Ayurvedic massage belongs to the tradition of the "science of life", Ayurveda. At the base of this widespread tradition in India and neighboring countries lies the holistic vision of man : body and mind are an indissoluble unity.
The technique of Ayurvedic massage
It goes without saying that massage is a technique that leads to well-being only when combined with a healthy diet, a serene mind.
The basic texts of Ayurvedic medicine - the Sushutra and the Charaka Samhita - identify therapeutic massage in a way of life aimed at strengthening the human being in the face of natural changes such as the different daily phases, seasonal passages and aging.
Ayurvedic massage therapies are divided into two groups :
- Apatarpana, drainage therapy;
- Santarpana, nutritional therapy
There are also two massage techniques :
- Pindasweda, an ancient therapeutic form that was born in the famous region of southern India, Kerala. It is a form of massage that removes toxins present in the body through the skin;
- Pizhichil, ideal for treating heart diseases, arthritis, sciatica, diabetes, asthma. Made with olive oil to which is added a decoction of medicinal plants.
The seat
The Ayurvedic massage is performed on a wooden table, dug 30 cm inside it and divided into two parts, one for the body and the other for the head. When it is time to massage the neck and head, the patient sits on a chair.
Before working, through pressure, on the marma (anatomical points constituted by the intersection of muscles, nerves, blood vessels, bones, ligaments and joints), the masseur addresses fundamental questions to the patient about his physical conditions : he must inform him about any problems chronic or recent interventions.
Ayurvedic massage is performed in a warm, calm environment, illuminated by a soft light; the masseur can provide incense and perfumed essences. Sometimes relaxing music and Indian mantras are used to relax the mind.
Discover the other types of massages
The benefits and contraindications of Ayurvedic massage
The Ayurvedic massage improves blood and lymphatic circulation, has a beneficial effect on the spine, tones muscles, positively influences the person's mental state.
It acts on hormonal levels, facilitates the elimination of toxins, relieves tension and disorders associated with it: anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, migraine, fatigue, difficult digestion.
It is better to avoid Ayurvedic massage in the presence of acute inflammation or pain, if you suffer from hypertension or heart problems, phlebitis or severe circulatory disorders.
Curiosity
- Some experienced masseurs perform special massages only with the feet. Walking all over the body, they also reach the face.
- Ayurvedic medicine also includes a massage with urine with remarkable therapeutic properties.
