Chavitty Uzhichil is a form of massage that originated from the traditional martial art form of Kerala-The Kalaripayattu, which was a school for training warriors, teaching them defense techniques. Physical treatments are also a crucial aspect of the strict practice regimen, of which the Chavitty Uzhichil is one. It is a stronger massage performed by the therapist with their feet. Here at Nattika, this Chavitty Uzhichil is done by a single therapist.
Procedure:
The patient is made to sit on a chair. Thalam or a herbal powder is applied to the bregma area. A prayer is made by the therapist as it is believed to receive the supreme healing energy through their hands which flow into the patient’s body to relieve the patient’s agony. After warming the sufficient quantity of medicated oil prescribed to the patient based on their health condition, it is first applied to all vital spots on the body from head to toe. Initially the head, face and shoulder massage is performed for thirty minutes, following which they will be made to lie on a mat on the floor. The therapist will perform the massage with their feet by holding on to a rope tied from the roof, for support. The massage will be done on two positions-supine (head facing up) and prone (head facing down). After the foot massage is completed, which is of approximately 45 minutes duration, the patient is made to lie on the massaging table for an abhyanga (oil massage) with hands.
Post Procedure:
After the massage, the patient will be given a warm water shower, which gives a steaming effect helping to further open up all channels in the body. Thalam or medicinal powder will be applied to the bregma region of the head which is used for regulating the body temperature after the massage and hot shower, to prevent any respiratory infection or post nasal drips, which are a few of the reasons the thalam is being done A glass of warm herbal water will also be provided to drink, which is good for calming the body.
Medicines used:
Generally the oil used will be of two types-for head and body. In Kerala, the oil used for head massages is usually of coconut oil base, and the one for the body may be either a coconut oil based or sesame oil based, which will be determined based on any specific ailments they possess or on their health status, decided after the detailed examination by the concerned physician.
Advantages of Chavitty Uzhichil:
Chavitty Uzhichil is a deeper massage which is relaxing, nourishes every tissue, enhances circulation and rejuvenate the body. It also relaxes the mind, removing stress and fatigue. Chavitty Uzhichil is also beneficial for all joint aches and muscle pain. It improves physical fitness and mental focus as it stimulates all marmas(vital spots) in the body.
Complications and Management:
During Chavitty Uzhichil, patient may experience cold, fever, headache and tiredness. Symptoms and conditions will be managed accordingly by physician.
