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Modern Ayurvedic Expert Surya’s Martha Soffer curates customized journeys for optimal wellness PHOTOS BY CHRIS MORTENSON
Internationally acclaimed Ayurvedic doctor, chef and herbalist, Martha Soffer, is the owner of Surya, an artisan Ayurvedic spa at Santa Monica Proper Hotel. PAGE 12 THE ARGONAUT NOVEMBER 3, 2022
By Kamala Kirk artha Soffer’s interest in wellness was inspired by her grandmother, who owned a large farm in her native Colombia. Growing up, Soffer watched her utilize the herbs and flowers that grew there to treat various health conditions. “My grandmother had a huge garden with roses and different types of herbs, and she would mix ingredients from her garden to treat her arthritis pain,” Soffer said. “Anytime I got sick or was suffering from some type of ailment, she taught me what herbs to treat it with so I learned a lot about natural healing at a young age.” Soffer was also introduced by a friend to Transcendental Meditation, a form of silent mantra meditation that helps decrease stress and anxiety, in addition to improving one’s health. The experience, Soffer said, ultimately changed her life. She later moved to the United States to study English and computer science at Maharishi International University in Iowa, which features a consciousness-based education system that includes the practice of the Transcendental Meditation technique. One day on campus, Soffer noticed a woman with glowing skin and fragrant oil in her hair, which piqued her curiosity. “I was fascinated by the incredible smell and asked her what it was,” Soffer said. “I learned that she was participating in a Panchakarma series, which is the Ayurvedic process of detoxifying and purifying the body for several days. She referred me to the campus Ayurvedic center and as soon as I walked in, I loved it. I applied to the program and began my study of Ayurveda.” Soffer learned about plants, diet and the human connection to nature, which resonated with many of her grandmother’s teachings. After completing the program she came to Los Angeles in 2000 for six weeks to teach a course, and it was
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