Weight Loss Retreat in Sri Lanka - 5 Essentials

When researching for weight-loss retreats, it can get a little overwhelming trying to decide which one is best suited for you. How do you differentiate between them all and how do you really know which one will be the best fit? Perhaps a weight loss retreat in Sri Lanka is the answer? Many weight-loss programs are based on extreme methods that reduce consumption, promote starvation and push you to your physical limits. Most have little concern for your medical or emotional health, promising to help you lose weight but not supporting you in keeping the weight off.

This article will aim to provide a little more enlightenment on weight loss retreats in Sri Lanka and offer a deeper insight into how to choose a programme best suited to you, your constitution and your medical profile.

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How an Ayurvedic diet can normalise your ideal weight

Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
Ayurvedic Diet

Many weight-loss programmes just focus on the end goal rather than tackling the root cause of weight gain and unhealthy diets. However, when weight is lost dramatically, it will be regained even faster and so the cycle begins again, further adding to the mental frustrations of the process.

Sam Kankanamge, the founder of Sen Wellness, has over 30 years of experience with extensive research working with hundreds of people all around the world in both retreat and clinical environments. His experience working with people from all over the World means that he notices how in a fast-paced, modern Western world, it is often a stressful lifestyle combined with deeper psychological roots that can affect our relationship with food, health and body weight.

“At Sen Wellness Sanctuary, we believe that weight-loss programmes should not be putting you through painful or extreme conditions. Instead, we believe that the most effective weight loss can be achieved with a beautifully crafted and tailor-made Ayurvedic treatment that can be curated to suit your constitution.
It has been continuously proven that short term, intense strategies are not sustainable for effective weight loss. Moreover, people are often not medically viable for most of these programmes nor are they emotionally supported during them. Our approach is simple, easy to maintain and adapt to.

As hunter-gathers, humans could only provide one meal a day since we were natural grazers and could only eat what we could find from the land. We would eat fruit, nuts, berries, seeds and on very rare occasions meat or fish. Our bodies have not evolved to eat 3 meals a day, full of sugar, dairy, complex carbohydrates and additives. Our recommendation is to eat 2 meals a day of equal proportion that give space and time for your metabolism and digestive system to re-align and regenerate itself naturally. Intermittent fasting has become a popular, known method that supports this notion. At Sen Wellness Sanctuary we combine intermittent fasting and juice fasting in our detox and weight-loss programmes under very careful observation from our Ayurvedic doctors.

Our Panchakarma method is designed to be less intensive than traditional Panchakarma. We integrate it with other holistic treatment modalities. We do not offer enemas or intense colonic cleansing but instead offer a deep purge, supported by herbs, alongside detox and fasting, to help cleanse the intestines and digestive system.”

Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
Sam Kankanamge

What you can expect from a Weight Loss Retreat?

A weight loss retreat in Sri Lanka can vastly reduce stress levels and support the body to enter ‘rest and digest’ mode. This state is when the parasympathetic nervous system dominates instead of the sympathetic nervous system, which affects our ‘fight, flight or freeze’ state. The ‘rest and digest’ state is achieved through a balanced combination of great quality nutrition, a calm nurturing environment and engaging in various healing or cleansing practices such as Ayurvedic medicine, yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound healing and massage. All of these practices are known to calm the nervous system, boost immunity and enhance wellbeing. A light, clean diet that combines fresh juice and herbal medicines can lighten your digestion, clear the liver and raise the metabolic rate all contributing to effective weight loss whilst keeping the body concentrated on healing. Maintaining a light fitness exercise routine with a healthy diet will also lighten the energetic body and restore energy levels.

We understand that it can be intimidating and a big commitment to come to a detox and weight loss retreat. However, here are 5 things that you can expect from a weight loss retreat:

The 5 Essentials Needed on a Weight Loss Retreat

Support

Whilst on retreat, it is common to meet people who are on the same journey as you. Here, you meet on even ground and everyone is equally committed to improving themselves despite their differences or backgrounds. Whether you are bonding over: homesickness, the experience of change, the challenge to adapt to routine changes or simply over body aches from daily yoga there is still an abundance of support from our therapists, retreat hosts, Sanctuary staff and other guests to keep you motivated.

Movement

At Sen Wellness we don’t believe in strenuous, intense, physical exercise. This is not a boot camp or solely a yoga retreat! Instead, our retreat programmes teach you how to align with your body in a way that is accessible to you, allowing you to attune with what you are already naturally capable of. Movement through Yoga, Pranayama and Qi Gong shows you how to develop your own strength, at your own capability. It is empowering to learn how to move and utilise your own innate strength.

Education

After 30 years of experience, our approach at Sen Wellness Sanctuary is to educate our guests so that they can create positive changes to their eating habits. Through education, the individual guest is able to adjust their own lifestyle and feel self-empowered in doing so. The experience of receiving knowledge and applying it to make lifestyle changes ensures that guests’ lost weight is not re-gained once they return home.

Freedom

Freedom to clear your mind from the stresses of your normal life and routine, free from judgement or fear so that you can get back to just being you. At The Sanctuary we encourage you to be free, to be curious, adventurous and playful. You are even free to be nervous, vulnerable and scared. This experience is unique to you and your journey in a totally raw and authentic way.

Ayurvedic Diet

We believe a healthy diet that encompasses a more ancient and natural connection with food and sourced locally (not from the supermarket) is the key point to successful weight loss. We recommend organic, natural and home-cooked meals with no additives or chemicals. Gluten and wheat free recipes, minimal dairy and meat products are mostly recommended with the addition of fresh fish on occasion.

Best places to go for a weight loss retreat in Sri Lanka?

There is an infinite selection to choose from in countries such as New Zealand, South Africa, and the United States when it comes to certain weight loss programmes. While many encourage a specific focus to lose weight, most should also promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

Many programmes include workshops that tackle a wide range of topics such as healthy eating, exercise routines, recipe planning and other tricks and tips for everyday life. However, if you are truly ready to commit to a weight loss programme that will empower you, teach you and most of all keep the weight off then Sri Lanka is the ideal destination. Sri Lanka is the perfect place to reverse your weight gain as you can be immersed in a beautiful, tranquil place finding space to relax and learn about healthy living in paradise.

Santani Wellness Resort or Barberyn Beach Ayurveda are both very popular retreat centres for detox and weight loss in Sri Lanka. However, for a more authentic Ayurvedic experience, at Sen Wellness you can enjoy a luxurious retreat that combines Yoga, Movement, meditation, nature immersion, sound healing, group healing sessions and spiritual ceremonies all year round. Our world-class therapists and teachers ensure that our weight loss retreats and detox retreats stand out. Their special approach is infused with a wide range of holistic treatments and ancient Ayurvedic teachings that respond to a Western lifestyle and each person’s constitution. 

Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
Excellent4.8Based on 169 reviews from Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsMithi T.1694508202 ★★★★★ Heaven on earth. A must-visit if you wish to disconnect and self-connect.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsElaine L.1693770775 ★★★★★ The most nourishing, relaxing and healing week I have ever experienced in the most beautiful setting!! 7-day Ayurvedic and Yoga retreat left me feeling like a new person. I will definitely be returning.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsJill L.1693328040 ★★★★★ My two trips to the Sanctuary were equally special. Both were in January, one in 2016 and then again in 2020. It was a perfect way to start the year. The sheer beauty of this part of Sri Lanka is restorative in itself, but when coupled with the luxury and care of the Sanctuary, it becomes a deeply healing experience. I will go back again as soon as I can.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsDi S.1693132092 ★★★★★ I arrived exhausted and frazzled from a flight that had lost my bag in transit with the clothes I left London in and raging sinuses from the plane's insanely fierce aircon. Within days the sinus infection was healed with Ayurveda. This was the start of a 10 day healing journey that was pure magic. I stayed in an eco cabana - bed super comfy! - waking up to amazing birdsong. The nature here is lush (bring your mozzie spray!) , the complex open and airy, the food delicious (mainly veggie). Everyone on the team - from the Ayurvedic doctors and practitioners, the amazing manager, the chef and his crew, the yoga teachers to the boys who do the cleaning know what they're doing and radiate positive energy. Days are structured but the vibe is relaxed, open and easy. The Cacao ceremony was amazing. The Fire ceremony also. I'd go back in a heartbeat.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsEmma C.1692720436 ★★★★★ I came to the sanctuary at a difficult time for me personally. I came home feeling mentally and physically restored. It was just the tonic for me.The sanctuary is set in a beautiful and peaceful location, a stone’s throw from the sea and never-ending empty beaches.I loved the daily yoga sessions - I had a brilliant teacher the week I was there - which has an open front so we often saw monkeys swinging by.But it were the Ayurvedic treatments and meals, made with fresh local produce, that were out of this world.The communal dining is such a great idea, particularly if you come on your own like I did. And the sanctuary is run by a fantastic and caring team who went out of their way to make my experience truly unforgettable.I really do hope to return again one day.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsStephanie U.1692379552 ★★★★★ Sen Wellness is really a Sanctuary where you can really connect back to you, your body and nature. The 10 days Spring Retreat was so fantastic, the breathing, moving and the food was always great. The location is far off from everything and you pretty much have the beach to yourself. All the animals like baby turtles, monkeys, squirrels, peacocks combined with nature was just magical. Also all the staff took great care of everyone induvidually. I will definitly be back!!Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsLara Y1692369607 ★★★★★ My husband and I stayed at Sen Wellness Retreat for 11 days in February 2023. We highly recommend Sen Wellness. It is not a resort, it’s a true retreat. Our stay was an absolute dream come true. From the moment we passed through the gate, took our shoes off, and set our feet on the grounds, we found ourselves in a serene atmosphere that washed away all the stress and worries of everyday life. It was an absolute peaceful heaven with calming sounds of the ocean and nature. We stayed in eco-cabana. The blend of natural materials and elements with simple but modern amenities created a perfect balance between rustic charm and contemporary luxury. The room was daily cleaned and had everything we needed for our stay. After meeting with doctor on the first day, our Ayurvedic treatments were tailored to our individual needs, and they were the best part of the experience. Our yoga teacher Thilini was local and made our yoga sessions very meaningful, connecting our body and mind. We still do yoga with her over Zoom ever since we returned home. In a week, we had a new teacher Megan coming. She wasn’t local but she had an extensive knowledge about Ayurveda, local culture and she was great too. The people we had a pleasure of meeting during stay were from all over the world and truly exceptional. The best part was having all meals together around the table and having conversations. Every meal was a delightful journey of flavors and nourishment. The food had many varieties and left us both satisfied and intrigued to try more. Thilini explained to us each food ingredients and shared many stories and information about the local culture. She even took us to the beach late at night for stars gazing and listening to the sounds of the ocean. The staff was very caring, attentive, and tried to provide the best service. By the time we had to leave, we felt so much genuine care and felt like a part of a close-knit community. After returning home, I had a question about medicine for the doctor. Davia sent my question to Dr. Harnika and she replied to me. We left retreat feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, deeply relaxed, and with determination to change our lifestyle.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsRahela R.1691383170 ★★★★★ My time at SEN Wellness Sanctuary for the Ayurvedic retreat was an incredibly relaxing experience. The immersion in pure nature, the sights and sounds of flora and fauna wildlife, and the rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments made it a standout wellness sanctuary worldwide. Daily yoga and meditation sessions, as well as a meeting with a monk, added a spiritual dimension. The wholesome meals were a delight, and the romantic boat ride they arranged for our wedding anniversary was unforgettable. The staff's warmth and dedication created a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere that truly fostered a deep connection with nature. The private beach felt like a personal paradise, offering an exclusive bond with the ocean and sand. My stay at SEN Wellness Sanctuary was truly transformative.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsGhurair S.1691373696 ★★★★★ Our time at SEN Wellness Sanctuary was like discovering a whole new world during the Ayurvedic retreat. Every second felt like a soothing melody of relaxation and refreshment for both of us. Being surrounded by untouched nature was like a dream, with all sorts of plants and animals creating a calming atmosphere. The Ayurvedic treatments were like magic, making this place stand out as one of the best wellness spots globally.Each day, we got to do calming yoga and meditation. We even met a monk, which was pretty cool and added a special vibe to our days. The food was delicious and healthy, giving us energy and making us smile. The cherry on top was a romantic boat ride on our anniversary, showing how much they cared about our happiness.The staff was incredibly friendly and worked hard to make the place feel like a peaceful escape. It was like they understood how much we needed to connect with nature. The private beach felt like our own little paradise, where the waves and sand seemed to give us their full attention.And guess what? We're already planning our next visit to SEN Wellness Sanctuary. Our stay changed us in a big way. It felt like we were woven into a beautiful story that mixed nature's beauty, calming activities, and friendly vibes. This experience is something we'll always remember and it inspires us to bring more harmony and renewal into our lives.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsKristine S.1691073416 ★★★★★ I was looking to fill my cup with good energy and that’s exactly what I got from Sen Wellness. Highlights for me were the delicious healthy food, the setting surrounded by nature and a protected nesting-turtle beach, the soothing Ayurvedic treatments and the daily yoga/ meditation sessions in peaceful settings or gentle dips in the seaside pool. The staff are superb, treating you like family in their lovely home. The cabanas were super comfortable and had everything I needed. Bring lots of insect repellent, camera storage for all the baby turtles you might witness, and a positive attitude and you’re golden. Worth the three-hour trip from Colombo!Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsShamail S.1691069614 ★★★★★ Amazing place! Location with the beach on one side, a lake on the other and dense green in between is spectacular. The inclusive meals, daily ayurvedic treatments, and highly attentive staff make this place extraordinary. Looking forward to going back.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsNicole Z.1689413531 ★★★★★ Perfect start in Sri Lanka! We had the chance to really calm down and relax at this stay. The food was amazing and delicious. At the first night we got surprised with an outdoor picnic. The treatments (massage, consultation, bath, ...) were a real pleasure. The staff does great work and behaved really nice and friendly. The yoga classes (by Shruti and Stefania) were extremely calming and diverse. All in all a really peasant stay!Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsAsoka B.1687260715 ★★★★★ A peaceful sanctuary in a beautiful natural location. Warm, kind and generous staff. Delicious, healthy food; nourishing ayurvedic treatments, yoga and breathwork. Thank you so much!Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsJo S.1687249611 ★★★★★ I visited the beautiful Sen Wellness with a friend several years ago. It was a life changing experience for both of us. An introduction to the power of Kundalini yoga delivered in the stunning setting by Eleanor. The Ayurvedic consultation and remedies and treatments throughout the week were incredible. The staff are wonderful and naturally take great care of your every need. The food is delicious and plentiful and all dietary requirements are fulfilled. Sri Lanka is a beautiful island full of wonders to discover. It was an unforgettable retreat that will hold a special place in my heart forever. Thank you to everybody. I really hope to return again one day.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 EssentialsSally J.1687193596 ★★★★★ My first visit to Sen was a truly wonderful experience. I found it a wonderfully serene and tranquil place to be, and the yoga and daily massage treatments surpassed my expectations. The staff are so incredibly welcoming and warm, and it felt like nothing was too much trouble. The food was delicious and while I did not try the fasting/purge routine I know other people found it very cleansing and uplifting. I enjoyed my visit so much (I took my 20 year old daughter with me who loved it) I then encouraged my older daughter to visit at a time when she was feeling very stressed with work, and she returned feeling renewed and with a calmer outlook on life. I shall return again this year on my own and would highly recommend to anyone looking for a non judgemental and supportive environment to improve their yoga and meditation practice, to take a step out of the modern world and enjoy living and being in the most beautiful and peaceful location.Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials

Sen Wellness Sanctuary - Award-Winning Wellness Retreat in Sri Lanka

Our approach to weight loss differentiates us from many other wellness retreats and weight-loss programmes. We do not use intense methods that promote strenuous exercise or starvation. Instead, we aim to understand the root cause of weight gain and unhealthy eating habits in every individual who comes to our Sanctuary. We recognise that the Western lifestyle contributes to so much stress and demands on the nervous system, therefore we combine a range of healing modalities to calm the nervous system whilst introducing a light exercise routine, Ayurvedic food, medicine and traditional Panchakarma.

Weight Loss Retreat Sri Lanka – 5 Essentials
Natural Surrounding at Sen Wellness

The Final Word

A weight loss retreat in Sri Lanka can be life-changing as you begin to discover more energy, a better sleep pattern, brighter eyes and clearer skin. You will leave feeling like all the vitality and vibrancy has been restored throughout your entire body. Contact us below if you would like to register interest in joining a retreat.