In Kalaripayattu, there are four stages of practice. 
Meythari - a sequence of body controlling exercises to master balance in air and on the ground. 
Kolthari - involves training in wooden weapons. 
Ankathari - involves combat training in metal weapons. 
Verumkai - self-defence with empty hands.  Here a student learns how to face an armed person, using only his limbs, and also learns vital points and locks. 

Kalari Marma Chikilsa 
Kalari Marma Chikilsa is a method of treatment to cure the defects affected on the marmas (vital points) of the human body. Since ancient times, Ayurveda has had different categories and traditions in Kerala.  Kalari marma chikilsa is one such unique tradition. 

A kalari gurukkal (the title given to the preceptor of Kalaripayattu) can detect the damaged marmas that could be the result of some injury in the past.  Damages to marmas lead to illness, chronic conditions or emotional insecurity for which the Gurukkal has the treatment. 

Ayurvedic - Kalari Massage 
Kalari massage blends the body, mind and spirit.  In doing so, it harmonises the biological system of the body.  It enhances the circulation of the body fluids and activates the lymphatic system of the body, thus working as a cleaning agent of the body.  Kalari massage revitalises the body by relaxing and opening up energy pathways, stimulates and improves blood circulation in nerve endings and muscles and awakens the self-healing mechanism of the body which eventually leads to a healthy life.  It is a positive approach to good health. Even if you do not suffer from any disease, you can use it to promote and rejuvenate the body and mind. 

	Combines with yoga, pranayama and meditation
	Improves blood and lymphatic circulation
	Allows life-energy to flow freely
	Provides full relaxation and releases emotional stress
	Balances the sapta dhatu (seven tissues of human body; plasma, blood, muscles, fat, bone, bone-marrow and semen)
	Stimulates nadi-sutra (Ayurvedic acu-pressure)
	Stimulates marma
	Stimulates foot points (foot reflexology)

Three forms of Kalari massage 

	Sukha thirummu: This system of massage rids the body from aches and muscular pains and also provides physical relaxation.
	Raksha thirummu: This massage is for holistic healing and rejuvenation.
	Katcha thirummu: This massage increases body flexibility and endurance, is particularly effective for those who practice martial arts, sports and dance.  Combined with postures from yoga, it gives pliability and suppleness to the body.

Holistic approach 
Almost all diseases found today are due to mental conflicts or an unnatural way of living.  In ancient Kerala, there came into being a method of treatment with a holistic background when traditional Ayurveda joined hands with alternative therapies.  It was found to be scientific without any side effects.  This form of holistic approach is still practiced in traditional Kalari-chikilsa.  The medical approach to every disease should be three dimensional; physical, mental and spiritual.  In this way, almost all diseases can be cured completely.  This is, to a great extent, achieved through Kalari chikilsa.