Sowa Rigpa - Traditional Tibetan Medicine

Historical records indicate that Tibetan Medicine is an ancient tradition dating back around 8,000 years. In their quest for survival, early humans discovered the healing properties of plants, minerals, certain foods and beverages, the results of specific behaviors and thought processes, as well as the effects of manual practices. Thus, the Science of Healing—Sowa Rigpa—was developed. This treasure of knowledge, passed down by ancient healers, was compiled into the Four Medical Tantras (Gyushi), which represent the four major pillars of Tibetan Medicine: dietetics (nutrition), the science of behavior (Psychoenergetics), medicinal herbs (pharmacopoeia), and manual practices (external therapies).

 

Origins of Tibetan Therapeutic Massage Ku Nyé

When a child gets hurt, a mother instinctively places her hand on the injured area. This natural response illustrates how humans discovered the soothing and healing effects of touch. The use of rubbing, kneading, pressure, and tapping, along with applying hot or cold stones to specific body points and oils directly on areas affected by illness, swelling, or injury, became common practices. Knowledge of the healing properties of herbs and the discovery of critical points related to the body’s protective and life energy (bLa) laid the foundation for understanding the body’s subtle and energetic anatomy. From the interaction between everyday experiences and clinical expertise, the complete form of Tibetan Therapeutic Massage Ku Nyé was born.

 

The Practice

Ku Nyé is part of the External Therapies recommended for imbalances of the “Wind” (rLung), one of the three “humors” influencing health in Tibetan Medicine. Given today’s societal conditions, no one is entirely free from stress related to professional, social, and family life. Psychological issues are common. Ku Nyé is far more than a simple massage; it is a true healing therapy for the body and mind. It can be an excellent treatment to relieve stress-related imbalances and is beneficial for both those who are ill and those in good health.

 

Session Procedure

The duration of a Tibetan Therapeutic Massage ranges from a minimum of 1:15 to 2:00 hours, depending on the client’s availability and patience. Expect to spend at least 1:15 on the massage table. Time passes quickly for those receiving the treatment. A session begins with the application of warm oil—a massage in itself—covering the scalp, head, neck, torso, legs, and feet (front and back) using tapping, friction, and other gestures. The second phase involves joint mobilization in the shoulders, wrists, hips, knees, and ankles. The third phase uses heat (palm of the hand, warm oil, hot stones) applied to different body areas. The procedure varies based on the client’s humoral constitution and energetic balance of one or more organs. Finally, the fourth phase includes kneading of the 45 primary muscles of the body, skin, lymphatic nodes, tendons, and energy channels, with pressure and tapping on critical body points and massage and pressure on the skin.

 

The Outcome

Through this massage, muscles are treated on three levels: superficial, medium, and deep. This work improves muscle function, releases contractures, balances psychic and bodily energy, and helps maintain good health. Working on the 45 primary muscles also affects all connected muscles. The client’s sense of well-being, good mood, and smile are undeniable evidence that the massage was performed according to the Art of Tibetan Massage.

 

IMPORTANT: Before undertaking any alternative medicine treatment or practice, it is recommended to consult your regular healthcare professional.​