A Peek Into Somatheeram, Where Ayurveda Is Redefined For The Global Traveller
In 1985, when wellness was still a whisper on the global stage, Somatheeram reimagined Ayurvedic healing not within the walls of a clinic but against the rhythm of the Arabian Sea. What began as a bold idea to house an Ayurveda hospital in a resort setting has since blossomed into a pioneering institution that draws seekers from around the world. At the helm is Baby Mathew, whose four-decade journey with Somatheeram has balanced ancient wisdom with modern demands. In this conversation, he reflects on why Panchakarma remains vital, how personalisation defines care, and why sustainability is as integral to healing as the therapies themselves.
Somatheeram pioneered the concept of an ‘Ayurveda hospital in a resort ambience’ back in 1985. What inspired this vision, and how has it evolved over the past four decades?
In 1985, I recognised a growing global interest in wellness and holistic health. My vision was to blend traditional Ayurvedic healing with the tranquility of a resort setting. This concept was revolutionary at the time, creating a space where people could not only rejuvenate their bodies but also experience healing for the mind and spirit. Over the past four decades, this vision has expanded, with Somatheeram constantly innovating while staying true to the core principles of Ayurveda. From its humble beginnings, the retreat has grown into a globally recognised institution, welcoming thousands of visitors from all over the world every year, offering a seamless integration of authentic Ayurveda, Yoga, nature, and modern wellness.
Panchakarma, Rasayana, and Kayakalpa therapies are central to the healing philosophy at Somatheeram. How do these ancient treatments remain relevant—and even essential—today?
Panchakarma, Rasayana, and Kayakalpa are the cornerstone of Somatheeram’s therapeutic offerings, and they remain highly relevant due to their deep, holistic approach to health. In today’s fast-paced world, stress, environmental toxins, and poor lifestyle choices are the primary causes of many chronic illnesses. Panchakarma, with its detoxification process, helps remove these toxins, restoring balance to the body. Rasayana, the rejuvenating therapy, is essential for combating the effects of ageing and environmental stress, helping guests maintain vitality and longevity. Kayakalpa, the therapy for life renewal, focusses on rejuvenating the body at a cellular level, promoting not only physical health but emotional and mental wellness, too. These therapies are timeless because they target the root cause of imbalance rather than just symptoms, making them essential in an age where preventive health is more important than ever.
With 42 doctors and 280 therapists on-site, how do you ensure personalised care and consistency in treatment outcomes for guests from around the world?
At Somatheeram, personalised care is at the heart of every guest’s experience. Each guest undergoes a comprehensive consultation with one of our highly experienced doctor teams, who assess not only their physical symptoms but also their emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. This holistic approach allows us to design a customised treatment plan tailored to the individual. The consistency of treatment outcomes is ensured by a robust system of ongoing training for our therapists, who work in close collaboration with the medical team. Regular follow-ups and evaluations throughout the duration of each guest’s stay ensure that the treatments remain effective and adjustments are made as necessary on daily consultation. Our medical professionals and therapists, who are deeply rooted in Ayurvedic principles, ensure that the care remains consistent, whether for a wellness retreat or a long-term healing process.
Somatheeram is one of the few Ayurveda retreats with NABH accreditation and GMP-certified medicine production. How do these certifications enhance guest trust and the overall wellness experience?
The NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers) accreditation and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices)-certified medicine production are a testament to Somatheeram’s commitment to excellence in healthcare. These certifications reflect our adherence to stringent international standards in both medical care and the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines. For our guests, this ensures that they are receiving the highest quality of care in a safe and well-regulated environment. The certification enhances trust by demonstrating that we are not only adhering to the best practices in Ayurveda but are also continually updating our facilities and processes to meet international standards and the evolving needs of our guests. These standards elevate the entire health and wellness experience, ensuring peace of mind for those seeking transformative healing.
Ayurveda and yoga are supported by a strong food philosophy here. How do you work with chefs and doctors to design meals that are not just nourishing but therapeutic as well?
At Somatheeram, food is considered an essential part of healing. Ayurveda teaches that food is medicine, and every meal is carefully crafted to support the body’s natural balance. Our chefs and dietician doctors collaborate closely with the medical team to design meals based on each guest's Ayurvedic constitution and their specific health needs. For example, guests with digestive issues may receive foods that are easy to digest and nourish the gut, while those undergoing detoxification may be served light, cleansing dishes. Herbs, spices, and seasonal ingredients are carefully selected to align with the guest’s dosha (body constitution), ensuring that each meal serves not only as nourishment but as a therapeutic experience. This holistic approach to food contributes significantly to the overall effectiveness of our treatments.
Sustainability is clearly woven into Somatheeram’s DNA—from eco-conscious architecture to local community engagement. Could you share some key practices that reflect this ethos?
Sustainability is a key pillar at Somatheeram, both in terms of environmental impact and social responsibility. Our eco-conscious architecture integrates natural materials and energy-efficient design, minimising our carbon footprint while creating a harmonious space that blends with the surrounding landscape. We prioritise organic farming and source ingredients from local, sustainable farms to ensure that the food we serve is not only healthy but supports the local economy. Additionally, we engage in various community development initiatives, such as providing training and employment opportunities for local residents and supporting educational programs. These practices reflect our commitment to preserving the environment and uplifting the community while providing a space for guests to connect with nature and culture.
With nearly 40 years of legacy and multiple awards, how do you see the future of Ayurvedic wellness evolving, and what role will Somatheeram play in that journey?
As the world becomes more health-conscious and aware of the importance of preventive care, Ayurveda’s relevance is poised to grow even further. The future of Ayurvedic wellness lies in blending ancient knowledge with modern science, and Somatheeram is at the forefront of this evolution. We are continuously researching and developing new therapies while staying true to the principles of Ayurveda. Our role in the future of Ayurvedic wellness will be to continue to provide a sanctuary for those seeking holistic healing while also educating people worldwide about the profound benefits of Ayurveda. We aim to expand our global reach, providing access to authentic Ayurvedic treatments while contributing to the development of the wellness industry through innovation, sustainability, and community engagement.
