SwaSwara, Gokarna
The concept of SwaSwara comes from the first sound of creation, OM, and the resort in Gokarna on Om Beach enables guests to hear the ‘voice of the inner self’. SwaSwara is a sanctuary for one’s Prakruti or the innermost nature of an individual and its goal is to offer a life plan for the ‘reconstruction’ of the mind and body to bring about balance and harmony within.
SwaSwara’s signature programme ‘Swa Wellbeing’ is about learning to rejuvenate the SwaSwara way. This includes deep relaxation which allows one to hear and listen to your ‘Swara’, your inner voice. The programme begins with an introduction to Yogic Kriyas, Yoga Nidra, Pranayama, meditation techniques, guided art and pottery sessions and interactive cooking. It also includes consultations with Ayurveda doctors and lifestyle guidance.
There is a meditation deck on the cliff, also called as a meditation hill. Under the coconut thatch roof, paticipants sit on mud packed steps for guided sunrise meditation and this space offers a 180 degrees view of the scenic Om beach. The Yoga Shala is a dedicated center for Asana classes which is spread over 1600 sq ft and there is a circular, well lit space for visitors to read from an eclectic collection of books and is the only wi-fi enabled area in SwaSwara.
Some of their facilities include a large oxidised swimming pool and SwaSwara’s art studio is an interesting space for visitors to explore their creative side. Under the guidance of the resident artist, guests can express their creative thoughts through clay modeling, painting and sculpting.
SwaSwara believes in the proverb ‘you are what you eat’ and for this purpose the diet provided here is well-planned and appropriate. Guests can visit the interactive kitchen gallery to understand and partake in the intensive and complex culinary process dedicated to wellbeing. All the produce comes from the organic vegetable farm at SwaSwara and the neighbourhood consists of seasonal tropical fruits and freshly caught seafood. Dairy, eggs and oils are limited in its preparations. The menu does not feature meats, hard liquor, refined sugar or refined flour.
SwaSwara can be reached within three and a half hours from the nearest airport Dabolim, Goa and the nearest railway station is Gokarna and Kumta.