Kizhi
Kizhi (Pinda Sweda or poultice massage) is a rejuvenating Ayurvedic and Kalari Chikitsa therapy that involves the rhythmic application of warm, herb-filled cloth bundles (kizhi) across the body. After Abhyanga and Swedana, these muslin bundles—packed with powders (Podikizhi), medicinal leaves (Elakizhi), Navara rice (Navarakizhi), sand (Valuka/Manalkizhi), lime (Naranga/Kashaya Kizhi), or seeds/grains (Dhanya Kizhi)—are dipped in lukewarm herbal oil, decoction, or medicated milk and massaged in synchronized strokes. The gentle heat (Swedana) and targeted massage factors increase sweating, dilate blood and lymphatic channels, and deliver therapeutic botanicals deep into tissues.
Benefits:
- Relieves pain, stiffness, muscle spasms, deep‑seated tension
- Enhances circulation & lymphatic drainage, boosts detoxification
- Increases joint flexibility, range of motion, and tissue elasticity
- Promotes deeper tissue relaxation and stress relief
- Softens muscles, eases chronic musculoskeletal conditions (arthritis, sciatica, fibromyalgia)
- Supports weight management, reduces cellulite
- Strengthens immunity, delays aging, enhances skin tone
- Calms nervous system; induces better sleep and mental balance
- Nourishes neuromuscular and nervous tissues; useful in neurological recovery
- Balances Vata and Kapha; opens body channels (Srotas) and marma points