft and supple after the treatment.
Again, I had 2 massage practitioners and this treatment was directly after the first oil massage. I couldn't believe how luxurious this felt! It felt just as long as the first massage which felt ages! After the massage, I was bathed and scrubbed with a lovely perfect hot temperature decoction of herbs to rinse off. The wood table was perfect as the water drained into a bucket. I have a few more of these massages coming up and I am so excited for them!
Honestly, I felt like I was being prepared for some sort of lavish event and I had 2 ladies maids helping me dress and prepare and cleanse my body. It was the most luxuriant feeling and treatment I have ever had. I love myself this much to receive this care at this time in my life. So special!
Treatment 3:
After the paste massage, the therapists bathe your body with a therapeutic herbal liquid. You are then invited to sit in a herbal steam chamber where the body heats up, sweats out toxins and stimulates metabolic processes that have a ‘cutting’ or liquefying action on fat tissue.
Udvartana reduces both vata and kapha. After the treatment, you can expect to feel rejuvenated and revitalised, de-stressed and relaxed, yet also invigorated.
I like to call this a steam cabinet. Your head is outside which is nice because I have been in steam rooms before at spa's. While lovely, I always find it hard to breathe. In this treatment, I was placed in this little wooden cabinet seated, with my head out so I could see the room and breathe. The steam was so nice and I was envisioning the toxins leaving my body after the full massages.
Day 2
Friday, June 24th, 2022
I will preface this entry with a note regarding my prep to this. I have done 3 weeks of lifestyle prep by eating Ayurvedic Vegetarian for my Dosha. I suspected I was Vata, so I ate for Vata. No raw foods. A lot of soupy / porridge consistency foods with warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg and clove. For savory it is lentils and basmati with Vata vegetables cooked well and spiced with cumin, coriander, hing, ginger, mustard seed and a few other spices. I have lost 3 kg of 'toxic waste' that has been accumulating in my guts, intestines and blood for many years. I feel so much lighter (physically and mentally) already. Doing something like this isn't for the faint of heart. It isn't recommended that you do something like this cold turkey if you aren't already on the path to health and are serious about it. It would be a waste of money if you didn't follow the lifestyle or treatment plan. For me, I have been on this path for a decade, I could even argue this was my path for my entire life.
Trying to fit into a world that isn't right for me and my physical body cannot handle it. So for me, I am ready and determined to go through with this treatment in its entirety with the intention that I will heal and reset. I am not only shedding toxic physical weight, I am also shedding spiritual weight and limiting beliefs. I am shedding my injured psyche and reconnecting with my body and its needs, its deepest yearnings and intuition. I know I am ready for this next journey. From here, I cannot go back to drinking weekends, cheese binges, eating wrong food combinations. This is a reset of lifestyle so I can fully surrender into alignment and occupying a life that is meant for me.
Ayurveda may not be for you, but if you are like me, and have tried many avenues in health industries, this may be a path worth considering. The fact that it is one of the most ancient practice of preventative health (over 5,000 years but likely longer with oral history) assures me that this is the right one for me as I consider myself an 'old soul' who needs some ancient nurturing and wisdom instead of guinea pig experiments to clinical studies of modern disconnected-from-mind+body treatments.
I will also note that if you believe that a vacation or a new hair cut or a new wardrobe will fix your health and happiness issues - a gentle reminder - it won't. Ask yourself the same hard question that I had to ask myself.
What am I running from?
Why can't I commit to something I know will be good for me and more wholesome and get to the root of healing.
I'm not sure who needs to hear these words;
A vacation won't do this if you don't address root causes. Stop running (flight) and get your shit together. Or more gently, be present with what is feeling uncomfortable and understand the feelings and triggers, make changes so you stop feeling this way. These are the words I had to ask myself too. Pretty confronting but essential to understand the inner blocks.
Today's mantra is: Be honest is yourself.
1st treatment
Abhyanga (Traditional Ayurvedic Treatment – Therapeutic Massage) Whole body oil massage. The same as treatment 1 on day 1.
I had 2 practitioners again and the massage was just as relaxing as the one yesterday and I was able to go deeper into my body and relaxed state today.
2nd treatment
Sastikasalipindaweda (Herbal Rice Ball Massage) Small cotton bags are filled with a particular kind of cooked rice which is dipped in warm milk with medicated decoction and massaged on to the body
This was so interesting. It was cooked rice with herbs and herbally medicated hot cows milk that they soak these fabric wrapped rice balls and then use that to massage your entire body. I actually loved the feeling. It was hot, but not uncomfortable, it was firm but soft and felt really amazing on my hands and feet but also loved it on my back the best.
3rd treatment
Hot water bath.
the bath.
I think this is actually my favorite treatment! Having 2 other people bathe you is exquisite and the most luxurious thing I have experienced -- I think it is my new love language! Hot water is poured over you while they massage and sort of scrub your body clean of the sticky rice residue. You are sitting on top of the wood Neem table and the water drains off of you (you are wearing disposable bra and underwear).
4th treatment.
Steam cabinet again. See notes from day 1.
5th treatment
Oil enema. I have had colon cleanses before so this was easy. It was only 100ml and over within seconds and I was able to drive home comfortably. You have to hold it in for at least 30 minutes before releasing.
5 separate treatments for 1.5 hour session was an excellent experience and I definitely am seeing the value for money with the big up-front investment.
I just remember laying on the table during the massage and feeling overwhelmed with gratitude and love. My divine feminine has started to return home after many years of hibernation and operating in Masculine for too long. I am surrendering to receive nourishing care and healing.
Day 3
Saturday, June 25th at 3:00pm
Treatment 1
Kizhi (Herbal Ball Massage)
This is a remedial treatment for relieving pain and recharging the body. It utilizes a compress of warmed herbs, seeds and spices which are applied with gentle pressure over the body. The healing potency of the compress penetrates the tissues, reduces inflammation and swelling, soothes irritation, nourishes muscles and connective tissues and assist your body's restoration.
This is a wonderful massage. I really love the other two but they are flowing massages that don't really get into the tissues. This one was still flowy but deeper and the herbal ball was comfortably hot and felt amazing. It was a head to to massage front and back. I actually fell asleep on the table and I have never done this before during a massage!
Treatment 2
Steam bath.
Another steam cabinet but it was in a different room and didn't have a wooden one this time. It was a fabric tent and my head was still out so I could breathe. Lovely warm cocoon that allows my body to detoxify further.
Treatment 3
Oil Vasti (Ayurvedic enema)
Vastis are often part of a detoxification program as a safe and gentle way to cleanse the colon using specially formulated mixtures of herbs in a base of oil in this case. Ayurvedic vasti not only cleans the colon, it also gets partially absorbed through the tissues and on a cellular level, has a healing effect on the whole body and intestines.
This was only 100ml so it was over really quickly. Within seconds. This one you must hold for 30 minutes and I was able to drive home with no issues.
Day 4,
Monday, June 27th
Treatment 1: Reflexology Massage.
They laid a towel along the length of my body and I was face down. They aligned my back with gentle but firm reflexology points, then focused on my calves. My feet got the most attention and it was interesting observing where my thoughts led me, almost into a dreamscape and then it was over. Treatment 2: Shirodhara
Shirodhara is a deeply relaxing and restoring treatment. A stream of warm herb infused oil is slowly poured onto the center of the forehead followed by a gentle scalp massage and reflexology. Shirodhara deeply nourishes the nervous system, relieves stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraines, hypertension, and many neurological disorders. This treatment is indescribably blissful and restorative.
Ok. Above is the description. I was very excited to experience this as I don't think I would have spent money on this treatment if it was a stand alone, but because it is part of the treatment package, I was excited to try it. At first, the practitioner did some reflexology on my forehead, where my 3rd eye sits. Strangely, I felt a bit of pain there, I didn't realize I was carrying tension there which was interesting to take note and observe. They put a towel over my eyes and I settled in. At first, the oil was lovely. A whole new sensation. It definitely drew my attention to that area of my body and I was envisioning my 3rd eye. Occasionally, the practitioner would move the oil stream so it caressed my temples and forehead which was my favourate part, like a nourishing massage for my 3rd eye. What started to happen though, was this crackly sound and feeling in my head. I can't quite explain it but I will do my best. You know when you have a sinus infection and your ears plug, then you blow your nose and you hear a crackly sound in your head. It was like this, but constant. Interestingly, when the oil was moved to my temples I didn't experience this but as soon as it went overtop of my 3rd eye, the crackly sound and awareness appeared again. It started to become uncomfortable, and it started a restless leg response which I don't often get. My awareness was observing my reactions and my physical manifestations of this treatment. It was also conscious of my thought pattern. Observing, learning, watching. I remember wanting that treatment to be over but also being present in the whole experience. Why is it uncomfortable for me? Why am I getting a physical symptom of crackly head and restless leg, I am literally feeling restless and these physical distractions are becoming reality. Such an interesting observation. I had a chance to sleep on this observation and I have a theory. My gorgeous friend and Sound Healer, Kim Rooney of Pure Presence (shameless business shout out for my dear friend haha) had an experience with sound once that has stuck with me. She said that once sound healing didn't offer harmony or relaxation, instead it was like nails on a chalkboard. It can bring up many things that you are holding in or hiding and help bring awareness of where you are truly at. I had this experience with my first Kundalini Gong sound bath - the first one I was actually scared and fretful - it took me places I wasn't prepared to go. But once I leaned into it, stop resisted even the uncomfortable and observed what was happening in my mental mind and physical body, the 2nd and 3d gong bath's were really exceptional. My theory is the same for Shirodhara. It was clearing something hidden and stagnate within me, which is why I was feeling restless. I did have a really good sleep and feel lighter somehow.
I look forward to the next Shirodhara treatment and see if I have a different experience. Always observing. Always learning. Always experiencing.
Day 5
Tuesday, June 28th
Treatment 1
Abhyanga (Traditional Ayurvedic Treatment – Therapeutic Massage)
Abhyanga is the traditional ayurvedic full body massage using herbal oils selected to suit your mind-body constitution (dosha) and any presenting symptoms or imbalances. The therapist practices abhyanga with an acute awareness of the energy points in the body (marmas and chakras).
The massage moves energy into your body at the same time it loosens toxins from your tissues and stimulates your body’s natural ability to heal.
The treatment may benefit both your nervous and endocrine systems, enhances blood and
lymphatic circulation, improves muscle tone, and reduces free radical activity within your body.
This was so lovely but quite a different experience from the first day treatment of the same. Perhaps it was meant to be different. I still loved every minute of it and fell into a deep relaxed state almost asleep by the end. I had just the one practitioner this time and she used hot herb packs as well as some reflexology and deep tissue release around my shoulders and neck. I didn't realize how much stagnate tension was still there!
Treatment 2
Herbal steam chamber, where the body heats up, sweats out toxins and stimulates metabolic processes that have a ‘cutting’ or liquefying action on fat tissue.
I like to call this a steam cabinet. Your head is outside which is nice because I have been in steam rooms before at spa's. While lovely, I always find it hard to breathe. In this treatment, I was placed in this little wooden cabinet seated, with my head out so I could see the room and breathe. The steam was so nice and I was envisioning the toxins leaving my body after the full massages. I was able to do the full 20 minutes in the steam cabinet this time. The first 2 times I had to leave after 15-17 minutes as I felt too hot.
Treatment 3 Oil Vasti (Ayurvedic enema)
Vastis are often part of a detoxification program as a safe and gentle way to cleanse the colon using specially formulated mixtures of herbs in a base of oil in this case. Ayurvedic vasti not only cleans the colon, it also gets partially absorbed through the tissues and on a cellular level, has a healing effect on the whole body and intestines.
This one was a lot more liquid than the first two Vasti's I have had. You are only meant to hold this one in for 3-4 minutes. Still easy to do and nothing to stress about.
Day 6
Thursday, June 30
Treatment 1
Abhyanga (Traditional Ayurvedic Treatment – Therapeutic Massage)
Abhyanga is the traditional ayurvedic full body massage using herbal oils selected to suit your mind-body constitution (dosha) and any presenting symptoms or imbalances. The therapist practices abhyanga with an acute awareness of the energy points in the body (marmas and chakras).
The massage moves energy into your body at the same time it loosens toxins from your tissues and stimulates your body’s natural ability to heal.
The treatment may benefit both your nervous and endocrine systems, enhances blood and
lymphatic circulation, improves muscle tone, and reduces free radical activity within your body.
I had two practitioners today and it really makes a difference. It seems more connected with two pairs of hands on you shifting energy around. Really flowy massage and repetitive stokes on back, shoulders, legs, feet, stomach and arms.
The only downside was laying on a hard Neem table on you back, I didn't have leg support so I felt my lower back a bit, I am sure I could have asked for a propped up towel or something to remedy this.
Treatment 2
Deha Dhara (also known as pizhichil or Warm Oil bath) (nervous system treatment)
In this heavenly treatment, two therapists, working in in synchronicity, pour a shower of warm herbal oil or milk (depending on your constitution and needs) over your body. They follow the oil ‘shower’ with a full-body marma point massage in which four hands massage your body in a synchronised ‘dance’ that relaxes and rejuvenates your mind, body and spirit.
The treatment is performed on a traditional wooden table made from the neem tree, which enhances the healing and detoxifying effect of the treatment.
The effects are profound! The stream of liquid induces a deep state of relaxation, simultaneously stimulating chakra energy and calming the nerves.
Deha-dhara empowers the nervous, muscular and skeletal systems as it releases blocked energy and restores your vital life force energy (prana). It is excellent for treating chronic fatigue syndrome, poor circulation, chronic muscle tension and extreme vata imbalances.
You will feel beautifully balanced and calm after this nurturing and grounding therapy.
3-4 litres of oil is used for this treatment.
In a word, WOW. I can't explain how wonderful this treatment is. I love every treatment so far and I know each has its own unique benefits, but for ultimate relaxation and almost a sense of wonder (so rare!) this has top points. It felt like a curtain of comfortably hot oil showering my body in like a scan from toe to neck. I couldn't believe the absolute blissful sensation. It was like a warm viscous hug of happiness.
Treatment 3:
Herbal steam chamber where the body heats up, sweats out toxins and stimulates metabolic processes that have a ‘cutting’ or liquefying action on fat tissue.
I like to call this a steam cabinet. Your head is outside which is nice because I have been in steam rooms before at spa's. While lovely, I always find it hard to breathe. In this treatment, I was placed in this little wooden cabinet seated, with my head out so I could see the room and breathe. The steam was so nice and I was envisioning the toxins leaving my body after the full massages.
Treatment 4 Oil Vasti (Ayurvedic enema)
Vastis are often part of a detoxification program as a safe and gentle way to cleanse the colon using specially formulated mixtures of herbs in a base of oil in this case. Ayurvedic vasti not only cleans the colon, it also gets partially absorbed through the tissues and on a cellular level, has a healing effect on the whole body and intestines.
This one was a small one and I was asked to hold it as long as possible as it is great for digestive systems.
Day 7
Friday, July 1
Treatment 1
Abhyanga (whole body therapeutic Ayurvedic Massage)
This is such a lovely massage, each time a little different depending on the practitioner that is assigned that day and I love the slight variations and unique ways each person does this.
Treatment 2
Herbal steam chamber.
I have learned to love the steam cabinet. I am wondering if I could get one made up custom (hire my hubby) to have at home. As someone who is always cold due to my Vata constitution, this is like a warm embrace -- that also clears toxins from the body.
Treatment 3
Herbal Decoction Enema - large
This was a much larger bag of liquid than previous and I was a bit daunted but they assured me that if I felt full or uncomfortable at any point, they could stop it. Deep breathing and focus and its over within 30 seconds. You don't have to hold it longer than a minute and it isn't painful, just a bit strange feeling but if you have had colonic cleansing before like I have, you will find this standard and not difficult.
Day 8
Sunday, July 3rd
Treatment 1
Sastikasalipindaweda (Herbal Rice Ball massage)
Small cotton bags are filled with a particular kind of cooked rice which is dipped in warm milk with medicated decoction and massaged on to the body.
This is such an interesting massage - the hot milk rice-filled bags are so nice on your body with flowing motions - very sticky so I knew I could excited for the next step!
Treatment 2
Hot water bath
Technically not a 'treatment' and more of a necessity as you are covered in gooey rice mush but I count it as it is one of my most favourite experiences. I would pay for this on its own because it is just so exquisite! Two practitioners ladle and pour comfortably hot water while massaging and scrubbing your skin while you sit on top of the Neem table. You really do feel like royalty!
Treatment 3
Steam Cabinet
Treatment 4
Oil vasti (enema)
Day 9
Tuesday, July 5th
Treatment 1 Abhyanga (whole body therapeutic Ayurvedic Massage)
I just had one practitioner today but the variation of the massage was so lovely.
Treatment 2
Steam Cabinet
Treatment 3
Herbal Decoction Vasti
Another big enema with a lot of liquid, this one I had to ask to stop early as I felt full but it was no trouble otherwise.
Check In on my progress
I am 9 sessions in, about 4 weeks of this lifestyle shift and I have lost 5 kg of toxic waste. I feel lighter (physically and mentally), I feel nourished and balanced. My hair has stopped falling out, my eyes are brighter and my sweet cravings have dissappeared. My chronic fatigue is gone (I used to have to nap almost every day just to get through the day). I eat just 3 meals: Breakfast is porridge - I cannot eat oats so I have Amaranth or a small amount of quinoa - diary free and with warming spices). Lunch - Kitchari (Mung Beans + Basmati). I tried basmati but it flared up my candida so I just eat Moong Daal with warming spices, organic ghee and Vata-friendly vegetables.
Dinner - Moong Daal. A repeat of lunch.
Carrot pickle using a homemade masala spice blend is also added to the Moong Daal for flavour and extra vegetables. It is raw carrot but the spices activate the agni (gut fire for digestion).
I suppose some people may find this menu boring and limited. I actually love it. I feel nourished for the first time in my life, I don't have any shame attached to my meals that I eat and I am not hungry in between meals. My digestion is almost 100% working again (from about 10% working) and I love how I don't have to think about what to make myself for dinner. My family are still eating different and 'normal' but once I am done this I will take my daughter and plant gentle seeds for my husband to also have an initial consultation so we know we are all eating the correct food combinations for our nourishment and body constrictions. I suppose some people will say "This is unrealistic - who can cook 3 meals" Many meals are Tridoshic (meaning Vata, Pitta + Kapha) with minor changes for each. For example, Pitta (fire) constitution should avoid tomatoes, pepper, hot spicy foods and onion. You can add these in if you are Vata (air) and need warming)
"I work too much, I don't have time to cook this food" My suggestion would be work smarter not harder, where can you make changes. I am also a busy person, but my health is my top priority now.
"This food is boring, I can't give up ....... or ........ or ...."
Would you prefer to continue to feel sick and miserable with no answers or take responsibility for your health and have 4 weeks of boring food that you may end up enjoying. If you really want to do something, you will find a way. If you don't, you will find an excuse.
Day 10
Wednesday, July 6th
Treatment 1
Oil bath massage
My favourite!!
Treatment 2 Steam room
So lovely to look forward to!
Treatment 3 Oil vasti (enema) Get it out of me - all the toxins!
Day 11
Treatment 1 Abhyanga (whole body therapeutic Ayurvedic Massage)
Treatment 2
Shirodhara
Day 12
Treatment 1 Abhyanga (whole body therapeutic Ayurvedic Massage)
Treatment 2 Steam room
Treatment 3
Oil vasti (enema)
Day 13 + 14
I combined two dates together for a bigger treatment because I had a busy week ahead.
Treatment 1
Abhyanga (whole body therapeutic Ayurvedic Massage)
Jobin was the practitioner for my last massage and he was also the first! Jobin is wonderful, he automatically makes you feel at home, comfortable and cared for and his massages are divine!!!!
Treatment 2 Shirodhara
Shirodhara is a deeply relaxing and restoring treatment. A stream of warm herb infused oil is slowly poured onto the center of the forehead followed by a gentle scalp massage and reflexology. Shirodhara deeply nourishes the nervous system, relieves stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraines, hypertension, and many neurological disorders. This treatment is indescribably blissful and restorative.
This was the 3rd time having this treatment and I was able to totally surrender and relax. I have learned to love this and since then I have been having pretty wonderfully expansive and intuitive dreams.
Last session consultation
Dr. Pradeep checked in with me to see how I went. Some highlights to share:
I have no sugar cravings - especially after dinner this was a problem and absolutely contributing to my systemic candida issue
my scalp no longer itches and my hair has stopped falling out (I was getting very concerned as it was very thin and balding in some areas)
I lost 5 kg of 'toxic waste' and impacted bowel - my tummy is no longer bloated and i feel lighter with a flat stomach which feels comfortable in my clothing for the first time in my life
my pulse has improved but he said it could be stronger, we detoxed so now switching to a healing regime
my eyes are brighter and not as inflamed
my cuticles on my hand were chronically infected and pussing - this has stopped
Final Thoughts
This was such a journey. I learned so much about myself, my body and a whole new way of thinking when it comes to preventative health. It improved my health in many ways but I still have some healing to do, the systemic candida, while improved (no itchy scalp, hair stopped falling out and chronic cuticle infection is gone) I still have some lingering symptoms elsewhere. I understand that systemic candida takes years (a lifetime) to develop so this isn't going to be an overnight fix.
I experimented with some white rice and right away I had a flare up so I have come back to the detox diet and sticking with my porridges in the morning, mung bean curry + vegetables suited to my dosha for evening and afternoon meals. I have a hunch that this will be my discipline lifestyle for the next several weeks if not months and I am dedicated to commit to this. My health is my top priority now. I have been sick for too long and I have noticed so many improvements with this lifestyle change that I will continue with it and say goodbye to the inflammtory 'friends' (food and relationships) of past.
My husband has been so supportive of this journey and whilst it has affected our savings account, he said we can't put a price on our health and the western system just doesn't provide the care needed for this type of preventative health care and education.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Pradeep and his team at Vibrant Ayurveda in West End, QLD. Every step of the way they were professional but so supportive and caring, each staff made me feel like I was part of the family which made me feel safe and comforted. I highly recommend this course of treatment if you are on a path to healing. Mind body and spirit. I hpoe I will be able to do this at least once per year or perhaps split it up to two smaller blocks of treatment throughout the year as a "tune up".
To get in touch with Vibrant Ayurveda, click here: https://vibrantayurveda.com.au/wellness-centre/