Panchakarma
The Science of Panchakarma
A study at Colorado University showed that Panchakarma reduced accumulated toxins in the body by 50%:
“This is the first published study on humans to demonstrate that a specific detoxification regimen can significantly reduce levels of lipophilic toxicants in the blood that are known to be associated with disease,” says Robert Herron, Ph.D., lead author of the study and Director of Research at the Institute of Science, Technology and Public Policy. “Our findings were quite striking, given that the half-lives of these toxicants are all several years in duration, and that this panchakarma detoxification procedure removed them in just a few days.” (Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, (Sept./Oct. 2002), Vol. 8, No. 5: pp. 40.)
Components of Panchakarma
A full Panchakarma treatment lasts 60 minutes daily and is comprised of the following components:
Abhyanga Massage and Herbal bolus Massage – Enjoy the amazing effects of a massage with medicated herbal oils. The Traditional abhyanga treatment includes the therapist giving you a synchronized massage. This special therapeutic herbal bolus massage detoxifies and rejuvenates the body, improves circulation, strengthens the immune system, and enhances the complexion of the skin. Above all, it leaves you with a general improved sense of well-being.
Aromatherapy steam (Swedhana) – After your massage, relax as your mind and body are enveloped in a soothing steam bath. Swedhana improves peripheral circulation and this treatment allows the Ayurvedic oils to penetrate deeper into the tissue, enhancing the detoxification process. It strengthens the immune system and moisturizes the skin, making it soft and smooth.
Nasal therapy (Nasya) – During this therapy, several drops of medicated oil are administered into each nostril. This opens and cleanses your nasal and sinus passages, enhancing the flow of oxygen to the brain. It may relieve allergy and sinus conditions and improve your memory.
Shirodhara – During this relaxing therapy, a continuous stream of warm Ayurvedic oil flows over your forehead. Shirodhara is used to heal chronic neuromuscular disorders and vata imbalances: hypertension, insomnia, depression, anxiety, headaches and restlessness. It can also have a powerful spiritual effect on the mental and emotional well-being of the individual
Vasti (included with 10 days or more of Panchakarma – Vastis are herbal & oil therapeutic enemas. The Vasti restores the balance to the 3 doshas, especially vata. Regular administration of Vasti improves vision, slows down the aging process, adds strength and supports longevity. Vastis can pacify the complaints of constipation, backache, sciatica and joint pain. Vastis are optional and recommended for patients that do 10 to 28 days of Panchakarma.
All of our massage oils are made according to ancient recipes. We order them from an Ayurvedic Pharmacy in India where the wild-crafted herbal infusions are added to oil, bringing forth their medicinal properties. The subtle qualities of the herbs are transferred through the massage to bring balance and healing.
Ayurvedic Health Consultation
You will receive an Ayurvedic Health Consultation with one of our Ayurvedic Doctors to discover your constitutional nature (prakruti) and the current balance of your doshas (vikruti). You may be recommended herbal supplements and a diet for the restoration of health.
Tips for Your Panchakarma
- Rest as much as possible
- Meditate upon rising, after treatments, and in the evening
- Turn your eating into a meditation
- Practice yoga and deep breathing
- Be silent & listen to your inner wisdom
- Be open to the energy of nature
- Practice being in the moment
- Become the witness to your mind’s activity
- Keep balanced and avoid extremes
- Create a space for yourself with nothing to do
- Ask yourself, “What nourishes me? What do I want?”
- Allow memories and the emotional response to them to arise gently