Ayurveda has 5000-year-old science of life. Based on Ayurveda, every person is made of five different elements like air, space, fire, earth and water. These elements combine to form doshas like Pitta, Vata and Kapha. In most people, one dosha is primary and the other two are secondary.
The ayurvedic massage maintains balance between the mind, body and spirit. The ayurvedic oil massage uses warm oils and non-traditional strokes to the individual.
The ayurvedic massage uses organic oils infused with herbs. The oil is warmed and applied to give detoxification and relaxation.
Ayurvedic oils are used based on the person’s dominant dosha. With the right temperature, oils can penetrate the skin pores and bind to the toxins for detoxifying the body.
Oils are used for different dominant doshas like
For vata- heavy oils like Bhringaraj and sesame can be used.
For Pitta- cooling and neutral oils like castor, coconut, Brahmi oil, ghee, bhringaraj oil and neem oil can be used.
For Kapha – it stimulates and light oils like canola, flaxseed, safflower oil can be used.
Various types of massages
Ayurveda has various kinds of ayurvedic massages.
Gandharva
This combines sound therapy and touch to improve the energy flow of an individual. Oil massages with crystal singing bowls vibrate and transform the body’s cells. Gandharva provides blissfulness.
Marma
It is done by the therapist. Marma points are vital energy points. During the marma massage, circular touch and dosha specific oils stimulate the energy points. Marma massage relieves stiff muscles and boosts circulation.
Udwarthanam Massage
It is done with powdered herbs. Therapists exfoliate the skin and cleanse thoroughly by applying a powder layer to the body. This massage removes stagnant toxins from the body.
Shirodhara
A soothing stream of warm oil is poured onto the forehead. Shirodhara treatment also calms the central nervous system.
Vishesh
It is another massage technique that uses slow and firm strokes. Vishesh can be followed by the Abhyanga massage.
Abhyangam
Anointing the body with warm medicated oils. It is done before bathing and is performed by everyone. Abhyangam is a kind of self-care and self-love. As per Ayurveda, you can massage the herbal oils to penetrate deep into the skin. Abhyanga can be practised every day.
Pizhichil
Pizhichil is also called an “oil bath” where the continuous stream of herbal oils is smoothed into the body. It purifies blood, enhances circulation, and eliminates toxins.
Ayurvedic massage as per dosha
Most of the massage focuses on countering a person’s predominant dosha.
Kapha has a healthy digestion, sturdy build and a sense of calm. The imbalances cause obesity, lethargy, apathy and depression. Kaphas would benefit from Vishesh, a deep tissue stimulating massage.
Pitta people have a strong digestion and are friendly when balanced. The imbalances cause constant thirst, fever, lack of focus and irritability. Pittas can benefit from Abhyanga, as it releases toxins and calms the central nervous system.
Vata people are creative, energetic and enthusiastic. Vata imbalances cause constipation, weakness, arthritis and digestive challenges. Marma and Shirodhara pacify the vata aggravate.
Benefits of the Ayurvedic massage
- It balances the doshas.
- Cleanses and Detoxifies.
- Would enhance the immunity.
- It improves circulation.
- Soothes the body and mind.
- Gives healthy glowing skin.
- It reduces stress.
- Provides the sense of relaxation.
- It increases the flexibility of muscles.
- It helps in lymphatic drainage.
For getting better results, combine the massages with exercise, diet and nutrition.
