A relaxing read to soothe the soul

It packs in a lot more than a coffee table showpiece. The Collector’s Guide to Spas of India is not only a great resource for all the information you need to head off for a spa holiday but also makes for a wholesome read for those interested in alternative healing.

It packs in a lot more than a coffee table showpiece. The Collector’s Guide to Spas of India is not only a great resource for all the information you need to head off for a spa holiday but also makes for a wholesome read for those interested in alternative healing.

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For instance, did you know that Siddhars (yogis who practice an ancient form of medicine) use roots, salts, animal substances, metals and minerals to heal some 4,448 diseases? Or that Netra Vasti, an eye cleansing treatment involves pouring medicated ghee over your eyes to ban wrinkles?

Not fascinated? This one’s going to get you hooked. The book also puts together the recipes of authentic spa delicacies and drinks that include yummy anti-oxidant mocktails and health loaded hors d’ oeuvres.

It took Parineeta Sethi, editor and publisher and her team a year’s time travelling to varied spas across the country to put together the book that has bagged the National Tourism Award for Excellence in Publishing (English) category for 2011.

“We found that India is a treasure trove of ancient wellness sciences and most of them except Ayurveda lie unexplored. India has immense potential to be promoted as a wellness destinations,” says Parineeta Sethi.

The book begins with an interesting insight into the evolution of spas the world over. You get a glimpse into the history of ancient spas and traditions, right from Greek baths Laconica to Berkeley Springs of West Virginia. The book also discusses various natural healing traditions.