Bodywork and massage are important components to traditional Ayurvedic healthcare programs such as the Panchakarma. The Panchakarma program is made up of a series of cleansing and rejuvenating therapies that include at least one form of massage or bodywork. Since traditional programs like this can take five days or more, they are typically offered in a resort or clinic destination where the client stays on the campus or nearby.
Individual Ayurvedic treatments can be available in half hour to hour increments and may be more economical for those seeking relaxation instead of a full healthcare regimen.
In Ayurveda, the study of science and life, the body is made up of three fundamental energies, also known as doshas. These doshas represent a combination of the five elements: ether, air, fire, water and earth. Balancing the doshas is one aspect Ayurvedic Bodywork seeks to address. In addition to the doshas there exists energy centers along the body called chakras. These chakras represent an area of the body and are as follows:
- Base or Root Chakra – found in the pelvic floor
- Sacral Chakra – found just below the naval
- Solar Plexus Chakra – found near the diaphragm
- Heart Chakra – found in the center of the chest
- Throat Chakra – found in the neck
- Third Eye or Brow Chakra – found in the center of the forehead
- Crown Chakra – found at the top of the head
Types of Ayurvedic Bodywork
Abhyanga is the most common form of Ayurvedic bodywork. It typically involves two practitioners and herbed oil blends customized to one’s dosha. Abhyanga can also be performed by one’s self prior to showering in the morning.
Champissage, also known as Indian Head Massage, is a method of head massage to improve circulation of the blood and lymph in the head and neck. This treatment may be offered separately or in addition to a body massage or other form of bodywork such as Reflexology of the feet.
Gharshana, or dry brushing, is an exfoliation massage using silk gloves or natural bristle brushes. This is also a treatment that can be performed at home; see dry brushing.
Marma Therapy, a more modern technique that may stimulate specific marmas, or energy points, on the body. Marma Therapy may include oils, aromatherapy or simply touch.
Padabygana is the traditional Indian foot massage using oils to stimulate the feet finishing with an herbal powder. Many practice Padabygana on themselves at home prior to going to bed to prevent illness and disease.
Pizichilli, also known as the ‘oil bath,’ is a constant stream of oil poured over the body while two practitioners perform body massage. It is similar to the Shirodhara in promoting relaxation and purifying the body.
Shiro-Abhyanga-Nasya is a combination treatment for the upper body. It includes a head massage, the Shirodhara therapy and the Nasya treatment for the sinuses.
Shirodhara involves a steady stream of oil poured onto the center of the participant’s forehead. An energy center, known as a chakra in Ayurveda, is found at this point and is called the ‘third eye’ chakra or brow chakra.
Udvartna uses an herbal paste massaged over the entire body by one or two practitioners to help with cellulite, and exfoliate and invigorate the body.
Vishesh is similar to the Abyhanga and is commonly performed by two practitioners but the key difference is that this form of massage is deeper and more vigorous.
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