Foundation of Ayurvedic Massage
“Abhyanga, the classic Ayurvedic massage, is an individually prepared herbal-oil massage designed to deeply penetrate the skin, relax the mind-body, break up impurities, and stimulate both arterial and lymphatic circulation, enhancing the delivery of nutrients to starved cells and the removal of stagnant waste. The desired result is a heightened state of awareness that will direct the internal healing system of the body. In addition, abhyanga begins to move the ten vayus, or subtle energies, in the body, which helps to remove the blocks in the nadis, allowing them to restore optimal function. Once the nadi paths are clear, healing and spiritual power can manifest in the body.” Douillard, John. The Encyclopedia of Ayurvedic Massage
The course
A Classical Introduction to Abhyanga
Abhyanga (Abhyaṅga) is one of the most essential therapies within Ayurveda. More than oil massage, it is a systematic application of warm oil, rhythm, direction and awareness designed to regulate Vāta doṣa, nourish the tissues, and support the flow of Prāṇa.
This three-day immersive training offers Ayurveda students a structured foundation in classical Abhyanga — integrating both clinical clarity and subtle energetic understanding.
You will learn not only how to perform the sequence, but why each movement follows specific directional and physiological logic rooted in Ayurvedic principles.
For Whom
This training is designed for:
Current Ayurveda students and body workers, massage therapist
Graduates seeking structured bodywork foundation
Practitioners wishing to refine prāṇic touch and clinical clarity
This is not a Panchakarma certification or therapeutic specialization training. It provides foundational competency in classical Abhyanga.
What You Will Learn
Classical Foundations
Abhyanga within the context of Snehana (oleation therapy)
Its role in Dinacaryā (daily routine) and Pūrvakarma (pre-Panchakarma preparation)
Traditional regional variations of Ayurvedic bodywork
Understanding Abhyanga beyond spa-style massage
The Clinical Framework
Dosha-based touch differentiation
Oil selection according to constitution and imbalance
Contraindications and scope of practice
Therapist preparation and professional standards
The Subtle Dimension
The five vāyu (pañca-vāyu) and directional intelligence
Vāta and nervous system regulation
Prāṇic awareness in therapeutic touch
Establishing presence and containment
Practical Training
Head, neck and face sequence
Posterior full-body structure
Anterior body integration
Abdominal protocol (Samāna Vāyu awareness)
Structured full Abhyanga flow (60–75 minutes)
Students will practice extensively under supervision and receive detailed correction and refinement.
Date and costs
13 March from 4 -9 pm, 14 & 15 March 2025 from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, The Hague
Costs: EUR 375,-
Amanda Dries
Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and Yoga Teacher
Amanda teaches the massage workshop in the first year in English. Amanda is from Wales in the United Kingdom, she worked for many years as a purser for 2 main Airlines. Travelling all over the world, experiencing different cultures and trying out various treatments. Through this she became interested in learning about holistic ways of improving health. Her love for the two sister sciences is great. In her practice and Yogastudio Inner Senses she shares this love. We are so happy that Amanda shares her gifts with our students.