Swedana (Herbal steam therapy)
Swedana, from the Sanskrit word “to sweat,” is a gentle herbal steam treatment traditionally performed after Abhyanga.
As the body is enveloped in aromatic herbal steam, the pores open, releasing toxins (ama) and enhancing circulation.
This therapy supports muscle relaxation, flexibility, and lymphatic cleansing while leaving the skin glowing and supple.
Swedana helps balance Kapha by encouraging movement and lightness, and complements Vata by soothing stiffness and coldness.
Swedana means “to make sweat” (from the Sanskrit root swed). It involves using steam (often herbalized) or heat modalities to gently open up pores, induce sweating, loosen muscles, release toxins through the skin.
Often this therapy is used after Abhyanga (oil massage) to mobilize the effects of the oil massage and enhance detoxification.
A warm, misty embrace that purifies, detoxifies, and renews from within.
What happens in a session
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- Improves circulation and blood flow; dilates blood vessels and helps deliver nutrients and remove waste.
- Enhances detoxification: sweating helps remove ama (toxins) and clears blocked channels (srotas) of the body.
- Soothes muscle stiffness, joint tension, releases physical and energetic layers of stress.
- Promotes relaxation and clarity: steam + warmth relax the nervous system and calming effect on mind.
People feeling stressed, with dry or depleted skin, imbalanced nervous system.
Those seeking full-body rejuvenation, grounding, more vitality.
Great wellness ritual rather than purely therapeutic (though it has therapeutic value).
Not ideal when someone has acute fever/infection, skin open wounds, very high heat/stage of Pitta aggravation (consult therapist).
Should always use high-quality oils chosen for the individual (important for safety and effectiveness).
