The following is a guest blog post and a personal healing journey written by Bianca Vickers.
Thirteen months of relentless 60+-hour workweeks had taken their toll on me. Although I thought I was managing my stress well—eating healthier and exercising when I could—my body told a different story. I woke up one day barely able to sit up in bed, my knees in pain with every step. I had no explanation for why my health was deteriorating so rapidly. It was alarming. I knew something was wrong, but I didn’t know what.
During my notice period – after deciding to leave my demanding job as a nanny governess in Cyprus – I had a conversation that would change everything. The grandmother of the family I worked for mentioned a detox retreat, something she had turned to when facing serious health issues with no clear diagnosis. She described an intensive cleansing process, which I later discovered was Panchakarma, the deep Ayurvedic detox designed to restore balance in the body. Intrigued, I began researching Ayurveda, and the more I read, the more it resonated with me. It seemed like a completely different approach to healing, focusing on the root cause rather than just symptoms.
Choosing a Better Way to Heal
When I returned to England, I underwent medical tests, hoping for answers. But the doctors found little beyond some abnormal bloodwork. Visits to an osteopath and physiotherapist didn’t bring any real improvement either. With no clear medical explanation for my worsening pain and fatigue, I felt lost. That’s when I knew I needed to take my health into my own hands.
If I was committing to this, I wanted to do it properly. Everything I read suggested that a full 21-day healing through Ayurveda retreat was the most effective way to experience true healing. I searched extensively for the right place, and one name kept appearing – Veda5. Something about it felt right. Ideally, I wanted to go to Kerala, the birthplace of Ayurveda, but by the time I decided, the only availability left was at their Veda 5 Goa resort. Thankfully, the doctors there were Keralan, deeply rooted in the Ayurvedic tradition.
The Lead-Up to the Retreat
As my departure date approached, I felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness. I hoped this retreat would be the answer I was looking for, but doubts crept in. Would this actually help me? Would it be worth the investment? What if it wasn’t as it seemed? Having experienced scams in the past while traveling, I couldn’t shake the fear that this might not be the healing sanctuary I envisioned.
Yet, as I arrived in India, something inside me told me to trust the process. I just had to hope this place was real.
When I was collected from the airport, I felt a wave of positivity. A lovely driver from the resort greeted me. The long drive gave me time to reflect on the journey that had led me here. Then, we turned down a little dirt track and finally arrived.
A Warm Welcome
Stepping out of the car, I was met with an unexpected yet touching sight – a welcome board with my name on it. Instantly, a smile spread across my face, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a deep sense of relief. This place was real.
As I walked towards the entrance, I was greeted with warm smiles, kind eyes, and a gentle chorus of “Namaskar.” A small shot of coconut, ginger, and another unfamiliar ingredient was handed to me – a symbolic gesture of arrival. “Here’s to trying new things,” I thought as I took a sip. Rosary beads were placed around my neck, and a golden mark was gently stamped onto my forehead, a ritual that felt both sacred and comforting.
A wave of emotion washed over me when I was finally led to my cottage. This was it. This was where I would spend the next 21 days, focusing on nothing but my healing. As I recorded a voice message and video for my friends, my voice wavered, and my eyes brimming with tears. I could hardly believe it—I was truly here.
For the first time in my life, I was allowing myself to slow down, rest, and heal.
This wasn’t just a retreat. It was the beginning of a new chapter- one of self-love, self-discovery, and transformation.
A Peaceful Sanctuary
The room was spacious and inviting, with a comfortable bed, a dresser, and a private bathroom. But the true gem was the terrace. As I stepped outside, a breathtaking view unfolded before me—a tranquil lake stretching out ahead, reflecting the golden light of the setting sun. Across the water, I could see the yoga studio and energy healing space, places that would soon become part of my daily rhythm. To the right, the dining area and an outdoor area with egg chairs offer a cozy spot to unwind. Sheer white drapes framed the terrace, allowing for privacy while embracing the open air.
This space would soon become my sanctuary—a place to reflect, breathe, and soak in the healing energy of my surroundings.
The surrounding palm trees preserved the retreat’s privacy, creating an atmosphere of absolute tranquility. It truly felt like a “pinch me” moment to realize I would be staying here for three weeks. This peacefulness, combined with the warmth of the country and the beauty of nature, made this a place where I could truly relax and heal.
The Ayurvedic Consultation: Insights into My Dosha
My healing through Ayurveda journey began with a consultation with Dr. Dhanya. Although I had read about pulse readings and their significance, I didn’t quite know what to expect. But when she read my pulse and shared her insights, I was amazed. She perfectly described my physical and mental state, and it was clear that Ayurveda’s holistic approach was exactly what I needed.
The knowledge I had gathered through my research about Ayurveda’s use of nature to heal resonated deeply with me. The process was so different from Western medicine, which was precisely why I had chosen to come here- this path felt right for me.
A Journey of Healing: Treatments and Personal Growth
The treatments began the very same afternoon, and from the first session, I could feel the care and intention behind each therapy. My therapist, Anu, was warm, kind, and patient, especially regarding one of my personal challenges: overcoming self-consciousness around touch. At first, I would laugh nervously during the treatments or ask questions, but Anu’s gentle, caring approach let me slowly relax and let go of those barriers.
As the days passed, the treatments became a place to truly connect with myself. Each therapy felt like a step forward in my healing, and I could feel my body becoming more open to the experience. The turning point came during my sound healing session in the final week when I finally felt the deep relaxation I had been striving for. My chakras, once blocked, were now open, and I left the session feeling at peace, a world away from the self-conscious, restless person who had first arrived.
Ayurvedic Cuisine: A Feast for the Body and Soul
One of the most surprising aspects of my retreat was the food. I had always been curious about Ayurvedic cuisine, and I was amazed at how delicious and nourishing the dishes were, even with their minimal ingredients. Everything was fresh, simple, and carefully crafted to balance the doshas. I could feel the positive effects on my body as I ate, and it was comforting to know that the food supported my healing process.
During the cooking sessions with Pradip, I learned to prepare Ayurvedic dishes. One of the highlights was learning how to make stuffed parathas. I had always loved this dish but never knew how to make it at home. The cooking process became a joyful, mindful experience, and I couldn’t wait to return home and try it with my mum.
Yoga and Meditation: A Journey of Mind and Body
Yoga has always been something I’ve enjoyed, but my body had limits due to painful knees and a sore back. However, with the support of our instructor, Yosh, I began to notice subtle yet profound changes. The moment I felt most proud was when I was able to bend backward without pain, something I had never thought possible due to my physical limitations. Yoga Nidra, or “sleep yoga,” became my daily highlight. It left me feeling deeply rested and energized in a way I had never experienced before.
Meditation was initially a challenge. My overactive mind made it difficult to relax fully. However, something shifted after a 1:1 session with Kajal, where I was guided through activities like body jiggling, dancing, and even speaking gibberish to release pent-up emotions. I began to feel more comfortable in my own skin, letting go of inhibitions and allowing myself to embrace the practice without judgment. By the time we had a group meditation session, I felt a newfound sense of peace and connection.
Sound Healing and Final Reflections: A Journey of Transformation
The sound healing session was a pivotal moment for me. I felt the most relaxed I had ever been in my life. My body was no longer tense, and my mind no longer raced. It was a profound moment of peace and release that I will always cherish. As I prepared to leave, I had a discharge meeting with Dr. Dhanya, where she praised the progress I had made throughout the retreat. She noted my physical and mental transformation, and I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude for how far I had come.
Leaving the retreat was bittersweet. I was sad to say goodbye to the place that had helped me heal, but I left feeling happy and grateful for everything I had learned. Though the healing process continues, I feel like a better version of myself—more connected to my body, mind, and heart.
A New Chapter: Embracing the Ayurvedic Lifestyle
My time at Veda5 was a life-changing experience I will always carry. I’ve learned to appreciate myself more – both mentally and physically. Though my healing journey is ongoing, I feel confident I can continue living in alignment with Ayurveda’s teachings. I am forever grateful to everyone at Veda5 for their support and guiding me through this transformative journey. I can’t wait to return and continue the process of healing, growth, and self-discovery.
Follow Bianca on Instagram @livelife_feelgood or Facebook @livelifefeelgood so she can share more insights and wisdom about Ayurveda’s healing power. She’s on a mission to help others change their lives by working 10-15 hours per week online while earning high commissions. To find out how you can do this, visit her website at www.LiveLifeFeelGood.com.