AAPI’s Inaugural Ayurveda & Wellness Retreat: A Historic Success in Fairfield, Iowa

Physicians Celebrate Ancient Traditions and Modern Healing at The Raj Resort

The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) marked a historic milestone this November with its first-ever Ayurveda & Wellness Retreat, hosted at The Raj Resort and Maharishi International University (MIU) in Fairfield, Iowa. The sold-out event, held from November 12–16, 2025, brought together physicians and their families for an immersive experience blending the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with the rigor of modern medical science.

Embracing Tradition in a Modern World

For AAPI, the largest organization of Indian physicians outside India, the retreat represented a long-awaited reconnection with India’s timeless healing traditions. “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,” noted 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.”

Intimate Wellness and Cultural Immersion

Limited to just 25 couples for personalized care, the retreat offered participants authentic Ayurvedic therapies—including Abhyanga (herbal oil massage) and Shirodhara (warm oil therapy)—as well as daily yoga, meditation, and Pranayama sessions. “It’s rare to find a program that so seamlessly integrates scientific rigor with ancient wisdom,” said Dr. Amit Shah, one of the retreat’s organizers.

Evenings were enlivened with soulful performances by Indian musicians and dancers, adding a rich layer of cultural celebration. The culinary experience, featuring wholesome Satvik cuisine prepared by Indian chefs, complemented the holistic approach, nourishing both body and spirit.

Where Science Meets Spirituality

AAPI’s vision for the retreat was clear: to provide physicians with evidence-based knowledge of Ayurveda while fostering personal renewal. Attendees consulted with Ayurveda Vaidyas, explored Transcendental Meditation (TM)—endorsed by the American Heart Association and American Medical Association for managing hypertension—and attended presentations on longevity, vitality, and daily wellness routines. “This retreat is about addressing the growing stress and burnout among medical professionals,” emphasized Dr. Chakrabarty. “We want our members to leave feeling truly revitalized.”

CME-Accredited Educational Sessions

On November 15–16, MIU faculty led Continuing Medical Education (CME) sessions on Ayurveda’s consciousness-based approach, the foundational principles of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, dietary and lifestyle recommendations for disease prevention, and integrative strategies for managing inflammation and chronic conditions. “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.

Unforgettable Performances: Music and Dance

A highlight of the retreat was the captivating classical music performance by Dr. Aarti Pandya. “Performing here, surrounded by colleagues and friends, was a proud and unforgettable moment for all of us,” Dr. Pandya reflected. Attendees and staff alike were mesmerized by her talent, making it a truly special evening.

The retreat also featured a mesmerizing Bharatanatyam recital by Rebecca, a transcendental meditation therapist raised in Fairfield. Her journey has spanned continents, with training under her Guru in Germany and further practice in India. “To perform in my hometown, before an Indian audience, was a moment of pure joy—a homecoming of spirit and culture,” Rebecca shared. “What an absolute treat for all who witnessed it!”

Exclusive Access and Expanding Interest

AAPI secured an all-inclusive package for members at less than half the standard rate, making the elite experience remarkably accessible. “With 15 spots already booked before the official announcement, it’s clear that interest in integrative health among medical professionals is surging,” commented Dr. Shah.

Cultural Enrichment and Educational Exploration

Beyond wellness treatments, participants toured The Raj Panchakarma facility and MIU, a fully accredited institution offering consciousness-based education. The visit to the Golden Domes at MIU, where hundreds of TM practitioners meditate together, was described as “a scientifically measurable positive influence on the environment,” by MIU faculty. Guests also enjoyed shopping at the Maharishi Ayurveda Products and Gift Store, bringing home wellness products and souvenirs to extend the retreat’s benefits beyond its duration.

Looking Ahead: Preserving a Legacy of Healing

Founded 33 years ago and built according to Vedic architecture (Vastu), The Raj has long pioneered the integration of Ayurvedic medicine in the U.S. Retreat organizers—including owners Candace and Rogers Badgett and MIU faculty—are committed to continuing 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,” promised Dr. Chakrabarty. Plans are already underway for future programs, including a week-long Panchakarma session and a semi-traditional introduction to Ayurveda.

Conclusion: Setting a New Standard for Holistic Health

AAPI’s Ayurveda & Wellness Retreat sets a visionary benchmark for physician wellness in the United States, seamlessly merging ancient healing traditions with modern medical insights. As Dr. Chakrabarty concluded, “This is more than just a retreat; it’s a new era for holistic health initiatives in the U.S. We invite physicians and their families to join us on this ongoing journey toward integrated well-being.”