Marma
ABOUT
Marma
Marma is a Sanskrit word that means “hidden” or “secret”. In Ayurveda, marma points are the anatomical locations where muscles, veins, ligaments, bones, and joints meet. They are considered to be seats of life energy, or prana, which is the current of energy that infuses every cell in the body. The Susruta Samhita records that there are 107 marma points in the human body, located in five groups: upper limb, lower limb, trunk, back, and head and neck.
Marma points are important elements of Ayurveda’s healing power. When properly stimulated, they can lead to the proper flow of prana in different body parts, resulting in therapeutic benefits. For example, massaging a marma point that controls the digestive system with a strong, circular motion for about five minutes can increase digestion. Acupressure can also be used to increase digestion, especially when combined with essential oils like fennel, ginger, cinnamon, or black pepper.
Marma points are also known as acupoints in India, and they are similar to acupoints in location and function. Acupoints are combined with acupuncture techniques to treat diseases and relieve pain.
