Ayurveda looks at the cause of all disease as the result of an imbalance in the body, mind and/or spirit. The purpose of Pancha Karma is to support the body in creating balance, and in that way eliminate the cause of disease. Panchakarma (meaning five actions) is a personalized, cleansing and rejuvenation program for body, mind, and spirit which was originally created for royalty to extend longevity. Deep physical, mental and emotional healing is often experienced as a result of Pancha Karma. People report a feeling of lightness in the body and clarity of mind, while the weight naturally balances. The treatment begins with a warm, nurturing herbal oil massage (Abhyanga) given by two experienced therapists, followed by a relaxing full body steam treatment (Swedana), which enables the oils to penetrate and lubricate the tender bodily tissues. Along with the full-body massage, Shirodara, a stream of warm oil is poured over the head for some time supporting stillness and tranquility of the mind.
These treatments prepare the body to eliminate the build-up of toxins that have accumulated over time in the tissues as well as in the mind, from lifestyle choices, genetic predisposition, environmental pollution, and stresses. Pancha Karma assists the body in eliminating toxins through the periphery from both superficial and deep tissue, via the many channels that feed the bodily tissues, to the central part of the body and into the gastro-intestinal tract from where they can be safely eliminated. The individual constitution and current imbalance(s) determine which therapies are appropriate and necessary.