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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : October 29, 2014 7:39 PM IST
It was believed by our ancestors that the cure of every disease lies in nature itself. It is this belief that is the basis of Ayurveda, a form of medicine that is not only curative but also preventive. Being very beneficial for the body and mind, Ayurveda promises good health if you follow its principles. Amongst all the treatment therapies in Ayurveda, one of the most famous ones is Pizhichil. Also known as the 'king's treatment', Pizhichil consists of a body massage that is aimed at balancing your emotions and increasing blood circulation.
The term Pizhichil means 'to squeeze'. Known as a kind of Sarvangdhara ('Sarva' meaning the entire body and 'dhara' meaning a stream) it is described as the pouring down of oil on the entire body. Broadly Pizhichil is divided into two types of massages. One is known as the oil therapy while the other is referred to as the heat therapy. The massage is mild in nature and leaves you feeling relaxed and refreshed.
What is the procedure like?
When you go in for this therapy make sure you keep enough time aside, as this treatment tends to go on for anywhere between 45 to 90 minutes. Performed while you are in seven different positions, this treatment uses herbal, medicated oils. The kind of oil is customised to the kind of ailment you have and is squeezed out of soft cloth soaked in the oil. The therapy is performed by two or four technicians, out of which one or two will squeeze out the oil while the others massage your body. Through the massage you will be asked to change positions so as to massage specific areas of the body. The seven cardinal positions include sitting, lying on your back, lying on your right side, lying on your left side, lying on your stomach, lying on your back and finally the massage ends with you in the sitting position.
The massage is performed by two technicians in a synchronous motion which is aimed at relaxing and stimulating points on both halves of the body simultaneously.
Benefits of Pizhichil: Not only does this therapy help rejuvenate the body, but it also helps soothe your mind and relieve stress. Here are a few other health benefits of this form of treatment.
Improves blood circulation: It helps improve blood circulation in your body, because of the warmth and stimulation during the massage.
Detoxifies your body: Pizhichil causes profound sweating which helps eliminate toxins from your body, helping you detox. The massage also helps keep your skin healthy and glowing.
Reduces stress and anxiety: The treatment helps release tension, stress and calms your mind. What's more, this treatment also helps beat depression and irritability.
Improves your overall health: Pizhichil helps improve your overall physical and mental health and ensure you stay fit and healthy.
Image source: Getty Images
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