Massage therapy is an Ayurvedic practice that has been used for centuries as a way to promote relaxation and rejuvenation, prevent and cure illness, and restore balance in both mind and body. This practice can be applied specifically to the face to support holistic healing and skin health with a number of techniques, one of which is Marma Facial Massage. By massaging specific points on the face, you can stimulate the flow of energy, increase blood circulation, and promote overall skin health. Read on to discover the transformative benefits of Marma Facial Massage and how you can level up your skincare routine to promote whole body healing!

What Are Marma Points?

“Marma points” in Ayurveda are vital energy centers in the body that are connected to various organs and systems.  We have 107 marma points located throughout our body, each with their own specific name and function. Marma therapy works by applying intentional, light to moderate physical pressure in order to release stagnant energy and clear potential blockages to further increase vitality in both mind and body. The head and facial region is one of three main marma groups in the body. Combining marma therapy with facial massage is an excellent way to promote energetic balance in the entire body while moving toxins through the lymphatic system, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, toning facial muscles, and boosting circulation.

What You’ll Need

Before performing a facial massage, it is important to begin with cleansed skin. We recommend DeviDetox™ Purifying Face Cleanser to gently eliminate makeup and impurities from the skin while leaving it soft and hydrated. Be sure to wash your hands too! While there are a number of tools you can use to perform a facial massage from gua sha to ice globes and derma rollers, the only tool you really need is your hands! In order for your hands to glide across your face without tugging or pulling, a face oil is key. You can use your favorite trusted face oil or, if an oil is not already part of your skincare routine, coconut oil or rosehip oil are great natural options.

1. Sthapani Marma

Using your middle finger, with light to moderate pressure, gently press and pulse several times at the point in the middle of the forehead between the eyebrows. Then, with the same finger, slowly and gently massage the point using circular motions three times in each direction.

2. Phana Marma

Using your middle fingers, with light to moderate pressure, gently press and pulse the point on each side of the nose just above the nasal cavity in circular motions. Then, with the same fingers, slowly and gently massage the points using circular motions three times in each direction.

Then, using your index and middle fingers, form a “hook shape” and glide your knuckles along your cheekbones, following the curve of your bones out from your nose toward the ears. Repeat this 5 times.

3. Shankha Marma

With the middle finger of both hands, press and pulse on each side of your temples several times. Then, gently massage each point using circular motions.

Now with the middle and ring finger of both hands, press your fingers just above the brows and slide up your forehead toward the hairline. Repeat this upward motion 2x, then adjust finger placement approximately 1 inch toward the ear on each side and repeat this upward motion again until you have covered the entire forehead area. 

4. Chibuk Marma

Using your middle finger, with light to moderate pressure, gently press and pulse several times at the point in the center of the chin. Then, with the same finger, slowly and gently massage the point using circular motions three times in each direction.

Then, form a “hook shape” with your index and middle fingers on each hand again. Beginning at the center of the chin, glide your knuckles along your jawline up and out toward the ears. Repeat this 5 times.

Marma facial massage helps to firm and sculpt the skin, promotes lymphatic drainage, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, all while relieving stress and tension both inside and out. All you need to revitalize your skin and soul is 5 minutes, 2-3x a week. We can’t wait to see you glow!