Accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year
Accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year
The Ayurvedic tradition, known as the science of life, offers a complete system for health, healing, and longevity. It is a path that asks us to look beyond symptoms and align with the timeless wisdom of nature. Central to its therapeutic genius is marma therapy, an ancient form of vital energy point therapy that speaks directly to the deep connections between the body, mind, and consciousness.
The Sanskrit word marma means “secret” or “vital point”. Though they seem to be simple anatomical points on the body. In reality, they are the concentrated access points where your physical structure, subtle energy (prana), and consciousness meet.
Think of the body as a vast, silent biochemical laboratory, constantly interpreting and transforming the events of life. Marma points, then, are the switches that regulate this lab. Activating a marma point changes the body’s biochemistry and can unfold alchemical change in one’s makeup. As Dr. Lad teaches, marma is fundamentally a gateway of inner pure consciousness because, at the site of these points, there are concentrated molecules of ojas, tejas, and prana.
In essence, marma therapy works by conveying a message through the touch receptor to unfold the body’s natural “inner pharmacy,” signaling it to produce exactly what it needs—the right hormones, neurochemicals, and energy flows—to heal itself. It is a practice of self-empowerment, emphasizing that the healing you seek is already within you.
Marma therapy directly influences the three subtle essences that govern health:
Marma therapy is not a forceful treatment. It requires a specific firmness and gentleness—a precise, soft dance between the giver and the receiver. As Dr. Lad often expresses, “Touch is a very spiritual energy.” Healing happens when the toucher and the touched become one, moving beyond the physical contact to a touch of mind, thought, feelings, and emotions.
This treatment is deeply personalized and respects the individual’s unique constitution (prakruti) and current imbalance (vikruti).
The technique and pressure used in marma are meticulously tailored to the individual’s dosha:
In all cases, the application of specifically chosen herbal or essential oils enhances the treatment. The healing essence of the oil is absorbed by the marma points, magnifying the body’s self-healing capacity.
While a full marma chikitsa session with a trained practitioner is comprehensive, the practice also offers immediate, practical applications that speak directly to the demands of modern stress and overwhelm.
Here are a few accessible marma points that anyone can stimulate to experience the balancing effect of their inner pharmacy:
| Marma Point | Location | Common Benefit/Application | Doshic Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Sthapanī |
The “Third Eye” point, directly between the eyebrows.
|
Calms the mind, relieves tension headaches, reduces mental strain, and enhances focus.
|
Balances all three doshas, especially good for emotional pitta. |
|
Shankha (Temples) |
The shallow depressions at the sides of the forehead, near the outer edge of the eyebrows. |
Highly effective for relieving migraines and stress-induced headaches. Also pacifies high, sharp pitta energy. |
Pacifies pitta. |
|
Nābhī (Navel) |
The center of the navel.
|
Enhances agni (digestive fire), regulates elimination, and grounds vāta energy in the digestive tract.
|
Balances vāta and kapha in the abdomen.
|
|
Talahṛdaya (Center of palm) |
The central depression of the palm, where the lines converge.
|
Connects to the heart and lungs. Gently pressing this point can alleviate anxiety, support heart function, and help release emotional tension.
|
Supports prana flow to the chest.
|
|
Kshipra (The large toe) |
The web space between the first and second toes (or thumb and index finger).
|
Stimulates circulation, supports the lymphatic system, and is effective for relieving pain in the legs and feet, including sciatic pain.
|
Grounding for vāta dosha.
|
By incorporating light, conscious pressure on these points, even for a minute or two, we honor the ancient wisdom of marma and activate the deep, healing communication system within us.
Marma therapy’s influence extends beyond the physical body. It is an integral part of what Ayurveda positions as a path toward alignment with one’s inner nature.
The use of marma points connects directly to the subtle layers of our being, making them powerful tools for yogic and meditative practices:
Marma therapy is a testament to the belief that human life is not a solid structure, but an ever-changing, dynamic collection of energy and intelligence in the larger field of energy and intelligence that is the universe. It is a humble, respectful way of engaging with this truth.
If you are ready to engage with your healing journey in a way that is grounded, transformative, and accessible, we invite you to explore this essential healing modality. Dr. Vasant Lad’s teachings offer the highest level of clarity, warmth, and reverence.
At The Ayurvedic Institute (TAI), founded by Vasant Lad, a world-renowned Ayurvedic physician and teacher whose devotion helped bring the wisdom of classical Ayurveda to the West, we approach marma as an essential pathway for profound, experiential healing. Dr. Lad has spent decades sharing the subtle, transformative depth of Ayurveda, guiding students and seekers for over 40 years to access their inner pharmacy. His teachings are rooted in lived tradition, not trend.
To truly understand and embody this profound practice—to learn how to touch with intention and awaken the body’s deepest healing intelligence—is to engage with the complete science of self-healing.
Experience the power of these vital energy points and unlock your potential for wellness.
Join The Healing Touch of Marma Masterclass today!
