Swedana steam therapy in San Ramon

Swedana is also one of the therapies in Preeti’s Panchakarma programs, a deeper reset over several days to two weeks.

How much does Swedana steam therapy cost in San Ramon?

$75 for 30 minutes, added right after an Abhyanga. No insurance is accepted; HSA and FSA cards usually work.

What happens during Swedana?

Swedana comes from the Sanskrit swid, to sweat. Preeti picks the form for your constitution (Prakriti), your health and your current imbalance (Vikriti). You are made comfortable, then exposed to heat or herbal steam; a tent can enclose you while the steam is directed in. Sweating opens the pores and supports the body's own cleansing. When you have sweated enough you are cooled down gradually and wiped dry.

What are the types of Swedana?

• Bashpa Swedana is the full-body steam. After Abhyanga you sit in a steam chamber with your head outside, so you do not overheat.

• Nadi Swedana is localized: medicated steam is directed through a tube onto one area, usually where there is pain or stiffness.

• Pinda Swedana uses a warm bolus of herbs, grains and medicated oils, applied over the body after an oil massage.

• Pariseka Swedana pours warm medicated oil, milk or herbal decoction over the body in a rhythm.

What do people book Swedana for?

Swedana is typically done together with other therapies, as part of a plan. The reasons it is chosen:

• Stiff, aching muscles and joints

• Circulation, and a heavy, congested feeling

• Digestion and metabolism

• Stress and a body that will not unwind

• Skin health and complexion

• Preparing the body for the Ayurvedic therapies that follow, such as massage and herbal care

Is Swedana part of Panchakarma?

Yes. Swedana is usually done with other therapies, such as massage and herbal care, as part of Panchakarma. Abhyanga usually comes first, and Preeti adds steam when she recommends it for your plan. In Ayurveda's classical order oil comes first and steam second, which is why Swedana is added after an Abhyanga rather than booked on its own.

Who should not have Swedana?

Preeti takes your overall health, your Prakriti, your Vikriti and the season into account before she chooses a therapy. Swedana is not recommended with heart disease, high blood pressure, fever, bleeding disorders, skin diseases or wounds, glaucoma or severe dry eyes, or when you are very weak or exhausted. Tell her your full health history before you book.

How should I prepare for Swedana?

Swedana comes right after an Abhyanga, so the massage preparation applies. Preeti asks:

• Please don’t eat anything for one hour before your appointment, water is okay.

• Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting oily.

• To avoid exposure to cold wind, it’s recommended to wear fully covered clothing.

• Bring a towel to cover your head on the way back home!

What should I do after Swedana?

After the session, plan to rest, shower and eat a warm, cooked, fresh meal. Some people like to keep the oil overnight, which is okay, but if you feel congested or heavy-headed, then it’s time to wash off the oil.

More questions about Swedana

What is Swedana?

Swedana is a traditional Ayurvedic procedure that induces sweat. Herbal steam or heat is applied to the whole body or to one area. It usually follows Abhyanga and is often part of Panchakarma.

Do I need Abhyanga before Swedana?

Swedana usually follows Abhyanga, the full-body warm oil massage, because the oil prepares the skin for the heat. Preeti will tell you which order fits your plan.

What does Swedana cost?

$75 for 30 minutes, added right after an Abhyanga. See full pricing.