Healing Center

Prayers

We consider Kalari Chikilsa a divine art, so no treatment is begun without first offering prayers.

Ayam me hasto bhagavan
{ My hand is the lord }
Ayam me bhagavattarah
{ Boundlessly blissful is my hand }
Ayam me visvabheshajah
{ This hand holds all healing secrets }
Ayam shivabhimarshanah
{ Which make whole with its gentle touch } Rig Veda

What we offer

At Dharmikam Ashram, we practice the ancient Indian healing system of Kalari Chikilsa, which is a specific holistic approach to optimal physical and mental health. There is a range of specific treatments offered which are described in detail. The treatment packages combine exclusive pressure point modulations passed on through ancient texts, and herbal medicines, customized to your individual needs. All package time durations can be adjusted to suit the length of your stay. All patients will have the opportunity to experience the wisdom of Ayurveda and Kalari Chikilsa through professional consultation with in-house Ayurvedic Doctors and trained therapists.

What is Kalari Chikilsa

The healing practice performed at the Ashram is called Kalari Chikilsa and it includes Marma Chikilsa, or pressure point therapy. This system has its roots in the traditional Indian healing systems of Ayurveda and Sidhaveda. Ayurveda originated in Northern India, with reference texts in the Sanskrit language. Sidhaveda, is a science that came from the sage Agastya, and its reference texts are in the Tamil language of Southern India. Kalari Chikilsa, although a blend of these two systems, is unique in that it uses specific indigenous medicinal preparations and pressure point therapy. The Kalari Chikilsa system originated as a result of the warriors having to treat their own injuries on the battlefield. Through their practice of Kalaripayattu, the warriors developed an intricate knowledge of the human body, particularly of its ‘Marmas,' or vital points.

Marma points

Inside the human body, there are 108 Marma points, also known as vital, or pressure points. According to ancient texts, these points correspond to specific junctions or energy points and correspond to major anatomical landmarks within the nervous and circulatory systems. Furthermore, these points serve as junctions in the sensitive energy system that exists within our body. Any obstruction to the free flow of energy creates an imbalance, which results in disease and discomfort. Knowledge of Marma points was vital for Kalari practitioners in warfare and was one of the last areas of knowledge passed on to the students in the Kalaripayattu tradition. When used properly, these vital points can also be used to heal major ailments. Kalari Chikilsa Practitioners are able to identify and remove inflammatory blockages and restore the natural equilibrium of the body. Treatments for these blockages include physical manipulation, massage, heat therapy, and traditional herbal medicines.

How does Kalari Chikilsa work?

Traditional Indian medicine teaches that the human body is composed not only of physical matter but subtle energy known as Prana. Within the physical body, fluids travel through the circulatory system and nerve impulses through the nervous system. Within the subtle body, Prana travels through the Nadi channels and Chakras centers.

According to tradition, the human body is a manifestation of the five basic elements, ether, air, fire, water, and earth. These elements come together in certain patterns known as Doshas, which literally means "quick to go out of balance". While in a balanced state, Doshas are an energy force that cannot be detected visibly. When imbalanced they manifest visibly in the form of wind, bile, and mucus.

Each of the three Doshas has a primary function in the body. Vata (air and ether elements) is equated with the nervous system and the moving force within the body, including lungs, colon, and subtle channels. Pitha (fire and water elements) is equated with enzymes and, is the force of assimilation in the body. Fire in the body exists in the form of water, which can be found in acidic fluids. Kapha (earth and water elements) is the force of fluidity and stability in the body. Water in the body is contained by the boundaries of the earth, i.e. skin and tissues.

Each ‘dosha‘ has particular attributes and roles within the body and mind; the natural predominance of one or more ‘doshas ‘ thus explains a person’s physical constitution (prakriti) and personality. In Ayurvedic tradition, an imbalance among the bodily and mental doshas is a major etiologic component of the disease. In order for a person to be in good health, these forces must be balanced within his or her body. This principle is seen in the scientific concept of homeostasis where a system regulates its internal environment, in order to maintain a stable and constant condition.

Consultation

The first step in planning your treatment course is a consultation with our in-house Ayurvedic physician and Kalari Chikilsa Practitioner. He/she will perform a holistic assessment of your physical health, including past illnesses and potential future conditions, your lifestyle habits, and identify your dosha states of balance/ imbalance. Once He/she has insight into your overall health, the best course of treatment is prescribed, which can include herbal medicines, oil massages, or localized Marma therapy.

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Treatment Procedures

Below are the recommended course durations; however, they are adjustable to the patient’s needs.

Nadi Nirnayam –
DIAGNOSIS

This course is an introduction to Kalari Chikilsa that includes oil massages, kizhi treatments based on your Nadi or pulse flow. This treatment course may include medicinal herbal blends and recommendations for diet and lifestyle habits. It is designed to relieve fatigue and restore energy.

Tapa Abhyavakaranam – REVIVAL

This course comprises a minimum of seven treatments. The aim is to identify and address major blockages in the Marma System in order to restore the flow of energy in the body. This has the effect of boosting the healing capabilities of the body. The patient can expect relaxation and some rejuvenation.

Dhrauvyo Ajangalam – REJUVENATION

This course includes a minimum of fourteen treatments. Due to the extended duration of the treatment, this course often includes a wider range of treatment combinations, such as Shiro Dhara, Sarvanga Dhara, Avi Chikilsa, or Virechanam.

This greatly increases the detoxifying effects of the treatment, and thus the patient may expect a greater degree of relief, renewed energy, and a balancing of the doshas. The duration is also conducive to a deeper sense of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Vivrithi Shamanam – RESTORATION

This course includes a minimum of 21 treatments and will provide maximum benefit for the patient. This course offers the full range of treatments which will be given according to the Practioner’s diagnosis and the individual needs of the patient.

This provides maximum detoxification and purification of the body and calming of the mind and spirit. The patient can expect increased vitality, rejuvenation, as well as a strengthening of all systems resulting in a general sense of well-being. The majority of patients suffering from chronic illnesses like age-related arthritis, neuromuscular diseases, chronic pain syndrome, and auto-immune conditions find relief from this extended course treatment course.

Why treatments at Dharmikam Ashram?

All practitioners who administer the treatments at Dharmikam Ashram are highly experienced and trained. This ensures an authentic application of the ancient healing system of Kalari Chikilsa.

Another aspect that makes the treatments traditional, authentic, and unique to the Kalari Chikilsa system, is the use of specific oils and medicines by the practitioners. These are handmade at the Ashram, and each unique formulation and preparation method has been passed down directly through the Gurukula sambradhaya. Generally, practitioners use four types of medicines, ‘enna', medicinal oil, ‘Kashayam,', a medicinal liquid, ‘Lehayam', a medicinal jelly, and ‘Gulika', a medicinal tablet.

You will see below the various treatments available, but Abhyanga (full body oil massage) forms the basis of the treatment. Practitioners generally perform this particular massage in conjunction with other specialized treatments, in order to customize and maximize the healing effects for the patient.

The Ashram environment provides not only a serene atmosphere but a contemplative lifestyle, which we believe is conducive to healing. The nutritious food, much of it grown here, is appropriate for the patient's condition and ideal for assisting in the detoxification process.

In addition to the healing treatments, we offer training in the ancient martial arts forms Kalaripayattu, which is described in detail elsewhere on this site. We encourage martial arts and/or yoga as an adjunct to your treatment packages. These practices encompass physical exercise, discipline, and Eastern philosophies, which can improve your state of health and enhance your Kalari Chikilsa treatments. You may discuss this during your initial consultation if you wish to add these activities to your daily treatment course.

Finally, Kalari Chikilsa is highly effective while still allowing maximum flexibility for the patient's needs. Practitioners can personalize the treatment course, oils, and medicines to the patient's condition, the overall state of health, and the length of time available.

Treatment Descriptions

Below are brief descriptions of the specific treatments offered. In combination, they make up the treatment packages.

Abhyanga/Thirummu – Full body oil massage (approximately 45-minute session)

Full Body massage with a focus on specific Marma points helps to activate energy centers. The specific medicinal oils are absorbed through the skin and help with detoxification.

Benefits include full body detoxification, tissue strengthening, increased circulation, relief from pain and stiffness, reduced swelling, prevention of muscle wastage, improved digestion, and general mind, and body relaxation. This is the basis of the Kalari Chikilsa treatment and is generally performed in combination with the specific treatments outlined below:

Kizhi – Targeted Massage using heated medicine bundles/hot bags. (Approximately 1-hour session)

Generally performed in conjunction with full body oil massage for maximum benefit.

Cloth-wrapped medicine pouches are heated and applied with a gentle force directly to an area for maximum concentration and absorption. Benefits include reduced joint pain and reduced muscle cramping.

Patra potala swedam – (approximately 30-45-minute session)
This is also called ‘elakizhi'. It involves the preparation of a bolus, which consists of herbs and plants sautéed in medicated oil tied in a cloth. The warm bolus is slightly pressed all over the affected area in the form of a massage. This therapy is recommended for ailments of the joints, muscles, and bones.

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Outpatient Ayurvedic and Kalari Chikilsa Clinic

The outpatient clinic provides services to patients from the local community as well as patients staying outside of the Ashram facility, who come for daily treatment. All the services, with the exception of accommodations and food, are provided at the outpatient clinic. All patients will be seen for an initial consultation by an Ayurvedic physician and therapist. The course of treatment is based on specific ailments. The outpatient clinic is situated within the Ashram premises, but the treatment center is separate from the regular treatment areas for in-house residents. There is also a weekly multidisciplinary online discussion of complicated cases with Practitioners from Ayurveda, Kalari Chikilsa, and modern medicine.

 

Medicine preparation

Traditional Medicine Making is one of the most important aspects of our treatment system. All medicines and medicinal oils used for massage, at Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram are grown, formulated, and prepared here. Recipes and preparation methods have been passed down from Guru to Disciple (from Master to Student) from generation to generation. Many of these remedies are unique to our treatment system. There is no reliance on commercial mass production, so full care is taken to maintain the quality of each medicine. The medicines are made from pure, natural ingredients. They are prepared by hand, using a wood fire. Absolutely no deviation from the traditional method is permitted. The medicines and the medicinal oils used for the massage are a blend of medicines and herbs that are formulated specifically for the patient.

 

Expectations while receiving treatment at Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram

It is our primary responsibility to maximize the safety and facilitate the healing of all those in our care. We recognize that everyone's healing journey is unique, but have come to expect the following commonalities during the treatment process:

Although the treatments provide relaxation for the body and mind as a result, they also require energy from the body. Therefore, post treatment of any kind, the patient may experience fatigue. As this is a normal process in healing, we ask that you honor the body's need for rest, when required. The body requires all of its resources while in the active state of detoxing, restoring and healing, which is why we have designed this program to be located within an Ashram setting for maximum results. With the important goal of energy preservation in mind, we encourage you to take advantage of the solitude and beauty that Nature has provided, in order to facilitate your healing. We also have an extensive in-house library if you wish to read or study during this time.

We believe the treatment course should be uninterrupted and void of any unnecessary outside stimulation. Therefore, we do not structure activities, or encourage travel outside of the Ashram during the treatment course. This way we can monitor your healing process as well as your food and water sources. We encourage you to allow the body and mind to take a break from or minimize any unnecessary activity, such as use of cell phone, internet and work-related activities, which could potentially interrupt or delay healing.

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What Others Are Saying

Thank you ashram and thank you Swamiji.

Thank you to Swamiji For his help and his consultation. I cleared up many doubts and confusion that I have, in my mind. Swamiji and his staff help me with the physical treatment of very high quality, which helps me to recover my health very fast. The ashram is a beautiful place to stay. The people are friendly and everything was fantastic. For sure I will visit again in the future.

NICOLO FERRARI

Dear Guruji,

When I came here I realized that I should have raised my son here under your care and guidance in the ashram. My son connected with his inner self here and for that, I will always have gratefulness in my heart for Kalariyil Dharmikam. Thank you, Guruji.

Regards,

BOBBY ROY CHOUDHURY

I, Tejas, Age 30, have been part of this Ashram for a long time now. One month ago, I got a shock in the form of a blood test report, which said that my fasting blood sugar was 480. I did a postprandial blood sugar test and it was around 550! Hb-AIC which indicates the status of diabetes was at 10g, which meant I have had undiagnosed and uncontrolled diabetes for some time. I immediately called Swamiji and told him about it. He advised me to come here, to the Aashram, for treatment, to which I listened.

Swamiji first asked me to go to a good hospital nearby, where he arranged for me to undergo a complete physical check-up, including sonography of my internal organs, cardiac echo, and other tests.

After examining those reports he created a treatment plan and explained it to me. He gave me Ayurvedic medicines, medicinal food, and other treatment.

In LESS THAN ONLY A WEEK my sugar level came down. After only two weeks my sugar level was consistently around 110. Now after 1 month I am leaving with a blood sugar of around 92! He did it without any allopathic medicine!!!. Swamiji, you saved my life, And this was not the first time you saved me either. I can never thank you enough

THEJAS

MAHARASHTRA

I thank Guruji for all his help provided in our bad times, his experience and transfer nature is unique. I think the whole ashram for the unexpected service provided to us.

PRAGATEJ H KHARAT

MUMBAI

Have a great experience visiting here, experiencing the natural atmosphere, and learning many things about KALARIPPAYATTU and its history. and had great interaction with Guru and staff members.

N. DHANABHARATHIMEENA

TAMILNADU

We had a rejuvenating experience at the Ashram, especially my Mother who was cured. The ambiance of peace and quiet was much needed from the city life, hectic and chaotic found peace and much-needed rest. Thank you, Swamiji. looking formant to coming back again.

USHA SURI, PRETHAP SURI, GEETHA SURI

HYDERABAD

I have a great experience when I look at my son very good, great experience. He learns about many things. Guruji was great. I think Guruji’s staff members are very nice, thanks to everyone who works with Guruji.

LIMBODRI GOUD & NIVED GOUD

TELANGANA

I am JITENDRA, age 44 yrs, I have come from Lucknow for the treatment of my shoulder pain. I am thankful to Swamiji and everyone here who helped me with the treatment and my recovery. I feel much better now and am going back tomorrow in better health than I came here.

I also visited in 2010 for treatment of my big toe which was injured due to slipping when I was running. That time I took treatment for 15 days and my big toe recovered very much within those 15 days and became completely healthy within a month after going back from here. My heartfelt thanks to Swamiji and everyone here.

JITENDRA

LUCKNOW

How shall I even start to describe my time at the Kalariyil Dharmikam Ashram. Let me try with Gratefulness, Love, Strength, Community, Compassion, Laughter and lots of food.

The ashram family is exactly that- a family that will make you feel included as one of their own. They share without a shred of a doubt, they support with all their kindness, they go above and beyond for you all just to make you happy and feel loved.

I don’t want to choose which part I liked best- martial arts on the rooftop in the palm trees, treatments that make everyone look 20 years younger, breathtaking temples and spiritual energy wherever you go, a connection to god around you and in yourself by beautiful created poodjas or the mediation in caves or shrines- always connected to nature, always with gratitude to those who came before us, who taught us and who always will be with us.

But if had to choose it would be the people because even without all that without the amazing hospitality, the food, the comfort of the accomodation, I would always and will always return for its people.

I came in search for something within me but what I found was unconditional love all around me that made me believe again that we are taking care of all of us within us. So I am leaving for now with lot’s of colourful memories and energizing love that will always be part of me from this day on.

To these amazing people that made me and will make you believe in the change for the better again. I love you

Alissa Böhm

UK

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