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Kalari Vacation At Our Ashram
Kalari Vacation is more than just a getaway—it’s a transformative 3days to 3 months residential Kalaripayattu program that combines traditional martial arts training with a rejuvenating break from routine life. Through structured physical practices like Meypayattu, advanced self-defense techniques, stick training, dagger training,hand to hand combat training and yogic disciplines such as Asanas and Pranayama, the program helps participants build strength, speed, focus, and inner balance. It’s called Kalari Vacation because it offers the rare chance to immerse in disciplined training while reconnecting with nature, energy, and the self—making it both a powerful learning journey and a meaningful break that revitalizes body, mind, and spirit.
Unique Ashram Experience:
- Tranquil Environment: Nestled amidst nature, our Ashram provides a peaceful retreat conducive to deepening your practice of Kalaripayattu and Yoga. The serene atmosphere enhances concentration and fosters a profound connection with both mind and body.
- Expert Guidance: Led by experienced instructors and masters of Kalaripayattu, our program ensures personalized attention and guidance. Learn directly from experts who are dedicated to preserving and passing on this ancient art form in its purest form.
- Cultural Immersion: Beyond physical training, immerse yourself in Indian culture and traditions. Engage in cultural activities, attend lectures on Indian philosophy, and participate in rituals that enrich your understanding of Kalaripayattu as a holistic practice.
Overview
Prices Are Per Person/Night Including Classes, Bed And Board.
Kalari Vacation Overview:
Embark on a three-month cycle where each phase focuses on distinct aspects of Kalaripayattu training:
- First Month:This beginner-friendly residential course offers a deep introduction to Kalaripayattu, one of the world’s oldest martial arts. The focus is on building a strong foundation through proper training in basics and high-intensity physical conditioning.YOU WILL LEARN:
- Asanas, Sun Salutation, Pranayama, and Shavasana to develop body awareness, breath control, and mental focus
- Kalari Salutation – a graceful sequence that honors the energy (Shakti) within you and in nature
- Animal postures, kicks,Jumps, and Chuvadu – fundamental movements that form the base for advanced techniques
- Meypayattu – We have 12 dynamic sequences that improve strength, flexibility, coordination, and teach hidden applications of attack and defense ,you will learn the first and second in this course.
- Breathing techniques, flexibility, and strength training to prepare your body and mind for learning weapon techniques
This course is designed to awaken and balance your physical energy and inner strength, preparing you for higher levels of Kalaripayattu practice.
- Second Month:This intensive two-month residential program is designed for students with a basic foundation in Kalaripayattu. It focuses on building speed, strength, and deeper body-mind coordination through intermediate-level training.YOU WILL LEARN:
- Long and short stick training to enhance reflexes, eye focus, and coordination
- Advanced self-defense techniques like Thanjam (elbow-based combat) and Adi Thada (hand-to-hand combat)
- Advanced kicks, punches, and body locks
- Meypayattu sequences (levels 6-9) with complex attack and defense patterns
- Advanced Asanas and Pranayamas to improve energy control, flexibility, and stamina
This program prepares practitioners for higher combat techniques and weapon mastery through disciplined practice and focused physical and mental development.
- Third Month:An intensive three-month program designed to transform advanced training through physical mastery and mental discipline.YOU WILL LEARN:
- Refine Skills with Dagger: Master advanced techniques with the katara (dagger) for precision and control.
- Knife Combat Training: Engage in real knife fight scenarios to overcome the fear of death and build resilience.
- Mind-Body Coordination: Achieve full synchronization of body and mind, leading to a focused and disciplined lifestyle.
- Otta Training: Train with the otta (curved wooden weapon) targeting vital points, enhancing agility and tactical skills.
- Meypayattu (9 – 12): Practice this dynamic combat movement system to improve flow, flexibility, and combat awareness.
- Bare-Hand vs Wooden Weapons: Learn effective bare-hand defense techniques against armed attacks.
- Hardcore One-to-One Fight Training: Experience realistic and intense combat through structured one-on-one sessions.
Flexible stay options ranging from a minimum of 3 nights up to 3 months allow for personalized scheduling. Beginners are encouraged to start at the beginning of each cycle to maximize learning and progression.
The Program
Immerse Yourself In Kalari Vacations: Unleash The Warrior Within
Kalari Vacationers follow a structured daily schedule designed to optimize their experience and community engagement. Activities include:
- Satsang: Begin and end your day with meditation and communal chanting sessions to cultivate inner peace and spiritual growth.
- Yoga Kalari Classes: Participate in daily sessions designed to complement Kalaripayattu training, focusing on flexibility, balance, and core strength. Tailored classes cater to both beginners and intermediate practitioners.
- Healthy Vegetarian Diet: Enjoy wholesome meals crafted from locally-sourced ingredients, promoting vitality and overall well-being. Our nutritious diet supports your physical stamina and mental focus throughout the intensive training.
- Karma Yoga: Engage in daily activities that contribute to the Ashram community, fostering a sense of unity and selfless service (seva). Discover the transformative power of selfless action (karma yoga) as you integrate mindfulness into everyday tasks.
- Workshops and Lectures: Delve into the philosophy, history, and practical applications of Kalaripayattu and Yogathrough daily workshops and lectures. Expand your knowledge and deepen your understanding of these ancient disciplines under the guidance of seasoned instructors.
Embark on a holistic journey of physical conditioning, mental clarity, and spiritual awakening through our comprehensive Kalari Vacation program. Each phase of the program is carefully structured to maximize learning and personal growth:
Schedule
- 5:20 am – Wake up
- 6:00 am – Satsang (group meditation, chanting and talk)
- 6:30 am – Kalari Payattu & Asana Session
- 8:00 am – Tea
- 10:00 am – Brunch (Indian vegetarian meal)
- 11:00 am – Karma Yoga (selfless service)
- 12:30 pm – Asana Coaching (Optional)
- 1:30 pm – Tea
- 2:00 pm – Lecture (talks on various yoga topics)
- 5:00 pm – Kalari & Asana Classes
- 6:30 pm – Dinner (Indian vegetarian meal)
- 8:00 pm – Satsang (group meditation, chanting and talk)
- 10:00 pm – Lights out
The daily schedule may change from time to time according to need. The schedule is mandatory unless otherwise indicated.
Practical Information
- Guests should be familiar with the Ashram Rules & Guidelines before their arrival.
- The daily schedule may change from time to time according to need. The entire schedule is mandatory unless otherwise indicated.
Day trips to places of interest are regularly arranged on the day off.
Things to bring: Comfortable clothes, sandals, toiletries, personal items, meditation shawl for cool evenings, yoga asana mat, meditation cushion, notebooks, pens, black towels, sesame oil water bottle and torch.