Your course is run at Nellikunnu Beach, near Kovalam, at a resort dedicated to the practice and treatment of Ayurveda. The doctor in charge has over 25 years of experience and the centre is renowned for its expertise, winning a high recognition award from the department of tourism in Kerala.

Your course is split into theory and practical sessions. During the morning you will learn about the principles behind Ayurvedic medicine, what it is and where it originated, and will focus on the five elements and tridosha, the primary and essential factors of the human body that govern our entire physical structure and function. You will learn about the fundamental concepts of dosha, dhatu(tissues), mala(waste products), srotas(channels), digestive fire and the five sense organs, as well as pancha karma and the benefits of a seasonal diet and routine.

After a delicious lunch you will put theory into practice and enjoy a rejuvenation treatment based on the mornings teaching. These may include Ayurveda oil massage, foot massage, massage using nasya oil and the offering of tarpanam, steam baths or massage with sirodhara, a unique Keralan oil treatment. For those with high vata dosha, muscular aches and pains there may even be the chance of enjoying Pizhichil, an oil bath favoured by many of the Maharajas.

Your course finishes mid afternoon and you are welcome to use the private beach at the resort for the rest of the day.

While you are studying Ayurvedic medicine you will live with a local family in Nellikunnu, just ten minutes walk from the resort. Living in a traditional Indian home will compliment your learning experience, giving you an understanding of Indian culture and people, as well as how Ayurveda is used in everyday life.

Rooms at the family home are simple but comfortable and the family are keen for you to feel at home. There is a lovely balcony and rooftop overlooking the Arabian Sea and your bedroom will have clean sheets, mosquito nets and fresh, purified water. Breakfast and dinner are included and your hosts will cook a variety of traditional Keralan meals, giving you great insight into this world famous cuisine. Lunch is provided at the Ayurveda resort as part of your course.

Free time can be spent at the beautiful beaches or at local restaurants and bars. For those who want a little more nightlife, nearby Kovalam is firmly on the tourist trail and offers plenty of opportunities for fun!

Understanding Ayurvedic medicine will go a long way towards your understanding of the Indian healthcare system and help you when dealing with patients. Spending a week immersed in this time-honoured tradition will also give you an amazing insight into the spiritual side of Indian culture.

You will be in a small group. We keep numbers low to ensure you enjoy a very personal experience.

We run the course regularly and can arrange for your Ayurvedic experience to take place during your placement.

Although Kovalam is relatively close to Trivandrum, bad roads and traffic mean the journey takes around one hour. Transport to and from the family home is included in the course fee.