What is Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam?
Shashtikshali Pinda Swedanam, popularly known in Kerala as Navarakizhi, is a nourishing massage that uses boluses (pinda) of Shashtika rice, a variety traditionally said to mature in about sixty days. The rice is cooked in milk and a herbal decoction, classically of Bala, tied into cloth bundles and massaged over the body while warm.
It is one of Ayurveda’s nourishing (brimhana) therapies. Our clinic describes it as strengthening and nourishing the body and softening the skin.
How Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam is done at Sattva
Every therapy at Sattva begins with a consultation. Our physician reviews your health history, diet and lifestyle and uses traditional methods such as pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha) to understand your constitution, then decides whether Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam is right for you and which preparation to use. Panchakarma at Sattva is medically supervised.
The body is usually first anointed with warm oil. Two therapists then massage with the warm rice boluses in synchrony, dipping them again and again in the warm milk decoction to keep them warm and moist. Afterwards, the rice paste is wiped off and you rest before bathing.
Who may benefit from Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam?
After assessment, it may be considered for people who:
- Want a nourishing, rejuvenating therapy
- Feel weak or depleted, or have reduced muscle bulk, as judged by the physician
- Have dry skin and want a softening treatment
Whether Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam is suitable for you is decided by the physician after your consultation. Please tell us about pregnancy, recent surgery or injury, fever, skin problems, allergies, heart conditions and any medicines you take.
What to expect
Your visit starts with a consultation, after which the therapy is carried out in the therapy room. Afterwards you can rest before going home, and the therapist will give you simple aftercare advice. The length of each session and the number of sittings vary from person to person; your physician will explain them in your treatment plan.
Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam: frequently asked questions
Do I need a consultation before Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam?
Yes. An appointment is required for all consultations and treatments. Your first consultation covers your health history, diet and lifestyle, and includes traditional pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha), so that the physician can decide whether Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam is suitable for you.
How is it different from Patrapottali Swedanam?
Both use warm cloth bundles. Shashtikshali Pinda uses rice cooked in milk and is mainly nourishing, while Patrapottali uses medicinal leaves and is mainly used for pain and stiffness.
I am allergic to milk. Can I have it?
Please tell the physician. Milk is applied to the skin in this therapy, so an alternative may be suggested.
How do I book Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam at Sattva?
Tap “Book on WhatsApp” on this page. WhatsApp opens with the message “Hello, I’d like to book an appointment for Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam at Sattva Healthcare.” Add your preferred day and time and send it. You can also call us on +91 99818 14808.
Book Shashtikshalipinda Swedanam at Sattva Healthcare
Booking is by WhatsApp. Tap the button and send the pre-filled message with your preferred day and time; our team will confirm your appointment.
Related therapies
This page gives general information about a traditional Ayurvedic therapy and is not medical advice. Individual experiences vary, and no particular result is promised.