In the austere, ashram-like atmosphere of Kalari Kovilakom, there are no game rooms, no shopping expeditions, no television sets. The evenings are alive with chanting and hymns, unsullied by the sounds of the city.
Occasionally, artistic performances are held combining the local customs and heritage together with the old Kerala tradition of elaborate dresses and extreme make up.
In fact, apart from these post-dinner gatherings where guests and staff alike participate, there is nothing, absolutely nothing, to disturb your new-found inner silence.
However, one can practise:
Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu is one of the oldest martial arts traditions in the world.
In fact, many historians believe that it was the Buddhist monk Bodhidharma ( Daruma to the Japanese), founder of Zen, who first took it to the Far East. Over the centuries, the form was expanded and developed, finally becoming the basis for Kung Fu and other martial arts.
'Kalari' means school or arena, and 'payat' is skill training, exercise or practice.
There are regular training sessions in Kalaripayattu, held in a traditional covered pit arena on the grounds .
So not only can you watch the experts at play, you can even take a crack at Kalaripayattu yourself! Simple Kalari movements are great exercises for strengthening and toning the whole body, and can make your treatments that much more beneficial.
Walking Meditation
Kalari's grounds are criss-crossed with little secluded pathways where you can practice this beautiful meditative technique.
About Kalari Kovilakom