The 107 Marma Points: Regions, Meaning and Examples

Classical Ayurvedic texts describe 107 marma points distributed across the body. This guide explains how they are organised and introduces a few of the best-known points — as education, not as a self-treatment manual.

Why 107?

The number comes from the classical Ayurvedic surgical tradition. The Sushruta tradition classifies 107 marma points and groups them by region: 11 in each arm and 11 in each leg (44 in the limbs), 12 across the chest and abdomen, 14 on the back, and 37 above the neck — in the head, face and throat.

Classical texts also classified points by the structures beneath them and by the traditional consequences of injury to them — one reason marma knowledge was historically guarded and taught carefully.

A few well-known points

Sthapani marma sits between the eyebrows and is traditionally associated with a settled, focused mind. Hridaya marma, at the centre of the chest, is named for the heart region. Nabhi marma at the navel is described as a centre of digestion and energy distribution. In the limbs, points such as Kshipra (the web of the hand), Manibandha (the wrist), Janu (the knee) and Talahridaya (the centre of the sole) are among the most commonly worked.

You can explore these points visually in the interactive marma points explorer on our homepage.

Learning vs. self-treatment

Reading about marma points is a wonderful way to understand the tradition. Working on them, however, is best left to a trained practitioner: classical texts themselves caution that these are sensitive locations. In a session, pressure is always light and adapted to you — nothing like a forceful massage.

An honest note on evidence

The marma system belongs to classical Ayurvedic knowledge. Modern clinical research on it is limited, and claims you may see elsewhere online — about curing diseases through marma points — are not supported and should be treated with caution. We present the tradition faithfully, without overstating it.

Experience it in Kurnool

Visit Agastya Chiro & Ancient Marma Therapy

H.No: 87-1299, Road No. 6A, Nagi Reddy Revenue Colony, Near Vastralaya Mall, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh – 518002

This guide is educational. Marma Chikitsa is a traditional, complementary wellness practice — it does not diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult a qualified physician for any health concern. Read our full medical disclaimer.