 The very mention of “massage” invokes deep, loving emotions within us. Put simply, touch touches us at a profound level. It is the true voice of feeling, expressing a language beyond words. A mere pat on the back can be more meaningful than a thousand reassuring words. Sometimes we need to bypass the intellect and mind to invoke deep change. Travelling through the sea of life our bodies gather barnacles of conditioning through diverse experiences.
These ‘barnacles’ are sub-conscious areas of tension that house our history of emotional baggage such as defences and vulnerabilities. Weighed down with emotional toxicity, our body armours itself against attacks from past ‘ghosts’. A sensitive massage therapist is able to read an individual’s body map of aches, pains, lumps and bumps, fully aware that every touch evokes certain emotions and gently facilitates the letting-go of unresolved wounds. During massage a subtle transfer of electromagnetic energy takes place between the therapist and the client so it is important to trust and feel "good vibes" with your chosen therapist.
One must feel receptive and safe in order to allow the energy of the therapist to facilitate the healing process. In turn a wave of unconditional love and compassion flows through the therapist as they respect the faith you have placed in them, an honour not taken lightly. Perhaps that’s why the Ayurvedic word for oil is sneha, a term also synonymous with love, kindness and tenderness - all the feelings that should engulf you during a therapy session.
If love is the panacea, then an Ayurvedic oil massage is a great way to get a good dose of unconditional love. Over 5,000 years of empirical research has refined Ayurvedic massage into a sublime art. Combining skilled knowledge of the structural as well as subtle body with oils, music and bodywork techniques, the result is a profound art for balancing the body and mind.
Therapeutic benefits
 Just as a machine needs to be oiled, the body loves to be lubricated and have its largest organ, the skin, soothed. In an ideal world, massage should be carried out everyday to promote positive health, overcome fatigue, strengthen the nervous system, improve eyesight, nourish the bodily tissues, increase longevity, normalise sleep, instil flexibility and sturdiness as well as to maintain good health in general.
Studies conducted by Dr Hari Sharma of the Ohio State University College of Medicine showed that after three months of Ayurvedic treatment and massage, patients’ blood showed a significant decrease in the free radical lipid peroxide and an improved immune response. Modern research has proven the beneficial effect Ayurvedic massage has on all areas of the body -specifically the neuromuscular, circulatory, lymphatic, skeletal and gastrointestinal systems.
An additional benefit of Ayurvedic massage is the potency of the herb-infused oils. These enhance the process of purification and regeneration. Shown to completely permeate the dermis in 5 minutes and all seven layers of skin in 8-10 minutes, the oils used can be infused with up to 75 different herbs, increasing the therapeutic effect immeasurably. The oils have been scientifically proven to possess anti-carcinogenic and antioxidant properties.
The Charaka Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic treatise states that "Ayurvedic oils strengthen the metabolic fires, purify the intestines, remove toxins from the tissues, rejuvenate the body, prevent ageing and bestow the user with a lifespan of 100 years."
A qualified Ayurvedic Consultant assesses the state of your body before commencing therapy; hence a preliminary consultation is advisable. After investigating the state of your tissues, your body systems, previous conditions and mental disposition, the ideal body therapy is tailored to your individual needs. Specific oils, music, guided visualisations and affirmations are also formulated to enhance the therapeutic impact. Ayurvedic massage is performed with an acute awareness of the marmas and chakras. |
