Padabhyanga (Indian foot massage)

It includes massage of the feet. Feet are very important part in our body, as many nerves from many organs terminate in the feet. So massage helps to strengthen these nerves and restores health to many parts of the body. The marma (vital) points are massaged which gives balance to your dosha and is very helpful for people with insomnia, fatigue and cramps.

Foot massage is called "Padabhyanga", and it has a very special place within the Ayurvedic tradition. It is helpful in the treatment of illness, and significantly prominent in the area of preventative medicine. In India, Padabhyanga is commonly practiced as a daily ritual, especially before retiring at night. There is a wonderful ancient Indian saying:

"Disease does not go near one who massages his feet before sleeping, just as snakes do not approach eagles."

India is a country of great diversity. The many dialects and melding of religious practices have impacted upon the techniques and words that are used within Ayurvedic practice. There are various methods of Padabhyanga. However, the movement of energy is uniformly accepted as a focus for the foot massage.  

• Benefits of Ayurvedic foot massage include:

  • Helps to calm the mind

  • Helps maintain eyesight and hearing

  • Promotes quality sleep

  • Improves peripheral circulation

  • Aids foot health (alleviates pain, improves muscle tone and nourishes the skin)

  • Helps prevent sciatica

  • Helps to calm and maintain the "Vata Dosha" which, when present in excess, is regarded as the major cause of illness (Dosha is the name given to a specific body temperament or energy type.)

The benefits of the massage may be enhanced by the choice of the massage oil. Although the base oils that are commonly used have their own therapeutic properties, they can also act as suitable vehicles for the addition of herbs and essential oils to help obtain the required healing effect. Sesame oil is the most commonly used oil for massage. It is rich in fat soluble vitamins, has a high mineral content and has excellent keeping qualities. Sesame oil is a powerful antioxidant, is easily absorbed and is very nourishing for the skin.

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