Ayurveda and the Atreya Abhyanga Method
Ayurveda, traditional Indian medicine, means “knowledge of life”. It considers the person as a whole and seeks to balance body and mind.
According to the principles of Ayurveda, we are made up of the five great elements that also make up nature: Ether, Air, Fire, Water and Earth. These elements are present within us as energies, the doshas, whose balance is essential to physical and mental health.
The three doshas
Vata
Governs Air and Ether. It directs the other doshas like a conductor and is responsible for movement in the body.
Pitta
Governs Fire and Water. It is responsible for the body’s transformation processes — digestion, but also mental capacity.
Kapha
Governs Water and Earth. It gives structure and stability, and allows Vata and Pitta to function: the principle of grounding and immunity.
Each person has an original constitutional “Dosha”, called Prakriti, which is immutable, and a current “Dosha”, called Vikriti, which reflects present imbalances. According to Ayurveda, an imbalance of the doshas can show up as physical and emotional discomfort; Ayurvedic consultations and treatments help rebalance them.
The Atreya Abhyanga Method
Created by Atreya Smith, this method involves massaging mindfully, channelling vital energy (prana). It takes the three doshas into account when choosing massage protocols, oils and powders. This therapy aims to increase or reduce the doshas and takes into account the person and their constitution (Prakriti), their doshic imbalance (Vikriti), sex, age and season.
It also uses heat, combined with oils and powders, to act on the function of the doshas. Acquiring this touch requires the practitioner to maintain a committed personal lifestyle, allowing them to develop concentration and stabilise their own thought process.
Curious to discover this method?
A consultation or first Ayurvedic assessment appointment identifies your Prakriti and your Vikritis so we can offer you the most suitable support.
See the consultations