Guidelines
Essential guidelines for smooth navigation: rules, procedures, and best practices to follow for a hassle-free experience.
Namaste – A Greeting from the Heart
At Periyar Ayurveda, we embrace the ancient and traditional Indian greeting – the “namaste.” To perform “Namaste”, place your right palm on your left chest and gently node and say “Namaste.” The word “Namaste” is composed of two parts: “nama,” meaning “bow” or “reverential salutation,” and “te,” meaning “to you.” Together, it can be interpreted as “I bow to you” or “I honor the divine in you.
“Namaste” also involves placing your hands together in a prayer-like position in front of your chest and slightly bowing your head. This gesture signifies respect, humility, and gratitude. In a broader sense, “namaste” can also convey a sense of unity, acknowledging the divine spark within each person.
Guidelines for Public Spaces
We embrace diversity and honor the traditions and cultures of all our guests. In India and many other countries in the subcontinent, resting your feet on tables and chairs is seen as disrespectful and unhygienic. Please refrain from doing so in shared areas such as the lobby, restaurant, and river lounge. We kindly ask guests to dress appropriately when accessing public spaces like the riverfront, restaurant, reception, and lounges. Swimwear or revealing clothing is not permitted in the restaurant or reception areas. When exploring outside the resort, we recommend dressing modestly in accordance with Indian cultural norms.
Lifestyle Guidelines
In keeping with Ayurvedic principles, we promote a lifestyle free from alcohol and tobacco. As such, we do not serve alcohol within the resort, and we kindly ask that you refrain from smoking during your stay. We hope you will be inspired to continue these healthy practices even after your visit.
Preserving Tranquility
The serene ambiance at River View Retreat by Periyar Ayurveda is highly valued by our guests. We kindly request that you keep noise levels low in your room, the restaurant, and other shared areas. To maintain the peaceful environment, we also discourage playing loud music or making loud video calls in public spaces.
Protecting the Riverfront Serenity
We kindly ask that you avoid purchasing goods from local vendors along the riverfront or in outdoor areas. Their activities may disrupt the tranquil atmosphere that our guests cherish.
Room Allocation Guidelines
Room assignments are finalized closer to your arrival date, based on availability and a “first come, first served” basis. While we do our best to honor your preferences, we kindly ask for your understanding if your requested room is unavailable due to earlier bookings.
Respecting the Grounds and River Safety
To preserve the beauty of our gardens and lawns, we kindly ask that guests avoid walking on them. Additionally, please exercise caution while diving or swimming in the river to ensure your safety.
Preparing for Ayurveda
Ayurveda is a holistic science, and it’s important to prepare your body and mind for treatment. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your Ayurveda healing journey and make the most of your restorative therapy days:
- Mindful Packing: Bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton or linen, which are ideal for relaxation and therapies. Avoid synthetic materials that may cause discomfort during treatments.
- Pre-Arrival Detox: A few days before your arrival, try to reduce your intake of caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, and heavy meats. Opt for lighter, plant-based meals to prepare your body for the detoxifying therapies ahead.
- Embrace a Slower Pace: Mentally prepare yourself to slow down. Ayurveda is about finding balance and tranquility, so allow yourself to fully disconnect from the hustle of daily life.
- Hydrate Well: Start increasing your water intake a few days before your visit. Staying well-hydrated supports your body's natural detoxification processes and enhances the effects of Ayurvedic treatments.
- Set Intentions: Reflect on what you hope to achieve from your Ayurveda journey—whether it's physical healing, mental clarity, or emotional balance. Setting clear intentions will help you focus and deepen your healing experience.
- Limit Electronics: Consider reducing your use of electronic devices to help you stay present and fully engage with the healing environment. This will also enhance your connection with nature and your inner self.
- Be Open to the Experience: Ayurveda may introduce you to new practices and philosophies. Approach your therapies with an open mind and be receptive to learning and trying new things.
Tipping Etiquette
At Periyar Ayurveda, we have a common tipping system to ensure fair distribution among our team. We kindly ask that guests refrain from tipping individual staff members directly. If you’d like to express your gratitude, please place your tip in an envelope and drop it in one of the designated tipping boxes located in the Reception or Ayurveda Center.
For those wishing to tip their therapist specifically, please write the therapist’s name on the envelope before placing it in the Ayurveda Center’s tipping box.
Important Reminder: Please remember to bring sufficient cash in Euros or your preferred currency if you wish to provide a tip.