Kalari Marma treatment is a special kind of traditional healing that comes from India. It’s closely connected to an old Indian martial art called Kalaripayattu. Kalari Chikitsa or treatment is an ancient system of musculoskeletal treatments. Originating in Kerala in Southern India, Kalari Chikitsa or treatment was developed to benefit the warriors of Kalaripayattu. The techniques that were used to treat the ancient warriors are also highly effective in the treatment of modern-day aches, pains and injuries.This treatment is all about improving health by focusing on certain points in the body called “Marmas,” which are important for the body’s energy.
Uzhichil or body massage is a staple in Ayurveda treatment but it gained popularity largely through the medium of Kalari chikitsa. Three forms of massage are prevalent in the Kalari chikitsa system – enna thechu pidipikkal or oil massage, kai uzhichil or massage using hands, and chavitti uzhichil or massage using feet. In very rare instances, during training, students sustain injuries to their marmas [vital parts of the body]. They are instantly and completely cured, thanks to the intervention of the Kalari ashans [masters] who are adept at giving the right treatment.
These treatments continue to be given in Kerala’s martial arts centres today. The Kalaripayattu master plays the dual role of a martial arts teacher and a healer. While still used to support the martial artist’s training, Kalari Chikitsa also helps a wider range of people, who come to see the master with their injuries and pain related conditions. The wisdom of Kalari Chikitsa has been passed down through the generations.
- Focus on Marma Points
Kalari Marma treatment targets specific “Marmas,” which are vital energy points in the body. By stimulating these points, the treatment aims to balance energy flow, enhance healing, and restore physical well-being. - Traditional Healing for Modern Ailments
Originally designed to treat injuries of Kalaripayattu warriors, Kalari Chikitsa has evolved into a powerful therapy for treating modern-day aches, pains, and musculoskeletal injuries. Its techniques are effective in promoting recovery from a wide range of physical conditions. Various Massage Techniques
Three main types of massage are used in Kalari Chikitsa:– Oil massage (Enna Thechu Pidipikkal): Uses medicated oils to enhance flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness.
– Hand massage (Kai Uzhichil): Manual techniques applied using the hands to relieve tension and pain.
– Foot massage (Chavitti Uzhichil): Unique to this system, the therapist uses their feet to apply deep pressure, ideal for healing muscle and joint problems.- Healing Through Kalaripayattu Masters
Kalari masters, known as Ashans, play a dual role as both martial arts instructors and healers. They possess extensive knowledge of the body’s energy points and are skilled in providing immediate and effective treatments for injuries, including those sustained during martial arts training. - Generational Wisdom
Kalari Chikitsa is a system of healing that has been passed down through generations of Kalaripayattu practitioners. The centuries-old wisdom remains relevant today, as it continues to be practiced in Kerala’s martial arts centers, offering healing not only to martial artists but to anyone seeking relief from physical ailments.
Kalari Marma treatment is a time-honored healing practice that effectively addresses both traditional and modern-day musculoskeletal issues. Its holistic approach, rooted in the wisdom of Kalaripayattu, continues to promote health and well-being.
