Ayurvedic Massage

Overview
An ancient lifestyle practice, Ayurveda works to create harmony between the mind, body and spirit. A patient's "dosha" or mix of energies, is affected both negatively and positively by daily stress, environment and even the food that we eat. Each dosha is different. Each massage session will be customized based on individual patient's lifestyle and habits.

During an Ayurvedic massage, the masseuse selects essential oils to enhance the patient's dosha, or energies. Massage techniques involve traditional kneading, as well as tapping and squeezing during treatments. The masseuse chooses the type of massage based on the needs of the patient during the treatment. Then, massage specialists incorporate a blend of acupressure, acupuncture and reflexology to the massage treatments for added benefit.  

Common Ayurvedic Massage Treatments 
Before a massage, the specialist asks the patient a few questions about health or lifestyle in order to find the best suited massage techniques and essential oils that will work with the patient's skin type. At the consultation, a patient should also share with the massage specialist any medical conditions he or she needs to be aware of before a massage treatment. Any pregnant patient must also share that information, because not all massage techniques or essential oils are safe for use during pregnancy.

For some massages, two specialists might be needed. These massage specialists  customize treatment approach based on the intensity and pressure levels that feel best for the patient. In some massages, the therapist might chant mantras, which work to help balance the mind, body and spirit of the patient. Most massages last about one hour, depending on the style of massage chosen. Once the massage is over, the patient is encouraged to relax and take a long shower to wash off the massage oil. Drinking water after the massage and throughout the day hydrates and relaxes the body for the rest of the day. 

Different Techniques of Ayurvedic Massage

• Abhyanga: Customized massage with herbal oil
• Ayurvedic: Indian head massage
• Vishesh: Deep tissue massage with herbal oil
• Abhyanga-Garshana: Lymphatic dry brushing with oil massage
• Pizichili: Herbal oil massage by two specialists
• Ayurvedic Foot Massage: Deep tissue massage where the therapist uses his or her feet to massage large areas of the body, such as the back
• Ayurvedic Shirodhara: Treatment oil is streamed on the forehead
• Shiro-Ahhyanga-Nasya: A deep tissue head, neck and shoulder massage with facial lymphatic massaging and aromatherapy steam
• Udwarthanam: Slimming treatment uses deep massage and herbal powders
• Ayurvedic face and marma therapy: Facial treatment with herbal mask and custom essential oils

Benefits of Ayurvedic Massage 
When used with a change in lifestyle, Ayurvedic massage is very beneficial to the body and mind. Eating well in combination with massage helps boost energy levels and enhance the immune system, detox and cleanse the body internally and externally, as well as promote overall health and well being. Anyone experiencing stress or anxiety in life may enjoy the benefits of Ayurvedic massage.

Costs of Ayurvedic Massage
In the United States, the average cost of an hour-long Ayurvedic massage is approximately $80-90, while in Thailand costs are approximately $10 for a 75-minute massage treatment. Medical travelers to India, South Korea, Singapore or Thailand may enjoy the benefits of Ayurvedic massages for approximately $30 depending on the length of time (usually at least an hour). 

Choosing an Ayurvedic Massage Center
Be sure to choose a spa or facility that is well maintained and employs professional massage specialists to administer treatments. The retreats should also be able to accommodate patients with various body ailments such as arthritis. All massage sessions should begin with a consultation so massage specialist can customize treatments, techniques and essential oils in a safe and beneficial manner.