FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About Ayurveda...
Q. How many consultations will I need?
A. This depends on a number of things, such as the condition being treated and how closely you follow the advice given. On average, 3 consultations are needed (the initial consultation and two follow-ups, 3-4 weeks apart). However for some people, more input may be required. You will be taken on a journey to bring your digestive system into optimum working order and rid the body of any toxins that may be causing the complaint. Dietary advice and herbal preparations/medicines may vary according to your progression. It is however your decision to choose when to finish your treatment which is normally when you feel healthy and alive again!
Q. What do I need to talk about during the consultation?
A. An Ayurveda consultation offers you the time and space to discuss all aspects of your life in a safe environment, in order to find the possible root causes of your complaint. This may include your diet, digestion, exercise routines, work, relationships, sleep patterns and medical history. You will not be forced to discuss anything that you are not comfortable with and all information offered will be kept strictly confidential.
Q. Can I just buy the Ayurvedic medicines without a consultation?
A. No. The herbal powders, tablets, tonics and jams are only available following a consultation, in accordance with the advice provided. Some online retailers offer ayurvedic medicines without prescription but please be extremely cautious - you cannot guarantee the quality, potency or ratio of ingredients in these and when taken in the wrong circumstances, quantities or combinations, can prove ineffective or even harmful.
We only offer herbal medicines prepared with the highest quality ingredients from known sources that are sustainably wildcrafted in Sri Lanka and these are offered with years of expert knowledge and experience of how they react in a western body and lifestyle.
Items you can purchase without a consultation include centella face cream, sudantha toothpaste, samahan and other Ayurvedic teas, kesha hair and scalp oil and muscle guard herbal cream. Therapeutic oils can also be purchased following a massage with Sarah.
Q. I am on medication from the doctor, should I stop taking it?
A. No, you may find that after a while of taking Ayurvedic treatment, you no longer need to take your medication but this should only be done under the close guidance of your GP.
Q. Will I have to go onto a strict diet?
A. No, you will be provided a list of foods to avoid and a list of foods that pacify your complaint. You may be shocked to discover which foods may be aggravating your condition but as you become more balanced, you will notice that your body no longer craves those types of foods. Once you are back to full health, your digestive system should be able to handle all types of foods again (in moderation) but now you will have a greater awareness of what to cut out when initial signs and symptoms of unbalance appear.
Q. Do you have insurance?
A. Yes, I have liability insurance cover with Balens and I am a member of The Association of Ayurvedic Professionals UK.
About Massage...
Q. Are you currently able to offer Ayurvedic Massage treatments?
A. Yes, massage treatments are currently available with a number of COVID safety measures in place. Please check the massage page for updated information, which is also emailed to you following a booking.
Government guidance is followed and safety measures are updated regularly, according to national and local need.
Here are a few contraindications for Ayurvedic massage:
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High fever
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Severe heart or kidney disease
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Deep x-ray therapy
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Osteoporosis
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Severe skin conditions
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Severe inflammation
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Atherosclerosis or thrombosis
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Cancer
Q. I have read the contraindications and some apply to me, does this mean I shouldn't have a massage?
A. Not necessarily. For example, if you suffer with a skin condition on the feet, it wouldn't be recommended to massage this area (although therapeutic oils could be applied without massage) but the rest of the body should be fine for massage. Similarly, if you suffer with rheumatoid arthritis, it is not recommended to massage the affected areas, although therapeutic oils and hot poultice treatments can be applied to help reduce inflammation and stiffness.
If you have any concerns or queries, please get in touch with Sarah and she can advise you individually.
Q. I have booked a massage but haven't received a confirmation email. Am I booked in?
A. Your email confirmation is sent instantly after booking. If you don't receive an email within a few minutes, check your spam box and add 'cornwallayurveda@gmail.com' to your contacts. Sarah will also email you prior to your massage with some additional information.
Q. What should I wear for the massage?
A. Ayurvedic massage uses plenty of therapeutic oils, some of which may stain clothing. Therefore, wear old clothes and underwear that you are happy if they come into contact with the oil after the massage.
It is also recommended that you bring an old scarf or hat to wear after a head massage treatment, to avoid getting cold when outside.
Q. When is the best time to have a massage?
A. Preference is personal but as a general rule, try to leave at least an hour after eating a meal before the massage and avoid a time when you will be eating a heavy meal or drinking alcohol immediately afterwards (these re-introduce toxins back into the system). Many people also find they are very sleepy or 'zoned-out' after the massage so it's best to book a slot when you have plenty of time just to relax quietly afterwards.
Q. I would like a full body massage but do not like my stomach being touched, can I skip this section?
A. Yes of course. If there are any areas of the body that are sensitive or ticklish you can skip these parts and have more time spent on other areas instead. Just let Sarah know before the massage.
Q. Do I have to be naked for the massage?
A. No. Your modesty will be covered at all times with a towel, and only the area being massaged will be uncovered. You can choose to wear either your own underwear or a disposable thong/shorts.
Q. Is massage suitable for children?
A. Although massage is lovely for babies and children, Sarah only offers treatments for adults.
Q. Is massage suitable during pregnancy?
A. Sarah does not currently offer a pregnancy specific massage.
Q. I work, do you have appointments at weekends or in the evening?
A. Occasional evening appointments are available on request.
Q. Do you offer home visits for massage?
A. Yes, we are now offering massage treatments at your home or holiday accommodation, throughout the Rame Peninsula. Sarah will bring all the equipment and oils required but you are welcome to use your own towels if you prefer. Please allow an extra 30 minutes for the appointment, for Sarah to set-up and pack-up all the equipment. Nearby access to parking is required. For more information about holiday treatments and packages available, please get in touch.
Q. I am allergic to nuts, do you use oils that contain no nuts or seeds?
A. Sesame and coconut are popular base oils used in Ayurvedic massage and many people with nut allergies find that they are ok to use these. However, if you have any allergies, please get in touch with Sarah who can advise you individually and provide ingredients or patch tests if required.
Q. Is it ok if I fall asleep?
A. Yes, due to the very relaxing environment and nature of Ayurvedic massage, many people fall asleep, even if it's just for a short time!
Q. I always feel very tired after a massage, is that normal?
A. Yes, it's just a sign of your body self-healing and taking what it needs. Some people go home and sleep or relax peacefully for hours, others find they need to urinate more frequently which is the body flushing out toxins. Most people find that after 24 hours they feel renewed, refreshed and energised, yet retain a deeper sense of peace and calm.
Q. Do you have insurance?
A. Yes, I have liability insurance cover with Balens and I am a member of The Association of Ayurvedic Professionals UK.
About Yoga...
Q. Are you currently offering yoga classes?
A. Yes, group classes and private sessions are currently available to book.
All classes follow COVID-safety measures to reduce risks to a minimum. These are reviewed and updated regularly.
Sarah is currently unable to provide any equipment so please bring your own yoga mat and any other props that you require to classes. You can use a large towel or blanket for outdoor classes if you don't own a yoga mat and a sock or belt can be used instead of a yoga strap.
Q. What should I wear for the class?
A. Wear comfortable clothing that you can easily move around in with an outer layer that can be added/removed as required. Most people do yoga bare foot but if you prefer wearing socks that's ok, just make sure they are not the slippery kind!
Q. Is it ok to do yoga after a meal?
A. Yoga is best done on an empty stomach so try to leave at least an hour or two after you have eaten before practicing yoga.
Q. I am not very flexible, can I still do yoga?
A. Yes of course! Yoga improves flexibility (amongst other things) but be patient and don't push or force yourself into any positions. It's important to listen to your own body and be compassionate with the level you are at (which will also differ from day-to-day). It's not the end result but the process of getting there that's important. Sarah offers plenty of variations and modifications so you can select the best option for you.
Q. What ages are your classes for?
A. Public indoor classes are suitable for ages 16+
Public outdoor classes are suitable for all ages but children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Private classes are also suitable for all ages, including Parent & Baby classes.
Q. I would like to start private classes with my friend, can we split the cost or is that the price each?
A. The prices given are for 1-1 sessions or for small groups up to 5 people (outdoor classes). If you are booking a class or course to enjoy with a friend, you simply share the cost between you!
Q. I work shifts so cannot commit to a set day or time, can I book a private yoga course and have classes at different times each week?
A. Yes, you can book the sessions at days and times that suit you. If you have specific times in mind, let Sarah know when booking the course and she can confirm availability and block out those slots for you.
Availability is Monday to Friday 7am-7pm but occasional evening slots are available on request.
Q. I have never tried yoga before and not sure which class to attend, what do you recommend?
A. Yoga for Beginners is a good starting point for many but Relax & Restore (restorative yoga) may be more suitable if you have restricted mobility or if you are looking for a class to help recover from illness or simply for relaxation. I would therefore recommend that you get in touch with Sarah who can advise you individually.
All private classes are tailored to your own ability, needs and goals.
Q. I have done a little Hatha Yoga before, would the Vinyasa Flow class be ok for me?
A. Vinyasa Flow is an energetic style of yoga where you move continuously and purposefully between yoga positions connected to the breath, holding each pose for a varied length of time. It is a form of moving meditation, however, for some people the style can be too energetic.
Gentle Vinyasa Flow is a slower-paced class which contains longer holds and less challenging positions.
If you have only done a little yoga before, the Yoga for Beginners course introduces you to the Sun Salutations and flowing sequences linked to the breath, at a slow and steady pace.
If you are an active person then Vinyasa Flow should be fine, just allow yourself a few sessions to 'get into the flow!' and try the free sample class!
Q. Do you play music during your classes?
A. Yes light music is played during the classes. However, if you would prefer no music during your private class, please let Sarah know.
Q. Do you have insurance?
A. Yes I have full liability insurance cover with Balens and I am a member of the Yoga Alliance Professional UK.
About Yoga Retreats...
Please read the Retreat Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking onto a retreat.
Q. Are the retreats suitable for children?
A. Group Retreats are strictly adults only (18+) but one child per geodome is able to stay on the Private Retreats, and welcome to join in with yoga classes and workshops when accompanied by an adult.
Q. Are the retreats suitable for couples?
A. Yes, accommodation on the Eco Retreats is within a private geodome which has a comfortable double and single bed.
On the Bala Brook retreats, there are double rooms available with private en-suite bathrooms which comfortably accommodates a couple.
Q. What are the daily schedules?
A. The retreat timetables will be available soon, although these schedules may be subject to small changes, due to weather and tide restrictions. Confirmed schedules are emailed out to all participants two weeks before the retreat. In general, yoga classes take place every morning and evening, with workshops and activities during the day. Free time is available to explore the area, relax or take a relaxing treatment.
Q. Do I need to bring any yoga equipment?
A. Sarah has a number of yoga mats, straps, blocks and bolsters that are provided for the retreats. However, you are more than welcome to bring any of your own equipment and it is recommended that you bring your own small blanket to drape over you for the relaxation sections.
Q. Do I have to participate in all the yoga classes/activities?
A. No! All yoga classes and activities are optional, so if you decide to give a class, workshop or activity a miss, just let Sarah know on the day so she's not expecting you.
Q. Can I book a massage/consultation during the retreat?
A. Yes, treatments and consultations are available for you to book with Sarah. Slots are limited so it is recommended that you book ahead to avoid disappointment but treatments may also be available on arrival/departure days if you want to lengthen your stay.
Q. Are the retreats suitable for beginners?
A. Yoga and meditation classes on the retreats are suitable for all abilities. Yoga props are provided and modifications or alternative positions offered so you can take your practice to your own level.
It is worth noting however, that there are many different styles of yoga available and Vinyasa Flow is an energetic style of yoga where you move continuously and purposefully between yoga positions connected to the breath, holding each pose for a varied length of time. It is a beautiful form of moving meditation but for some people who have restricted mobility, the style can be too energetic.
If you are a reasonably active person, the Gentle Flow classes on the retreat should be fine for beginners and will offer you a great foundation for a continuing yoga practice, just allow yourself time to 'get into the flow!'
The restorative yoga classes and meditations are suitable for complete beginners and experienced yogis alike.
If you have restricted mobility, recovering from an injury or unsure if the retreat yoga classes are suitable for you, get in touch with Sarah who can advise you individually.
Q. Do you cater for food intolerances?
A. Breakfast and evening meals offered on the retreats are vegetarian/vegan.
If you have any specific food allergies or intolerances, please get in touch and Sarah will advise if she can cater for your requirements.
Q. Do you have insurance?
A. Yes I have full liability insurance cover with Balens and I am a member of the Yoga Alliance Professional UK.