Ayurvedic Massage
in Sheffield

What is Ayurvedic Massage?

Inspired by the ancient Indian healing system of Ayurveda, we have created a range of signature massages designed to nourish body and mind and restore balance. We are one of relatively few well-being centres in Sheffield offering ayurvedic massages. These massages are fantastic as an addition for those receiving ayurvedic treatment from an ayurvedic practitioner, or for anyone who feels their needs go deeper than just the physical body. 

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Ayurveda is an ancient healing system used for thousands of years in India which is based on the principle of balance. In ayurveda the goal is to bring harmony the the body by creating balance between the 3 doshas; Vatta (air & space), Pitta (fire & water) and Kapha (water and earth). These doshas represent key elements of all living things which guide how we respond to the world physically and emotionally. Each of us has elements of all 3 doshas but we may find that our bodies, emotional responses and strengths and weaknesses are more guided by some elements than others. This is known as your constitution. Ayurveda teaches us how to create balance for our particular constitution. When we are out of balance this can create physical, emotional and mental symptoms. Ayurvedic massage is intended as an addition to treatment by an ayurvedic practitioner but can also be enjoyed by those who take an interest in alternative and/or holistic well-being.   

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During the massage points of vital life force energy, known as marma points are stimulated. These marma points are thought to be linked to major organs, systems and parts of our physical and emotional selves. Stimulating the points is thought to clear blockages and bring balance to your body and mind.

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The massages themselves are deeply relaxing, restorative and balancing. 

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Abhyanga

Abhyanga is a full body massage in which warm oil is used to massage the body from heat to toe. The massage uses circular motions at the joints and long rhythmic strokes to stimulate marma points and allow a smooth flow of energy from the extremities to the core where it can then be safely processed and expelled.  Following the application of heated oil, the body is massaged and steam towels are applied to create deliciously luxurious warmth. 

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Potli Massage

Potli massage follows the same principles as abhyanga, again seeking to stimulate marma points and release blocked energy in a full body massage. Again, lots of warm oil is applied to the body. However, in addition to hands-on massage, the therapist also uses hand-made herbal pouches containing powdered ginger and freshly ground ajwain seeds. The pouches are heated and used to provide a vigorous stimulation and exfoliation. The result is soft, nourished skin. The benefits of ginger and ajwain include reducing inflammation and congestion, improving circulation and pain relief.  This type of massage is most suited to those experiencing conditions related to excess kapha but can still be enjoyed by all. 

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Shiro Anhyanga (Indian Head Massage) 

This is a traditional style massage in which marma energy points in the head, neck, face and shoulders are stimulated whilst the muscles are worked on to release tension. The massage can be described as vibrant and invigorating, . The benefits of indian head massage include reduced tension, relief from headaches, jaw tension and neck and shoulder stiffness and revitalised skin and hair. The massage can be given with or without oil. The relaxation that comes with the massage can be useful for improving sleep and general well-being. 

Your therapist, Claire, trained and worked with a respected ayurvedic practitioner for over 3 years and has been giving ayurvedic massages since 2015. Click here to read more about Claire.