Marma therapy is an integral part of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing system, which focuses on maintaining health and vitality by cleansing blocked energy within the body. Derived from the Sanskrit term “Mrin Maranae,” meaning “likelihood of serious damage or death,” marma points are junctures where different tissues such as muscles, veins, ligaments, bones, or joints intersect.
Within Ayurveda, there are 107 marma points considered as doorways into the body and consciousness. These points, with the mind being considered as the 108th marma, serve as vital energy centers. Major marma points align with the body’s seven chakras, while minor points radiate throughout the torso and limbs. The detailed mapping of these points can be found in the classic Ayurvedic text, the “Sushruta Samhita.”
During a marma therapy session, these points are gently stimulated, resulting in the removal of blockages and the promotion of physical and psychological relaxation and strength. The therapy works with the subtle and sensitive energy points to open the body’s energy channels, known as srothas, creating a chain of positive effects.