Urvi (Arm)
Urvi · The Broad One, The Expansive
About Urvi (Arm)
Urvi, "The Broad One," occupies the midpoint of the upper arm, where the biceps and triceps muscles reach their maximum girth. The Sushruta Samhita classifies it as a sira (vessel) marma, indicating the presence of the brachial artery and vein, which run along the medial aspect of the arm within the bicipital groove. The name reflects the breadth of the muscle mass at this level -- the upper arm is at its widest here, and the marma's influence extends across the full circumference of the limb.
The mid-upper arm is where the body's largest blood vessels to the limb are most accessible, carrying oxygenated blood to the hand and returning deoxygenated blood to the heart. In Ayurveda, this makes Urvi a regulatory point for upper limb circulation and for the Pitta dosha, which rides in the blood (rakta dhatu). When circulation to the arm is compromised -- whether by chronic tension, poor posture compressing the axillary region, or Vata-type vascular constriction -- Urvi massage can restore blood flow and resolve symptoms of cold hands, numbness, and arm fatigue that originate in the upper arm.
Therapeutic Applications
Poor arm circulation, cold hands originating from upper arm restriction, biceps and triceps muscle strain, upper arm pain, shoulder-to-elbow referred pain, post-exercise arm soreness, Pitta-type inflammation in the arm, and numbness or tingling from brachial artery compression
Technique
Wrap the opposite hand around the mid-upper arm, placing the thumb on the biceps and fingers on the triceps. Apply gentle squeezing pressure, then use the thumb to work in deep circular motions on the biceps belly. Rotate the hand to work the triceps with the fingers or thumb. For circulation, use long gliding strokes from elbow to shoulder, encouraging venous return. Avoid pressing directly on the medial (inner) arm where the brachial neurovascular bundle runs.
Pressure
Moderate on the biceps and triceps muscle bellies; light on the medial arm where vessels and nerves are superficial. The muscle bellies respond well to kneading and deep circular pressure.
Duration
3-5 minutes per arm. For post-exercise recovery, include as part of a full arm massage sequence. For circulation issues, daily massage of 5 minutes with warm oil.
Oil Recommendation
Warm sesame oil for general massage and Vata pacification. Bala oil for strengthening the arm muscles after injury or atrophy. Mahanarayan oil for muscle soreness and strain. For Pitta-type inflammation, cooling coconut oil with sandalwood.
Contraindications & Cautions
Avoid deep pressure on the medial arm where the brachial artery and median nerve are superficial. Contraindicated in cases of deep vein thrombosis of the upper limb. Use caution with individuals who have a history of brachial plexus injury. Avoid vigorous massage during acute biceps or triceps muscle tear.
Related Points
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Urvi (Arm) marma point located?
The Urvi (Arm) marma point (Urvi, meaning "The Broad One, The Expansive") is located at at the midpoint of the upper arm, over the belly of the biceps brachii on the anterior surface and the triceps on the posterior surface. It is a Sira (vessel) type point in the upper limbs region, with a size of 1 anguli (finger-width).
How do you stimulate the Urvi (Arm) marma point?
Wrap the opposite hand around the mid-upper arm, placing the thumb on the biceps and fingers on the triceps. Apply gentle squeezing pressure, then use the thumb to work in deep circular motions on the biceps belly. Rotate the hand to work the triceps The recommended pressure is: moderate on the biceps and triceps muscle bellies; light on the medial arm where vessels and nerves are superficial. the muscle bellies respond well t
What are the therapeutic benefits of Urvi (Arm) marma?
Urvi (Arm) marma therapy is used for: Poor arm circulation, cold hands originating from upper arm restriction, biceps and triceps muscle strain, upper arm pain, shoulder-to-elbow referred pain, post-exercise arm soreness, Pitta-type inflammation in the arm, and numbness or tingling from . It is associated with the Anahata (Heart) chakra and the Fire (Agni) and Air (Vayu) element.
Which dosha is associated with Urvi (Arm) marma point?
Urvi (Arm) is primarily associated with Vata and Pitta. Its connected organ is heart, lungs, small intestine, and it relates to the Anahata (Heart) chakra. Stimulation of this point helps balance the associated dosha when done with appropriate oils and pressure.
What oils should I use on the Urvi (Arm) marma point?
Warm sesame oil for general massage and Vata pacification. Bala oil for strengthening the arm muscles after injury or atrophy. Mahanarayan oil for muscle soreness and strain. For Pitta-type inflammation, cooling coconut oil with sandalwood. Always choose oils suited to your constitution and current state of balance.
Marma Self-Care Guide
Self-massage techniques, pressure point diagrams, and oil recommendations for all 108 marma points.
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