List of Ayurvedic Massage Techniques and Benefits
Have you heard about the ancient massage techniques from India that support both health and overall wellbeing? Yes, this is Ayurvedic massage, a warm oil treatment known for improving blood circulation, aiding detoxification, and reducing stress.
If you are thinking about trying an Ayurvedic massage, this article will help you understand what it is and the different techniques used in the process. Let’s take a closer look
What Is Ayurvedic Massage?
Ayurvedic massage is a traditional therapy from India that combines warm natural oils with specific massage movements. These techniques include gentle strokes (effleurage) as well as deeper kneading motions (petrissage).
Ayurvedic massage is quite different from most other types of massage. According to The Ayurvedic Institute, the techniques used in Ayurvedic massage depend on a person’s unique energy constitution (Prakruti) and the current state of their dosha (Vikruti). Other elements that may influence the treatment include the strength of a person’s digestive fire (Agni) and the level of toxins in the body (Ama).
For that reason, Ayurvedic massage should only be performed by trained Ayurvedic practitioners. It is considered a part of holistic Ayurvedic healing, which aims to restore balance in the body and in life as a whole.
Read more: Introduction to Ayurveda and Its Benefits
List of Ayurvedic Massage Techniques
Here are some of the most common Ayurvedic massage techniques practiced by Ayurvedic professionals, according to The Ayurvedic Institute and Spa Theory:
1. Abhyanga
Abhyanga is one of the most widely practiced Ayurvedic massage techniques. It uses warm herbal oils selected based on the individual’s body condition and dosha type.
The massage movements are gentle yet thorough helping relax the muscles and stimulate the lymphatic system to remove toxins.
Benefits of Abhyanga
- Deep relaxation and reduced stress
- Improved blood and lymph circulation natural detox
- Softer skin and healthier joints
- Better sleep quality
2. Shirodhara
Shirodhara involves a steady flow of warm oil over the forehead especially between the eyebrows known as the “third eye” area. This technique has a deeply calming effect on the central nervous system.
Benefits of Shirodhara:
- Soothes the nerves and the brain
- Helps relieve insomnia anxiety and migraines
- Enhances focus and mental clarity
3. Marma Therapy
Marma therapy focuses on more than 100 vital energy points throughout the body. Gentle massage or pressure on these points helps improve the flow of vital life energy prana.
Benefits of Marma Therapy:
- Relieves muscle pain and tension
- Balances the body’s energy
- Supports organ function and vitality
Live Naturally with the Ayurvedic Diet
4. Pizhichil
Pizhichil combines Abhyanga with continuous pouring of warm herbal oil across the entire body. Often performed by two therapists at the same time it provides more intensive therapeutic effects.
Benefits of Pizhichil
- Reduces nerve and muscle pain
- Improves joint and muscle flexibility
- Deep relaxation of the nervous system
- Helps reduce inflammation
5. Udvartana
Udvartana is an exfoliating massage that uses Ayurvedic herbal powders with a gentle abrasive texture. It removes dead skin cells while stimulating metabolism and blood flow.
Benefits of Udvartana
- Helps reduce body fat and cellulite
- Detoxifies the body through the skin
- Smooths and firms the skin
- Reduces swelling anti edema
Read more: Stress vs. Depression: What’s the Real Difference?
Feel Deep Relaxation with Ayurvedic Massage
Caring Nature is a wellness center in Jakarta offering authentic Ayurvedic massage performed by trained practitioners from India. Each treatment is tailored to your unique dosha condition ensuring a fully personalized massage experience that meets your body’s needs.
You can now schedule an Ayurvedic massage consultation with Caring Nature by clicking the link below