Marma Massage
The Marmas (vital points) are a very important part of Ayurvedic anatomy and surgery. A Manna point is defined as an anatomical site where flesh, veins, arteries, tendons, bones and joints meet up. There are 107 Marma points throughout the body. Each point has it’s own intelligence and consciousness, which co-ordinate with the mind and body. This ancient form of treatment dating back to between 1500 — 1200 BC involves using the fingers to stimulate the Manna points thereby promoting physical and mental rehabilitation. As with Acupuncture, these points correspond to internal organs and systems of the body which react to manual stimulation.
The human body, like a machine needs servicing in order to function normally. The Hindu healthcare system uses Marma massage as a routine part of their preventative medicine. A professional therapist isolates the Marma points and cleans them out by increasing the blood flow to the affected part of the neuro-muscular junction. They also aim to tone the surrounding muscles.
There are wide applications for Marma massage. Stroke victims benefit from the treatment, which can clear away obstructions, which delay information being communicated between the muscles, nerves and the brain. This helps the brain to ‘re-learn’ how to control and co-ordinate the muscles and nerves after illness or injury.
Through centuries of practice it has been observed that the following symptoms are alleviated through Marma massage:
- nervousness & anxiety
- light headedness
- numbness or metallic taste in the mouth
- tingling in the fingertips and toes
- stress at work & home
- lack of energy
- weakness in general
- muscular aches & pains including back and neck
If the above symptoms are allowed to persist they can lead to ‘chronic illness’ and ageing.
The Marma therapist checks the acidic levels of the tongue by using a simple litmus test (the healthy balance of 60% alkaline and 40% acidic food is the goal) and also tests the muscle and nerve reflexes.
It generally takes between 2-6 sessions to restore the body to health depending on the individual’s damage to body and mind. In the case of stroke victims weekly treatments should be carried out over 3-6 months.