Ayurveda is all about creating balance between your mind, body, and soul. To do that it uses a variety of methods like herbal medicine treatments, special diets, cleansing procedures, and Ayurvedic massage. What makes Ayurvedic massage different from all others is that it incorporates the use of specially mixed essential oils to de-stress, rejuvenate, and relax the human body, as well as cleanse it on various levels. Here are 7 types of Ayurvedic Massage you need to try ASAP.
Shirodhara
Shirodhara is a special type of subtle massage that has a stream of ‘dhara’ (medicinal oil) flow onto your forehead for a particular period of time. It is then followed by a light head massage. Shirodhara clears the mind, improves focus, rejuvenates your body, and lowers stress levels. It’s a well-known treatment for insomnia, depression, and anxiety.
Abhyanga
Abhyanga is a full-body massage done by two therapists simultaneously. It lasts for 45 minutes and covers 107 marmas (vital points) in your body to improve metabolism, blood circulation, and detoxification of your body. Afterwards you’ll get a relaxing 15-minute steam bath. This type of massage improves sleep, relieves anxiety, improves the skin condition, and is healthy for the whole body in general.
Garshana
Garshana doesn’t use any oils or special herbs mixes during the procedure. This type of massage is done by raw silk gloves that improve your body’s blood circulation. The light moves done by the therapist stimulate the lymphatic system and promote the release of toxins.
Udvartana
Udvartana is a deeply cleansing massage done with dry herbal powder only. Not only does it improve your skin condition, but it also stimulates fat tissues, gently breaking down the fat. This type of massage also strengthens muscles and promotes weight loss. Perfect for those of you trying to burn some extra pounds!
Pizhichil
Pizhichil is a full-body therapy, which involves around 5 litre of medicinal oil squeezed over your whole body from a piece of cloth. While this may not sound too exciting, it is one of the most relaxing and rejuvenating procedures in Ayurveda. It slows down the ageing process, protects your whole body from a variety of illnesses, and energizes you on all levels. The procedure is accompanied by light massage.
Nethra Tharpanam
This wonderful procedure will relieve stress from your eyes and reduce irritation. Nethra Tharpanam involves two reservoirs made of gram paste, which are filled with medicinal ghee butter. The cooling effect will feel like nothing you’ve experienced before! It is also known to improve eyesight if done regularly.
Njavara Kizhi
Njavara Kizhi is an unusual type of massage that uses special boluses filled with Njavara rice. First aromatic medicinal oils are applied to your whole body, then the massage with cotton boluses starts. They get dipped in cow’s milk and herbs periodically, which increases your body’s heat and does wonders for your health. This type of massage is known to be most beneficial for the nervous system.
