Ayurveda is a practice of medicine that is thousands of years old, originating in India. It is still practiced there, though Western medicine has pervaded the culture. Recently, Ayurveda (literally translated at The Science of Life) has taken hold as an alternative system of medicine in North America and its popularity is growing. The spa industry is beginning to offer Ayurvedic treatments for relaxation and healing. Here are a few of the most popular.
Abhyanga
Abhyanga is an oil massage traditionally done by two practitioners performing the movements simultaneously. Herbalized oil is chosen for your specific constitution and plenty of it is used. The motions used are long and flowing, and the massage also incorporates stimulation of the Marma points (the Ayurvedic equivalent of acupressure). The focus of Abhyanga is to improve circulation, eliminate toxins and boost immunity. The treatment should leave the recipient feeling revitalized. It is usually followed with a steam bath called Swedhana (see below for description).
Udvartina
Udvartina is an exfoliating massage using a special herbal paste made of organic grain flours, specialized herbs and oils. The paste is deeply massaged into the skin with quick motions that serve to remove dead skin cells and fatty deposits. This results in healthy looking, softer skin and reduced excess fat. Udvartina is also important for circulation, digestion and the lymphatic system.
Shirodhara
This treatment involves a steady stream of warm, medicated oil flowing over your forehead or “third eye”. The oil flows from a specially designed pot, covering your temples, forehead and hair. Ideally done after Abhyanga, Shirodhara relaxes the entire body and mind, allowing for significant stress reduction. It is said to provoke a state of mental clarity and a shift in awareness. Conditions such as depression, anxiety and insomnia are helped by Shirodhara.
Swedhana
This is a steam treatment using oils and herbs designed for your specific constitution. A regular sauna will open your pores, allowing toxins to escape, but Swedhana can take it one step further by first covering the body in nourishing herbalized oil, a process referred to as Snehana (oiling), which improves the look and feel of your skin. Swedhana can also take place after Abhyanga. A special steam box is used that allows the head to remain outside. In addition to eliminating toxins, purifying the skin and inducing relaxation, the treatment can also reduce pain and stiffness and shrink cellulite
Netra Vasti
Netra Vasti is an eye cleansing treatment ideal for anyone whose eyes are tired and overused, especially those who sit in front of a computer screen all day. First, a facial massage is done focusing on Marma points. Next, rings of organic dough are placed around the eyes to act as receptacles for the medicated ghee (clarified butter) that is then poured over the eyes. This treatment helps relax your tired eyes, improves your eyesight, helps to fight wrinkles and reduces stress.
Nasya
Nasya involves cleansing the nasal passages by administering a small amount of medicated oil into the nose. The treatment begins with a massage of the face, neck and chest, stimulating Marma points to relax the breathing passageways. Special attention is paid to the sinuses in order to break up impurities and reduce pressure. A few drops of Nasya oil are then placed in each nostril followed by another massage of the area. The purpose is to clear the nasal passages of any debris that is not filtered by the small hairs in the nose. Nasya is said to have a variety of benefits including reducing headache and migraine pain, alleviating sinus congestion and infections, improving the ability of sense organs and even preventing greying and loss of hair.
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