The vital landmarks of human body (Marma) according to TCAM and its application in Physical medicine and Rehabilitation

Abstract

According to Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM), the universe as well as the human body, is grossly and subtly comprised of five elements. The five elements namely space, air, fire, water and earth. These are the prime factors for origin of life. Among the five elements, space is related with mind, air with body movements, fire with thermodynamics of the body, water with structural integrity of the body and earth with gross body. The Indian System of Medical science has contributed various insights into the understanding of human body using various philosophical, analytical, experimental and spiritual modalities. Marma sastra and varma sastraare two nomenclatures given for the same type of human anatomical body landmarks, which strongly works on the principles of anatomy and physiology and energy principles. Varma/marma is air (vayu). Varma is also referred to as energy. Thirteen energy locations, grouped into three categories has been explained in detail. In order to understand the varma techniques, an additional knowledge regarding the basic Indian philosophy, is also needed.Experts have given various classifications of marma. Among them the most practical system is based on method of application. It illustrates the following: 1) Thodu Varmam (stimulated by touching), 2) Padu Varmam (activate other regions), 3) Thattu Varmam (stimulated by gentle tap), 4) Enai Varmam (unified activation of two points can relieve symptoms), 5) Pakka Varmam (action of adjacent varmas), 6) Ellidai Varmam (points related in between joints), 7) Oothu Varmam (stimulation by blowing; for children), 8) Nakku Varmam (stimulation by licking; for children), 9) Naal Varmam (associated with astrological stars), 10) Griha Varma (associated with astrological planets), 11) Patchi Varmam (points related to internal organs), 12) Vaatha Varmam, 13) Pitha Varmam, 14) Sleshma Varmam, (12, 13 and 14 areregulated by bodily humor 15) Nokku Varmam (stimulated by looking). More than fifty manuscripts have been published in the Nation Workshop on Manuscriptology, India, 1999. The present session is a representation of the major varma/marma landmarks of human body and its utility based on connecting this physical landmarks to improve the mobility standards of human body. These principles will be detailed using most recent photographs from eminent resources followed by detailed diagrammatic representation of their practical applications. Though based on ancient knowledge, the matter detailed in this session is based on current practice of these methods in India. The topic gives a new dimension and scope in using the Varma/Marma as a anatomico‐physiological landmarks for medical students as well as practitioners of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PMR).