How To

How to Use the Thumbing Technique on the Back During Ayurvedic Massage

By eHow Health Editor

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Ayurvedic massage is an ancient medicinal treatment from India. The thumbing techniques developed for Ayurvedic massage are especially helpful for back treatments. The thumb is a critical tool for relieving stress related aches and pains.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Target pressure points of the back using the thumb. Work the thumbs gently back and forth across the patient's back in circular, sweeping motions.
Step 2

Enhance the circulation by moving the thumb to either side of the scapula to increase circulation.
Step 3

Use the thumbs to define a sort of "knife's edge" with the hands. Push the hands back and forth firmly against the shoulder blades.
Step 4

Place the thumbs against the upper shoulders and massage deeply into the shoulder muscles. This action is good for releasing pressure.
Step 5

Slide the hands, led by the thumbs, in broad full arcs across the spine and around the bottom of the shoulder blades. This motion relieves overall pressure and increases circulation throughout the upper back.