Body Therapy
Abhyanga
The healing touch of Ayurveda
Full-body synchronised massage with warm medicated oils to nourish tissues, calm the nervous system and balance Vata.
- Duration
- 45 to 60 minutes
- Course
- Single session, or 7–21 days as part of a Panchkarma course
About Abhyanga
Abhyanga is the classical Ayurvedic full-body oil massage described in the Charaka Samhita as a daily practice for longevity. Warm, dosha-specific medicated oils are applied over the whole body with rhythmic strokes that follow the direction of hair growth and the flow of the body's channels.
At Vishwaprabha the oil is selected after assessing your Prakriti and current Dosha imbalance — Bala or Mahanarayan taila for Vata and joint pain, Chandanadi or Ksheerabala for Pitta and heat, and lighter Rasayana oils for Kapha states. The massage is followed by Swedana where indicated, so the medicated oil is carried deeper into the tissues.
Abhyanga is often the first step of a Panchkarma programme (Snehana), but it is equally valuable as a standalone therapy for stress, insomnia, fatigue and dry skin.
Procedure
- 01
Assessment
Pulse examination and Dosha assessment to select the correct medicated oil and pressure.
- 02
Warm oil application
Oil is warmed to body temperature and applied from head to toe on a wooden droni table.
- 03
Synchronised strokes
Rhythmic strokes over the limbs, trunk, joints and marma points, working with the body's channels.
- 04
Swedana
Herbal steam is given where indicated, to open channels and carry the oil deeper.
- 05
Rest and post-care
A short rest, warm bath guidance and diet instructions for the rest of the day.
Frequently asked questions
Other therapies
Shirodhara
A continuous stream of warm medicated oil poured over the forehead to quieten the nervous system and restore mental clarity.
Swedana
Medicated herbal steam therapy that liquefies toxins, opens the body's channels and relieves stiffness and pain.
Nasya
Administration of medicated oils or powders through the nostrils to treat disorders above the collarbone.
Begin with a consultation, not a guess
Every plan at Vishwaprabha starts with an unhurried assessment of your history, digestion, sleep and constitution. Call or message us and we will find a suitable time.