Classical Synchronized Oil Massage

The Sensory Experience

The ritual begins with the guest seated on a stool. The therapist performs Shiro Abhyanga (head massage) using a cooling oil like Ksheerabala or Bhringamalakadi to prevent systemic overheating. The guest then transitions to the Droni (a traditional wooden massage table carved from medicinal wood like Strychnos nux-vomica). Two therapists work in perfect synchronization on either side of the body. They pour warm, medicated oil—typically Dhanwantharam Thailam (for general health) or Mahanarayan Thailam (for muscle relief)—from copper vessels. The strokes are long, sweeping, and follow the Anuloma direction (downward, following the arterial flow). They use open palms to generate friction over long bones and circular motions (Vartula) over joints. The rhythm is hypnotic, specifically designed to lower brainwave frequency from Beta to Alpha states.