AYURVEDIC MASSAGES AND THEIR HEALTH BENEFITS

http://goo.gl/ffe3GX & http://goo.gl/ceqkYJ - What is Ayurvedic Massage - Ayurvedic massage provides deep relaxation and expels toxins out. Deeply rooted physical and mental imbalances in the system can be overcome, restoring harmony and functional integrity. It helps remove energies that store past tensions and emotional problems in the body. It uses the warmth created by rubbing and steam, and the therapeutic properties of oils and herbs to stimulate the flow of energy in the body, releasing stagnation and obstructions to the balanced flow of the blood. A range of strokes and techniques will be used depending on the nature of the energy being worked on.  It uses a system of trigger points to release tension and improve the flow of lymph, blood and circulation in the body. Depending on the purpose of the treatment, the massage will often be brought to a close by an invigorating wash or scrub with a herbal preparation.

Abhyanga is an ancient Indian Ayurvedic oil massage therapy for healing and detoxifying Body, Mind and Spirit. This ayurvedic detox and stress reduction therapy is performed by herbal oils. It incorporates an aromatic combination of oils prepared with herbs warmed and blended to your Dosha type.

Here are some of the benefits traditionally associated with regular performance of this pleasant daily ritual:

• Increased circulation, especially to nerve endings
• Toning of the muscles and the whole physiology
• Calming for the nerves
• Lubrication of the joints
• Increased mental alertness
• Improved elimination of impurities from the body
• Softer, smoother skin
• Increased levels of stamina through the day
• Better, deeper sleep at night

Ayurvedic medicine considers the interaction and balance of mind, body and spirit from the internal power of the individual and seeks, through massage, a general good feeling.

An ayurvedic massage serves not only to relieve pain but especially as preventive medicine increasing circulation, stimulating and strengthening the lymphatic system, and opening the flow of life force in order to cleanse and revitalize the body. In addition, essential oils used in Ayurvedic massages are very nourishing and detoxifying, helping to prevent aging and leaving the skin soft and shiny. On the other hand, Ayurvedic massages provide other benefits as symptomatic relief of stress and the generation of positive emotions to make us feel better both physical and mentally.

Types of Ayurvedic Massage -

Ø  Pizhichil
This massage involves the pouring of warm oil from a Kindi (a special type of vessel) placed several inches above the body while a masseuse performs the massage. Since this massage works to balance out Vata Dosha, the medicated oil used depends on the patient’s condition. The heat from the oil causes perspiration which is required to balance Vata Dosha. This massage type is good for those suffering from stiffness in the body, fractures, paralysis, paraplegia, monoplegia, and hemiplegia.

Ø  Njavarkijhi

This is a special type of massage meant to increase perspiration in the body. This is generally a style practiced in Kerala whereby after applying the medicated oil, pressurized massage is given with the help of small cotton ‘blouses’ filled with a special type of cooked rice called Njavara. During the massage, these blouses are dipped in cow’s milk and a special herbal paste and applied to produce sweat. This is not only great for the skin but is also a very de-stressing and revitalizing massage.

Ø  Shirodhara

      This is a type of head massage whereby stimulation of the nerves in the scalp is done by          pouring medicated or herbal oil on the head in a constant stream or ‘dhara’. It relieves mental            fatigue, increases focus and clarity and alleviates headaches.

Ø  Ubtaan and Elakijhi

These involve the use of various herbal or animal centric materials to create a skin and beauty solution. This type of treatment vitalizes the skin, improves the skin texture, nourishes the body, improves circulation as well as improves upon the external beauty.

Ø  Abhyangam

 It is a full body hot oil massage with medicated herbal oil in the dosha according to the medical       condition of the patient. Care is taken to ensure that a comfortably warm temperature is             maintained in the room. With the help of motion, pressure points and ways of applying pressure, different energy centers are stimulated to assist the body in releasing deep seated toxins as well as improve the blood circulation in the body. The joints, muscles and bones are also strengthened with this massage. In the olden days, this was done daily before bathing. The body would thus be ‘awakened’ and vitalized before the start of the day.

Ø  Udvartana

The Udvartana massage is aimed to increase blood circulation and release toxins from the body. It is a wonderful treatment for those who wish to control their cholesterol level, lose weight, improve their skin complexion or have an excess of Kapha Dosha. In this, herbal paste or dried herbal powders are applied opposite to the hairgrowth i.e. in an upward direction. This breaks down the Kapha and the adipose tissues in the body.

Ø  Garshana

The Garshana massage involves no oil or herbal powders. It is a process of stimulating the body using raw silk gloves only and without the application of any lubricant. Light and vigorous movements form a part of this massage which seeks to eliminate toxins from the body by stimulating the lymphatic system. The vigorous massage also helps the fat cells in the body to break down. On the surface level, there is exfoliation of the dead cells and the skin is left looking clean and radiant. Since the body is invigorated after this dry massage, the application of oil and doing Abhyangam post this will give greater benefits. This is because the pores are opened and so the absorption of massage oils will be significantly higher.

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