They connect the central energy pathways in our body. If they are stimulated, this influences our nervous system, individual organs and our psyche: The Ayurvedic Marma points have always symbolized the connection of the outside with your body and consciousness. With targeted acupressure and Ayurvedic massage, the Marma points unfold their healing effect.
In European Ayurveda® there are a variety of therapeutic techniques that aim to restore balance in the body and activate self-healing powers. A particularly effective method to prevent diseases from developing in the first place is acupressure during Ayurvedic massages such as the Mukabhyanga face, neck and foot massage. Alone 37 of the total 107 marma points in Ayurveda are located in the head and neck area.
What are Marma points?
Marma points are vital energy centers in the body where muscles, tendons, bones, joints, nerves and blood vessels meet. They are, so to speak, intersections of the life-sustaining energy pathways in the body and are therefore called "gates of consciousness". By stimulating the marma points, the flow of prana (life energy) can be harmonized and blockages released, which can lead to good health and increased well-being. The main marma points can be located on the seven chakras along the spine. The healing points were discovered about 1,500 years ago by a doctor in the Indian army who, while treating wounded soldiers, related the healing ability of injuries to their position on the body. Thus, over time, he described 107 sensitive points of the human body that must not be injured during surgery.
The effect of the Marma points
The targeted stimulation of the Marma points by trained Ayurvedic therapists has a variety of positive effects on your body and mind:
- Detoxification and purification: Many marma points are located near lymph nodes, thus supporting the body's natural detoxification process. Stimulation of these points promotes the removal of toxins and metabolic waste products, purifying the body.
- Energetic balance: The Marma points are closely connected with the three main energy pathways in the body, the so-called Nadis. Targeted stimulation of the Marma points harmonizes the energy flow of Shushuma, Ida and Pingala, resulting in balanced energy and increased vitality.
- Pain relief: Some Marma points have an analgesic effect and can be used for various complaints such as headaches, back pain or joint pain. Stimulation of these points releases the body's own messenger substances and relieves pain.
- Emotional balance: Certain marma points are directly related to your emotions. Stimulating them can help release mental blocks, relieve stress, and promote a sense of calm and balance.
The application in acupressure
Acupressure of the marma points is usually performed with gentle to medium pressure and circular movements. In case of stubborn blockages, holding affected points for a certain time may bring relief. The stimulation of the Marma points for therapy should always be performed by an Ayurvedic expert - but you can also activate some points yourself in everyday life:
- Hand Marma: This Marma point is located in the center of the palm. Place your thumb in the middle of the opposite palm. Press gently against the same point with your index and middle fingers on the back of your hand and massage the marma point with your thumb, middle and index fingers for at least 3 minutes. Self-massage relaxes the hand after long office work, acts against exhaustion and stress.
- Toe Marma: This marma is located in the soft space between the big toe and the second toe. Sit comfortably and stabilize the foot with one hand. Grasp the point with the thumb, index and middle fingers of the other hand and massage gently for at least 3 minutes. Massaging the toe marma prevents calf cramps, provides relaxation and helps you fall asleep.
- Heart Karma: The Heart Karma is located at the level of your sternum. While standing or lying down, place the right palm on the breastbone. Place the left hand on the navel. Now gently massage your sternum with your right hand for at least 3 minutes. Stimulation of the heart marma releases self-doubt and boosts your immune system.
Self-acupressure gives you the opportunity to create a space for yourself, to pause and to perceive your body without restrictions. For European Ayurveda® massages that touch your body and mind, discover the massage offer at the European Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof.
