Origins: Ayurvedic therapy is based upon ancient Indian Ayurvedic medicine. The manipulation of pressure point points was used to heal the body. The word Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word: ayurved, meaning knowledge, and vedas, meaning wisdom. Both the literal and spiritual meaning of the name Ayurvedic massage is derived from Ayurvedic philosophy and practice as handed down from ancient India.

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’. We become healthier when this ‘Pran’ flows through our bodies. It isn’t flowing correctly and causes us to feel sick, which can lead to premature aging of our skin.

Using the same principal as ancient Indian medicine, Ayurvedic massage seeks to strengthen the flow of ‘Pran’ and to maintain healthy levels of ‘Rakta’. It has similar benefits in stress management, lowering blood pressure, and reducing stress. There are many different types of massage and each one is designed to target a specific problem area such as the neck, shoulders, feet, and back. Ayurvedic massage may include the following:

carrier oils. Carrier oils help the body absorb essential oils. 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. It is also important to note that carrier oils should not be used on sensitive or easily irritated skin as they may cause an adverse reaction. Use your sense of judgement to make sure the carrier oil you select suits your needs.

Different types of herbs. Ayurvedic massages employ a wide range of herbs. They are selected for their healing effects and medicinal properties. Kapha – This herb has been well known for its ability calm and soothe the body and mind. Kapha is rich in many chemicals, including saponins. Massage therapy with Kapha oils is often started by massaging the oil into the scalp. Kapha can be used to treat sunburnt skin, wounds and rashes.

Tulsi: This herb has been used in Ayurvedic medicine since long to reduce stress and improve mood. Tulsi oils are often added during a massage therapy session to enhance relaxation and ease stress. Tulsi stimulates blood flow and increases heart rate. It is believed that Tulsi can be beneficial in lowering high blood pressure and reducing stress. People who have Tulsi oil massaged on their scalps have reported a significant decrease in stress-related disorders.

The lymphatic system. Healthy functioning of your lymphatic system is essential for many body functions including your immune system and circulatory systems. Massage therapists may use gentle strokes on the neck, shoulders, and face to stimulate the lymphatics. For pain relief and stress associated to the lymphatic system, oils such as peppermint, Chamomile, or lavender are often used. Massaging with a blend of oils can also improve lymphatic drainage which allows the lymphatic system to carry waste products away from the body.

Deep tissue massage. This type of massage helps to ease tension in muscles and connective tissues. This type of massage is designed to restore youthful skin appearance, increase flexibility, range and motion, and decrease swelling. It uses gentle strokes such as tapping, tapping, squeezing and kneading.