The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) hosted its inaugural Ayurveda and Wellness Retreat at The Raj Resort and Maharishi International University (MIU) in Fairfield, Iowa. Held from November 12 to 16, 2025, the program brought together physicians and their families for an immersive experience that combined the principles of Ayurveda with modern medical insight.

For AAPI, the largest organization of Indian physicians outside India, the retreat marked a meaningful return to India’s traditional healing systems. “It’s both remarkable and ironic that it took us this long to formally embrace Ayurveda, a tradition nurtured here at The Raj for over 30 years,” said AAPI President Dr. Amit Chakrabarty. “We’re thrilled to finally bridge this gap and offer our members a handcrafted retreat designed to rejuvenate body, mind, and spirit.”

Participation was limited to 25 couples to ensure individualized attention. Attendees experienced a range of authentic Ayurvedic therapies such as Abhyanga (herbal oil massage) and Shirodhara (warm oil therapy), along with daily yoga, meditation, and Pranayama.

“It’s rare to find a program that so seamlessly integrates scientific rigor with ancient wisdom,” noted Dr. Amit Shah, one of the retreat organizers.

Evening cultural performances by Indian musicians and dancers added to the atmosphere, while wholesome Satvik meals prepared by Indian chefs aligned with the retreat’s holistic focus.

AAPI designed the retreat to provide physicians with evidence-based understanding of Ayurveda while offering a space for personal renewal. 

Participants consulted with Ayurveda Vaidyas, engaged in Transcendental Meditation (TM) endorsed by the American Heart Association and American Medical Association for hypertension management, and attended sessions on longevity, vitality, and wellness routines. “This retreat is about addressing the growing stress and burnout among medical professionals,” Dr. Chakrabarty emphasized. “We want our members to leave feeling truly revitalized.”

From November 15 to 16, MIU faculty conducted Continuing Medical Education (CME) sessions covering Ayurveda’s consciousness-based framework, the principles of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, preventive lifestyle practices, and integrative approaches to inflammation and chronic disease. “These sessions are designed to equip physicians with practical tools to incorporate Ayurveda into their clinical practice, enhancing patient care through holistic modalities,” explained Dr. Arti Prasad, a key organizer.

One standout moment of the retreat was a classical music performance by Dr. Aarti Pandya. “Performing here, surrounded by colleagues and friends, was a proud and unforgettable moment for all of us,” she said. A Bharatanatyam recital by Rebecca, a transcendental meditation therapist raised in Fairfield, was another highlight. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “To perform in my hometown, before an Indian audience, was a moment of pure joy, a homecoming of spirit and culture.”

Participants also toured The Raj Panchakarma facility and MIU, an accredited institution known for its consciousness-based education. A visit to the Golden Domes, where hundreds practice TM together, was described by MIU faculty as “a scientifically measurable positive influence on the environment.” Guests also visited the Maharishi Ayurveda Products and Gift Store to take home wellness items and souvenirs.

The Raj, founded 33 years ago and built according to Vedic architecture (Vastu), has been a leader in bringing Ayurvedic medicine to the United States. Retreat organizers, including owners Candace and Rogers Badgett and MIU faculty, expressed their commitment to preserving this legacy.

“We will continue to uphold and promote this tradition in the years ahead, showcasing the timeless wisdom of India’s ancient medical heritage,” Dr. Chakrabarty said. AAPI has already begun planning future programs, including a week-long Panchakarma session and an introductory Ayurvedic course.

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