Buddhism, yoga and Ayurveda Sri Lanka: body and soul

You cannot build a harmonious relationship with the world on an inner imbalance. This may very well be the holistic approach to this journey, which begins in the Sigiriya countryside with a retreat focused on calm and relaxation. Ayurveda seeks a general harmony, far more deeply than simple relaxation. To achieve this, it advocates a simple and balancedlife. This entails direct contact with nature, a body and mind in full possession of themselves, and kind relationships with both peers and those who are different. Ayurvedic practices - massages, baths, cuisine, etc. - Yoga and gentle walks through the rice fields contribute to this. Of course, you cannot get rid of all your toxins in just three days, but it does set you on the path to rejuvenation. As do the wonders that punctuate the rest of the journey: beautifully showcased historical sites, gardens, Buddhist monasteries, and the rolling, grassy hills of the highlands. Kandy marks the southern tip of the Cultural Triangle, its pivot, in a way. A relic of the Buddha is venerated there; you admire collections of orchids, medicinal plants, fig trees and ebonies, as well as the bamboo grove at the Royal Botanic Gardens. And you can still attend a yoga masterclass. Then, in the area aroundAnuradhapura,the city where Buddhism was introduced to Ceylon, meditation is practised under the enlightened guidance of a Buddhist monk, and there is also a sapling grown from the tree under which the Buddha attained Bodhi. You are right in the heart of Sri Lankan spirituality. And this heart beats. You notice it during visits and walks; you sense a fervour. And you discover yourself in harmony. Well, that was the starting premise!

Your journey

Your driver deserves a mention. On a journey dedicated to zero stress, and to well-being and culture, they are essential. Thanks to them, you maintain relaxed relationships with the local area. They smooth out any potential difficulties and ensure your connections and daily communication. They are your practical point of contact - but not only that. Through them, the Sri Lankans will open up to you. There is an appropriate hotel at each stop-off, starting with a rural Ayurvedic retreat in Sigiriya where holism is key. In Kandy, it is a former residence of Lord Mountbatten. Afternoon tea and the British touch still linger in the Sinhalese atmosphere, and Sri Lankans make splendid use of them. Finally, your accommodation in Anuradhapura, the nerve centre of Theravada Buddhism on the island, illustrates the country's international outlook (which does not come without self-awareness). It goes without saying that comfort is everywhere. After an Ayurvedic introduction, your itinerary features a whole series of meetings and private tours: The Lion Rock of Sigiriya, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - from the Buddha - in Kandy, and the Bodhi tree marking the Enlightenment in Anuradhapura, an introduction to meditation, and the ancient city of Mihintale. Proof enough of the richness of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, and of the excellent work carried out by the Department of Archaeology. Communication is primarily conducted in English. The pace of the journey - three / two / two (days) - allows you to take everything in at a relaxed rhythm. And to have time for yourself. The aim is to not allow stress to return at the end of the treatment. Finally, if an off-the-cuff wish or a minor setback arises along the way, you have the contact details for our on-site Concierge service to assist you.