Ayurveda is an ancient medicinal practice that has been practiced for thousands of years in India and is popular to this day! Although a sustainable practice that offers a holistic approach to health and wellness, Ayurveda has grown as research and technology improved, and now it combines the wisdom of the ancient world with modern sensibilities. Ayurveda puts great emphasis on the uniqueness of each individual’s constitution and their Doshic balance, and Ayurvedic solutions are often focused on elevating a person’s overall health rather than just healing a protruding symptom of deeper issues. The Marma points are specific locations on the body that are key to unlocking our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In this article, we will discuss the concept of Marma points and how they can be used in Ayurvedic healing.
What are Marma points?
Derived from the Sanskrit word "mri," the word "Marma" can be translated to a ‘vulnerable point’ or ‘vital point’. Marma points are specific locations on your body where the life force, or prana, is concentrated. These points are considered vulnerable because they are connected to the flow of prana and can be easily affected by internal or external factors. According to Ayurveda, there are 107 Marma points in the human body, each related to a specific organ, system, or function.
How do Marma points work?
As we know, Marma points are connected to the flow of ‘prana’ in the body. According to Ayurveda, the prana, or flow of energy, is responsible for maintaining our physical, mental, and emotional balance, and when it flows freely, our health is optimal. However, when this energy is blocked or imbalanced, we experience physical, mental, or emotional discomfort that manifests as various kinds of illnesses and symptoms. Marma point therapy is based on the Ayurvedic concept that by applying pressure or certain kinds of stimulations to specific Marma points, we can restore the flow of prana and promote healing.
Marma points used in healing
While there are 107 Marma points in the human body, the way each of these points works may vary. While stimulating some of these points aids you in healing, others are considered lethal and cause you severe injury if they are damaged. Some of the Marma points used in healing and affecting certain areas and organs are:
Sthapani Marma: Located at the centre of the forehead between your eyebrows, this Marma is known to affect the nerves and brain.
Nabhi Marma: Located at the centre of the navel, Nabhi Marma affects small intestines.
Phana Marma: Located at the base of the nostrils on either side of your nose, the Phana Marma is believed to affect your ears, sense of smell, sinuses, and stress levels.
How to use Marma points for healing
Like we discussed before, Marma points are vulnerable and should be handled with care. However, if it is handled in the right way, it can be highly beneficial in promoting natural healing. Marma point therapy is practiced in various ways, including:
Self-massage: People use their own fingers or a massage tool to apply pressure to specific Marma points and promote healing and Doshic balance. However, only attempt this method if you have proper knowledge of Marma points or by the direction of an experienced Ayurvedic physician.
Yoga and meditation: There are specific yoga postures and meditation techniques that target specific Marma points and stimulate them. So you can also practice Marma point therapy through yoga and meditation.
Ayurvedic massage: Ayurvedic massages done in a professional setting often incorporate Marma point therapy, so you can opt for massage therapies like Abhayangam in a reputed Ayurvedic centre to receive Marma point therapy.
Benefits of Marma point therapy
So what does Marma point therapy exactly do and what is the range of benefits this ancient healing practice offers?
Relief from pain and inflammation: Marma point therapy is known to help patients reduce pain and inflammation in their body.
Reduced stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety are root causes for many symptoms and illnesses; Marma point therapy can help you calm the nervous system and reduce the effects of stress and anxiety on the body and mind.
Improved digestion and elimination: Gut health is directly connected to the overall well-being of a person, and Marma points can be used to stimulate digestion and elimination, resulting in healthy gut function and detoxification.
Better sleep: By stimulating specific Marma points, we can also promote relaxation and improve your sleep quality.
Conclusion
Health is the most important asset we have, but we often neglect it until it’s too late. Rasayana Ayurveda Centre is among the most prominent Ayurveda hospitals in Kochi and we have created the perfect oasis in God’s Own Country for you to heal! Prioritize your health and receive the best Ayurvedic treatment in Kochi at Rasayana! Connect with us to book an appointment and learn more about us.