Remedial Massage vs. Ayurvedic Massage - Which one should I book

At Rainbow Parakeet Ayurveda, I often meet clients who are curious about the difference between a Remedial Massage session and an Ayurvedic Massage (Abhyanga) session. Since I practice both, I’d love to share some insight into how they differ, and why you might choose one over the other depending on what your body, mind, and spirit need at the moment.

Abhyanga Full body Oil Massage

Remedial Massage – A Clinical, Targeted Approach

Remedial massage is a therapeutic treatment designed to assess, treat, and manage musculoskeletal pain, injury, or dysfunction. It is recognised within modern healthcare and often recommended by physiotherapists, chiropractors, and GPs.

During a remedial session, I work with specific areas of pain or tension, such as:

• Tight shoulders from desk work

• Lower back pain

• Sports or overuse injuries

• Restricted mobility after surgery

Techniques may include:

• Deep tissue massage to release tight muscles

• Trigger point therapy to relieve pain referral patterns

• Myofascial release to restore movement

• Stretching and mobilisations to improve range of motion

Each session is tailored to your condition and goals and it will most likely not be a full-body massage session. The focus is highly clinical: improving function, reducing pain, and restoring balance to the musculoskeletal system.

💡 Insurance Note: Remedial Massage is covered under most private health insurance funds via HICAPS. My provider number is currently pending, and I expect to be able to offer on-the-spot rebates from September.

👉 Appointments: Remedial massage sessions are offered in 60-, 75- or 90-minute appointments, as this length of time allows for effective, targeted therapy.

Ayurvedic Massage (Abhyanga) – A Holistic, Nurturing Experience

In contrast, an Ayurvedic massage is not about targeting one sore spot. It’s about bringing harmony to the entire body, mind, and spirit through the wisdom of Ayurveda, India’s ancient system of natural medicine.

An Abhyanga session is a full-body massage, typically using warmed, herbalised oils selected to suit your constitution (dosha) and current state of imbalance. The massage is rhythmic, flowing, and deeply nourishing.

Key qualities of Ayurvedic massage:

• Promotes detoxification and circulation

• Calms the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety

• Enhances lymphatic flow and immunity

• Improves sleep and energy levels

• Supports overall longevity and vitality

Unlike remedial massage, Abhyanga is not just physical—it’s also energetic and emotional. Many clients describe it as grounding, restorative, and a profound act of self-care.

💡 Insurance Note: At present, Ayurvedic massage is not covered under private health insurance in Australia.

👉 Appointments: Because a full-body Abhyanga cannot be properly achieved in only 60 minutes, I will be phasing out 60-minute Abhyanga sessions from October 2025. From then on, you will be able to choose from 75-minute or extended 90-minute sessions. These longer treatments allow the oils to penetrate, the body to fully relax, and the massage to flow in its traditional, unhurried rhythm.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose Remedial Massage if you’re dealing with pain, injury, postural imbalances, or a specific area of dysfunction that needs targeted work (plus the bonus of insurance rebates once my provider number is active). It won't be a full-body massage session, and you will most likely be asked to work with me through your breath or change of positions.

• Choose Ayurvedic Massage if you want a full body reset, emotional nourishment, stress relief, and a deeply holistic experience that aligns body, mind, and spirit.

Both are valuable in different ways, and many of my clients alternate between the two depending on what’s happening in their lives.

Closing Thoughts

At Rainbow Parakeet Ayurveda, my intention is to create a space where you feel cared for—whether you need clinical support through Remedial Massage or holistic rejuvenation through Ayurveda. Both paths lead to healing, just in different ways.

If you’re unsure which session is right for you, I’m always happy to guide you.

With warmth,

Alena

Founder, Rainbow Parakeet Ayurveda & Remedial Massage