Ayurvedic massage, rooted in the ancient Indian system of medicine is a holistic practice that enhances one’s physical and psychological wellness. Tailored to individual needs this traditional form of massage has been passed down through generations and is believed to harmonize the body’s energy systems for overall well-being.
With various techniques and health benefits, ayurvedic massages offer a personalized approach to improving one’s health and happiness. This blog will discuss the popular types of Ayurvedic massages and their unique benefits.
1. Abhyanga Massage
Abhyanga massage is one of the most popular treatments of ayurvedic massages. It is a traditional Indian self-massage technique where warm oil infused with herbs is massaged over the entire body. Abhyanga is a Sanskrit word where “anga” means “movement” and “abhi” means “difference”.
The seven physical positions in which abhyanga is traditionally performed are sitting, supine, left lateral, supine, right lateral, supine, and sitting. Here, the sitting position is erect and the supine position is lying down. Massage is done from head to feet and from right to left using light to moderate pressure.
Abhyanga is an all-inclusive practice that seeks to balance the body, mind, and spirit to enhance general well-being. It also activates energy points and the lymphatic system which helps in the removal of toxins from the body.
2. Shirodhara Massage
Shirodhara is a traditional and well-respected Ayurvedic technique in which medicated oil or other liquids are gradually and steadily dripped onto the forehead. The Sanskrit terms “shiro” (head) and “dhara” (flow) are combined to form this name.
Applying a liquid (water, oil, milk, or buttermilk) to the forehead is an Ayurvedic healing technique. A head, scalp, or body massage is frequently combined with it. The process creates a calm, balanced state that leads to a dynamic psycho-somatic equilibrium, a balance between mind and body. It is done in the supine (lying backward) position.
This massage helps to relieve stress, promote good sleep, reduce anxiety, and calm down an agitated mind. It also eliminates mental toxins and boosts blood circulation. Furthermore, Shirodhana is very effective for people suffering from insomnia and headaches.
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3. Panchakarma Massage
Another Ayurvedic massage variety is the Panchakarma massage which is intended to aid in the body’s detoxification. Several therapeutic techniques are used during the massage with the goal
of clearing the body of toxins.
An Ayurvedic practitioner consults with the client to ascertain the body type and any imbalances before the beginning of the massage therapy. Thereafter, the body goes through a period of preparatory exercises like oil massage and sweating to release and eliminate toxins from the body.
Panchakarma massage helps strengthen the immune system, enhance reproductive health, facilitate better digestion, and advance general health and well-being.
4. Nasya Massage
Nasya is regarded as the best Ayurvedic remedy for body imbalances that affect the area above the shoulders. A precise dosage of Nasya oil is delicately poured into the nose after the head, face, and neck have been massaged with warm oil.
After a point-stimulating facial massage, oils are administered through the nasal passage, and herbal steam is used. Along with detoxifying the head and neck region, the treatment also strengthens and cleans the nasal passage to improve breathing and treat related conditions.
It is an extremely effective treatment for getting rid of extra toxins that have built up in the head and neck. It enhances the activity of sense organs, lubricates the nasal passage, and prevents early aging and early greying of hair.
In addition to relieving sinus congestion and enhancing memory, the massage supports mental clarity. This massage can also benefit people with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues.
5. Udwarthana Massage
A particular Ayurvedic massage therapy, udwarthana, is a deep tissue massage where the powder of different drugs is used for body massage. The term “Udwarthana” simply means “to elevate” or “to move in an upward direction”. This term is combined with two terms: “udhwa” which means “upward” and “varthanam” which means “to move”.
The procedure involves the application of powdered herbs on the body before the massage starts. The body is massaged with more pressure in the direction opposite to the hair follicle growth. Depending on the requirements, dry powder or powder combined with oil can be used.
After the treatment, steaming is advised for optimal outcomes. Taking a hot shower could be useful too.
The purpose of the massage is to aid in skin exfoliation, enhance circulation, reduce excessive fat, and detoxification of the body. Those with obesity, muscular weakness, and lymphatic congestion find that this massage is very beneficial.
6. Padabhyanga Massage
Padabhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic foot massage therapy. It is sometimes referred to as pada abhyanga. The term “pada” means “foot” and “abhyanga” means “oil massage” in Sanskrit.
During the massage, warm herbal oils are usually applied with a focus on particular channels and pressure points to increase blood flow and relieve stress. The body is vitalized and mental clarity is improved by the use of gentle strokes and circular motions throughout the massage.
Those who experience insomnia, anxiety, or exhaustion, can benefit from this particular massage. It is very helpful with foot-related issues like plantar fasciitis or foot pain. Padabhyanga massage also balances the doshas (bodily energies) according to Ayurvedic principles.
7. Kati Basti Massage
Kati Basti massage is an Ayurvedic massage that is used to treat back pain wherein inflammation and stiffness are dealt with. See, Kati and Basti are two Sanskrit terms that mean “lower back” and “to retain” respectively.
A warm oil massage is applied to the lower back before the massage itself begins. The oil softens and lubricates the tensed muscles by penetrating the tissues deeply. The warm herbal oil eases back pain and stiffness by allowing absorption into the muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Additionally, the entire body will be de-stressed by the treatment. It also heals underlying conditions if there are any.
This massage variety strengthens the lower back of the body, soothes nerves, enhances blood supply, and improves body movements.