Of course, the massages are excellent! But let’s be a little more specific!
What type of massage brings you pleasant and beneficial sensations?
There are many types of massage and they are all very different.
Are you looking for something a little painful (in a good way), like a deep tissue massage ?
Or a massage that’s more restorative and more suited to your training or lifestyle like a sports massage ?
Or a relaxing massage to free you from your daily stress?
Probably you would like to get a Swedish massage which most spas offer because it is kind of the best of both worlds or maybe it is something you have never tried before like Ayurvedic or Indian massage ?
What is abhyanga or Ayurvedic massage?
The Ayurvedic practice of abhyanga, or oil massage, touts physical benefits like the release of muscle tension, lymphatic drainage, and more nourished skin from head to toe.
It is distinguished from other massages by its focus on the skin, rather than the underlying muscles with oils used with circulation-boosting movements. In fact, it is a facial massage for the whole body .
The primary focus of the massage therapist is relaxation and in India the practice is deeply tied to the notion of self-care.
What to expect in an Ayurvedic massage?
You haven’t really experienced a massage until you’ve had an Ayurvedic or Abhyanga massage.
This type of massage therapy, originating in India, is a holistic approach to deep, nourishing and relaxing healing.
Using warm oils infused with medicinal herbs tailored to each person’s needs, the massage therapist gently massages the entire body to nourish cells, tissues and energy channels.
This method helps you maintain your current health, prevent future illnesses, bring you a happier and healthier life. If you’re curious about what the whole practice entails, here’s what you can expect from Ayurvedic massage.
Before the Ayurvedic massage
Before your Ayurvedic massage begins, you spend approximately 15 minutes consulting with your massage therapist, discussing your health, lifestyle and current needs.
At this time, your massage therapist assesses your Ayurvedic body type and chooses the organic oils and herbs that will balance your body. She then begins to heat the oils to prepare them for application. The oils used are generally based on coconut or sesame.
You can also discuss your allergies to certain oils and any particular pains or ailments before the session. If you feel uncomfortable removing your clothes or exposing certain parts of your body, you can talk about it before starting.
During the session, only the massaged parts of the body are exposed. The rest of your body is covered and kept warm with soft sheets, blankets or towels.
During the Ayurvedic massage
At the start of the massage, you lie down on a comfortable table and the massage therapist begins to rub the warm, aromatic herbal oils all over your body including your hair. These Ayurvedic oils penetrate deep into your skin, allowing them to carry their healing properties directly to your cells, which boosts your immune system.
In order to eliminate toxins, relax the nervous system and help you rest and rejuvenate, the massage therapist uses various techniques with her hands. These include powerful strokes to release tension, gentle strokes to loosen knots, and light kneading and pinching to invite more smoothness into your skin.
To increase efficiency, the massage therapist synchronizes her breathing to match the technique she is using. This whole process usually takes between 60 and 90 minutes.
After the Ayurvedic massage
Once your full body massage is complete, you are free to continue to lie back and relax peacefully until you feel ready to get up again. You will then have the option of taking a slow shower to remove the oil.
Then your massage therapist provides personalized advice regarding diet, exercise, nasal sprays, herbal remedies, sleep, meditation, and yoga that will help you lead a more balanced life.
In order to fully integrate all the benefits of your Ayurvedic massage, it is recommended after your massage that you do relaxing, low-energy activities, such as spending time at the spa, having a quiet meal, or taking a slow walk in nature.
The relaxation and the integration of the advice of your massage therapist allow you to maintain this stake of well-being as long as you wish.
