It [Panchakarma] was a unique experience of allowing myself to be quiet and uninvolved with day to day life. I had the opportunity to just be. At times it was emotionally and physically uncomfortable. But I felt very cared for every step of the wya. My questions and concerns were answered. As eac hday passed I noticed it was a little hard to continue to accept all the tender care from the massage therapists. I learned a lot of new things and I cherish this precious opportunity that I had to relax and let go. I am very grateful that I was able to experience this. Panhakarma is a unque approach to our health and our life. Thank you, C.S.
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The [Panchakarma] therapists were knowledgeable, friendly, helpful and had a wonderful touch. All my treatments were beautiful. I liked the renewal I feel from Panchakarma. ~ R.C., August 2009, Panchakarma Patient.
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The therapist were all tremendous. The walking embodiment of generosity and caring... Surprisingly, the ginger drops in my sinuses seemed to be one of the most impactful treatments energy wise. ~ A.M., Panchakarma Patient. August 2009
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[Panchakarma] was blessed - everyone was kind, patient and extremely knowledeable. It was very orderly and calming. I was thankful I had a peaceful place to sit and collect my thoughts after PK treatment and meeting with Dr. Douillard. My meeting with John: he has amazing insight and is wonderful. The consults were 50% of the experience. He is a gift and he brings his complete gift with the treatments. ~ A.F., June 2009, Panchakarma Patient
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My experience of Panchakarma was renewal, silence, and moments of pure bliss. The therapists really were fantastic. Their skill and focus were significantly superior to my previous experiences with Panchakarma (which were still pretty great!). I think all of the written content [Welcome Packet} and materials presented at orientation has wonderful information. ~ W.T., June 2009, Panchakarma Patient
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[Panchakarma] Wow... I guess I would sum it up as I arrived here as a caterpillar and through your care and knowledge and kindness, I'm leaving as a butterfly. Thank you for setting the real woman inside me free! I DO feel rejuvenated!! Logistically though - I'm really happy that you have all the details worked out: food delivery, LookOut Inn, schedule, supplies for treatments, printed instructions, etc. That all made the experience stress-free. ~ J.W., Panchakarma Patient, May 2009
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I am really impressed with the teamwork at LifeSpa: the all-around friendliness and loving caring, the grounded calm treatments, and efficient use of the space at LifeSpa. ~ C.S., Panchakarma Patient, May 2009
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After reading about LifeSpa's Panchakarma in Yoga Journal I was clear it was something I would do as soon as possible. I had high expectations, and those expectations were met in all ways, and exceeded in others. The commitment to the integrity and discipline of the PK practice was evident in every step of the process, starting from the inquiry, registration and treatment process. The commitment level of the "practitioners (for lack of another word) was evident, whether it was in their uniformed, consistent delivery of the treatment or their amazing heartfelt care demonstrated on all levels, most notably through the loving power of their touch.
I was particularly happy to work with Dr. Douillard and to hear a number of times of instances where he chose integrity of the process vs. mass appeal. In today's world of mass "enlightenment", knowing that a leader / teacher / guide is absolutely committed to maintaining the integrity of the process is refreshing.
I loved being cared for by the staff … on all levels. The acceptance, no matter how seemingly trivial or mundane my requests, they served me with the utmost care and attention.
On a more general note I want to thank each and every one of you for the great experience. I am sitting on the plane - a rather bumpy ride I might add - and I remain relaxed and grounded. I also notice the tension in my stomach wondering what this re-entry will be like. But, I have a newfound acceptance for what is … built on a stronger sense of awareness. Thank you for how you support me and others to be … whole. What a gift!
~ T.B., Panchakarma Patient, April 2009
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My panchakarma at LifeSpa allowed me to quiet myself and dive in. My body and soul have been cleansed. :-) I had some treatments that truly helped me with some issues I have been experiencing - especially with my sinuses. I am very peaceful and refreshed.
The therapists were amazing! They truly cared about me and wanted to make sure I got the most from my treatments. They connected with me and cared about my well-being. The individual time with Dr. Douillard was so helpful. He is so compassionate and down to earth. He really helped me to understand some concepts I was struggling with. Tauna and Jessica were awesome at answering questions! So pleasant!
Bless your whole team! What a gift this has been for me!
~A.C., Panchakarma Patient, March 2009
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[Panchakarma] Deep self-nurturing with self-inquiry and reaching a state of cellular quiet are not usual activities of our daily life, and it is with profound gratitude and compassion that I gave myself this opportunity for healing my body, mind and emotions through panchakarma. Far more than a luxury, this time of healing work was intensely mindful, lovingly given and received, and cleared my cells of damaging unneeded and un-usueful toxins. I have an enormous opportunity now to carry this new way of thinking and behaving towards myself into fruition. I can now build on a strong foundation.
The solitude... the mindful activities on my mat and at LifeSpa. The treatments were amazing and sacred time for me. I loved the oils!! And I like the effect I am feeling from this work - calmer, clearer, stronger, more confident in my ability to stay well and connected to my higher self. I've felt the closest to my natural state on a cellular level than ever before. Thank you very much. Me ke aloha.
I had everything I needed and more at the LookOut Inn. Caretakers were friendly, courteous, helpful and respectful of the healing work I was doing. The room was fabulous and helped bring me deeper into my experience with the comfort, magic and warmth of a fireplace. The staff at LifeSpa were beautiful light beings, competent and deeply respectful of their clients and their work environment. I felt cared about and blessed.
~RSC, Panchakarma Patient, March 2009
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[Panchakarma] So amazingly healing! This work of Dr. John’s I have been following since ’97. As a PhD psychologist it is rare that this kind of work opens the emotional heart of matters and allows the depth and courage to let go of places the spirit is stuck. Dr. John is so able to contain the emotions and work with the fear of matters in a divine and masterful way. He is therapist, friend, coach, and wise warrior spirit guide. He assisted me in making a shift on the soul level I have been working on since I was 14.
I loved the fact that the emotional heart stuff is addressed and that Dr. John is comfortable and embraces this aspect and that the staff is able to embrace the emotional depth as well. The encouragement of silence even at the center. The safe sacred space you all create. The loving presence of all here. Diann was an absolute angel of light.
~M.S., Panchakarma Patient, February 2009
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[Panchakarma] Pretty amazing and intense. Easy, effortless yet one of the difficult weeks I have ever experienced. I feel clean - body and thoughts. Clarity is bliss. Breath is clean. What an unexpected journey. Unpredictable and real yet familiar and satisfying. I liked the concern and kindness of the staff, the quiet and gentleness of all the treatments, and learning and doing yoga - never enjoyed it before this week.
~D.S., Panchakarma Patient, January 2009
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[Panchakarma] From my 1st phone call to Tauna to my last meeting with John, everyone was helpful, kind, skilled and welcoming. It was an experience that has changed me for the best... This was the answer I had been searching for. I finally feel I am on the right path. Thank you! I liked most John's amazing ability to say exactly what I needed to hear and Time with myself. I usually am always doing something and never am alone with me. It was insightful and I think I like her!"
~MEA, December 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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"[Panchakarma] Amazing! Magical! Fantastic! I only wish that my life journey had taken me here sooner. I found the whole experience profoundly moving and transformative, with elements I can take with me for everyday life. Such peace, such clarity, such love fills my body to overflowing! Thank you for such an inspiring experience.
I liked the opportunity to explore my inner self in a peaceful environment, the luxurious treatments and all of the wonderful helpful and loving staff.
~ GVR, December 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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[Panchakarma] "My Dear One, Thank you deeply for caring for me.... This week gave way for many blossoms to open... some still in a bud quietly waiting, some well on their way, and a few wide open gloriously shouting their new song!
I leave LifeSpa and the Warriors of Love with a deep know Spirit constantly invites me to be me!
I am filled with gratitude for the help and support in accepting those divine invitations.
With love and a cup of laughter," ~ S.K., November, 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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Dear John,
As I sit in peace to thank you for a transformational week of Panchakarma I must also comment on your stupendous chiropractic/body work technique of A.R.T. A stream of energy has opened up and I felt release in my neck, shoulders and hips. My head has more mobility and clarity. So you can be assured I'll be taking full advantage of releasing these jaw muscles which I know house much of my emotional pain.
Panchakarma has opened many doors into my own personal growth and into my life as a health counselor. I will continue to practice the life of Ayurveda ... I appreciate your wisdom and extreme patience you bring to your practice. I feel your sincerity to share your journey with everyone you encounter. So best wishes to you John and many thanks for your healing gift to this world. Your gift is creating an infinite ripple effect!
~Lots of Love, Lynda,
October 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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Tauna, Stacy & Office Staff, Thank you for all the calls, emails, materials, etc. As an admin person, I know you are the backbone that supports everything - and you do it was sweet spirits. It is appreciated! many Blessings, VK, September 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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[Panchakarma] Calming to mind, body and spirit. All the staff were friendly, competent and caring. Attention to detail was appreciated. Good amount of downtime for contemplation, journaling, yoga, breathing and meditation. As well as not having to wait in between treatments. I liked the feeling of being emptied and filled at the same time. I feel terrific! Looking forward to seeing the benefits of these days take hold and grow in wellness for my mind, body and spirit.
Much appreciation, V.W., September 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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After reading John's paper The Psycho-Physiology of Stress I could see John knew what he was talking about but really I'd heard some of it before and as good as it all sounded didn't believe any of it was really possible for me to experience. I mean come on - "eliminate stress from one's life, free the body of disease, put the Supreme Self in the driver's seat and hand over the reins, Feel you can use your life for what it was intended, Self Realization...." Yeah, right! Heard that before. What seemed impossible to me on Day One become a living reality for me by Day 7.
The Self Inquiry for me was the missing piece. I understand it is the combination of all the parts of the program that brings about this amazing shift within but they were as if setting the state for this very simple noticing of the truth of myself, my T4rue Nature, became clear to me. The Self Inquiry along with John's laser like focus that guided and supported me in this dawning. Diann was amazing in this regard as well. I feel like I've come out of some dream that was so limited and constricted and feel so completely different and actually ready to embrace life again.
Thank you from my heart for this extraordinary journey home to myself!
I very much appreciated the silence in the treatment room. It seemed to give permission I was needing to really let go and Be Still. The team is wonderfully respectful and in sync with the transformative process that is occurring, putting so much attention and caring into every action they perform of the procedures.
Ayurveda is for me a powerful and complete program and offers what I have been longing for myself but did not know that it actually works! John's particular packaging of this ancient knowledge suits my time and culture and feels like he has brought something ancient and true forward for us now; in the way it was originally intended to be practiced.
~E.L., Panchakarma Patient, September 2008
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The Spa of Life: A Panchakarma Tale
(Offered by one of our recent Panchakarma patients)
Once upon a time there was a weary traveler who was heavy from the burdens of life she carried, and her body was wearing down.. She had tried to lighten her load with many different prescriptions but had found no relief. She knew her body had a wisdom of its own, but could find no one who addressed it the way she felt it needed. She knew there was a body, mind, spirit connection and that something was not in sync in her own system, but alas she was at a loss as to where to turn or what to do She was becoming more weary and discouraged as the days went on. One day her devoted husband, who wanted his wife well again, was led to some reading material. He offered it to his wife and she sat and read. She read of a healing in a distant land and it all sounded so familiar and right. She saw the Founder of this healing place in a vision and she knew she could trust him by his honest eyes and clear heart. He said, “Come to the Spa of Life and we will tend to your weary bones and heavy heart. We will support you at all levels of your being.” With just those words alone she could feel her body respond and knew that this was the right treatment for her.
She met the Guardians of the Threshold for the Spa of Life from a distance, as they made the final preparations for her arrival. She could feel their hands of support reach out over the miles. Their loving kindness touched her heart and helped to begin to lift the weight from her. When she arrived at the Spa of Life they sat like beautiful Sphinxes of the Nile—noble presence and grace, welcoming all who came. She was taken in and the process began.
Each day she would meet the healing women who delivered the PK. There was the Living Goddess, the Eternal Mother, the Earthly Angel and their two selfless helpers who floated in and out without a word. Each delivered their spiritual blessings in their own special way. Loving hands stroked, caressed, warmed, all assisting in the most gentle and sincere way. Heaven touches the earth in their presence.
And lest we not forget the sprightly gnome tucked away in her little cave in the front. Brightness emanates from her cave where she quietly works to help keep the Spa of Life running smoothly. Do call her out so you too can bask in her radiance!
And during this time of nurturing and healing, the weary traveler spent time in conversation with the Founder of the Spa of Life. He shared his Healer’s Wisdom from his travels and years of study and the knowledge he had gained. She came to understand that he was a Keeper of Breathing Techniques. He spoke of the everlasting truth, that Breath is essential to life, as we the seekers, wish to live it. He offered her the key to be able to unlock all that was restricting her and she was able to say; “Yes, I gratefully accept this gift.” She readied herself to leave and stood up to give him a hug. She looked to them all and said simply “ I love you. Thank you.” And as she turned to go, she felt the constricting bands burst from around her heart and a rush of loving light filled her.
Namaste, Suzanne, Panchakarma Patient
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Thank you, John! Guess what? I went to my NP and got tested. I said test me again because I feel like the virus has served its purpose and now I can release it. Four days later I called for the results and everything was NEGATIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She had never seen that before and doesn't know how to explain it. Have you had that happen before? I was f@#%ing ecstatic! I feel like a born again woman. I had done rain drop therapy and visualization from Adam the Dreamhealer but I don't think it was until after the panchakarma and herbs when my energy came back (oh yeah, it's come back full force and I am again so f#$%ing excited!) that I felt my body had performed a miracle. :) Sure enough it has. So thank you and your staff so much.
With all of the hope that has been instilled in me, I would like to share it. I am calling Tauna to make an appointment for a three way phone consult with one of my clients…. Let's see what we can do for her! I did Bikram yoga tonight and kept thinking how right it is for me to study Ayurveda. I desire strongly to get studying!!!
Thanks and Love, Sara
February 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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Namaste John,
I miss you all already! I am flying to Florida this morning for another of our Teacher Training weekends. I feel good, and I lost 3 pounds during the Panchakarma, so we have about 22 more to go. Still releasing some mucus and feeling like apana-girl, but it all is good.
Really, I want to say thank you. I feel like I have been looking for this deep work for quite some time, and I am very happy to have found it with you. I feel so internally quiet, and it is different than the quiet of my regular meditation or my meditations with Ma. It feels like cellular quiet, like my body is being addressed in a sacred way that had been missing before.
So thank you. Truly, deeply, fully, thank you.
Sadaka pitta, sadaka pitta, sadaka pitta, my new mantra. You have my heart. Love, Jaya
February 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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Dear John,
This week of Panchakarma has been an incredible week!
All the years of practicing yoga and meditation has surfaced a lot of “stuff” that has already been dissolved from the power of the silence and the power of Love. Thus, it seems that more focus was given to listening to be shown how ego has operated and kept me stuck. Having this time with no demands, no stress – just to quietly observe my thoughts has been so helpful. It has brought to a greater awareness the insidious monkey mind. How it keeps us captured and will go in any direction to win our attention.
I needed this time to myself to tend to myself in humble surrender. Much has come to the surface to be considered and released at every level of my being. Yes, the heart has been opened more fully. Compassion flows for a world held in the prison of their own minds. With compassion there is understanding and with understanding, there is Love
My heart is filled and overflowing with gratitude for this experience. I feel better than I’ve felt for years. I feel cleansed from the inside out and from head to toe.
It has left me empty to be filled with all that the Spiritual Universe offers so abundantly every moment.
Having the time with you was important to fully experience the PK. Every moment together was a precious gift filled with knowledge and an expansion of awareness. You added a depth of Consciousness to complete the PK experience.
I leave with a physical sensation of an opened heart space, knowing a world of dualistic thinking awaits me for the challenge. But the ”reins have been passed to the driver of the chariot.” The relationship with the Supreme Self has been nurtured and deepened – ready to stand firm in knowing the Truth and the power of a still Mind.
So thank you dear friend. You are an amazing gift to the world. In the understanding of Oneness we know that a step of transformation for one individual touches all mankind and lifts the collective awareness of all.
With much love and gratitude, Namaste, Susan
February 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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John –
I just wanted to thank you again for an amazing week of Panchakarma. It was everything I wanted and more - I don't know how it could have been any better.
Being around you is truly inspirational and I have a much deeper appreciation of Ayurveda just from this brief experience. I also really appreciate your heartfelt insights throughout the week. What you said about my heart after reading my pulse was dead on - I was taken aback - your depth in insight as well as knowledge is truly fantastic. Thank you also for allowing me to sit in on your conference call and other recordings.
It was a real treat for me to get a chance to deepen my understanding of Ayurveda and learn more of what you're about.
Sandra
April 2007, Panchakarma Patient
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Thanks John,
Thanks, too, for your great health care and advice, I feel like 2008 will be a healthier year for me because of the great Panchakarma.
Many blessings to you and your family for the Holidays.
Nancy
December 2007, Panchakarma Patient
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Hi John:
I hope this finds you well.
First, of course, I wanted to send gratitude your way for my moving week with you and your team. It was what I needed and wanted and I've returned to NY with refreshed energy, a deeper sense of how I want to move through the world, and clearer and more balanced focus for what's at hand. I'm committed to doing panchakarma every year!
I've integrated a morning practice of meditation and self massage that's wonderful…. I've actually shed some pounds effortlessly by not eating after 7 at night and scaling back to 2 meals a day.
Warmly, Park
October 2007, Panchakarma Patient
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Dear Diann, Cathy, Sarah and Linda [Panchakarma Therapists],
Thank you for the tremendous amount of love, support and peace you offered me this week. I am so impressed by the work you do and the great balance of professionalism and compassion that you bring to it. You are true healers. I feel blessed to have found myself in your hands.
With appreciation and Love, Amy
February 2008, Panchakarma Patient
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