What is Rice Pottali?
Rice Pottali, known in Ayurveda as Navarakizhi (or Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda), is a warm-bolus massage in which pouches of medicinal Navara rice cooked in herbal milk decoctions are used to massage the body. Unlike a herbal poultice aimed at pain and detox, Rice Pottali is a deeply nourishing (Brimhana) and rejuvenating (Rasayana) therapy that strengthens muscles, supports the nervous system, and softens the skin.
This therapy is often called Ayurveda’s “royal treatment.” The Navara rice is simmered in a blend of milk and a herbal decoction (commonly Balamoola), then tied into muslin boluses while warm. As therapists massage the body in synchronized strokes, the warm, nutrient-rich paste feeds the tissues from the outside in, making Navarakizhi one of Ayurveda’s most restorative treatments for fatigue, muscle weakness, and depleted vitality.
At Yara Wellness, our Rice Pottali (Navarakizhi) is delivered at our Tabanan retreat in the green heart of Bali, a short drive from Ubud and Canggu, and is overseen by our resident BAMS-qualified Ayurvedic physician, so each session is matched to your constitution (Prakriti) and current state (Vikriti).
DURATION
THERAPEUTIC FLOW
HERBAL BLEND
EXPERIENCE
Strengthens muscles and prevents wasting.
Highly effective for nerve-related issues and paralysis.
Improves complexion and skin texture, leaving it soft and glowing.
Boosts energy levels and combats chronic weakness (emaciation).
Depending on the ingredients, it can provide deep nourishment to nerves and muscles.
Enhances the body's natural defense mechanisms by building Ojas.
Rice Pottali (Navarakizhi) therapy is specifically designed to address various health concerns and lifestyle imbalances. It is highly recommended for the following individuals:
Note:- Best avoided during acute fever, active inflammation, indigestion, or if you have a known dairy/skin sensitivity (the boluses use milk). Our physician will confirm suitability first.
Rice Pottali Therapy follows a carefully designed Ayurvedic treatment protocol to deliver deep nourishment, improve circulation, and support natural healing. Trained therapists perform each stage of the therapy to ensure maximum therapeutic benefits. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the treatment process.
Navara rice is cooked with milk and a specific herbal decoction (often Balamoola).
The cooked mixture is tied into muslin bags while warm.
A light Abhyanga (oil massage) often precedes the treatment.
Therapists use the warm rice poultices to massage the body in synchronized strokes.
The poultices are constantly dipped back into the warm milk-decoction mixture.
The remaining rice paste is gently massaged into the skin before being wiped off.
At Yara Wellness in Tabanan, Rice Pottali is delivered as an authentic clinical therapy, not a spa add-on. Every session is overseen by our resident BAMS-qualified Ayurvedic physician, Vaidya Kiran B Raj (formerly of Apollo AyurVAID), so your treatment is prescribed and supervised. We use genuine Navara rice and traditional milk-decoction preparation, and our therapists are trained in the synchronized, four-handed technique that gives this therapy its full Rasayana effect. Set among rice fields a short drive from Ubud and Canggu, our retreat offers the calm setting this nourishing therapy deserves.
While many therapies offer relaxation, this treatment provides unique clinical benefits that set it apart. Here is how it compares to other popular relaxation methods:
Rice Pottali at Yara
Herbal Pottali uses warm herb/leaf boluses and is aimed at pain relief and detox. Rice Pottali uses medicated rice and is aimed at nourishment, strengthening, and rejuvenation. They are complementary, not interchangeable. See our Pottali therapy for the pain-and-detox version.
Rice Pottali at Yara
Unlike standard spa wraps, Navarakizhi uses medicinal ingredients delivered through active, synchronized massage that works into the deeper tissues rather than sitting on the surface.
The healing process continues even after the session is complete as the body integrates the herbal properties. You can typically expect the following results in the short and long term:
Experience the ancient healing art of Ayurvedic massage tailored to your needs. Relax, restore, and bring your body and mind back into balance.
Multi-day immersions in Bali, designed to restore your body and reconnect you with ancient Ayurvedic wisdom.
Navarakizhi is extremely safe and gentle. Because it is a nourishing treatment, it is generally very well-tolerated and feels incredibly soothing to the body and mind.
The frequency of the treatment depends on your specific health goals and the nature of your imbalance. Our practitioners typically suggest the following guidelines:
While this therapy is safe and natural, there are certain conditions where caution is required. Please keep the following precautions in mind before booking your session:
Navarakizhi is a complex “four-hand” therapy. The preparation of the Navara rice and the specialized synchronized massage technique are difficult to replicate at home and are essential for the therapy’s success.
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