The basic concept of immunomodulation not only existed in Ayurveda but is being prac- tised by the Ayurvedists for centuries. In fact, one of the therapeutic strategies in Ayurve- dic medicines is to enhance the body's overall natural resistance to disease rather than directly neutralizing the agent in itself. In Ayurvedic practice, the objective of immune enhancement is achieved through the use of the Rasayana and Vajikarana therapy, follow- ing Acara Rasayana measures.

Rasayana Therapy & Its Benefits

Rasayana therapy is an Ayurveda rejuvenation therapy which helps in maintenance and enhancement of health. Rasayana essentially means nutrition at all levels from macro to micro-cellular level. Rasayana therapy replenishes the vital fluids of the body, boost the ojas and the immune system, thus keeping diseases away and preventing the ill effects of advanced age. Rasayana treatment is a unique methodology in Ayurveda. It improves the basic vitality and immunity of a person's life.

Rasayana therapies are done following the Ayurvedic Rejuvenation procedures (Pancha- karma).

Rasayana is more effective when it is given after panchakarma therapy. The shodhan process detoxifies both body & mind. This helps in the initial detoxification of the body and prepares it for the rasayana regime.

The Master Therapy or The King Of Detox The Panchakarma is the most significant treatment for purification and detoxification in Ayurveda. Panchakarma encompasses five therapies: the Vamana, Virechana, Nasya, Vasti, Raktha and the Mokshana. These five therapies collectively help remove deep routed stress and illness causing toxins from the body while balancing the three Doshas (energies that govern all biological functions). The treatment involves daily massages and oil baths, herbal enemus and nasal administrations. Ayurveda recommends Panchakarma as a seasonal treatment for maintaining mental and physical hygiene and balance.

The Snehapanam (internal oleation) is a preparatory procedure for Panchkarma therapies. The effectiveness of the Panchkarma or the purification therapies depends upon the proper mobilization of humors (Doshas) from the periphery (Sakha) which is to be achieved through this treatment. The therapy involves oral intake of medicated or non-medicated or oil. Our experts use clarified butter (obtained from cow's milk) mixed with medicinal herbs. Snehapanam is done in the morning after attending to the calls of nature, on an empty stomach. The dosage depends on the health, age, diagnosed illness and digestive capacity of the patient. The treatment lasts between five and seven days depending on the condition of the patient and the illness being treated.

Virechanam cleanses the Pitta and purifies blood by clearing the toxins from the body. The treatment concentrates on the toxins that are accumulated in the liver and gall bladder and the gastro-intestinal tract. In Virechanam, the vitiated Doshas are eliminated through the rectum. The treatment is given in the morning after the person is given the "Snehapanam" and "Swedanam for internal lubrication. The person is then given a certain prescribed dose of herbal medicines on an empty stomach Within 1 to 2 hours, the bowels are emptied expelling all accumulated toxins with it, Virechanam is an excellent rejuvenating detox treatment. Virechanam is used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, skin ailments, gout, splenic disorders, ulcers, IBS, gastritis, intestinal colic, headaches, asthma, indigestion, sviecological disorders, hypertension and erece related ailments

Snehavasti is one among the five classical detoxification programmes (Panchakarma) and specially recommended for Vata disorders. Medicated oils or ghritams are used to administer an oil enema, which nourishes and lubricates the body. The main seat of Vata dosha is the Pakwashaya (large intestine); therefore Vasti, the medicated oil enema, is the main therapy for all Vata disorders such as constipation, neurological ailments, paralysis, flatulence, lower backache, gout, and rheumatism. Sneha Vasti results in nourished and rebuilt Dhatus (body tissues), it strengthens their activities, restores and strengthens the body's immunity. It is particularly helpful in curing gastric and neurological disorders, acidity, acute and chronic aches, headache and other degenerative disorders.

In Kashayavasti, a herbal decoction made of honey, rock salt, medicated oil and herbs is administered through the anal route. A massage with warm herbal oils is given before the treatment. The treatment is administered as per prescribed dosage under supervision. The body dispels all toxins with the faecal matter. This treatment is particularly helpful in curing gastric and neurological disorders, acidity, acute and chronic aches, headaches, migraines and other degenerative disorders. It is a very effective detox and weight loss procedure.

Nasyam is a very important treatment for any discomfort in the head region. Nostrils are considered the doorway to the brain. In this therapeutic treatment medicated oil, medicated powder or herbal juices are administered through the nose for a prescribed duration. This removes the excess humors accumulated in the different sinus cavities and throat and is very effective for treating migraine, hormonal imbalances, paralysis, mental disorders, premature graying of hair, loss of smell and taste. It cleanses the different cavities, increases oxygenation and improves brain functioning. There are different kinds of Nasyams based on the difference in the type of medicines and oils used. Nasyam not only helps in removing toxins from the head, neck, brain, eyes, car, nose and throat region, it also gives immunity and strengthens their functioning.

This is a unique therapy in the science of ayurveda. It keeps the body young and agile even after one has passed his/her youth. Charaka says this therapy extends one's lifespan by many years. It enhances one's energy and is even known to have cured the sick. It also increases a healthy person's mental and physical capabilities. It is known to have im- prove skin complexion and texture, modulates the voice and increases sensing capacity of sense organs. Other benefits of rejuvenation therapy are long life, increase in Memory, good health, young looks, glowing skin, modulated voice, calmness and resistance to disease

In this stressful, over-busy and toxic world, our natural health, happiness and the inner sense of wellbeing are masked by the accumulation of impurities. These impurities or toxins cause deterioration of normal body functioning. A rejuvenation therapy can revi- talize senses, detoxify the body, restore good health and a youthful look and even increase resistance to diseases.

It is believed that the effects of Abhyangam are similar to those received when one is sat- urated with love. Abhyanga is infusing the body with prana' or vital life force. When we infuse all our cells with love, they are revitalised and energised. It involves massaging of the body with warm oil infused with healing herbs and balancing essential oils. Abhyan- gam moves Prana (vital life force energy) within the body thereby nourishing and revi- talizing all body organs. It aids the removal of toxins and stimulates both arterial and lymphatic circulation. It boosts the ability of nutrients to reach starved cells and allows for the removal of stagnant waste.

Podikizhi is an Ayurveda technique of fomentation in which the whole body or certain parts of the body are fomented and made to sweat, the application of medicinal powders. A warm prescribed mixture of herbs tied in muslin pouches is gently pounded and pressed into the skin by the therapists in a rhythmic motion. The pounding is accompa- nied by a synch massage with herbal oils Podikizhi is very effective in treating Ka- pha-Vata predominant conditions of arthritis, back pain, paralysis, and muscular pains. This treatment is useful for relieving deep seated tension, increasing blood circulation. loosening built up toxins, strengthening muscle tissue and ridding the body of excess Kapha. This treatment increases blood supply to the skin and improves skin lustre and and eliminates through skin.

Elakizhi or Patrapotala Sweda is a rejuvenating sudation practice in Ayurveda treat- ments using fresh leaves of herbal/medicinal plants. Anti Vata plants, such as Eranda (Ricinus communis), Arka (Calotropis Procera), Nirgundi (Vitex negundo). Rasna (Plu- chea lanceolata), coconut leaves, lemon and curcumin are fried with herbal ingredients and tied into cloth boluses. These are dipped into warm medicated oil and used for mas- saging the body. The massage with heated boluses induces profuse sudation, which helps in the fomentation process Elakizhi is effective for various kinds of arthritis, spondylitis, back pain, sports injuries and for all other soft tissue inflammations especially joint pains. The massage promotes better blood circulation within the affected area and induc- es perspiration which helps the skin to eliminate wastes.

The term 'Shirodhara' is derived from the two Sanskrit words: 'shiro, meaning head, and 'dhara, meaning to flow. It involves the warm and steady flow of medicated oils on the forehead, more specifically on the "third eye. The Vedas describe the third eye chakra or 'Ajna as the gateway to higher consciousness and enlightenment having deep spiritual and psychosomatic significance. The calming medicated oils flow in a continuous stream transporting the self to a calmer place thawing all negative emotions and clearing fear, anxiety, anger, or irritability. It is said to have a balancing effect on the deepest recesses of the brain, while stimulating the endocrine system's pituitary and pineal glands. The treat- ment enhances blood circulation to the brain, increases mental clarity and releases deeply trapped toxins.

Njavara in Malayalam stands for the rice that grows in 60 days; Kizhi (Pinda in Sanskrit) stands for bolus. 'Njavara' is an indigenous variety of rice grown in Kerala. having medic- inal properties. A generous amount of medicated oil is applied over the head and body. Then the body is massaged with a warm muslin bag bolus containing njavara rice pud- dings cooked in a herbal decoction. At the end of the procedure, the rice paste sticking over the body is removed using coconut leaves and the treatment is wrapped up with a gentle massage with herbal oil. This treatment rejuvenates and revitalises all internal organs, makes the body more supple, slows the ageing process, improves lustre and tex- ture of the skin, calms the mind and reduces stress, promotes sound sleep, develops the muscular system, cures rheumatic troubles, boosts the immune system, pacifies vata dosha and strengthens and nourishes the nervous system.

Pizhichil is one the most popular Ayurvedic therapeutic treatments favored by the royal families and aristocrats of yore. The whole body is bathed in streams of lukewarm medi- cated oil and the patient is massaged simultaneously by two to four therapists, continu- ously in a special rhythmic way. The procedure is followed by a medicated steam bath. This is a highly rejuvenating treatment that enhances muscular tone and energizes the entire nervous system. It helps to eliminate toxins from the body, improves blood circu- lation and revitalizes all organs. It is very useful for rheumatic diseases, arthritis, paraly- sis, sexual weakness, neurological disorders. blood pressure, nervous weakness and helps to arrest the ageing process.

Relaxing treatment like Shirodhara but instead of herbal oil, herbal milk is poured over the forehead or over the whole body. Great therapy for people suffering from headaches from Vata and Pitta predominance, Insomnia and mental tension. Dhara means 'pouring of medicinal liquid' in the traditional system of Ayurveda. When this treatment is done with milk (Ksheera), it is called 'Ksheeradhara. For this treatment, cow's milk is pre- ferred, but buffalo's milk is also used at times. Decoctions of various herbs are added to the milk.

Thalapothichil is a special procedure of application of medicated paste on the head. Thalapothichil is also called as Shirolepa (anointment to head/ head pack). Thalapothi- chil is from Malayalam where thalarefers to head and pothichil is covering. It is the tradi- tional Ayurveda treatment of Kerala which is very effective in various psychosomatic disorders. Basically Thalapothichil is cooling treatment.

The name shiro basti is derived from two words- 'shiro' meaning head and "basti' meaning pool of herbal or medicated oils. Shiro basti is based on the Ayurvedic analogy between the head and the roof of a house. Just as the roof protects the house and is kept soaked with stagnant water to make it strong after construction, the head is also soaked in oil to nourish and strengthen the central nervous system. In this treatment a pool of herbal oils is kept over the head in a specially constructed chamber or compartment to nourish and strengthen the central nervous system. It cures all disorders related to the sense organs, metabolism and the doshas. It is prescribed for migraines, headaches, anxiety, stress, insomnia and the prevention of psychosomatic disorders. It treats morbid vata and kapha, improves vision and stops pre mature greying and balding.

This is an ancient form of Ayurvedic Massage was initially developed and used by Mar- tial Arts Practitioners.

• There are 107 reflex points around the body where flesh, veins, arteries, of these points have their own intelligence and consciousness, Where tendons, bones and joints meet up. Each co-ordinate with the mind and body and this help to store educate the brain in control and co-ordination of muscles and nerves after illness or injury.
• The therapy involves stimulation using the fingers of these Marma (trigger) points, which promotes physical and mental rehabilitation.

• The Marma Therapeutic treatments isolates points and cleans them out by increasing blood flow to the affected part of the neuro -muscular junction. Stretching of muscles and tendons is also used to improve tone, and gentle manipulation of the spine.
• Marma Therapeutic Massage has wide applications. Particularly for stroke victims as the massage clears away obstructions which delay information being communicated between the muscles, nerves and brain.

Receiving regular marma therapy helps boost our immune system and flush toxins, increasing blood flow throughout the body. This increases the activity of white blood cells that help our body fight diseases and may help with reduction of cortisol.

Yoga has succeeded as an alternative form of therapy in both organic diseases and psy- chosomatic disorders. According to Medical scientists, Yoga is helpful in developing immunity because of the balance created in the Nervous and Endocrine systems which directly influences all other systems and organs of the body, especially Lungs, Heart, Liver, Pancreas and Spleen and boosts immunity.

Beyond the needs of the individuals, the underlying principles of yoga provide a real tool to combat the prevailing pandemic. At a time when the world seems to be at loss, yoga provides a means for people to find their own way to resist any contagious disease to a great extent. Out of the various practices helpful in raising immunity, the five prac- tices mentioned below are very effective.

1. Jalaneti (Nasal cleansing with Luke warm saline water) Removes mucous and pollution from the nasal passages and sinuses, allowing air to flow without obstruction. It helps to prevent and manage respiratory tract diseases such as Asthma, Pneumonia, and Bronchitis together with various disorders of the Ears ,Eyes and Throat. This is one of the 6 cleansing process in Yoga and should be learned from any Naturopathy and Yogic Hospital or qualified yoga teacher.
2. Kapalabhati (Tachypnic breathing) Kapalabhati should be done after Neti to remove any water drops sticking inside the nostrils. Kapalabathi burns up toxins and removes diseases of the "Doshas" or humors: “Kapha" or flegm: “Pita” or Bile, and “Vata” or wind. The rapid and rhythmic movement of the diaphragm also massages and stimulates the visceral organs. Do 50 gradually. - 200 times
3. Ujjyai Pranayama with Kechari Mudra There are certain combination of practices in Yoga which will make it several times more powerful than when they are done separately. Ujjayi and Khechari form such a powerful combination which will boost the immune system, if practised regularly. It is done by curling the tongue up inside the mouth and inhaled in 3 sec and exhaling in 6 sec, creating a frictional sound from the throat by contracting the glottis, similar to the sound of yawning. Start with 10 times and gradually increase upto 50 times.

4. Prana Mudra (Invocation of Pranic Energy) Is Practised in the morning after completing the other practices or on its own. This will develop the Aura(Vital body) by 3 times resulting in developing the immune system sub- stantially.
5. Shanthi Mudra (Balancing the Chakras for sound sleep) Is to be done at night just before going to sleep. This is done as the last thing of the day, preferably practised on the floor. Then directly go to sleep. The quality of sleep improves, which is one of the deciding factors of Vital index.
6. Sutra netikriya Benefits Thorough cleansing of the nose. It massages the catheter and cures respiratory problems or narrow nostrils.
7. Kunjalkriya Benefits Cleanses and stimulates the stomach, esophagus, lungs, chest, heart, throat, nose, eyes, ears, and sinus. It balances the vayu(wind) the upward moving prana-vayu in the body. Removes stomach, throat, asthma and lung affliction.

Everybody has an energy body in and around the physical body. This body is known by different names such as pranic body, bioplasmic body, etheric body or aura which is about one metre around the physical body. Through the practices of Yoga, meditation, or Pranic healing, the aura can be developed by three times resulting in boosting immunity. Any kind of negative stuff in the mind such as anger, hatred, resentment, tension, worry, anxiety, envy, jealousy, fear and guilt can pollute the pranic body. This polluted prana causes the body to be filled with toxins resulting in diseases affecting the weak organs or systems of the body, making its immunity weak.

In pranic healing the negative energy is removed from the pranic body by the healer through general sweeping, localized sweeping and sweeping with colours. When the polluted energy is thus removed, one feels physically and mentally relaxed and at the same time energized. This energy develops the immune system. In certain cases holistic counselling is also given along with pranic healing to make the effect substantial. After every pranic healing session the recipient gets invigorated and exhilarated.

The immune boosting and rejuvenation treatments are supplemented with a supervised diet plan to increase their efficacy. The rejuvenation process works on cellular regenera- tion and internal cleansing of the body and hence it is important that we provide our body some respite and much needed rest during and immediately after the treatments. The digestive system cannot be overloaded with greasy and heavy foods which are diffi- cult to digest and the focus is on foods that are healthy, organic and easy to digest.

Our culinary specialists prepare individualized meals plans under supervision of thera- pists to ensure that the meal plan fits well with the recommended treatments. High quantities of fresh and organic raw fruits and vegetables, juices and unprocessed foods are also common. Most of the diets also require you to avoid smoking, alcohol, pro- cessed and refined foods and stress. Contrary to general perception of Immunity booster diets being tasteless, extreme and difficult, meals at Carnoustie are healthy, tasty and nutritious.