Maharishi Mahesh Yogi
Tony Nader, MD, PhD, MARR
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Maharishi AyurVeda Marma Therapy: a gateway to holistic healing
In the vast and rich tradition of Ayurveda, there are numerous techniques designed to restore balance and enhance well-being. Among these, Marma Therapy stands out as a profound healing practice that connects the physical body with its subtle energy systems. Grounded in the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, Marma therapy harnesses the power of 107 vital energy points to release blockages, balance Prana (life force), and promote healing across all dimensions of health—physical, mental, and emotional.
In this blog, we will explore the origins and techniques of Marma therapy, its connection to other healing modalities, and how Maharishi AyurVeda Marma Therapy (MAV Marma Therapy) distinguishes itself. Let’s delve into the world of Marma and its growing significance in holistic health.
What is Marma Therapy?
Marma therapy is a traditional Ayurvedic technique involving the treatment of specific energy points in the body. These points, known as Marma points, are considered junction points where energy (Prana) accumulates. By gently touching these points, practitioners aim to unblock energy channels, restore balance, and promote the body’s natural healing processes.
The term “Marma” is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “secret” or “hidden,” alluding to the deep significance of these points. Each Marma point connects to particular physiological functions, organs, and Nadis (energy channels), making it a potent tool for addressing both physical and subtle imbalances.
Marma therapy works holistically—focusing not just on the body but on the mind and spirit as well. When energy flows freely through these points, it can lead to improved vitality, emotional balance, pain relief, and enhanced overall health.
Ancient roots of a timeless healing art
Marma therapy is deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of Ayurveda, dating back over 5,000 years.
Today, it continues to be a revered practice in Ayurvedic medicine, holding a unique place in the realm of alternative therapies.
Marma points
A Marma point is a vital energy point in the body where physical structures—such as muscles, veins, ligaments, bones, and joints—meet. These points are not only anatomical but energetic, serving as gateways to influence the flow of Prana throughout the body.
According to Ayurvedic texts, there are 107 Marma points located throughout the body. These points vary in size, significance, and function, but all are considered crucial to maintaining balance and harmony within the body’s energy systems. Atma is considered the 108th Marma point – therefore we refer to these 108 Marma points in the context of Maharishi Ayurveda Marma Therapy.
Each Marma point is unique and connected to a specific organ or energy pathway, making Marma therapy a powerful tool for both preventive and curative care.
Are Marma points the same as acupressure points?
While Marma therapy shares some similarities with acupuncture and acupressure, it is distinct in several ways. Both Marma therapy and these Eastern practices involve using points on the body to influence energy flow and promote healing. However, Marma points are larger and have an influence on all the other smaller points. Especially in Maharishi AyurVeda Marma Therapy, these points are not stimulated to create an effect on the physical body but are approached in a protective subtle way to allow the Marma points to open and let the force of life (Prana) start the healing process.
The unique approach of Maharishi AyurVeda Marma Therapy
Maharishi AyurVeda Marma Therapy (MAV Marma Therapy) works on the level of consciousness of both practitioner and patient.
It takes the foundation of traditional Marma therapy and integrates the holistic principles of Maharishi AyurVeda, which emphasizes the connection between the mind, body, and environment.
The goal of MAV Marma Therapy is not only to remove blockages in the physical body but also to restore harmony to the deeper layers of consciousness and subtle energy.
This approach is rooted in the principles of consciousness-based health, which is a hallmark of Maharishi AyurVeda. MAV Marma Therapy is performed with heightened awareness of the practitioner’s own consciousness, which amplifies the healing potential of the treatment.
MAV Marma Therapy also often includes the use of specific herbal oils tailored to the individual’s constitution (Dosha) and to specific points used in a treatment to enhance the therapy’s effectiveness.
Healing Benefits that go beyond the physical
MAV Marma Therapy offers a wide range of benefits that extend beyond physical well-being. Some of the key advantages include:
Balancing energy flow: by unblocking energy pathways, MAV Marma Therapy helps balance the flow of Prana, which in turn supports overall vitality and health.
Stress reduction: the gentle touch of Marma therapy has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Pain relief: Marma points are linked to various physiological systems, and stimulating these points can alleviate pain, particularly in the musculoskeletal system.
Emotional balance: By addressing the subtle energies of the body, MAV Marma Therapy can help alleviate emotional imbalances such as anxiety and depression.
Improved circulation: Marma therapy improves blood and lymphatic circulation, aiding in detoxification and overall better health.
Common conditions that MAV Marma Therapy can address include chronic pain, stress, digestive disorders, respiratory issues, emotional imbalances, and general fatigue.
What to expect in a MAV Marma therapy session?
A typical MAV Marma Therapy session begins with a consultation to assess the patient’s overall health, constitution, and specific concerns. The therapist will then target specific Marma points, applying a gentle or soft touch to increase energy flow.
Patients often report feeling a sense of relaxation, refreshment and relief during the session, with noticeable improvements in energy levels, emotional balance, and pain relief afterward. The duration and frequency of sessions vary depending on individual needs, but many patients experience cumulative benefits with regular treatment.
To find a practitioner in your area, please visit our Global Directory of MAV Practitioners
Training in the art and subtle science of MAV Marma therapy
Becoming proficient in MAV Marma Therapy requires a deep understanding of Ayurvedic principles and an attuned sense of subtle energy. Training in this modality requires both theoretical and practical instruction. Practitioners are trained to assess individual constitutions, identify Marma points, and apply the correct techniques for healing.
Watch the free Introductory webinar: “Introduction to Maharishi AyurVeda Marma Therapy”
Originally broadcast on 21 June 2025, this inspiring recorded webinar offers a first look into the subtle yet powerful world of Maharishi AyurVeda Marma Therapy. You’ll gain an understanding of its core principles, learn a couple of simple treatments you can try yourself, and hear first-hand how this ancient healing art is transforming lives today.
Watch the free webinar here
Maharishi AyurVeda Marma training for personal and professional use:
MCPHI offers inspiring courses open to everyone—no prior knowledge of Ayurveda required. Whether you’re looking to care for your own health, support your family and friends, or integrate holistic techniques into your existing practice, these courses make the ancient wisdom of Marma accessible and practical. You’ll learn simple yet powerful techniques to bring more balance, relaxation, and energy into daily life.
Maharishi AyurVeda Marma training for health professionals
The Maharishi College of Perfect Health International (MCPHI) offers a Marma therapy training course for Maharishi AyurVeda health professionals based on the foundational knowledge of Maharishi AyurVeda. Participants will learn the specific techniques of Marma therapy, and the application of these skills in a clinical setting. The training includes extensive practice sessions and also emphasizes the importance of the practitioner’s own consciousness in amplifying the effectiveness of the therapy.
The future of MAV Marma Therapy in the global health landscape
As interest in holistic and integrative health grows, MAV Marma Therapy is poised to become a key player in global wellness practices. Its non-invasive approach, combined with its potential to address a wide range of health issues, makes it an attractive option for those seeking natural healing methods. Moreover, its emphasis on balancing both physical and subtle energies aligns with the growing interest in mind-body medicine.
Conclusion
Marma therapy, and especially Maharishi AyurVeda Marma Therapy, offers a unique, holistic approach to health that connects body, mind, and spirit. Whether you are seeking relief from chronic conditions, emotional balance, or simply enhanced well-being, Marma therapy presents a profound and accessible path to healing. With proper training and expert guidance, this ancient practice can continue to offer immense benefits in the modern world.