Vrihati
Vrihati · The Great One, The Broad Expanse
About Vrihati
Vrihati, "The Great One" or "The Broad Expanse," is located in the interscapular region of the upper back -- the broad area between the shoulder blades. The Sushruta Samhita classifies it as a sira (vessel) marma, reflecting the intercostal arteries and the dorsal branches of the thoracic spinal nerves that supply this region. The interscapular area overlies the posterior lung fields and provides indirect access to the heart through the thoracic spine, making it a therapeutically rich zone for both respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
The upper back between the shoulder blades is where the body stores unprocessed grief, unexpressed sadness, and the accumulated weight of emotional burdens carried over time. In Ayurvedic understanding, this region is the posterior aspect of Anahata chakra -- the back of the heart. While the front of the heart (Hridaya marma) relates to giving and expressing love, the back of the heart relates to receiving love, feeling supported, and processing loss. Many individuals who are emotionally generous but unable to receive support carry chronic tension and pain between the shoulder blades, and Vrihati therapy addresses this specific pattern.
Therapeutic Applications
Upper back pain between shoulder blades, respiratory congestion (posterior lung access), grief and emotional holding in the back, thoracic spine stiffness, kyphotic posture correction, rhomboid and middle trapezius tension, chronic cough with upper back tightness, and the emotional pattern of carrying burdens
Technique
The recipient lies prone or sits forward. Place the thumbs or fingertips in the groove between the medial scapular border and the thoracic spine. Apply sustained pressure into the rhomboid muscles, moving along the scapular border from top to bottom. For deeper release, use the elbow with gradual pressure. Combine sustained pressure with the recipient's deep breathing -- the breath movement creates an internal mobilization of the tissues beneath the point.
Pressure
Moderate to firm. The rhomboids and middle trapezius can absorb deep, sustained pressure, and the upper back often craves strong work. The paravertebral muscles along the spine also respond to firm pressure, but avoid pressing directly on the spinous processes.
Duration
5-10 minutes per side. For chronic interscapular pain, daily self-treatment with a tennis ball against a wall for 5-8 minutes. For respiratory conditions, include as part of a comprehensive back treatment.
Oil Recommendation
Mahanarayan oil for chronic upper back pain and stiffness. Warm sesame oil for general back care. Eucalyptus-infused oil for respiratory congestion accessed through the back. Brahmi oil for emotional release work at the back of the heart.
Contraindications & Cautions
Avoid deep pressure directly on the thoracic spine if there is osteoporosis, compression fracture, or disc herniation. Use caution with individuals who have scoliosis -- work with the curvature, not against it. Contraindicated during active shingles (herpes zoster) affecting the thoracic dermatomes. Reduce pressure in cases of acute rib fracture.
Related Points
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Vrihati marma point located?
The Vrihati marma point (Vrihati, meaning "The Great One, The Broad Expanse") is located at on the upper back, between the medial border of the scapula and the thoracic spine, at the level of T3-T5 vertebrae, over the rhomboid and middle trapezius muscles. It is a Sira (vessel) type point in the trunk region, with a size of 2 anguli (finger-widths).
How do you stimulate the Vrihati marma point?
The recipient lies prone or sits forward. Place the thumbs or fingertips in the groove between the medial scapular border and the thoracic spine. Apply sustained pressure into the rhomboid muscles, moving along the scapular border from top to bottom. The recommended pressure is: moderate to firm. the rhomboids and middle trapezius can absorb deep, sustained pressure, and the upper back often craves strong work. the paravertebr
What are the therapeutic benefits of Vrihati marma?
Vrihati marma therapy is used for: Upper back pain between shoulder blades, respiratory congestion (posterior lung access), grief and emotional holding in the back, thoracic spine stiffness, kyphotic posture correction, rhomboid and middle trapezius tension, chronic cough with upper b. It is associated with the Anahata (Heart) chakra and the Air (Vayu) and Earth (Prithvi) element.
Which dosha is associated with Vrihati marma point?
Vrihati is primarily associated with Vata and Kapha. Its connected organ is lungs, heart (posterior access), thoracic spine, 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 Vrihati marma point?
Mahanarayan oil for chronic upper back pain and stiffness. Warm sesame oil for general back care. Eucalyptus-infused oil for respiratory congestion accessed through the back. Brahmi oil for emotional release work at the back of the heart. 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.
Recommended Oils & Tools
As an Amazon Associate, Satyora earns from qualifying purchases. This doesn't affect our recommendations.