FAQ about Ayurveda
Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions from our customers about Ayurveda treatments in our hotel. You can find specialist information on topics such as "What is Ayurveda?" and on the Ayurvedic constitution, diet and lifestyle in our Ayurveda knowledge section.
What do I need to bring to my Ayurveda treatment in Birstein?
Medical information
- So that we can prepare for your stay, please send us your completed questionnaire 6 weeks before the start of your treatment - or as soon as possible if you book at short notice. This will enable our spa management to contact you in advance by telephone if any medical questions need to be clarified.
- If available, please bring current medical reports, laboratory and ultrasound examinations, x-rays etc. that document your current complaints, if you have not already sent these with the questionnaire.
- Please bring sufficient quantities of any medication, dietary supplements etc. that you need to take.
Relaxing leisure activities
- Creative activities such as painting, handicrafts and needlework are most suitable.
- Light literature that is uplifting rather than emotionally upsetting.
- CD/MP3 player/etc. with classical or relaxation music, headphones, diary, writing paper, etc. (you will receive a lovingly prepared spa diary in your room on arrival).
Clothing
- For the oil treatments you will need rubber bathing shoes, which can get oily.
- We provide handmade soaps for shampoo and body care, please bring your own personal requirements.
- Scarf and hat for protection on cold days.
- More nightgowns or pyjamas than you usually need for this period.
- Comfortable clothing (T-shirts, sweatshirts, comfortable pants) for yoga classes, slippers and good courage.
We will provide you with special Ayurveda literature, a bathrobe and a hairdryer on site. Individual or board games and DVD players are also available.
There are no televisions in the rooms and there is no Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi is only available in designated areas of our hotel).
You are better off leaving this at home:
- Computer, cell phone, desk work and study material
- Thrillers, action, horror, too many unhealthy emergency rations and doubts about your recovery
What clothes do I need for an Ayurveda treatment?
During an Ayurveda treatment, comfortable, loose clothing, warm socks, a hat, a scarf and weather-appropriate clothing for walks are suitable. Light sportswear or natural fiber clothing is recommended for yoga and meditation.
We provide bathrobes, towels and slippers for the treatments. Many guests also bring a notebook, water bottle, possibly a hot water bottle, favorite book or something creative. Everything else - from yoga mat to herbal tea - can be found on site.
How do I best prepare for my Ayurveda treatment at home?
Nutrition
The best way to prepare for the cure is to adjust your diet slightly at home:
- Avoid foods that are difficult to digest (such as cheese, fatty foods, raw vegetables), especially in the evening, and eat mostly freshly cooked food (rice, vegetables, soups).
- It is best to reduce your consumption of meat, fish and eggs in advance.
- Limit your consumption of acidic foods. Anything that tastes sour irritates the mucous membranes, promotes inflammatory processes and hinders transport functions in the body.
- Milk should not be combined with other foods, especially not with sour or salty foods. According to Ayurvedic scriptures, this leads to unnecessary contamination of the blood.
- Try to eat a regular diet and have your main meal at lunchtime.
- Drink plenty of hot water throughout the day to stimulate digestion, elimination and your metabolism.
- Limit your coffee consumption before starting the cure. You should not drink coffee or alcohol or smoke during the cure.
- After registering and confirming your booking, you will receive a clear document with preliminary information and a PDF book with recipes and possible meal plans.
Lifestyle
- It would be particularly beneficial if you could spend the last day before your arrival without much effort and work and try to arrive at the health and spa center as well-rested, relaxed and early as possible.
- Please do not make any far-reaching decisions during the cure. You are in an exceptional mental state. Write down the things that are on your mind and think about them again after the cure.
- If you have the opportunity, visit an Ayurvedic doctor or alternative practitioner in your area or at our clinic about four weeks before the start of the cure to have an initial consultation. They will be able to give you personalized recommendations on how best to prepare for the cure.
- Please be aware that our facility is not a hospital. The paths are not suitable for wheelchairs or walking frames. There is no possibility of "nursing care", i.e. you must be able to shower, dress and get to the dining room independently. There are at least six steps on the way.
- For optimum success, it is also advisable to plan a few days of rest after the cure so that you can make the transition to your everyday life more relaxed.
Is the Ayurveda cuisine in Birstein vegetarian or vegan?
As a spa guest in Birstein, you can enjoy a vegetarian Ayurvedic diet with organic certification. We mainly use seasonal ingredients from regional cultivation.
The authentic Ayurvedic cuisine is not vegan, but uses milk, ghee and honey in the daily diet and also as "carriers" of immune-boosting and vitalizing spices and herbs.
If you would like to enjoy our organic Ayurveda cuisine in a vegan way, please let us know when you book and our kitchen will adjust accordingly. As the use of ghee is a fundamental part of our Pancakarma cures, we recommend a free consultation with our Ayurvedic doctors to clarify whether alternatives are possible.
What do you eat for breakfast on an Ayurveda cure?
An Ayurvedic breakfast is warm, easily digestible and gently seasoned. Rice or oatmeal porridge with spices, stewed fruit, ghee or almonds are popular - depending on the constitution and treatment phase.
Breakfast is individually adapted for certain cures - e.g. more nourishing in case of exhaustion or relieving during the cleansing phase. Cold foods such as muesli, bread or raw vegetables are generally avoided.
When are arrival and departure times for an Ayurveda treatment in Birstein?
Our Ayurveda cures all begin on the first day at 18:00 with a get-together over a delicious Ayurveda menu. Your room will be ready for you from 16:00. It is ideal if you arrive between 16:00 and 17:00. This gives you time to settle into your room and we can show you around the hotel on a short tour.
If you arrive before 16:00, you are welcome to linger in the conservatory with AyurCafé or in the garden while your room is being prepared for you.
Departure takes place on the last day after lunch, i.e. at around 13:30.
Can I consume coffee, alcohol or cigarettes during the Ayurveda treatment?
Smoking
The entire property is smoke-free (with the exception of an outdoor pavilion). We strongly recommend that you do not smoke during your cure to ensure optimal results.
Coffee and alcohol
Coffee and alcohol are also contraindicated during the medical cure.
In the Rasayana concept, however, you can enjoy our Ayurveda coffee and tea specialties as well as a glass of wine for your health in our in-house AyurCafé.
How do I spend my free time during the Ayurveda treatment?
During your cure, you will enjoy a variety of Ayurvedic treatments. You can find out what these services are in the detailed descriptions of each type of cure.
Supporting program
You will also take part in a varied supporting program. In this way, you will get to know Ayurveda as a holistic art of living. Depending on the treatment program, this includes, for example
- Yoga and meditation
- Lectures and evening relaxation
- Ayurvedic cooking demonstration
Time for yourself
Your cure gives you the freedom to organize your time according to your own needs. This could be a creative activity, or perhaps you would like to read light, uplifting literature, listen to relaxing music, write in your diary - or simply daydream and do nothing.
If you feel like talking, you can meet other spa guests in the spa lounge or winter garden for a stimulating conversation.
WLAN is also available in the AyurCafé. In order to maintain the protected setting, the rooms do not have televisions or WLAN reception.
The surrounding nature invites you to take walks in the fresh air. Long sightseeing tours or excessive sporting activities are not recommended during the cure. Use your time at the Rosenberg Kurzentrum as a retreat where you can find your inner peace.
What does the 80/20 rule mean in Ayurveda?
The 80/20 rule means: eat until you are comfortably full - i.e. about 80%, and not completely full. This keeps the digestive fire (Agni) active and the metabolism does not overload the body.
This simple rule helps you to be more mindful with food, avoid overeating and be able to digest and regenerate better in the long term. It is particularly important during a cure, but can easily be integrated into everyday life on a permanent basis.
When should you get up according to Ayurveda?
Ayurveda traditionally recommends getting up shortly before sunrise - ideally between 5:30 and 6:30 am. During this phase (Brahma Muhurta), the mind and senses are particularly clear and receptive to calm, mindfulness and healing.
During a cure, we do not rigidly adapt the times to traditions - it is more important that you find peace and develop a natural daily rhythm that is good for your body and nervous system.
Are the grounds of the Rosenberg Ayurveda Health and Spa Center barrier-free?
Our site is a natural place with history and character - the old forester's lodge is a listed building and gives our center its special charm. In the newer part of the building, all levels are easily accessible via an elevator, and all stairs throughout the grounds are equipped with handrails.
However, there are some steps and cobblestone paths between the historic and the new part of the building, which preserve the original character of the building - but unfortunately make access difficult for wheelchair users. However, guests with slight physical limitations can move around easily here and will be gladly assisted by our team on request.
Is Ayurveda serious? Facts about Ayurveda medicine and cures in Germany
When you come into contact with Ayurveda for the first time, you may ask yourself: Is Ayurveda really serious? Ayurveda looks back on centuries of history and has now established itself as an independent traditional medical system in the West. But what can Ayurveda actually achieve in modern times? Here you can find out what makes Ayurveda special, how an Ayurveda treatment works and what you should look out for when choosing a provider.
1. Ayurveda as a complete medical system
Ayurveda is far more than just a wellness trend. It is a holistic system of medicine that takes into account body, mind and soul in equal measure. The central principle: health arises when we live in harmony with our individual constitution and natural rhythm.
Ayurveda uses, among other things
- manual therapies (e.g. Ayurvedic massages, oil treatments)
- herbal food supplements and naturopathic remedies
- type-appropriate nutrition
- Cleansing procedures and detoxification (pancakarma)
- Yoga, meditation and breathing exercises
Ayurveda is particularly effective in prevention - i.e. maintaining and promoting health - as well as accompanying chronic complaints.
2. Ayurveda internationally recognized - also by the WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes Ayurveda as a traditional medical system with therapeutic potential. In India, Ayurveda is part of the state healthcare system, with its own universities, clinics and the responsible AYUSH ministry. On an international level, there are already numerous studies that examine Ayurveda according to modern scientific standards (information, for example, at pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has the task of coordinating these research projects.
Interest in Ayurveda is also growing in Germany. A clinical study by Charité Berlin, for example, showed promising results in the use of Ayurvedic therapies for knee osteoarthritis. The effect of individual substances such as turmeric is now well documented scientifically.
3. Sound Ayurveda training with a medical background
Ayurveda is reputable when it is practiced by qualified specialists. At the Rosenberg Ayurveda Health and Spa Center, the medical cures are supervised by experienced doctors or alternative practitioners who have a background in modern medicine as well as sound training in Ayurvedic medicine.
Many of them have been trained at the European Academy of Ayurveda, with
- 1.125 hours of study over 3-4 years
- Practical experience in India and Europe
- Admission requirement: medical or medical practice training
- a curriculum according to Indian university standards
- Recognition by the VEAT (Association of European Ayurveda Physicians and Therapists) in accordance with the guidelines of the ADAVED (Ayurveda Dachverband Deutschland)
4. Ayurveda cure: individual diagnosis and structured treatment
A medically supervised Ayurveda Panchakarma treatment at Rosenberg Kurzentrum follows a proven and medically structured procedure:
- Preliminary consultation & anamnesis: evaluation of a health questionnaire and any existing conventional medical findings, personal intake consultation
- Initial consultation: Comprehensive diagnosis by an Ayurvedic doctor with pulse, tongue and skin diagnosis as well as other procedures
- Preparation phase: ingestion of ghee, supportive massages and steam baths to mobilize metabolic waste products
- Cleansing phase: Individual cleansing methods such as enemas or plant-based treatments
- Build-up phase: Regeneration with Rasayana preparations, type-appropriate nutrition, yoga, breathing exercises and meditation
Good to know: Before your treatment, you can consult an Ayurveda doctor at the Rosenberg Ayurveda treatment center to find out whether Ayurveda is suitable for your individual case. At the same time, a Panchakarma treatment at our center is always adapted to your individual needs and symptoms. For example, detoxifications are only carried out if they are necessary and sensible.
5. Quality and safety of Ayurvedic products
A common misconception concerns the safety of Ayurvedic products. In our case, all preparations used are free from heavy metals and meet the strict European quality standards in accordance with the guidelines of the ADAVED (Ayurveda Dachverband Deutschland).
At Rosenberg Kurzentrum, we rely on herbal preparations, dietary supplements and spices that are used for therapeutic purposes in Ayurveda.
6. Ayurveda and modern medicine - a useful complement
Ayurveda does not see itself as a substitute for conventional medicine, but as a complement to it. Ayurveda can help to restore the body's natural balance and activate its self-healing powers, particularly in the case of chronic illnesses, psychosomatic complaints or stress management.
At the same time, Ayurveda teaches you to actively shape your health - through individual nutrition, a conscious lifestyle and holistic approaches.
Conclusion: Ayurveda is serious - when used correctly
Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that is rooted in tradition and practiced in a modern way. If it is applied professionally and in a medically sound manner, Ayurveda offers a sustainable way to promote health and alleviate ailments - in conjunction with modern medicine.
How often should you take an Ayurveda cure?
Many guests undergo an Ayurveda treatment once a year as a preventative measure, to gather new strength or to build up inner balance. In the case of increased stress or chronic complaints, additional restorative treatments can be useful.
Whether annually, every two years or specifically for certain phases of life - Ayurveda does not see cures as a short-term measure, but as part of a mindful, health-conscious lifestyle. Our medical advice will help you decide.
When is the best time for an Ayurveda treatment?
An Ayurveda cure is particularly effective in spring (detoxification) and fall (regeneration & strengthening). A cure can also be useful at any time in cases of exhaustion, professional or emotional upheaval or for prevention.
Your individual state of health is more important than the calendar. In a consultation, we will find out whether a stimulating, cleansing or restorative cure is more suitable.
How long does it take for an Ayurveda treatment to "work"?
Many people notice significant changes after just a few days: more peace, better sleep, a clearer mind or a lighter body feeling. The deeper effects - for example on the metabolism, nervous system and regeneration - usually unfold gradually.
It is important to note that Ayurveda is not only effective during the treatment, but especially in the weeks afterwards. As the body regenerates and new routines develop, the healing process continues - often more sustainably than expected.
Is an Ayurveda cure strenuous?
An Ayurveda treatment can be physically or emotionally challenging, especially during the cleansing and inner transformation. At the same time, many people experience a deeper sense of calm, clarity and lightness.
The support of medically trained Ayurveda experts ensures that reactions are carefully observed and discussed. This creates a protected space for regeneration instead of excessive demands.
What forms of treatment are there in Ayurveda therapy?
What illnesses can an Ayurveda cure help with?
According to the experience of our doctors and alternative practitioners, Ayurvedic medicine is particularly suitable for treating chronic illnesses. It can be used as the sole therapy or as a supplement to conventional medicine. The case studies show success in psychosomatic complaints, diseases of the skin, the cardiovascular system and the musculoskeletal system, among others. In our medical Ayurveda cures you will find a detailed list of conditions that can be treated well with Ayurveda:
When is an Ayurveda treatment not recommended?
Pregnancy
During the first and last trimester of pregnancy, no purgative treatments may be carried out. Ayurveda treatments are not recommended during this time.
Chemotherapy
You should not take part in an Ayurveda treatment during or immediately after chemotherapy.
Need for care and limited ability to walk
Our spa guests must be able to eat independently and take care of their own personal hygiene.
Please also note that there are steps throughout the grounds and the facility is not wheelchair accessible.
Acute complaints
If you have serious acute health problems, you should clarify with the spa management whether an Ayurveda cure is suitable or sensible for you at the present time. Our office team will be happy to arrange an appointment for you, Tel. +49 (0) 6054-9131-0
Menstruation
During menstruation, the body is already undergoing a natural cleansing process. Intensive purging procedures, which are part of the Panchakarma treatment, cannot be carried out in the first few days, or only to a very limited extent. We therefore recommend that you plan the start of your treatment accordingly. Our Ayurveda experts will be happy to advise you on a suitable date.
Which Ayurveda treatment is right for me?
At the Rosenberg Ayurveda Health and Spa Center you can choose between different types of cures:
- Medical cures
- Regenerative cures
This page can give you an initial orientation as to which cure is most suitable for you in your current life situation:
Which cure is right for me
In addition, our office team will be happy to advise you by telephone on the selection of a suitable cure:
Phone +49 (0) 6054-9131-0
Why do the Ayurveda treatments in Birstein take place on fixed dates?
Spa guests who arrive and depart at the same time quickly form a group. In addition, the shared meals and activities in our social program promote a warm atmosphere. As a spa guest, you have the opportunity to decide, depending on your personal mood, whether you are looking for friendly encounters with other people or a retreat in the sheltered setting of your room or in the spaciousness of the grounds.
In addition, the spa guests are at a similar stage of treatment, which is particularly important for a Panchakarma treatment with its three phases, for example. This makes it easier to share experiences with each other.
Why does the price of Ayurvedic full board remain the same, even if I eat less?
Freshness, quality and Ayurvedic nutrition in harmony
At the Rosenberg Ayurveda Health and Spa Center, all meals are freshly prepared every day - with high-quality ingredients, most of which come from controlled organic cultivation. All the food and drinks on offer also meet these high quality standards.
The price for our Ayurvedic full board is based on a well thought-out mixed calculation. Special nutritional plans that optimally support the course of treatment are naturally taken into account.
How far in advance should I book my Ayurveda treatment?
In recent years, many of the Ayurveda treatments at the Rosenberg Ayurveda Health and Spa Center have been fully booked. To secure your preferred date, we recommend booking as early as possible.
Non-binding reservation
We will be happy to clarify with you in advance whether a place is still available and reserve it for you for one or two weeks without obligation so that you can make a decision in peace. Please contact us on +49 (0) 6054-9131-0.
Which health insurance company covers an Ayurveda cure?
Fortunately, the first statutory health insurance companies are now also opening up to Ayurveda*. More frequently, private health insurance companies or supplementary insurances contribute to the costs of an Ayurveda cure - especially if there is a medical indication.
Depending on your insurance policy, the medical services will be reimbursed in full or in part by your private health insurance company. Check the insurance conditions of your tariff!
On request, we can provide our guests with an invoice for the medical services provided as part of a cure. This is done via Büdingen Med - Ärztliche Verrechnungsstelle Büdingen GmbH. If your cure is led by a doctor, the list of medical services is based on the scale of fees for doctors (GOÄ). If a non-medical practitioner is in charge of the treatment, the schedule of fees for non-medical practitioners (GebüH) forms the basis.
Please note: Ayurvedic treatments are only considered medical services to a limited extent.
Rosenberg Health & Management GmbH & Co. KG does not guarantee that your health insurance will cover the costs of medical services.
*Reimbursement always depends on the individual insurance contract and the medical justification. Ayurveda is increasingly recognized as a complementary healing method, especially for chronic or stress-related complaints. You can find an official overview on the krankenkassen.de platform under "Alternative healing methods - Ayurveda".
Further information:
https://www.krankenkassen.de/gesetzliche-krankenkassen/leistungen-gesetzliche-krankenkassen/alternative-heilmethoden/ayurveda/
What happens if I have to cancel my booked Ayurveda treatment?
You can withdraw from the contract at any time before the start of the cure. The date on which we receive your written declaration of withdrawal is decisive.
In the event of withdrawal or no-show, the following flat-rate compensation will be charged
- up to 30 days before the start of the course: 20 % of the service price
- 29 to 15 days before the start of the course: 45 %
- 14 to 8 days before the start of the course: 60
- 7 to 1 day before the start of the cure: 75 %
- on the day of arrival or in case of no-show: 90 %
We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance with one of the usual providers.
You can find our complete conditions of participation here: To our terms and conditions
How do we implement sustainability at Rosenberg Ayurveda?
Sustainability, awareness of our environment and our natural habitat are particularly important to us.
You can find our efforts, guidelines and processes in the following article.
We are constantly working on further improvements and are always open to suggestions.
Sustainability at the Rosenberg Ayurveda Health and Spa Center (PDF)