Michelle works intuitively to design her unique treatments for INDIRA. Combining her knowledge of Ayurveda and aromatherapy with folk herbalism, and inspired by ancient ritual, Michelle presents 3 signature treatments for head, face and feet.
Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word derived from 2 words: ayur meaning “life” and veda meaning “knowledge.” “Knowledge arranged systematically with logic becomes science” , and so Ayurveda, with its multiple systems of ancient medicine, can be translated to mean “the science of life.”
The original intention of Ayurveda is to prolong and improve the quality of life, and to progress towards enlightenment. There are 8 branches of this holistic approach. One of the ways in which Ayurveda is practiced is through massage, or Abhyanga.
Abhyanga - Ayurvedic Massage
There are various forms of Ayurvedic massage. INDIRA predominately focuses on manipulating marma points, which can be compared to the more widely recognised Chinese acupressure points.
There are said to be 107 marma points throughout the body, and Ayurveda describes these points as being able to be manipulated to improve the flow of vital life energy, or prana.
Medically, marma points are referred to as neuro-lymphatic points, meaning that manipulation of these points can stimulate the lymphatic system. Highly influential to overall wellbeing, the lymphatic system drains fluid from the tissues into the bloodstream, contains white blood cells which fight infection and gets rid of waste from cells.
Ayurvedic massage utilises specific techniques, but is tailored to each client’s individual needs.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy has been practiced for thousands of years across the world, from the ancient cultures of Egypt to China. The ancient people of Arabia first developed essential oils from natural scents when they discovered the art of distillation using alcohol.
Essential oils are aromatic natural compounds distilled into highly concentrated oils. When inhaled, scent molecules influence the brain, especially the amygdala - the emotional center. These molecules can also be absorbed into the bloodstream via the skin using massage.
Different natural compounds are utilised for specific effects on the body, and are chosen based on the desired effect on the client. INDIRA treatments often feature oil of jasmine due to its romantic scent and evidence based positive effects on nervous system dysregulation, mood, relaxation, inflammatory levels and antiseptic properties.
Ayurvedic Facial (Mukha Abhyanga ) w/ Floral Face Steam (Swedana) |
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Starting with a floral nadi swedana - localised Ayurvedic steam - the pores of the face are opened, tension melting away from the facial muscles. The face is then cleansed and toned using exquisite organic products, before a homemade fresh face mask is prepared bespoke to your skincare needs. Whilst the mask does its magic, the massage begins.
The hands are massaged in Ayurvedic style, focusing on marma points, as the mask dries. Once the mask is gently washed away, the mukha abhyanga begins. Michelle then uses her jade gua sha tool to further release tension, encouraging blood return and aiding in lymphatic drainage.
The treatment is finished with eye cream, serum and moisturiser.
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Mukha abhyanga is often referred to as a ‘natural facelift’ due to the plumping and hydrating qualities of the technique. The INDIRA take on this ancient practice is a feast for the senses: playful, otherworldly and bespoke to you! Expect both glowing skin and spirits.
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£65
Ayurvedic Head, Neck & Shoulder Massage (Shiro Abhyanga) w/ Jasmine Oil |
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Come indulge in this truly, deeply relaxing treatment. INDIRA’s take on shiro abyhanga is jasmine soaked and luxurious, beginning with a settling floral foot bath to orient and ground you.
You will be asked to bare your shoulders, a soft towel draped about your chest to protect your clothes and modesty. In classic Ayurvedic style, oil of jasmine is poured over the head and neck and thoroughly massaged into the scalp. Marma points all over the head, neck and shoulders are manipulated with ancient massage techniques.
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Head, neck and shoulder massage is an intimate therapy which stimulates cognitive function, can improve sleep, memory and motor skills. This practice also helps regulate the nervous system, improve emotional regulation and balance hormones. Scalp massage also aids hair growth!
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£55
Ayurvedic Foot Massage (Padabhyangam)w/ Floral Foot Bath |
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This traditional Indian foot massage treatment is extremely soothing and highly technical. Beginning with a grounding floral foot bath, the feet are then washed, scrubbed and creamed as you lie back on the treatment bed.
Feet and lower legs are soaked in a blend of therapeutic oils as marma points are stimulated using a combination of a Thai foot stick, Ayurvedic Kansa cup, Ayurvedic foot bowl and wand.
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As the far extremities of the body and the connective points between ourselves and the earth - the feet hold a lot of tension. By working to relax them, you are inviting the whole body to ground into earth and release long held tension.
In Ayurveda, the feet are connected to our eyes, meaning stimulation of the feet aims to bring clarity to the sense of sight.
This is one of the best therapies for treating insomnia.
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£55