Arriving at an Ayurvedic retreat in Bengaluru after years of anxiety, poor sleep, and unresolved addiction issues felt like stepping into a different world. The smell of incense and ghee replaced the smell of alcohol I'd been carrying. Within hours of arrival, I was in a consultation with Dr. Anjali, who asked simple questions and listened without judgment.
The intake process included Abhyanga — a full-body oil massage that lasted 90 minutes. My nervous system, which had been in fight-or-flight for years, finally began to settle. The oil was warm, the hands were skilled, and something in me softened.
This is where the real work begins.
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1.5 hours of sleep, treatment refusal, a temple behind a bodega, and the anxiety of thinking about leaving. Day 6 at the Ayurvedic retreat in Bengaluru.
Read article →JournalA $6 specialist. An echocardiograph showing heart swelling. 18,000 steps and half a quinoa ball for dinner. And the quiet admission that I still can't picture a world where I'm not drinking.
Read article →JournalOne week in. Five and a half hours of sleep. Watched the Spurs beat Oklahoma City. Eating only vegetables. The Virechana protocol begins tomorrow. Day 7 at the Ayurvedic retreat in Bengaluru.
Read article →Journal3.5 hours of sleep, back pain gone, buttermilk treatment, and the unsettling realization that I need to lean in harder. Day 5 at the Ayurvedic retreat in Bengaluru.
Read article →JournalFirst good night of sleep. Eight hours. My resting heart rate was 74. And then my digestive system staged a full revolt.
Read article →ArticleThe best teas for Vata — ashwagandha, ginger, cardamom, jatamansi — and when to drink them for digestion, anxiety, and sleep. The complete Vata tea guide.
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