Ayurveda has been in practice in the Indian subcontinent and is an ancient practice of medicine. Ayurveda’s roots go back to 6000 BC and have been in existence ever since. With the advent and death of so many civilisations and rulers in India, Ayurveda has stood the test of time. Many medicinal ways around the world, such as the Chinese, Tibetan and Greek, have their roots in Ayurveda.
The practice of Ayurveda was suppressed during the foreign invasion of India, but it still emerged as the most sought-after therapy. More than just healing, Ayurveda is the discipline of the body, helping you to stay at your vital best and also making you realise the full potential of your body.
Kerala, God’s own country, has deep roots in Ayurveda and is where people flock from all over the world to have their health balanced. In Kerala, you can experience various types of massage therapies, like Abhyangam, Pizhichil, Udvartana, Garshana, Shirodhara, Lepanam, Elakizhi, and Thalam, among others.
Abhyangam Massage Therapy
Abhyangam is performed with a full body massage using hot herbal oil according to the patient’s dosha condition. During Abhyangam, pressure is applied to different body parts that stimulate different energy centres in the body. Abhyangam is proven to strengthen your muscles, bones, joints and calm the nerves.
Abhyangam increases the blood circulation and eliminates toxins and impurities from the body, and gives you a deeper and more relaxed sleep.
The massage is done using herbal oils, which are heated to a temperature guaranteed to make you feel heightened levels of comfort. The massage involves synchronisation of movement that helps in balancing the doshas.
Steam is also involved in the treatment. Steam and heat are known to help open the pores that let the herbal properties in the oil seep through.
Pizhichil Massage Therapy
Pizhichil is one method in Ayurveda that is a combination of two types of Ayurvedic treatments, Snehana and Swedana. As part of Pizhichil treatment, warm oil is poured into a special vessel called the Kindi. During Pizhichil treatment, the Kindi is positioned inches above the body of the patient.
A special type of oil is used for each type of person receiving the massage. The oil and massage generate heat in the body, which automatically generates sweat that is needed for the stability of Vata Dosha.
The ancient practice of Pizhichil helps in improving digestion, neurological conditions, injuries and arthritis. If you are in a constantly stressful environment, Pizhichil aids in removing anxiety, depression and high blood pressure. It is also known for keeping your skin from ageing.
Udvartana Massage Therapy
Udvartana is a technique in Ayurveda that is the best remedy for bodily lifestyle and metabolic disorders. The medical practice of Udvartana has been practised to perfection by doctors for decades and is an important therapy in Ayurvedic metabolism healing. Udvartana mainly heals obesity, overweight, diabetes and laziness.
The advent of foreign products, a comfortable lifestyle and sophistication has trapped us in the clutches of a life of illusion. We have deviated from the moralities and ethics of our lifestyle. The action of correcting and reversing this lifestyle is Udvartana.
It includes invigorating the entire body through the process of a powder massage. It includes scrubbing the body in upward strokes that liquefy and burn the fat. This technique is guaranteed to provide a rejuvenating effect to your body.
Garshana Massage Therapy
Garshana is an ancient practice of Ayurveda in which massaging is done to remove Ama (digestive toxins) from the body. Garshana in Sanskrit means ‘Friction by rubbing’. People who have to take the Garshana treatment are those suffering from a Kapha imbalance. Kapha imbalance includes overweight, lymphatic slowness, dullness physically and mentally and water retention.
Garshana is a wonderful addition to your morning routine of getting ready for the day. Lymphatic massaging enhances your blood circulation and releases accumulated toxins from the body. Garshana removes Ama and helps your body be alert. It improves circulation, nourishes the body and removes blockages in the physiology.
Garshana Massage Therapy or Dry Skin Brushing is done by wearing gloves made of raw silk, wool or using a terry towel without any usage of oil. Though all bodies can be massaged, it focuses especially on the feet, stomach and arms, and each area is massaged at a time.
Shirodhara Massage Therapy
Shirodhara is an ancient practice in Ayurveda that goes back 5000 years. Shirodhara is comprised of two words, ‘Shiro‘ and ‘Dhara‘, which means “head” and “sprinkling”. Shirodhara Massage Therapy involves gently pouring warm, herbal Ayurvedic oil onto the forehead in a continuous stream.
Shirodhara has a deep impact on the nervous system of the body. The massage has an immediate effect of calming and relaxing your mind by providing a cleansing aura on the nerves. Especially, the warm oil massages are so beneficial in boosting the immune system and also very effective in promoting sound sleep and reducing stress.
If you are suffering from fear, nervousness, anger, irritation, worry or insecurities of any kind, Shirodhara nullifies the symptoms. This effective massage therapy is highly recommended for the treatment of memory loss, chronic headaches, stress, depression, mental tension, hypertension, poor concentration, facial Paralysis and degenerative conditions of the brain.
Shirodhara is a vital therapy to treat hair problems such as hair fall or premature greying of hair, as the medicated oils absorbed through the scalp help to stimulate the hair follicles. It includes the treatment of liquids that help in countering the negative effects on the body.
The liquid is applied to the scalp, forehead and the nervous system. It has beneficial effects when it is done in the morning or evening. The entire procedure leaves you with a sense of deep relaxation, as if you have had a deep meditative experience.
Lepanam Massage Therapy
Lepanam is an ancient treatment used in Ayurveda and dates back 5000 years. Lepanam, in recent times, has emerged as a remedy for numerous health issues and also for the benefits of good hair and skin.
Lepanam is now being used in most cosmetic treatments in India. It includes the usage of herbal pastes that are free from chemicals and are proven to improve the balance of the skin quality in a natural way.
The treatment is recommended if you are suffering from inflammatory conditions. A mixture of medicines and herbal liquids is blended together and formed into a paste, which is then applied to the body parts which are affected. This paste, known as lepam, is used to exfoliate the skin, making it smooth and relieving the skin from any disorders.
Elakizhi Massage Therapy
Elakizhi is an ancient practice of Ayurveda that has been in constant practice for over 5000 years. Elakizhi means “leaf bag” in Sanskrit. This traditional Ayurvedic massage therapy is known for its pain-relieving and detoxifying properties.
Elakizhi treatment is effective in treating arthritis, sports injuries, paralytic spasms, lumbago, spondylitis and frozen shoulders. Elakizhi is proven to enhance blood circulation, expel toxins from the blood and cleanse the circulation channel. And it is so effective in boosting immunity as well.
In Elakizhi Massage Therapy, fresh herbal leaves are cut into small pieces and mixed with medicated oil, which is then heated. This is then put into a cloth bundle and is then formed into a bolus, which is often called a Kizhi.
The body is then applied with oil, and the bolus is heated to a particular temperature and kept over various parts of the body in the form of soft punches. The heat from the herbal Kizhi helps to enhance blood circulation, reduce pain and stiffness, and promote deep relaxation.
The therapeutic properties of the herbs, combined with the soothing warmth, help detoxify the body, rejuvenate the skin, and restore overall balance and vitality.
This ancient healing practice offers a holistic approach to wellness, addressing both physical and mental well-being and leaves you rejuvenated and relaxed to take on your day in a refreshed manner.
Thalam Massage Therapy
Thalam is a form of Ayurvedic treatment that is practised according to the ancient way of application. Thalam refers to the area which is at the centre of the head. The treatment of Thalam helps in rejuvenating the brain cells and prevents any damage to the brain cells, which prevents mental-related problems.
Thalam has been proven to be a rejuvenating treatment for any sort of addiction, insomnia, ENT problems, migraine, hypertension, sinusitis, and poor eyesight.
In Thalam Massage Therapy, a medicated paste or medicated oil is applied to the top of the head. The medicated oil used in the therapy is prepared by blending certain herbs in vegetable oil.
A temporary crust is made on the head part using flour dough, and this herbal mixture is allowed to pool in that specific part of the head, called the bregma region (the intersection of the coronal and sagittal suture on the skull), which is kept for not less than 30 minutes.
During this time, the herbal extracts reach deep into the head, offering a cooling effect, which is the most vital result of the process. The use of warm herbal oil in the massage helps to build immunity.
In recent years, the mental stress faced by today’s generation has resulted in many problems, and Thalam has proven to be effective in treating these disorders of the body, as it is guaranteed to leave you feeling relaxed.
|
Massage Type |
Recommended For | Helps With | Precautions |
|
Abhyangam Massage Therapy |
People with high Stress | Stress relief, improves circulation, and detoxification. | Pregnant women or a Person with severe illness. |
|
Pizhichil Massage Therapy |
People with Neurological and musculoskeletal conditions. | Musculoskeletal health, neurological health, and emotional well-being. |
A person suffering from acute conditions and infections. |
| Udvartana Massage Therapy | Weight management, reducing cellulite, and improving circulation. | Weight loss, cellulite reduction, and detoxification. |
Pregnant or lactating women. |
|
Garshana Massage Therapy |
A person seeking detoxification and Kapha dosha imbalance. | Detoxification, improving circulation, and enhancing skin appearance | Person with sensitive or inflamed skin. |
|
Shirodhara Massage Therapy |
Recommended for chronic stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue. | Stress, anxiety, and insomnia. | Pregnant women or people with acute illness. |
|
Lepanam Massage Therapy |
A person suffering from inflammatory conditions. |
Pain management, reducing inflammation, and treating various skin conditions. | A person with open wounds or acute inflammation. |
| Elakizhi Massage Therapy | A person suffering from musculoskeletal issues, such as back pain and arthritis. | Reducing pain, stiffness, and inflammation. |
Pregnant women or a person with an infection or inflammation. |
|
Thalam Massage Therapy |
A person looking for mental well-being. | Manage mental stress, alleviate headaches and migraines. |
A person with acute infections, fever, or recent head injuries. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Elakizhi Massage Therapy?
Ans. Elakizhi Massage Therapy is a traditional Ayurvedic massage technique which involves the use of warm poultices or Kizhi filled with medicinal herbs and oils that are gently massaged over the body by the therapist.
What are the benefits of Elakizhi Massage?
Ans. Elakizhi Massage has many benefits. It helps promote muscle strength, slowing down ageing, alleviating sore muscles and joint pain, enhancing blood circulation, and effectively treating arthritis, paralysis, dry skin, slipped discs, sprains, and sports injuries, all while providing deep relaxation and detoxification.
What are the benefits of Garshana Massage Therapy?
Ans. Garshana Massage Therapy exfoliates the skin, which ensures a brighter and smoother glow, and also improves blood circulation. The therapy also enhances the lymphatic system, along with removing excess fluids and toxins from the body. The therapy may also help in weight management, as it enhances the lymphatic drainage.
Who can benefit from Garshana Ayurvedic Massage?
Ans. The Garshana Ayurvedic Massage therapy can be beneficial for those with dull skin and poor blood circulation. It can also be recommended for persons seeking detoxification or with Kapha Dosha imbalance.
Is Shirodhara Massage Therapy safe?
Ans. Yes, Shirodhara Massage Therapy is generally considered safe. While Shirodhara is generally safe, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as severe depression, low blood pressure, or neck injuries, must consult with a healthcare specialist before the therapy, while pregnant or breastfeeding women should also seek medical advice before treatment.
What are the different types of Shirodhara?
Ans. Taila Dhara, Dugadha Dhara, Takra Dhara, Kwatha Dhara, and Jala Dhara are the different types of Shirodhara.
What are the benefits of Thalam Massage?
Ans. Thalam Massage Therapy nourishes the mind, enhances vision, treats mental abnormalities and neurotic illnesses, improves concentration, relieves skin irritations and scalp problems, alleviates stress and anxiety, enhances mental clarity and focus, relieves headaches and migraines, treats insomnia and promotes better sleep, and reduces symptoms of neurological disorders.
Who can benefit from Thalam Massage?
Ans. Those experiencing severe headaches and migraines, sinusitis, poor vision, skin issues, sleep disorders like insomnia, and ENT problems can find relief and benefit from Thalam massage therapy.
Is Thalam Ayurvedic Massage safe?
Ans. Yes, Thalam Massage is generally safe when performed by a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. It is important to communicate any health concerns to the therapist beforehand to ensure it’s suitable for you.
Who should avoid Thalam Massage Therapy?
Ans. Thalam Massage Therapy should be avoided by individuals with severe health conditions such as uncontrolled hypertension, acute infections, or recent head injuries.
