Origins: Ayurvedic therapy is based upon ancient Indian Ayurvedic medicine. The manipulation of pressure point points was used to heal the body. Ayurveda can be translated to Sanskrit as a word that means knowledge or wisdom. Ayurvedic philosophy & practice, as it was passed down from India in ancient India, has both literal and spiritual implications.
Ayurvedic massage techniques have their roots in the belief that all living things are affected by a life force called "Pran". If you could look within yourself, which you cannot do when you are deceased, you would see your life force called "Rakta". This force is believed to be connected to the centre of the Earth, also known as 'Nishtha; to the Sun, Moon, and North Stars, also known as 'Polaris'. The 'Pran' that flows through our bodies makes us healthier. It isn't flowing correctly and causes us to feel sick, which can lead to premature aging of our skin.
Ayurvedic Massage follows the same principle as Indian medicine. The aim is to boost the flow and balance the 'Rakta'. It has been proven to be beneficial in managing stress, lowering blood pressure and reducing anxiety. There are many massages available. Each one targets a particular problem area, such as the neck and shoulders, feet or back. Ayurvedic massage uses the following ingredients:
carrier oils. Carrier oils can be essential oils that give the massage its penetrating powers. Examples of carrier oils include: soybean oil, coconut oil, almond oil, palm oil, and sesame oil. These oils allow the massage therapist to easily penetrate their hands into the patient. Carriers oils should not ever be used on sensitive skin. Make sure you use your judgement to determine if the carrier oil that you choose is right for your needs.
Different types of herbs. Ayurvedic massages employ a wide range of herbs. They are selected for their healing effects and medicinal properties. Some of these herbs include: Kapha - this herb has long been known for its ability to calm and soothe the mind and body. Kapha contains various branches of chemicals including saponins. Before beginning massage therapy, Kapha oils can be massaged into the scalp. Kapha oils can also be used as a poultice for sunburned skin, wounds or rashes.
Tulsi: This herb has been used in Ayurvedic medicine since long to reduce stress and improve mood. Tulsi oils can be added to massage therapy sessions to increase relaxation and relieve stress. Tulsi stimulates blood flow and increases heart rate. Tulsi oil is believed to reduce stress and blood pressure. A significant reduction in stress related disorders has been reported in people that have Tulsi oil massaged into their scalp.
The lymphatic system. Healthy functioning of the lymphatic systems is crucial for many body functions like the immune system, circulatory system, and others. Massage therapists use gentle strokes to stimulate the lymphatic systems by massaging the neck, shoulders and face. Massage oils like lavender, Chamomile, and Peppermint are commonly added to provide relief from pain and stress associated with the lymphatic system. A combination of oils may also be used to improve lymphatic drainage. This allows the lymphatic system the ability to transport waste products away from your body.
Deep tissue massage. This type massage is used for chronic tension in the muscles, connective tissues and joints. This type of massage is designed to restore youthful skin appearance, increase flexibility, range and motion, and decrease swelling. It uses massage strokes that include: gentle strokes, kneading, tapping, squeezing, and tapping movements.
