What is kansa and why is it special? Kansa, known as “kamsya” in Sanskrit, is an alloy made of copper, tin, and zinc. It is variously called bell metal or bronze in the West. Copper is known to relieve pain, arthritis, and inflammation. Zinc helps in management of diabetes and improves digestion and immune system function. Tin is considered to provide relief from headaches and treat insomnia. The Ayurvedic practitioner…
Reflexology refers to the practice of applying pressure to certain points on the body which has an impact on other parts of the body to which it is said to be connected. The pressure points on the body may be considered to act like sensors. Reflexology is not an alternative medical therapy; it is a complementary therapy ; that is, it is meant to be adopted alongside other therapies that…
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a common skeletal disorder in which muscle pain and tenderness occurs in certain areas. It is characterized by the presence of several myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). These are “hyperirritable nodules along a taut band within a skeletal muscle” and can be easily identified by trained therapists. Trigger points may be latent or active. Active trigger points cause spontaneous pain as well as “referred pain,” i.e….
Tongue scraping is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that was initially unknown in the West. Many ancient cultures emphasize cleanliness of not just the teeth, but also of the tongue. Traditionally, Indians have used tender twigs from the Neem tree as toothbrushes. One end of the twig is chewed till it becomes similar to the bristles of a toothbrush. After brushing the teeth, the twig is bent into an inverted “V”…