Kalari massage, called Uzhichil, is a firm medicated oil massage from Kalaripayattu, the martial art of Kerala. The therapist works in long strokes along the body and over the marma (vital) points, using the hands or, for some people, the feet.
It began as care for Kalari students, to keep their bodies supple and help them recover from hard training. Today people also come for it when they feel tired or stiff, or are recovering from strain. This guide covers what happens in a session, who it suits, who should avoid it, and the packages at Athma Kalari in Kerala.
For the history and methods of Uzhichil, read our article Uzhichil: the Kalari massage. This page is the practical side.
How Kalari massage differs from other massages
Many places in Kerala offer Ayurvedic massage. Kalari massage uses similar oils, but it comes from a martial art, and that shapes how it is done. You may see it called Kalaripayattu massage, Kalari marma massage or Kalari Chikitsa massage. These names point to the same treatment. Uzhichil is one part of Kalari Chikitsa, the healing side of the art.
| Kalari massage (Uzhichil) | A general spa massage | |
|---|---|---|
| Starts with | A consultation with the teacher | Usually a choice from a menu |
| Focus | Muscles, joints and the marma points | General relaxation |
| Pressure | Firm and deep, but not painful | Usually light to medium |
| Done with | Palms, or feet for some bodies | Mostly hands |
| Length | Daily over several days | Often a single session |
By hand or by foot
Most Uzhichil is done with the palms. For some people, the therapist massages with the feet while holding an overhead rope. This is Chavitti Uzhichil. It gives deep, even pressure, and it is prescribed only when it suits your body. Read more in our guide to Chavitti Uzhichil, the Kalari foot massage.
Who it is for
- Kalari students. Uzhichil keeps the body supple and helps it recover between the 2 daily classes. It is a traditional part of Kalari training.
- Tired bodies. People who sit at a desk all day, travel a lot, or simply feel stiff and worn out.
- Recovery. After hard exercise, long treks or sport, as part of a plan.
If you have a specific injury or pain, you need a consultation and a plan for that problem, not only a massage. Our guide to Kalari Chikitsa explains the other therapies.
A session, step by step
In the packages, a session is 75 minutes. This is what usually happens.
- Consultation. Before your first session, Ashan Vipin Das asks about your health and any pain, and reads your pulse. He has 29 years of Kalari practice. He chooses the oil and the pressure. Nothing is prescribed before this.
- Getting ready. You change in the treatment room. The therapist tells you what to wear for the massage. Female therapists treat women.
- Warm oil. The therapist warms the medicated oil and applies it, often starting with the head.
- Full-body massage. You lie on a wooden treatment table. The therapist works in long strokes along the arms, legs, back and front, with set pressure on the marma points. You turn over during the session.
- Kizhi or steam, if it is in your plan. Heated herbal bundles or local steam may follow the massage.
- Rest. You lie still for a few minutes, then get up slowly. The table and your feet are oily, so take care.
What to wear and expect
Wear old, loose clothes to and from the session. Medicated oil stains and does not wash out easily. Leave jewellery in your room.
The pressure is firm, not painful. If something hurts, say so, and the therapist will change it. Many people feel warm, heavy and sleepy afterwards. That is normal.
Aftercare
- Rest after the session. The oil keeps working, and the body needs quiet.
- Take a warm bath later, not straight away. Do not use cold water.
- Keep out of strong wind and cold air while the oil is on your skin.
- Drink warm water and eat a light meal.
- If you are training, ask your teacher how to time your massage around class.
Who should avoid Kalari massage
See a doctor first, and wait for their advice, if you have:
- a recent fracture
- severe or sudden pain
- numbness in an arm, leg, hand or foot
- fever
- pregnancy
- recent surgery
Massage is not done over open wounds, burns, rashes or infected skin, or over a fresh injury that is hot and swollen. Tell Ashan Vipin Das about heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, varicose veins or blood-thinning medicine before your first session.
Kalari massage can help ease stiffness and tiredness. It is not a replacement for medical care.
Kalari massage packages and prices
There are 2 kinds of package. Training packages fit around the twice-daily Kalari classes. Rejuvenation packages are for anyone who is tired but has no particular injury.
Alongside Kalari training
| Package | Days | What is included | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relax | 3 | Daily Uzhichil and Kizhi, steam on alternate days | ₹6,800 |
| Destress | 5 | Daily Uzhichil, Dhara on 3 days, Kizhi on 2, steam on 2 | ₹11,500 |
| Kalari Conditioning | 7 | Daily Uzhichil and Kizhi, steam on alternate days, 1 traction session | ₹15,400 |
Each session is 75 minutes. Treatments are not included in program prices, so a package is added to your stay. See the residential Kalari programs for training prices.
Rejuvenation
3, 7 or 10 days of Uzhichil, Kizhi and herbal steam, from ₹6,900. Rooms are booked separately. You do not need to be a Kalari student. See the Kalari massage and rejuvenation packages.
FAQs
Q: What is Kalari massage called in Kerala?
A: It is called Uzhichil. When it is done with the feet, it is called Chavitti Uzhichil.
Q: Is Kalari massage the same as Ayurvedic massage?
A: It uses similar medicated oils, but it comes from Kalaripayattu. It is firmer, and it works along the muscles and over the marma points.
Q: Is Kalari massage painful?
A: No. It is firm, not painful. Tell the therapist if the pressure is too much.
Q: Can I have a Kalari massage without training?
A: Yes. You do not need to be a Kalari student. The rejuvenation packages are made for this.
Q: Why is 1 session not enough?
A: Oil therapies build up over several days. A tired body might need 3 days. 3 days is the shortest package.
Booking a Kalari massage in Kerala
The gurukulam is at Chemmalasseri, near Perinthalmanna in Malappuram district, 46 km from Calicut Airport. When you know your dates, check dates and book. If you are not sure which package fits, tell us about your body and your plans when you write, and we will suggest one.
