AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS
Greeva
Basti
Warm medicated oil retained over the back of the neck. A classical Ayurvedic therapy for cervical spondylosis, neck stiffness, shoulder tension and headaches that begin in the neck.
01WHAT IT IS
ग्रीवा बस्ति · Greeva, the neck
Greeva Basti holds warm medicated oil over the cervical spine inside a dough ring while you lie face down. The sustained warmth reaches the muscles and ligaments of the neck and upper back, which carry the strain of desk work, phone use and poor sleep posture.
It is traditionally used for cervical spondylosis, stiffness and restricted movement of the neck, tension across the shoulders, and headaches that start at the base of the skull. Ayurveda views these as Vata disturbances of the neck, and the oil and warmth are chosen to pacify them.
02HOW IT IS DONE AT AROGYA
- 01
The practitioner examines neck movement and confirms the oil and course.
- 02
You lie face down with the forehead supported so the neck is comfortable.
- 03
The dough ring is sealed over the back of the neck and filled with warm medicated oil.
- 04
The oil is kept warm and retained for around thirty minutes.
- 05
The oil is drained and the neck and shoulders are gently massaged.
03BENEFITS
- Eases neck pain and stiffness
- Relaxes the trapezius and upper back
- Traditionally used in cervical spondylosis and postural strain
- May reduce headaches that originate in the neck
- Improves comfortable rotation and bending of the neck
Often suited to
- Desk workers and drivers with chronic neck tension
- Cervical spondylosis with stiffness, as assessed by the practitioner
- Shoulder tightness and upper-back ache
- Neck-related headaches
Please tell us first
- Not given during acute inflammation, fever or skin infection
- Please share any history of cervical disc problems, injury or surgery
- Dizziness or numbness in the arms should be mentioned before treatment
- Avoided in pregnancy
04WHAT TO EXPECT
The session is calming and many guests feel the shoulders drop within minutes. A course of five to seven days is usual. Avoid cold wind, air conditioning directly on the neck and long screen sessions on treatment days. Gentle neck movements are taught alongside where appropriate.
This page is educational and describes the therapy as traditionally practised. It is not medical advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified practitioner. Suitability, preparation and duration are confirmed individually at Arogya Retreatt. Content reviewed September 2026.
05QUESTIONS
Common questions about Greeva Basti.
Is Greeva Basti safe with cervical spondylosis?
It is one of the therapies most commonly used for cervical spondylosis. The practitioner will confirm suitability after examining your neck and reviewing any reports.
How is it different from a neck massage?
A massage works the muscles with pressure for a short time. Greeva Basti keeps warm medicated oil in continuous contact with the region for half an hour, which produces a deeper and longer-lasting relaxation of the tissues.
Can it help with headaches?
Headaches that begin at the base of the skull and spread upwards often have a neck component, and Greeva Basti is traditionally used for these. The practitioner may combine it with Nasyam.