Ayurvedic massage (abhyanga) is a foundational therapy in Ayurveda, traditionally used to nourish tissues, calm the nervous system, support detoxification, and promote long-term vitality. This introductory course explores the principles, philosophy, and practical foundations of Ayurvedic massage, including how oils function as medicine, how treatments are tailored to doṣhic patterns, and why this modality is considered a medical therapy rather than relaxation-based bodywork.
This course is ideal for beginners, bodyworkers, Ayurveda students, and anyone interested in authentic Ayurvedic self-care and therapeutic traditions.
This class is included in our Global Herbalism Academy Foundations Membership. Get access to this class PLUS our over 200+ classes and more for only $47/month!
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Ayurvedic massage is one of the most essential and widely practiced therapies within Ayurveda, serving as both a daily self-care ritual and a clinical treatment for a wide range of conditions. Unlike Western massage approaches that focus primarily on muscular manipulation, Ayurvedic massage emphasizes the medicinal use of oils, rhythmic strokes, and energetic principles to influence the entire physiological system.
This course introduces the philosophical, cultural, and therapeutic foundations of Ayurvedic massage, explaining how and why oil-based treatments are used to balance doṣhas, nourish tissues, calm Vata, support circulation, and enhance resilience. Students gain insight into how Ayurvedic massage is traditionally practiced across the lifespan, how treatment environments are designed, and how massage fits into a broader Ayurvedic healing framework that includes diet, lifestyle, and herbal support.
The course also explores a range of traditional applications—from daily self-massage to clinical treatments used for nervous system regulation, inflammatory conditions, detoxification, and rejuvenation—offering students a clear understanding of how Ayurvedic bodywork differs from—and complements—modern bodywork practices.
What you’ll learn
Core principles of Ayurvedic massage and its role as a medical therapy
How oils function as nourishment and medicine within Ayurveda
Basic doṣhic assessment for choosing oils and treatment approaches
Differences between Ayurvedic massage and Western bodywork traditions
Traditional treatment environments, tools, and tables used in Ayurvedic clinics
Common Ayurvedic massage applications, including oil massage, powder massage, steam therapy, and localized treatments
Foundational concepts of daily self-massage (abhyanga) for longevity and nervous system balance
This class is ideal for
Individuals new to Ayurveda seeking a clear, accessible introduction to Ayurvedic bodywork
Massage therapists and bodyworkers interested in integrating Ayurvedic principles
Yoga teachers, wellness coaches, and lifestyle practitioners
Students preparing for or exploring Ayurvedic training programs
Anyone interested in traditional self-care, rejuvenation, and holistic nervous system support
Get access to this class PLUS our entire Foundations Library (200+ classes!) for only $47/month. Members also get access to all new Foundations classes taught live every month!
