Transcript of “Ayubowan” is the traditional greeting in Sinhalese meaning. “Ayubowan” is the traditional greeting in Sinhalese meaning “MAY YOU ENJOY LONG LIFE”. Sri Lanka's gentle gesture of welcome and respect.

Hisory of Sinhalese Medicine

Sri Lanka has a free and universal health care system. It scores higher than the regional average in healthcare having a high Life expectancy and a lower maternal and infant death rate than its neighbors. It is known for having one of the world's earliest known healthcare systems and has its own indigenous medicine system.

The Sinhalese medical tradition records back to pre historic era. Besides a number of medical discoveries that are only now being acknowledged by western medicine, the ancient Sinhalese are believed to be responsible for introducing the concept of hospitals to the world. According to the Mahawansa, the ancient chronicle of Sinhalese royalty. King Pandukabhaya had lying-in-homes and hospitals (Sivikasotthi-Sala) built in various parts of the country after having fortified his capital at Anuradhapura in the 4th century BCE. Ruins of a hospital in Mihintale which was built by King Sena II (851-885 A.C.) that dates back to the 9th century has been discovered and it is considered as one of the worlds oldest hospitals. Several Sinhalese kings ancient Sri Lanka are known to be practitioners of medicine, King Buddhadasa (340–368 AC) was said to be adept in general medicine, surgery, midwifery and veterinary medicine and he is known for the surgical operation on an outcaste (Chandala) woman in order to deliver her child and the surgical removal of a lump in the belly of a snake. "Sarartha Sangraha", a comprehensive medical treatise in Sanskrit, is also attributed to King Buddhadasa. King Aggabodhi VII (766–772 A.C.) is known for his medical research and according to the Culavamsa, the king "studied the medicinal plants over the entire island of Lanka to ascertain whether they were wholesome or harmful to the sick." Excavations of the ruins of Ancient hospitals have uncovered several surgical instruments like Forceps, Scalpels and Scissors as well as spoons that are believed to be used to mix or administer medicine. The hospitals in ancient Sri Lanka had toilets and baths that were attached to the living quarters. The hospitals had been designed for ventilation and free circulation of air due to two open courts in addition to the windows which indicates that psychological aspects of therapeutics were understood by Medical practitioners.

Ayurveda (indigenous medicine system)

Ayurveda (pronounced ae-ur-vay-dah) is Sri Lankan alternative to Western medicines and a natural approach with over 3000 years of proven benefits of care and cure. Based around the philosophy that each individual’s growth from birth is governed by 5 forces of nature – water, fire, air, earth and ether, treatment includes oil massages, steam baths and potions made from healthy natural ingredients.

Locals visit community practitioners, but tourists can sample Ayurveda treatment from government – licensed practitioners in holyday resorts. You have the option of relaxing / preventative or curative treatments. The latter is very popular, with customers spending up to two weeks in relaxing treatment. This is often combined with yoga and meditation. Come experience Ayurveda, you may find your inner self.

Meditation & Yoga

Whilst in Sri Lanka, take time to switch off from the busy world and try some meditation or yoga. Sri Lanka has perfected the way of finding and maintaining a work life balance. Some nourish your spirits. Meditation and Yoga plays a big role, and many travelers learn these skills in Sri Lanka. Many Buddhist temples offer meditation classes.

International & Local Spas

Many people around the world have discovered the deep pleasure promised in spa breaks. In addition to its therapeutic effects, it is also a great way to simply relax and allow oneself to be bathed in luxury. Sri Lanka has responded to this market demand and has many quality saps where even the most discerning spa customer will enjoy first class facilities that satisfies. New tea spa are also being developed.

Medical Treatment

Sri Lanka is fast becoming a center for modern medical treatment at an affordable price. Well qualified doctors, trained locally and abroad are employed in many state-of-art modern hospitals in the island. Training of the supportive staff, (Nurse, Lab Technician etc.) is being totally controlled by the government and the standard is well above the region. What a great way to skip the polluted air/harsh weather and recover in the warn climate and heartfelt hospitality.

Food & Drink

Sri Lanka curry is a delicious balanced meal. Perfect your curry making skills whilst in Sri Lanka and enjoy the range of healthy, organic ingredients available. There are variety of herbal teas made from roots and spices, which aid digestion and fight off the common cold. Stop at a super market and pick up some of these wonderful drinks. Visit a spice garden if you are driving through.