We had the privilege of sitting down with Dr Rahul Krishnan, the Spa Manager at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, who graciously shared insights into his journey, intertwining his familial roots in Spa and Ayurvedic therapies with his professional journey.

As we delved into the heart of his practice, Dr Rahul illuminated the art of personalised consultations, guided by a profound ethos of empathy and understanding. Through the lens of Ayurveda, he deciphered the unique constitution of each guest, weaving a tapestry of bespoke treatments and lifestyle recommendations tailored to their individual needs.

What led you to Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, and can you share how your family background in Spa and Ayurvedic therapies influenced your career choice?

After working for a few years in different hospitality firms in India, I thought of moving to a wider and bigger industry where I could utilise my skills in Spa & Ayurveda and craft a more holistic spa menu with authentic Ayurvedic treatments. And, Maldives being very near to Kerala, India, came to my thoughts, and in those days, Maldives was in hospitality news and Bollywood movies always. The Maldives placed a huge focus on the spa industry even at that time. I was sure I would be able to learn more and achieve more, and it happened exactly like that.

My mother is a Doctor in Homeopathy; she is also into herbal medicines and treatments. So from childhood, I am always seeing people getting treated for different conditions. I grew up with herbs and her quotes about natural ways of healing, this developed an immense interest in me to learn holistic ways of healing and Ayurveda being the ‘Science of Life’ was a natural choice. After the graduation, I started blending classical spa treatments with Ayurveda and Yoga to form a holistic approach.

As an Ayurvedic Doctor, how do you approach consultations with guests to personalise their spa journey?

Listen to them! Many who visits me will open up, they will have a lot of stress and emotions. So hear them and show empathy. 

During the consultation, I will diagnose the Prakruthi (body constitution) or Dosha type (energy type). According to Ayurveda, everything on this planet consists of five elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether. Ayurveda groups these five elements into three basic energies, or doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each of us has a unique combination of these Doshas, which determines our constitution.

We will discuss the daily routine, lifestyle, diet, activities, work, habits, hobbies, etc., and discuss any concerns, illnesses, or discomforts. A final pulse diagnosis will determine the dosha type or Prakruthi. Then, therapies and lifestyle recommendations will be prescribed according to the dosha, medical conditions, and personal needs, customising the spa journey.  

What key elements contribute to keeping the spa team satisfied and motivated in their roles?

They are passionate about doing this job, and they feel proud and very satisfied when a guest says it is the best treatment they have ever had or when they are able to heal the pain or de-stress the guest.

The top management of Sun Siyam Iru Fushi respects and appreciates their achievements and positive contributions. Sun Siyam Group Management has, on numerous occasions, appreciated Iru Fushi as the best spa in the group due to the quality and discipline the team shows in their treatments. This motivates them, makes them feel special, and boosts their confidence level. I always trust and support my team, and they give their full potential in their roles.

Can you elaborate on how the spa team creates positive vibrations for guests, enhancing their overall experience?

Intense training to start with, therapists will be trained from the basics according to our protocols even if they are very experienced, these trainings will run for 5 to 6 months. Each treatment once trained will be tested by the trainer or the managers, then only we qualify them in that particular treatment, they will then start performing that treatment for the guests. 

Personalised experiences are created by knowing the requirements of the guests. We try to create a connection with them by interacting with them. For a guest to be completely satisfied after treatment, we need to understand exactly what that person requires and then deliver exactly that, even above their expectations. Then, with special extra care, like if they have sunburn, therapists will proactively apply a sun healing gel like Aloe Vera, or if a guest is having facial mentions about pain, they will do a massage on that area for a few minutes. 

The ambience of our spa is also an important factor in creating the tranquil effect. Just by sitting in our relaxation area, you will feel positive vibrations—everywhere green, ponds with fish on both sides of pathways leading to the treatment rooms, music, and aroma healing you in every corner of the spa. 

For individuals aspiring to enter the spa and wellness industry, what specific skills or qualities do you believe are essential for success?

Passion and patience are very important natural attributes which help a person to model their career in this industry. A caring attitude, good listening skills, and attention to detail are also key. Learn from the basics, and be open to learning.

We believe a therapist is an artist, a healing artist, who gently crafts the art of touch.