Glossary

Abhyanga – relaxing massage designed to release toxins and boost circulation. Agni – digestive ‘ fire’ – essential for metabolism and digestion. Ama – toxic waste in the system – a prime cause of disease. Basti – enemas, used in panchakarma (see below). Churnas – preparations of herbs and spices. Doshas – the three types of energy that maintain the mind-body. Malas – waste products of the body – urine, faeces, sweat. Marmas – vital energy points of the body that act like junction boxes. The ayurvedic version of acupuncture points. Nadi Pariksha – ayurvedic pulse-taking. Nasya – nasal administration of herbal preparations. Ojas – subtle energy that prevents decay in the body. Panchakarma – ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation. Prakruti – basic constitution, your essential nature. Usually one or two doshas dominate. Ritucharya – daily routine. Shirodhara – warm oil is poured continuously over the forehead – soothes vata disorders. Vaidya – an ayurvedic doctor. Vikruti – the doshas that are out of balance in your mind-body. Vishesh – firm squeezing massage to remove toxins, particularly suited to treating kapha.