Ayurvedic massage is an integral part of Ayurvedic healing philosophy and practice. While Western massage is often not much more than a rub-down to loosen tense muscles, Ayurvedic massage is designed to promote healing and to stimulate the vital energy of the body. Massage has been used, developed and taught for many centuries and has proven its value over time.
All living beings have life force known as the prana or ‘breath’. This is primordial, vital energy, part of everything that we are. This is one of the central concepts of Ayurveda and the foundation of both body and mind. This energy flows through channels in the body called nadi. Abhyanga is one of the types of Ayurvedic massage and focuses on keeping the life energy flowing freely through the energy channels. The massage works to eliminate blocks in those channels caused by poor lifestyle choices, improper food or disease.
Various medicated herbal oils are used in this traditional massage therapy. The techniques used by the massage therapist depend upon the needs of the individual. It is a very relaxing experience, relieving stress and many disorders. Many illnesses improve with regular Ayurvedic massage. At one time, massage was mandatory for Indian soldiers because of the improvements to their strength, agility and general well-being.
There are specific massage techniques for the face, head and the full body. Not all massages utilize oils. Shirodhara Massage can be done with either oil or medicated milk. Other techniques use herbal oils and herbal powders, leaves or rice.
