In a world that glorifies the grind, where exhaustion is worn like a badge of honour, Kurundu Wellness offers a radical alternative, an invitation to slow down, listen, and reconnect. It is a retreat from the relentless pace of modern life, a sanctuary where healing is about realignment rather than mere relaxation. Nestled within the sleek modernity of Cinnamon Life, Kurundu Wellness blends ancient Ayurvedic traditions with contemporary wellness practices. Its name, ‘Kurundu’- Sinhala for cinnamon, reflects Sri Lanka’s deep-rooted healing wisdom, passed down through generations. Here, the air hums with the scent of warm cinnamon, tinged with a whisper of citrus, a quiet promise that balance is always within reach.
Stepping inside, the contrast with the outside world is immediate. The city’s noise dissolves into stillness. Unlike traditional wellness centers, Kurundu prioritizes personalization. Each guest undergoes a detailed consultation to determine their elemental force; Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, or Water. These elements shape therapies to restore harmony in mind and body. Learning that I belonged to Metal, a force tied to clarity and strength, transformed my experience into a deeper journey of self-discovery. As Director Neil Hewerdine puts it, “We don’t just offer wellness; we offer connection; to self, to tradition, to healing.”
Kurundu’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its therapies. Hygiene is paramount, with every tool meticulously sanitized and materials freshly prepared. Thoughtful accommodations include separate resting rooms for men and women, private showers, and secure storage lockers with self-generated PINs. Guests can choose between air-conditioned indoor rooms or open-air treatment spaces, where fresh air and the gentle murmur of water enhance relaxation. By merging Ayurveda’s wisdom with modern innovations like Hydro Massage and inversion therapy, Kurundu creates a truly immersive healing experience; one where tradition and technology exist in perfect harmony.
Insights from Neil Hewerdine, Director of Wellness
Q: Kurundu emphasizes authentic Sri Lankan hospitality in its wellness approach. How do you ensure that warmth and sincerity are felt in every guest’s experience?
At Kurundu, we ensure warmth and sincerity in every guest’s experience by treating them individually yet equally from the moment they arrive. Our team is committed to delivering personalized care, infused with the genuine kindness that defines Sri Lankan hospitality. Through thoughtful gestures and customized wellness offerings, we create a welcoming environment where guests feel truly valued, building trust and ensuring their time with us is memorable and heartfelt.
Q:Can you tell us more about how the five elemental forces; Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water, are integrated into Kurundu’s wellness programs?
The five elements, Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water, are integrated into wellness programs to create a personalized experience:
- Wood (Growth and Vitality): Energizing treatments that promote personal growth and resilience.
- Fire (Passion and Transformation): Invigorating practices that inspire creativity and transformation.
- Earth (Grounding and Nourishment): Grounding programs focused on self-care and connection to nature.
- Metal (Strength and Clarity): Guided meditation and treatments that enhance strength, clarity, and focus.
- Water (Fluidity and Relaxation): Water-based therapies like the Vichy Shower that promote relaxation and stress relief.
These elements guide guests on a tailored wellness journey that nurtures balance, vitality, and well-being.
Q: How do you incorporate both ancient healing traditions and modern wellness practices into your treatments?
We blend ancient healing traditions with modern wellness practices to offer a holistic, cutting-edge experience. By incorporating timeless techniques like traditional massage and local ingredients alongside advanced wellness technology, we create treatments that nurture both body and mind. Our signature offerings combine these elements, tailored to each location’s unique essence. This seamless integration of tradition and innovation ensures guests experience the best of both worlds, delivering a truly transformative wellness journey.
Q: How do your therapists and wellness experts create a truly personalized journey for each guest?
- Listening and Understanding: Engaging with guests through consultations to understand their physical, mental, and emotional needs.
- Customized Recommendations: Suggesting treatments that align with the guest’s elemental balance and wellness goals.
- Tailored Treatments: Adjusting therapies to suit individual preferences, whether for relaxation, strength, or emotional well-being.
- Ongoing Feedback: Staying flexible and adapting treatments based on guest feedback throughout their stay.
- Innovative Approaches: Keeping up with the latest wellness trends to provide advanced and transformative treatments.
- Personal Touch: Ensuring every interaction makes guests feel valued, safe, and cared for. This ensures each guest receives a unique and meaningful wellness experience.
Q:In today’s fast-paced and stressful world, what role does Kurundu play in helping guests find balance and tranquillity?
- Defence: Strengthening the body’s natural defences and boosting immunity.
- Spiritual: Fostering connection, clarity, and spiritual peace.
- Recharging: Restoring energy and vitality.
- Invigorating: Stimulating the body and mind for renewed energy.
- Social: Creating a sense of community and emotional support.
Through these pillars, Kurundu provides a serene, luxurious environment where guests can rejuvenate, reconnect, and leave feeling balanced and revitalized. We pride ourselves on guiding our guests to what they feel is the right connection for them; ultimately strengthening our message of Wellness by Choice.
Q:What’s next for Kurundu? Are there any exciting developments or expansions in the pipeline?
Kurundu is set to expand its offerings with exciting new services, including HydraFacial for skin rejuvenation, Cryotherapy for recovery and vitality, a Barber Shop & Blow Dry Bar for grooming and beauty treatments, and an IV Bar for hydration and energy boosting. These services will be gradually introduced as the business grows, ensuring Kurundu remains a leader in wellness.
And for those wondering how someone like Neil Hewerdine unwinds after a long day? He smiles. “A guided meditation, soft music, deep breathing, and maybe a massage on the dream bed, just to remind myself why we do what we do.”
Kurundu is a philosophy, an experience; a gentle yet powerful reminder that amidst the chaos of the world, balance is always within reach. All you have to do is choose it.
