How to Learn Ayurvedic Massage in India

Ayurveda is a traditional, holistic system of medicine that has been practiced in India for more than 5,000 years. The Sanskrit word "ayurveda" means, "science of life," and ayurveda's most basic premise stresses the interconnectedness of all things in the universe. Ayurveda uses panchakarma, a sytem of "five actions," to cleanse and rejuvenate the body, mind and soul. Ayurvedic massage, also called abhyanga, is an important part of Ayurvedic technique and Panchakarma, used to detoxify and destress body and mind. Learning ayurvedic massage in its country of origin may help to ensure the best instruction in application and technique.

Instructions

• 1

  Decide what type of ayurvedic massage you would like to learn. Ayurvedic massage in southern India focuses mainly on detoxification, using a lighter touch, while northern Indian practitioners use a deep tissue style similar to sports massage techniques.

• 2

  Choose an instructor. There are several formal schools throughout India that teach ayurvedic massage. Alternatively, you may wish to learn from an ayurvedic master with a long family lineage of ayurvedic practitioners. Research schools or individuals thoroughly before choosing a course of study. Generally, a minimum of one month is expected for training.

• 3

  Make sure your passport is current and valid.

• 4

  Ensure your general vaccinations are current. Ask your doctor for a prescription for antimalarial medication and purchase enough to last the length of your stay before traveling.

• 5

  Make reservations for accommodations and purchase round-trip plane tickets well in advance of your trip for the best pricing and most comfortable stay.

• 6

  Research as much about ayurveda as possible before your trip to get a jump-start on your training.