Ayurvedic lymphatic massage
- I am YAM
- Apr 17, 2024
- 3 min read
Functioning of the lymph
Lymph is a filtrate of blood plasma that has a composition similar to it. It is a whitish liquid which contains white blood cells (lymphocytes).
The lymphatic system works as a network, the network of lymphatic vessels. At the important junctions are the lymph nodes/hubs which have the role of cleaning the lymph. The main lymph nodes are the popliteal fossa, the groin, the armpits and the throat.
The role of lymph is to drain excess fluids (waste, proteins, leukocytes, toxins, bacteria and viruses).
Garshan and Udvartan are lymphatic drainages. They follow the course of the superficial lymphatic vessels.
Garshan, which involves rubbing the skin, aims to warm the lymphatic channels to increase circulation and promote the elimination of waste.
Udvartan aims to reproduce the rhythm of lymph circulation in order to stimulate it. Made with oil, it helps to deeply nourish the tissues.
They can be carried out separately, or at the same time to benefit from more complete care.
Garshan
The Sanskrit word garshan means to rub. The skin is rubbed using wild silk gloves. The movements are rhythmic and energetic. They follow the circulation of lymph going from the extremities to the heart.
This treatment has many benefits. Rubbing the gloves on the skin deeply exfoliates the skin. The skin is thus soft and free of dead skin.
Monitoring the circulation of the lymph helps improve its circulation and thus promotes the elimination of waste.
Finally, this treatment helps reduce the Kapha dosha. An imbalance of the Kapha dosha in the body can notably materialize in edema, swelling, congestion, a feeling of heaviness or even weight problems.
However, this treatment is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended to do Garshan in case of excess Pitta or Vata or when you have dry and thin skin : in these cases an abhyanga is preferable. The same goes for pregnant women who must opt for a massage that takes their pregnancy into account, such as prenatal Ayurvedic massage.
Udvartan
Udvartan comes from Sanskrit : Ud means upward, vartan means anointing. Traditionally this treatment consists of an energetic exfoliation of the body with a paste composed of Ayurvedic powders mixed with oil. However, it is also made only with oil, which is the case at I am YAM. The movements are then slow and superficial, adapting to the circulation of the lymph.
This treatment is suitable for everyone and has many benefits. The oil used deeply nourishes the skin. Movements, that are gentle and slow, help reduce the Pitta and Vata doshas. Stimulating lymph improves blood circulation, reduces water retention and cellulite and promotes the elimination of toxins. Finally, lymph that circulates optimally allows you to have a good immune system.
How does a lymphatic massage session take place at I am YAM ?
Both treatments are performed at I am YAM. You have the choice between performing only Garshan, only performing Udvartan or combining both in order to have a more complete treatment.
Note that Udvartan is only made with oil.
A quick interview will allow us to identify your needs in order to adapt the treatment.
The treatment is done on a massage table.
In winter, a heated under-mattress is installed to keep you warm.
An oilcloth is installed on the table. It allows to have a good quality of gliding and wrapping. Above, a WAI QI infrared lamp provides heat and improves the circulation of energy.
The best outfit is a thong. Disposable underwear is available if you wish. This is a recommendation, the person being massaged is free to wear the outfit of her choice.
The massage is done in silence to allow a return to oneself.
At the end of the massage, a herbal tea is offered to you. It is advisable to keep the oil on the body for at least 30 minutes after the massage so that it can penetrate deeply into all the tissues of the body.
The massage needs to be digested by your body. The day following the massage it is advisable to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Balanced meals are preferred, the body must digest the massage and it must not be weighed down.
And you, have you already tried this massage ?
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