Ask Ayurveda

/
/
/
what is an ayurvedic massage
FREE! Just write your question
— get answers from Best Ayurvedic doctors
No chat. No calls. Just write your question and receive expert replies
1000+ doctors ONLINE
#1 Ayurveda Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 50M : 54S
background-image
Click Here
background image
General Medicine
Question #40750
94 days ago
272

what is an ayurvedic massage - #40750

Levi

I am trying to figure out what is an ayurvedic massage because I’ve been hearing all these great things from my friends who’ve tried it. Last week, I felt super stressed and like my body was just aching everywhere! I've been sitting in front of my desk way too long, working from home, and it feels like my back, shoulders, you name it, just totally need some TLC. A couple of my friends went to this place that offers an ayurvedic massage and said it made them feel amazing, like they were floating after! One even mentioned how it helped with her migraines and insomnia. But I'm curious, what is an ayurvedic massage exactly? Is it really worth the hype? Does it actually help with chronic pain or just relax you for a moment? I’m also wondering—do all places that offer ayurvedic massage do it the same way or is there a difference based on the therapist? I really want to try it but dunno if it’s something I should invest time and money into when I’m desperate for relief. Any advice would be awesome!!! Thanks in advance!

FREE
Question is closed

Doctor-recommended remedies for this condition

FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
background-image
background-image
background image
banner-image
banner-image

Doctors' responses

Ayurvedic massage, known as Abhyanga, is a key component of Ayurveda, aiming to balance the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), which are fundamental principles that govern body functions. It’s more than a typical relaxation massage; it involves the use of warm, medicated oils tailored to your doshic constitution and current imbalances. The traditional Ayurvedic texts, like Charaka Samhita, highlight that this therapeutic approach not only relaxes muscles but also rejuvenates tissues (dhatus), enhances circulation, and stimulates the body’s healing processes.

When it comes to stress, aches, and pains, Ayurvedic massage can be beneficial. The repetitive, rhythmic strokes are designed to stimulate the marma points (similar to acupressure points) to relieve tension, promote circulation, and help detox the body by encouraging lymphatic drainage. This is why many people feel an incredible sense of relief and lightness afterwards. The oils used, imbued with herbs chosen to address specific issues, like pain or insomnia, further enhance the therapeutic effect.

Does it differ between places, or therapists? Yes, it can. The quality and experience can largely vary based on the therapist’s training and expertise in Ayurveda. Traditional Ayurvedic centers, especially those following guidelines laid out in classical texts like Sushruta Samhita, may offer a more authentic experience, applying techniques and oils tailored to individual needs.

Is it worth it? If chronic pain or stress is a concern, Abhyanga could be highly beneficial, particularly when part of a broader Ayurvedic treatment plan. Still, it ideally accompanies a lifestyle and dietary routine that supports your prakriti (constitution). Before spending time and money, it might be helpful to consult with a certified Ayurvedic practitioner who could assess your specific needs and suggest a comprehensive treatment plan, including Abhyanga if appropriate.

11475 answered questions
28% best answers
Your personalized treatment is ready
We've added the medicines recommended by your doctor.
Your personalized treatment is ready
We've added the medicines recommended by your doctor.

0 replies

An Ayurvedic massage, known as Abhyanga in traditional terms, is quite different from what you’d experience with regular massages. This form of massage is deeply intertwined with the principles of Ayurveda, which focuses on balancing the body’s doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha. The massage uses specific medicinal oils chosen specifically for you based on your unique doshic balance or imbalance, and these oils are believed to help remove toxins, improve circulation, and support healing at the tissue level.

The practice is more than just a means of relaxation. It aims to both detoxify and rejuvenate the body. The oils can work to penetrate your skin, which is an essential path in Ayurveda called srotas, helping to nourish the dhatus (tissues) and improve the flow in the nadis (energy channels). Over time, it can relieve chronic pain, improve joint mobility, and bring a soothing effect to stress-driven problems like headaches or insomnia.

The practice can vary somewhat depending upon the therapist’s training and the specific lineage of Ayurveda or Siddha Ayurvedic principles followed. It’s important to confirm that the practitioner is well-versed in Ayurvedic diagnostics to tailor the massage to your needs effectively. Thus, treatments could be personalized, as some therapists may integrate techniques like synchronized massage strokes or focus more on specific areas of ailment.

Before investing in this experience, I’d suggest visiting a reputed place with good reviews, particularly one that understands the Ayurvedic principles. A well-executed Ayurvedic massage often extends beyond momentary relaxation, potentially offering long-term benefits if done regularly and appropriately aligned with your specific needs. However, if the pain is severe or continues to linger, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions that may need more immediate attention.

12990 answered questions
29% best answers
Your personalized treatment is ready
We've added the medicines recommended by your doctor.
Your personalized treatment is ready
We've added the medicines recommended by your doctor.

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Latest reviews

Charles
1 hour ago
Thanks for the clear response! Really helped me out. Didn't know about pectins and cholesterol, so that’s useful info. Appreciate it!
Thanks for the clear response! Really helped me out. Didn't know about pectins and cholesterol, so that’s useful info. Appreciate it!
Lucas
1 hour ago
Thanks for the detailed and easy-to-follow response! You've given me a clear plan to tackle my allergies. So appreciative for the advice!
Thanks for the detailed and easy-to-follow response! You've given me a clear plan to tackle my allergies. So appreciative for the advice!
Summer
1 hour ago
Thanks doc! Your recommendations were clear and easy to understand. I'll give it a try and hope those allergies calm down!
Thanks doc! Your recommendations were clear and easy to understand. I'll give it a try and hope those allergies calm down!
Meredith
1 hour ago
Really helped me understand what to do next. Simple steps and clear advice. Finally feel like I'm on the right track with this! Thanks a bunch!
Really helped me understand what to do next. Simple steps and clear advice. Finally feel like I'm on the right track with this! Thanks a bunch!