Long-term health can be attained only if you get enough relaxation and sleep, have a satisfying social life, balance work and rest, and live in a climate appropriate to your constitution. When an illness does occur, the underlying cause and the person's unique constitution will direct treatment. Thus, different people with the same disease may receive a different combination of therapeutic treatments, involving diet, exercise and meditation, massage, and herbs. Ayurvedic practitioners also have more specialized tools, such as the use of laxatives and enemas, that may be reserved for treating deep-rooted or chronic conditions. Ancient texts and modern practitioners describe pancha karma as a miraculous, life-extending program.
Some ayurvedic spas offer comprehensive pancha karma treatments that last several days.