Frequently Asked Questions about Ayurveda and Pancha Karma

I do not know that much about Ayurveda, do I have to learn a lot to get the treatments or Pancha Karma?

No, you do not even have to know anything about Ayurveda/Pancha Karma (PK) for it to 'work.' It is a tried and true 7,000-year old science. However, chances are you will learn a bit about yourself and Ayurveda in the process. We guide you along every step of the way. 

Is there a better time of year to come for my annual Pancha Karma Retreat?

The weather on Kauai is great year-round and Pancha Karma retreats are beneficial anytime. Yet, according to Ayurveda, it is best to receive Pancha Karma at the junction between seasons. And, certain seasons can be better for you depending on your body type.

With regard to the Pancha Karma Retreat at The Ayurvedic Center of Hawaii, what will I do with my time when I'm not receiving treatment?

The primary reason for receiving Pancha Karma is to cleanse and rejuvenate your body/mind. It is a time when your energy and attention have an opportunity to turn inward. The mind quiets and the body relaxes. If you pay attention, you will notice many subtle changes that occur during the days of your treatments.

In every day life, your attention mostly goes outward and is spent. Each day, in your free time, you might want to practice meditation, journaling, contemplation, or reading spiritual books. If you like to partake in other activities such as walking or yoga, we suggest you do so with less intensity than usual. Basically, your PK retreat is a time for repose and restoration. If you like, we can provide you with a suggested schedule for you to follow during your stay.

How many days of Pancha Karma do I need?

This usually depends on a few factors:

1.       What can you afford?

2.        How many days can you get away?

3.        What does your Ayurvedic Specialist suggest? 

People usually receive anywhere from five to ten days of Pancha Karma. If you have only 3-5 days available, you will still experience great benefits.

Seven (or increments of seven) is the optimum because there are seven constituents that make up the body, they are, in order from superficial to deep: plasma, blood, muscle, adipose (fat), bone, nervous system tissue, and reproductive tissue. Each day works on a consecutively deeper tissue, thus for a 'complete' PK you need at least seven days. The Ayurvedic Center of Hawaii offers PK from one to twenty one days.

Where do I stay during my retreat?

We have the convenience of being on the same property as the Hanalei Colony Resort.  They have spacious 2-bedroom condominiums for reasonable prices.  Please see our accommodations page for more details. 

Do I continue to take my vitamins during PK?

Before making any changes to your lifestyle, please consult your primary physician. With that said, it is generally not advised that you take vitamins during PK and for several days after that.

What can I expect during Pancha Karma?

Ayurveda acknowledges that everyone is different, so what you experience will be unique to you. People who receive PK each year have varying experiences.

How should I dress?

There is no need to dress up here because your retreat is all about relaxation and rejuvenation. Be comfortable. Bring appropriate attire for before and after treatments, yoga, relaxation etc. In Hawaii it is customary to take off your shoes before you enter a dwelling so we recommend that you bring slippers/flip flops.

How can I take my experience home?

During your completion consultation we make suggestions for your self-care program. Our goal is to give you new skills and offer innovative approaches to being more mindful in your everyday life. Without focusing on it, you'll discover new things about yourself during your stay. The Ayurveda/Pancha Karma process reveals many interesting & wonderful ideas for refining your old self-care program. Insights come naturally, ideas about the foods you eat and ways of being flow more readily.

Radiant Health Awaits You at The Ayurveda Center of Hawaii 
& Hanalei Day Spa

You'll love visiting our unique location and cherish the individual attention and quality service you'll receive when you are here. Choose your favorites from a list of a la carte treatments, Ayurvedic consultations, and retreats for individuals, couples and groups.