Spa magic

"It brings a thought from the memory to consciousness, and transfers current experiences into memories. It inspires speech and is the base for laughter and exaltation. Air governs all such functions that involve somatic initiation, intellectual, perception, imagination, motivation and dynamism," says James, who will be training other therapists.

They are light sleepers and physically, "air" people are generally slim.

He says the best treatment to balance "air" is to administer the opposite. Yoga, which slows down and relaxes the body, is suitable.

A boatman catches a fish to show tourists before letting it go.

"Fire" causes allergies and inflammation. It represents the somatic energy and maintains the natural pigmentation of cells. It generates and maintains some natural urges, like hunger, and is responsible for the complexion and suppleness of skin, as well as body temperature.

"Fire" body types are medium-built, and tend to be impatient. Some suffer from baldness or graying of hair.

Physically, "phlegm" types have a larger body frame, slower speech and are slower learners. Their skin is oilier, and they tend to have thick glossy hair.

"This type of body ages more slowly. 'Phlegm' gives mental strength and resistance to diseases," James explains.

He says a physician can only determine approximately 60 percent of a person's body type by analyzing the person physically, checking the person's pulse rate and finding out about the patient's lifestyle. As the doctor gets to know the person better, diagnosis will be easier.

By knowing the body type, an Ayurvedic doctor will be able to prescribe the right treatment. Ayurvedic treatment is a combination of medicine, diet and detoxification/cleansing. A combination of oil and herbal massage, and steam bath, is require as preparation for the cleansing treatment, which is divided into above neck, stomach and back, hip to feet, and full body.

"Everyone is different and requires different treatment. Each of our treatments is personalized," says James, adding that it is important to keep in touch with your therapists after a resort stay so that the treatment is sustainable.

Since April, the resort has offered a complete Ayurveda treatment, known as the Shirodhra, which involves 2.5 liters of oil being poured slowly over your forehead.