VEDA WELLNESS

MARMA THERAPY

What is Marma Therapy?

Marma Therapy is an important aspect of Ayurveda that helps maintain health by cleansing blocked energy. The word Marma is of Sanskrit origin "Mrin Maranae" and also means "hidden" or "secret". By definition a Marma point is a juncture on the body where two or more types of tissue meet, such as muscles, veins, ligaments, bones or joints.

107 Marma points for Healing

Marma Therapy utilises 107 points or "doorways" into the body and consciousness. The mind is considered to be the 108th marma. Major marma points correspond to the seven chakras or energy centres of the body, while minor points radiate out along the torso and limbs. The points range in size from one to six inches in diameter and were mapped out in detail centuries ago in the classic Ayurvedic text "Sushruta Samhita". The points cover both the front and back of the body, with 22 on the lower extremities, 22 on the arms, 12 on the chest and stomach, 14 on the back and 37 on the head and neck.

What happens during Marma?

During Marma Therapy a very light stimulation of the specific points on the body is done. This removes blockages, offering physical and psychological relaxation and strength. It is a powerful process which works with these subtle and sensitive energy points to open the body's energy channels, which are called "srothas". When Marma points are gently pressed on the skin can stimulate a chain of positive events.

Marma Benefits

Marma therapy is profound and works on many levels, physical, emotional, mentally and spiritual, and can create dramatic shifts in the body including relief of chronic or acute pain, both locally and distally. Detoxification can occur on all levels, with a significant improvement in bodily organ function especially immunity, digestion, respiratory and neural systems and psychologically. Healthier skin and a radiant appearance can result. Marma can balance body temperature and the doshas. It also releases neuro-chemicals such as serotonin and melatonin for improved cognitive function and deeper sleep.

By Sujatha Kekada