Origins: Ayurvedic therapy is based upon ancient Indian Ayurvedic medicine. The manipulation of pressure point points was used to heal the body. The word Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word: ayurved, meaning knowledge, and vedas, meaning wisdom. Ayurvedic philosophy & practice, as it was passed down from India in ancient India, has both literal and spiritual implications.

Ayurvedic massage techniques are based on the idea that a life force called Pran flows through all living beings. If you could look within yourself, which you cannot do when you are deceased, you would see your life force called "Rakta". This force is connected to the center, or 'Nishtha, of the earth. It also connects to the Sun or Moon at the top of the planet. And to the North Star, also known 'Polaris. This 'Pran" flows through our bodies and makes us healthy. It stops flowing properly and we start to feel sick. Our skin also starts to show signs that it is getting older.

Ayurvedic massaging follows the same principles of ancient Indian medicine. Ayurvedic massage aims to increase the flow 'Pran' while maintaining healthy levels 'Rakta. It has been shown to have similar benefits to stress management, reducing high blood pressure and reducing stress. There are many types and styles of massage. Each one targets specific areas such as the neck/shoulders, feet, back or feet. Ayurvedic massage may include the following:

carrier oils. Carrier oils can be essential oils that give the massage its penetrating powers. Soybean oil, coconut oil and almond oil are all examples of carrier oils. These oils allow the massage therapists easy access to the patient's skin. Carrier oils should not be applied to sensitive skin. Use your sense of judgement to make sure the carrier oil you select suits your needs.

Different types of herbs. Ayurvedic massages employ a wide range of herbs. They are selected for their healing effects and medicinal properties. Kapha is one example of such herbs. This herb is well-known for its ability to soothe and calm the mind and body. Kapha is rich in many chemicals, including saponins. Massage the scalp with Kapha oils before you begin massage therapy. Kapha is also used as a poultice to treat sunburned skin, wounds, and rashes.

Tulsi – This herb has been used for years in Ayurvedic medicine, to regulate mood and alleviate stress. Tulsi oils may be used to improve relaxation and stress relief during massage therapy sessions. Tulsi increases the speed of the heart beat and stimulates blood flow to the muscles. It is believed that Tulsi can be beneficial in lowering high blood pressure and reducing stress. People who have Tulsi oil massaged on their scalps have reported a significant decrease in stress-related disorders.

The lymphatic system. Many body functions such as the immune system and the circulatory system depend on the healthy functioning of the lymphatic system. Massage therapists use gentle strokes to stimulate the lymphatic systems by massaging the neck, shoulders and face. For pain relief and stress associated to the lymphatic system, oils such as peppermint, Chamomile, or lavender are often used. Massage with a combination of oils can improve lymphatic drainage, which helps to remove waste products from the body.

Deep tissue massage. This type of massage helps to ease tension in muscles and connective tissues. Its focus is to restore a youthful appearance to the skin, improve flexibility and range of motion, and reduce swelling. It uses massage strokes that include: gentle strokes, kneading, tapping, squeezing, and tapping movements.