A Guide to Indian Massage by Body Type

Staying alert at work is quite a challenge these days due to fatigue from unseasonally hot weather and post-holiday weariness. Indian Avita Fernandes, chief therapist of The Spa at the Grand Hyatt Seoul hotel, says, "A simple massage can rejuvenate both body and spirit, regardless of your physique."

While Eastern medicine divides body types into four -- Major Yang, Major Yin, Minor Yang and Minor Yin -- the Indian Ayurveda (meaning to cure life) philosophy has three types. Avita Fernandes offers the following tips to try at home.

◆ Sensitive -- Vata

Thin, energetic or quick-tempered people fall into the Vata category. Vata, meaning 'air', refers to body systems that control breathing, excretion, menstruation and blinking. Vata people often suffer from dry skin and constipation when these organs weaken. Rose oil, which is great for hydration, works well on these people. After applying the oil, massage with both hands from the neck to the waist in slow circular pressing motions, calming both body and mind.

◆ Passionate -- Pitta

Active but stubborn people with passionate, fiery personalities are usually the Pitta type. Many have oily skin and acne. For Pittas, a massage that rids toxins from the body while calming the mind works well. Avita says, "Simply put, pinching is the most effective technique." Apply sandalwood oil to a large portion of the thigh or side and massage in soft pinches.

◆ Overweight -- Kapha

If you're laid back and easily gain weight with your healthy appetite, you're probably a Kapha, who sleeps well and rarely dreams. These folks are suited to massage techniques that reduce cellulite and channel pent-up energy. Citrus aromatic oils, like lemon, orange, grapefruit and mandarin, are effective. Use both hands to massage the body in quick moves. It's important to add pressure on the shoulders, back and thighs. Light taps of the fist also work.

◆ Cinnamon, Ginseng Powder Makes Effective Scrub

Finely ground cinnamon and ginseng power will also work massage wonders according to Ayurvedic therapy. Instead of pre-packaged scrub products, these natural ingredients will help reduce cellulite. First apply the appropriate oil then sprinkle the powder and quickly massage it into the body. Other alternatives are rice bran or boreh (oyster shell) powder.

◆ Scalp Massage

Try massaging your scalp at home by place two thumbs on the crown of the head and use the remaining fingers to press from the end of the forehead where hair starts to grow. This move can ease stress and boost concentration. Also pressing the center of the back of the neck ten times can ease headaches and stimulate hair growth.

englishnews@chosun.com / Sep. 17, 2008 10:42 KST