The famous Kerala Ayurvedic massage, known as Abhyanga or Abhyangam, is one of the most important components of the dinacharya (daily regimen) mentioned in the classic Ayurveda texts for achieving good health and longevity. The Abhyanga is a full body massage performed using herbal oils that have several health benefits. Some of these benefits are as follows:
- Improves muscle tone
- Strengthens muscles
- Reduces joint pain
- Improves body flexibility
- Nourishes skin
- Stimulates lymphatic system
- Removes body toxins
- Helps in weight loss
- Reduces eye strain and improves vision
What exactly is an Ayurvedic massage?
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 using herbal oils. An aromatic combination of oils is prepared with herbs, and this is warmed and blended to your Dosha type. To enjoy an authentic massage of this kind, visit Kerala with us in August.
The health conditions that can be cured with the help of this massage are:
- Joint pain
- Back pain
- Muscle fatigue
- Low immunity
- Obesity
But how is all this achieved by a massage?
Ayurvedic massage is believed to increase the blood circulation causing an increase in white blood cells. This boosts the immune system and improves the resistance power of the body to fight against various bacterial and viral infections. The Abhyanga also targets the lymphatic system of the body, which is involved in the immunity mechanism. In addition, massaging the marma points benefits the areas where they are located and improves the functioning of the connecting organs. Ayurvedic massage is a popular therapy for weight loss because the massage strokes used help to mobilize the stubborn fat.
What is the procedure?
Abhyanga is performed using tapping, kneading, and squeezing movements, and traditional massage strokes. The massage may be given using hands, feet, elbows, forearms, or well-oiled balls. Special herbal oils such as Bala oil are applied using long flowing strokes in the downward direction. An experienced therapist uses the right amount of pressure to stimulate certain vital points, known as ‘marma’, at which veins, joints, tendons, and other important body parts meet.
An Ayurvedic massage may be performed by a single therapist or two therapists working in synchronization. It can be performed on the full body or on a specific part of the body.
How does it help people look younger?
For those who are striving to look younger and get rid of age lines and wrinkles, Ayurvedic massage is the most natural way to restore your youthful beauty. The essential oils used in the Ayurvedic treatment are natural, pure, and have a number of benefits for the skin. The motion of the massage is designed to freshen and smoothen your face muscles. The results are similar to those of a botox injection (minus the side effects!).
Apart from Abhyanga massages, Kerala offers thrilling activities to do and beautiful places to visit. To know more, click here.