Āyurvedic Massage & Marma Points
Oil Massage
One unique feature of Ayurvedic medicine and massage is its generous use of warm, herb-infused oils.
Oil massage, known as snehana, comes from the Sanskrit word 'sneha' meaning “oil,” “love” and “compassion”.
Applying warm oil to the body (according to individual constitution, state of health, and season), and its penetration into deep tissues and small channels, provides:
- A warming, gentle, nourishing approach to deeply soothe and relax
- Improved blood and lymph circulation
- Lubrication and healing of stiff, painful joints and muscles; reduction in wear and tear
- Tissue building and rejuvenation
- The liquidation and removal of wastes
- Softening and beautification of the skin
- Delayed ageing and greater longevity
To read how to self-oil the body, known as "abhyanga", see my blog post:
Marma Point Therapy
Marma points are specific places on and in the body where vital physical and energy structures join or intersect. Identified in Āyurveda—notably by the "father of surgery", Sushruta, over 2,500 years ago—when stimulated (in the right place, in the right way, at the right time), marma points are vital portals to:
- Kindle the digestion and metabolism
- Help the doshas balance and function naturally
- Change the body’s neurochemistry
- Calm, energise and balance the mind
- Enhance sensory perception
- Eliminate blockages and open up pathways for vital energy (prāna) to flourish and flow. This helps to alleviate pain and process and release stagnant thoughts, feelings and emotions
- Stimulate the flow of consciousness to bridge the physical body, mind, and soul
At least 112 marma points are located throughout the nervous system and body. These can be stimulated through touch or concentration. Specific essential oils are often applied to marma sites to facilitate dosha balance and enhance therapeutic effects.
All medical Āyurveda treatments, including oil massage and marma point therapy should be underpinned by supportive food and diet and daily routine.
Treatment Options
I can offer Ayurvedic massage and marma therapy to individuals in my local area (Kodaikanal, INDIA). Beyond this I teach the self-application of oil massage (abhyanga), and instruct individuals in the self-stimulation of marma points specific to healing needs.