Ayurvedic Treatments
What Is Ayurvedic Medicine?
Ayurveda, known as the Science of Life is a totally holistic science which evolved on the Indian sub-continent some 5000 years ago. It’s actually considered by many to be the oldest (“whole-body”) healing systems there is. According to Ayurveda each individual is unique, a combination of physical, mental & emotional characteristics which are known as his/her Prakruti (constitution).
Many factors both internal as well as external can affect this constitution. For example, one’s emotional state, diet, daily food choices, season and weather, physical trauma, job and family relationships. Once we understand that these factors can cause an imbalance in our constitution, we have a choice to take appropriate action to nullify or minimise their effects to eliminate the cause.
Within the body there is constant interaction between order and disorder. Once we understand the nature and structure of disorder one can establish order. It is a relationship between humankind and environment.
Ayurveda recognises three primary energies, Vata, Pitta & Kapha. Together they regulate every physiological and psychological characteristic from basic cellular processes to the most complex biological functions. When these forces are in a state of natural balance the defence mechanism of the body works at peak efficiency.
Ayurveda’s recognises the universal interconnectedness, the body's constitution (Prakruti), and life forces (Doshas) are the primary basis of ayurvedic medicine. The three primary energies, Vata, Pitta & Kapha. These combine in the human body to form three life forces or energies, called doshas. They control how your body works. Together they regulate every physiological and psychological characteristic from basic cellular processes to the most complex biological functions. When these forces are in a state of natural balance the defence mechanism of the body works at peak efficiency.
Vata – represents the movement. It is responsible for all the bodily activities and sensations. It controls the movement of blood through the circulatory system, breathing, the delivery of nutrients to the cells and the removal & excretion of waste products.
Pitta – represents metabolism. It governs digestion and metabolic transformation of nutrients into biologically usable forms. It also imparts the capacity to absorb ideas and impressions and bestows intelligence and an enthusiasm for life.
Kapha – provides substance and support. It gives strength and stability, both physically and psychologically. It enhances resistance to disease and promotes the healing process.
To learn how to balance the body, mind and consciousness requires an understanding how Vata, Pitta & Kapha work together.
Vata (space and air) – In balance it promotes flexibility & creativity. Out of balance it produces fear & anxiety.
Pitta (fire and water) - In balance it promotes understanding & intelligence. Out of balance it produces anger, hate & jealousy
Kapha (water and earth) – In balance it promotes love, calmness & forgiveness. Out of balance it produces attachment, greed & envy.
Life challenges us with many opportunities, good & bad. There are things we cannot control but we do have the power to determine our diet and lifestyle. To maintain balance and health it is important to give attention to these decisions.
When the body’s balance gets disturbed, toxins start building up in our body and they result in disease.
Diet, lifestyle and herbs appropriate to individual constitution strengthen the body, mind and consciousness. So, this is an area you can have control over.
Ayurveda can have positive effects when used as a complementary therapy in combination with standard, conventional medical care.
Indian Head Massage - 30mins $55
What is Indian Head Massage?
Indian head massage is an ancient holistic treatment based on the ancient Ayurvedic healing system. It has been practiced in India for over a thousand years. Originally, it was used to improve hair and scalp conditions by focusing the massage on the head, neck, and shoulders. Using acupressure massage, it aims to rebalance the natural energy of the body.
This type of manual therapy uses firm but gentle, rhythmic movements on the areas being massaged that involve acupressure points called Marma points. Traditionally, Ayurvedic oils were used in this massage. However, the use of oils has become optional.
How does Indian Head Massage Work?
Indian head massage incorporates various manipulation and acupressure techniques to stimulate the soft tissues on the upper back, shoulders, neck, scalp, head and face. Effleurage or circular massage strokes are used on the scalp, while kneading and stretching techniques are used on the neck and shoulders to release tension and increase muscle flexibility.
Aside from its physical benefits, this type of massage also helps on an emotional level such as calming the mind, promoting relaxation, and relieving stress.
What are the Benefits of Indian Head Massage?
Massaging the head helps improve oxygen supply to the brain which can help reduce stress. Oxygen is important as it helps you think more clearly and creatively. Indian head massage helps stimulate the hair follicles to loosen them up when the scalp is tense and tightened. This encourages healthy hair growth and promotes strong, shiny hair. Additionally, massaging the scalp, face, neck and shoulders offers the following benefits:
Relieves eye strain
Alleviates insomnia
Ease’s headaches and migraines
Relaxes the muscles
Tones facial muscles
Improves blood and lymphatic circulation
Boosts the immune system
Restores joint movement
Relieves sinusitis
Reduces stress
Relieves anxiety
Improves concentration
Eliminates muscle tension
What can you expect from Indian Head Massage?
An Indian head massage can be performed on the client while they are seated or laying down and option of fully clothed or partial unclothed to the area being massaged with oil. During the treatment session, the massage therapist stands behind or slightly to the side of the patient to perform the massage.
Before the massage session begins, the practitioner will ask the client some questions about the state of their health, any medications that they may be taking or allergies that they may be suffering from. People with neck injuries are advised to seek advice from their doctor before proceeding with the treatment.
Once they're ready for the massage, the client has to remove their hair accessories so that the practitioner can work through their scalp and hair. Not all massage therapists use essential oils due to some people's sensitivity; they only do upon a client's request.
A treatment session usually lasts for around thirty minutes, and during which the therapist may incorporate other therapies. Getting an Indian head massage once a month can help keep stress at bay.
Abhyanga Massage & Marma Points - 1 ½ Hours $170
- With Steam 2 hrs $ 210
Ayurvedic Body Massage is a purifying and invigorating therapy which combines traditional Ayurvedic massage techniques and acupressure of Marma points (specific energy centres), promoting healing, releasing physical and emotional blockages, helping to eliminate toxins from the system, regenerating the whole body for renewed health and vitality.
For thousands of years massage therapy has been used as a powerful tool in the healing process. The simple gesture of touch has the ability to transform both mental and physical conditions, easing pain and restoring balance to the entire body.
The primary aim of this massage is to flush out toxins that accumulate in our bodies due to the stress of everyday living, improper diet, negative emotions which can drain us both physically and mentally.
Your treatment will unblock stagnated energy by massaging 107 Marma points (energy points) which induces a more rhythmic energy flow and leaves you feeling more relaxed and rejuvenated. The massage finishes with the head being massaged with the medicated oils as well.
Marma Points
These are points within the body, similar to the acupressure points of Chinese medicine. Marmas are the gateway to the channels that carry energetic signals to specific limbs and organs.
Energy can become stagnant in the body. Marma Massage stimulates specific marmas to open stagnant channels.
This type of massage is often recommended for:
Migraine
Sinusitis
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Sluggish digestion
Weight issues
Benefits of Abhyanga:
Warm medicated oil and specific strokes are used to promote circulation and stimulate the lymphatic system
Deeply relaxing, revitalizing and harmonizing the entire body
Relieves tightness and stiffness in the body, improves circulation
Moves the lymph, aiding in detoxification
Nourishes whole body and stimulates internal organs
Improves sleep and promotes relaxation
Eliminates impurities from the body
Calms and strengthens the nervous system
Rejuvenates your mind & body
Abhyanga Massage & Steam 1 ½ Hours $175
Ayurvedic massage helps to improve the energy flow throughout the channels and helps flush out toxins that accumulate during day-to-day activities, which wear away at us both physically and mentally.
This massage helps to improve the lymphatic and circulatory system thus improving our immune system.
The use of medicated oil and specific strokes relevant to your body’s constitution and present imbalances, which aid in the systematic elimination of toxins.
This helps to bring balance between the mind and body and stabilise the nervous system. An Ayurvedic massage also counters joint stiffness, arthritis, mental and physical fatigue and aids with sleep.
A perfect add on:
Enhance the benefit of the Abhyanga massage by adding a herbalised steam treatment. Steam helps to penetrate the oils, opens the deep channels of the body thus helping to flush out the toxins and leaving you feeling fresh, lighter and energetic.
The Nadi Swedana is like that of a pressure cooker that is used to boil the water and then steam is passed through a long pipe.
The steam travels through the pipe and is diffused onto the massaged area.
Certain herbs can be placed inside the Nada or they can be placed on the specific part of the body and massaged to alleviate pain, swelling & stiffness of the joints and muscles. This is an integral part of the Ayurvedic Treatments.
Nasya Treatment (Nose) – 1 Hour $110
Nasya is an ancient Ayurvedic nasal treatment and the ultimate treatment for healing and cleansing accumulated Kapha toxins from the head and neck region.
Nasya is one of the five main cleansing therapies in Pancha Karma, the traditional Ayurvedic detoxification program; but also, is used for daily administration as part of a healing Ayurvedic routine.
Nasya is typically done using an herbal infused oil such as sesame, ghee or coconut, but also can be done using medicated milk, fresh juice of herbs, and decoctions.
In Ayurvedic tradition, the nose is considered the ‘door to your brain’ and consciousness. It is thought that cleansing of the nasal passages with medicine that moves up the channels to the vital spot at the base of the brain will help heal the brain and nervous system.
This medicine spreads to the whole interior of the head, the channels of the eyes, ears, throat and cures diseases affecting the parts above the shoulders quickly, removing the accumulation for Doshas localised in the head, while restoring balance and the free flow of prana (life energy) into our body.
It makes sense then that Nasya treatment has been used to treat a variety of health concerns including:
Stress or feeling depressed
Memory loss
Migraines / Chronic headaches
Insomnia
Sinusitis and other sinus issues
Tinnitus
Hormonal imbalances
Lack of smell
Lack of enthusiasm
Gives clarity of mind and stabilises Rasa and Majja Dhatus
Nasya treatment is administering drops of a herbal blend called ‘Anu Thailam’ oil, into each nostril, a potent combination of 24 herbs that are boiled for 72 hours to create a smooth emulsion. Anu Thailam encourages the nasal cavity to expel toxin filled mucous while penetrating the area and killing harmful bacteria. This is followed by application of another herbal oil, ‘Ksheerbala 101 avarthy’ which heals and nourishes, completing the cleansing process. During this process, steamed compresses and massaging of the face, head and neck are done.
Pre-Treatment
Teeth cleaned
Contraindications for Navana Nasya:
Up to 1 hour before or after eating
Directly before going out into the cold weather
Before taking a shower
During pregnancy
During menstruation
Before age 7 or after age 80
If diarrhea is present
During high fever
While breathing is irregular or laboured
Pariseka Sweda – 1 Hour $160
Pizhichil is the squeezing of warm medicated oil onto the body of the patient from a piece of cloth that is periodically soaked in a vessel containing the medicated oil.
Pizhichil enhances muscular tone and retunes the entire nervous system, promotes blood circulation, nourishes muscles, nervous tissues and restores inner balance. It is beneficial in treatment of paralysis; it tones, strengthens and deeply rejuvenates the whole body. Helps with Pain relief, Stress, Nervous system and Immunity.
Shirodhara Treatment – 1 Hour $150
Shirodhara is considered as a therapeutic and rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatment for stabilizing the state of the mind and body, whilst bringing them in harmony together. Thus, Shirodhara effectively works to correct the imbalances at the physical, mental and emotional level.
This technique soothes and invigorates the senses and the mind.
A total feeling of wellness, mental clarity and comprehension is experienced in this process. Shirodhara means the dripping of oil like a thread (dhara) on the head (shiro). This is a tranquil form of Ayurvedic oil treatment.
Shirodhara starts with massaging the feet & hands before the continuous, rhythmic flow of medicated oil that poured is dripped from a specific height onto the third eye area, at a specific temperature, inducing an experience of deep relaxation, leaving one in a state of meditation. This is then followed by an Indian head massage.
The profound benefit of Shirodhara comes only when the technique is performed according to the authentic and traditional knowledge. Shirodhara treatments help to awaken deep-seated emotions and memories. By incorporating other Ayurvedic regimes and tools, the patient is able to deal with them more effectively, thus cleansing the body tissues and restoring excellent health.
Benefits of the Treatment
To stabilise and calm the mind
Treatment of several issues connected with the head, neck, eyes, ears, nose, throat
Helpful against insomnia
For nervous disorders and dispositions
To balance Prana Vata, Sadhaka Pitta and Tarpaka Kapha
Rejuvenates the mind and body
Harmonizes the functioning of the senses
Best treatment for stress, anxiety and nervousness
For insomnia and interrupted sleep
Suppressed emotions
Anger and frustration
Provides hormonal balance
Improves heart functioning
Used for eye disorders. Improves eyesight
For migraines and chronic headaches
Energy is channeled through the chakras
Kizzi Bolus -1 Hour $160
This Ayurvedic treatment is used for chronic and deep-seated muscles, bone & nervous disorders such as:
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Osteopathy
Joint pain
Fatigue and tiredness
The therapist first prepares a bolus of specific Ayurvedic herbs, leaves from the Nirgundi plant, desiccated coconut and fresh lemon. The bolus is then soaked in medicated oil and used to massage the body according to Ayurvedic massage principles.
After this treatment, a herbalised steam massage is given at a specific temperature for a specific time that helps to open the channels and flush the toxins from the body.
Further info to write.
Navar Kizzi Bolus - 1 Hour $180
Navara Kizzi is a specialised massage treatment, using a variety of rice that has medicinal properties. Navara Rice it is a unique cultivar of the Oryza genus (Oryza sativa) grown only in Kerala.
The rice is cooked in a milk decoction and made in pouches (bolus), which are then dipped in a heated milk decoction and used to massage the body.
Benefits
Makes the body supple and removes stiffness
Promotes sound sleep
Makes the body strong
Boosts the immune system
Slows down the ageing process.
Improves the luster and texture of the skin
Recommended for those with:
High blood pressure
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatism
Joint and muscle pains
Adrenal fatigue
Inflammation
Polymyalgia
Neuritis
Neurological disorders like Parkinsons
Further info to write.
Udwarthanam – 1 Hour $150
This most sought after treatment is specifically designed for weight loss, cellulite & water retention. It is also good for sluggish lymphatic flow and low immune system strength.
In this unique Ayurvedic Massage the body is coated with warm medicated oil and then a herbal powder mix is massaged into the body to break up stagnation & stimulate lymphatic flow.
After this treatment, a herbalised steam massage is given at a specific temperature for a specific time that helps to open the channels and flush the toxins from the body.
Benefits:
Leads to a sense of lightness in the body
Removes bad odour
Strengthened and muscles tone up
Improves blood circulation conditions
Reduces blood cholesterol
Vatahara
Alleviates and/or rids Itching
Provides Stability to organs & extremities
Decreases Stiffness
Decreases Weight
Reduces blood pressure
Reduces obesity
Helps the body to rejuvenate
Reduces the excess fat accumulated in subcutaneous tissues
Softens and gives a bright glow to the skin, exfoliates dead skin cells
Detoxification, cleansing, skin toning
Diseases in which Udwarthanam is Indicated
Motor neuron disorders
Parkinson’s disease
Muscular dystrophy
Multiple sclerosis
Skin diseases
Diabetes
Depression
Hemiplegia, cerebral palsy
Sciatica
Rheumatoid arthritis
Obesity
Weight reduction (closures/constriction of the vital body channels)
Oedema due to improper blood supply (hypothyroidism and anaemia)
Contraindications:
Wounds, cuts, burns
Psoriasis, eczema
Pregnancy
Children under the age of 10
Types of Udwarthanam
Snigdha Udwarthanam:
In this type of treatment, the herbal powder is not directly rubbed over the body, instead, it is mixed up with ghee or oil and later applied to the body.
Ruksha Udwarthanam:
No oil is used in this procedure hence the name ruksha Udwarthanam, ruksha means dry.
The difference between the two is the amount of pressure applied on the body and direction of its application.
Netra Treatment (eye) - 45 mins $85.00
A traditional Ayurvedic eye treatment to enhance eyesight, counter fatigue and heaviness in the eyes & slow retinal deterioration.
In Sanskrit, the word Basti translates to “bladder” or “container”, for medicated oils or tonics to sit in for a period of time.
Dough made using Urad flour is shaped into a small ring and placed around the eyes to create a small dam. This is then filled with warm ghee, either a plain or medicated variety. The ghee is retained within the ring at a specific temperature and then the client opens their eye and performs various eye exercises while submerged under the ghee, for approximately 10 minutes.
Once the ghee is removed the therapist will massage specific Marma points around the affected area.
This is a unique procedure is useful in both healthy and diseased clients.
In healthy clients, Netra Basti is carried out to protect the eye from degeneration due to the ageing process and to improve the eyesight.
Netra Bastior netra vasti is a restorative and preventative Ayurvedic treatment for the eyes. Netra basti has a slew of health benefits.
Netra Basti Benefits
Reduces tension and migraine headaches
Soothes dry, itchy, eyes
Provides relief from allergies
Improved vision
Increased concentration and mental acuity
Combats eye strain from TV, computers, and smartphones
Relieves eye socket tension, twitches, and squinting
Eases wrinkles and dark circles around the eyes
Slows the natural degeneration of the eyes
Lipid structure in ghee is similar to the body’s natural lubrication, making it especially nourishing for optic nerve tissues – even for those wearing a prosthetic eye.
For the purpose of the therapeutic effects this procedure is advocated in clients suffering from the diseases of the eye. Following are the diseases where this unique procedure is found to be beneficial.
Darkness in front of the eyes
Dryness of the eyes
Squint
Falling of the eye lashes
Blurred vision
Difficulty in opening and closing eyes
Conjunctivitis
Glaucoma
Fifth cranial nerve atrophy and nerve disorder
Opacity of the cornea
Watering of the eyes
Painful eyes
Swollen eyes
Basti Treatments
This technique uses special medicated oils, heated to a specific temperature, placed onto the body for a specific time period, on a specific part of the body.
A “well” made of dough made from Urad flour, is placed over the affected area and filled with the oil.
The area which the Basti covers also relates with particular Marma points in the body.
The main principle for Basti Treatments in musculoskeletal disorders is to prepare the area before doing the manipulation, whether it is soft tissue or deep tissue. All treatments are finished by massaging & using Nadi Swedana over the area.
Nadi Swedana
This is the application of herbalised steam on the specific part of the body to alleviate pain, release toxins from the body through the skin, that are rooted deep in the body.
From Sanskrit, Sweda means “perspiration" or "sweat”.
It is an integral part of the Ayurvedic Basti Treatment.
This therapy is to relieve muscular tension, restore flexibility, clear energy passages, detoxify the body, and help with muscular inflammation, hypertension, blood pressure and circulation.
After having the Basti treatment, a Nadi Swedana is used while massaging the area to help to open in the overall process of healing.
Contraindicated
Fever
Pregnancy
Acute Sinusitis
Acute alcohol intoxication
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome
Central or peripheral neuropathy
Frequency of Basti depends on the individual for acute cases 1 or 2 visits is sufficient for the relief; for more chronic cases treatments every 10 days, it is required depending on the individual.
Aftercare for treatment includes:
Avoid heavy lifting
Avoid excessive exercise for 24 hour
Follow recommendations provided by the therapist
Leave the oil on for 1 hour
Discription of different area’s that can be treatment
Kati Basti (lower Back) 1hr $110
Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
Overuse (especially repetitive forward and backward bending)
Heavy lifting
Congenital anatomical abnormalities
Degenerative process associated with aging
Acute injuries to back can also come up from sprains, fractures, contusions and strains
Indications for treatment
Bulging, Slipped or Herniated discs
Sciatica
Lower back pain
Disc problems
Benefits
Increases the circulation in the region, as the herbal oil gets deeply absorbed into the skin, and both nourishes and strengthens the muscles and nerves
Pacifies one of the primary sites of Vata, relieving pain, soreness, and tension and restoring flexibility
Benefits of Kati Basti
Relieves pain in the low back and lower limbs
Relieves stiffness in the low back and lower limb
Relieves swelling and inflammation in the low back, in the bones and soft tissues of the low back
Brings lightness and a sense of health in the lower portion of the body
Improves movements at the back and lower limbs and enable us to move and work freely
Strengthens the low back (bones, muscles and soft tissues therein)
Soothes the nerves supplying the low back and legs (lower limbs)
Enhances blood supply to the low back area
Relieves sprain and muscular spasm
Nourishes the vertebral discs Lumbosacral area
Helps repair nerve damage and heals ligaments
Vaksha Basti (Thoracic – Upper to middle back)
Indications for treatment
Pain / discomfort in the shoulder blades (scapula)
Stiffness/ tightness in the area
Holding onto emotions
Some of the Benefits are the same as Kati Basti
Janu Basti (Knee) 1hr $120
Indications for treatment
Osteoarthritis of knee joints
Osteoporosis
Chronic pain of the knee joint
Knee replacements
Torn tendons & ligaments
Excess fluid
Arthritis
Benefits of treatment like:
Pacifies Vata dosha in the knee
Restores the lubricating fluid and maintain the structures of the joint.
Eliminates stiffness and pain in Knee joint
Protects age-related changes in knee joint
Increases blood circulation
Mobility is improved of the knee joints
Greeva Basti (Neck & Shoulder) 1hr $100
Causes of Neck Pain
Excessive use of neck and head in one position (looking down at your phone)
Pillow (using a new pillow or wrong size)
Stress/tension causing muscles to tighten over a period of time.
Indications for treatment
Disk Prolapse
Bursitis in shoulder
Whiplash
Sprains and strains
Chronic pain in the neck
Tension headaches and migraines
Torticollis (Wryneck)
Benefits of Greeva Basti:
Calms and nourishes the nerves, bones, and muscle tissue.
Relieves pain and discomfort.
Stimulates nerves and blood supply.
Improves flexibility
Enhances ease of movement
It solves the problems related to the muscles, spines, and skeletal tissues.
Hridya Basti (Heart) 1hr $100
Indications for treatment
High cholesterol
Bronchitis
Emotional disorders
Post heart operations
Coronary heart diseases
Blocked arteries
Angina
Cardiomyopathy
Palpitations
High or low blood pressure
Asthma and other respiratory disorders
Benefits of treatment like:
The strength of the heart is increased
Useful for respiratory problems
Useful in muscular pains of the thoracic region
Help in the maintenance of muscles and connective tissues
Improves the function of the heart, i.e., commence rejuvenation of the soul
Calms and deepens the breath