Abhyanga, another name for ayurvedic massage, uses integrative and holistic medical principles that were first used in India, where it was first discovered, 3000 years ago. The main goal of this massage therapy is to balance the doshas in your body so that you can experience relaxation and spiritual fulfillment. Additionally, it aids in enhancing lymphatic drainage, relieving muscular tension, and nourishing the skin.
Practitioners of Ayurveda believe that Ayurveda happens naturally in us through the five elements of nature: earth, water, air, fire, and space. These elements are called doshas. The names of the doshas are paired with one another. Water and earth are referred to as Kapha, fire and water as Pitta, and air and space as Vata. Our bodies are full of energy points that a massage therapist can work on with a well-trained touch and an understanding of how energy flows. This can help correct any imbalances.
The massage technique differs significantly from the typical Swedish, deep tissue, or sports massage. To achieve the benefits, the massage therapist can combine special techniques with essential oils. You should not anticipate a therapist applying intense pressure to dissolve the "knots" because this technique primarily focuses on the manipulation of the skin as well as the specific energy points.
Numerous essential oils are available for ayurvedic massage. Although they are very similar to those used in aromatherapy treatments. Professional therapists classify them as things that are made to help certain doshas flow.
Ayurvedic massage is not just about rubbing some oil in your skin and then calling it a day. It’s an ancient art that is deeply rooted in Ayurvedic philosophy. Ayurveda is about achieving the right balance in the body. When our physical, mental and emotional state is in balance, we are in good health and when imbalanced, we are not.
Ayurveda considers massage a form of healing that improves physical, mental and spiritual health. The most common massage in India is the Ayurvedic massage. Before giving an Ayurvedic massage we determine the dosha of our client. Ayurvedic massage is not meant to change the doshas but to balance them.
Vata governs movement, Pitta governs metabolism and Kapha governs structure. Vata dosha is cold and dry, Pitta dosha is warm and moist, and Kapha dosha is cold and moist. There are 3 different types of massage oils for each dosha.
To balance the qualities of Vata Dosha (i.e Cold, Dry or Rough) we opt for oils that are earthy, warming, calming and sweet.
To balance the qualities of Pitta Dosha (i.e Hot, Sharp or Little Oily) we opt for oils that are calming, cooling and flowery.
To balance the qualities of Kapha Dosha (i.e Cool, Slow or Oily) we opt for oils that are warming, stimulating, strong or pungent.
Ayurvedic massage may not be something you have heard much about, so if you read this post and it piqued your interest, it is definitely worth giving a shot.
For more information on massage visit Tattvaspa.
